Governor Kay Ivey recognized six Alabama companies for their significant international impact at the Governor's Trade Excellence Awards on Wednesday. The ceremony celebrated their global successes and contributions to the "Made in Alabama" brand, following a robust year for the state's exports.
Governor Ivey praised the honorees, noting their diverse contributions from aerospace engineering to sustainable agriculture and AI innovation. She emphasized that these "home-grown companies are driving economic growth in their communities and the state."
Alabama's global exports reached $23.7 billion in goods and services in 2025, marking a nearly 14 percent increase over 2019 and indicating continued post-pandemic economic recovery. The state's products reached 190 countries, with transportation equipment, including automobiles and aerospace components, leading categories at $11.4 billion.
Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair highlighted the award winners as "role models" demonstrating how Alabama companies "compete but thrive among global competition." The honored companies include Frit Industries, Inc. (micronutrient fertilizer), LunarLab (user-experience design), Pursell (controlled-release fertilizer), River Valley Ingredients (chicken-based ingredients), Science and Engineering Services, LLC (aviation support), and Segers Aero Corp. (aerospace MRO).
Additionally, Brian K. Davis, director of the Alabama International Trade Center, was honored for his work supporting businesses in international markets. Christina Stimpson, Global Business Office Chief Officer, underscored the importance of resources like the AITC in helping Alabama companies achieve global success.