Award recognises success in international trade
Dundee, Scotland — Aydya Limited, a fast-growing consumer goods company based in Dundee, is proud to announce it has been awarded the 2025 King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade—one of the UK’s highest business honours.
Founded by Dundee entrepreneur Yusuf Okhai, Aydya exports its flagship brands—AnySharp knife sharpeners and ION8 eco-friendly water bottles—to over 50 countries worldwide. This marks the company’s second royal recognition, following the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2021.
Global Growth and Innovation
Aydya has built a strong international reputation for innovative, sustainable, and high-quality products. Its leading brand, ION8, is a range of 100% leak-proof water bottles designed for durability, ease of use, and sustainability. Sold online at ion8.co.uk and available in over 70 countries, ION8 has become a prominent name in the hydration market.
The company’s product range also includes:
- AnySharp knife sharpeners (anysharp.com), used in homes and commercial kitchens worldwide to extend the life of knives.
- PortaScent refillable travel perfume atomisers, combining convenience with environmental awareness.
Aydya continues to invest in product innovation and market expansion, with bold plans to grow by 60% in new markets such as the USA, while strengthening its presence in the UK and Europe, through innovative new products and the relentless pursuit of improvement.
A Local Company with Global Reach
“We are incredibly honoured to receive The King’s Award,” said Yusuf Okhai, Owner and CEO of Aydya. “This recognition reflects the strength of our products, the dedication of our team, and the value of our partnerships around the world. We’re proud to represent Scottish innovation on a global stage.”
Despite its international success, Aydya remains firmly rooted in Dundee. Its team of 14 is based at Dundee Technology Park, where the company designs and sells reusable, long-lasting products, including a unique range of ION8 bottles made using Recyclon — a plant-based plastic material made with plant biomass, unique to Aydya.
“We sell globally, but our heart is in Dundee,” added Mr. Okhai. “We’re deeply committed to the city and proud that almost all of our employees are based here.”
Legacy of Enterprise
Aydya is one of just 13 Scottish companies and 197 organisations UK-wide to receive the 2025 King’s Award. Now in its 59th year, the King’s Awards for Enterprise honour excellence in categories such as International Trade, Innovation, Sustainable Development, and Promoting Opportunity. Winners are entitled to use the King’s Awards Emblem for the next five years.
Yusuf Okhai’s success continues a proud family tradition of business leadership. His father, Ibrahim Okhai, was a respected Dundee businessman who once owned the renowned James Keiller marmalade company.
For media inquiries, interviews, or further information, please contact:
Press Contact
Debbie Wann
Email: debbie@aydya.co.uk
Website: www.aydya.co.uk
