Established in 2009 by 31-year-old Ms Howells and her father, 70-year-old Gary Howells, PLS provides services to the logistics industry, which include temporary staff recruitment, training, protective clothing, satellite navigation equipment and consultancy services.
In its first year the company achieved growth of 600 per cent with customers including Eddie Stobbart, Blue Arrow and Tesco Distribution as well as smaller local companies. It now employs 18 staff and over 13 contractors.
The company has worked with local transport businesses to ensure they comply with legislation and has trained over a hundredpeople outside the workplace to help them find jobs or develop their careers.
PLS plans to expand and open a second branch in 2012.
Receiving the Newport City Start-up Award, Ms Howells said, "We are thrilled to win the award. We are very proud of what we've been able to achieve since we started up in Newport and it's fantastic to receive this recognition”
Ms Howells received business support from both Newport City Council's Business Services Team and the Centre for Business. Financial assistance from Newport City Council included a start-up rent subsidy for the company's premises at Enterprise Way and a grant towards the development of a website. Support from Rashad Ismail at The Centre for Business included advice on a range of matters including; pre and post start advice covering; writing a business and marketing plan, employment legislation, advertising and health and safety. Help was also given with regards a Centre for Business managed loan fund.
Councillor Ed Townsend, Newport City Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration said: "The partnership between the council, Centre for Business and Venture Wales in presenting this award is a demonstration of their shared commitment to encouraging new business in the city.
"PLS has shown remarkable results in its 18 months and is testament to what can be achieved with vision and commitment.
"We are delighted that the council's business support helped the business to establish itself."
Tony Down of business support agency Venture Wales said: "Venture Wales are delighted to support the Newport City Business Start-up award.
We congratulate Vicky and Garry not only on receiving this award, but also for the exceptional trading results that both they and their team have delivered during these early years. We wish them every success as they continue to build upon this very encouraging start".
Jon Hughes of Centre for Business said: "we are delighted that a company that has received help and support from The Centre for Business has won this award. Vicky has worked incredibly hard, and this award is a reflection of her efforts, I know she will go from strength to strength!”
To find out more about the services provided by PLS Ltd. telephone 01633 265096 or visit www.pls-ukltd.com.