West Sussex Audio Company Gets Royal Seal of Approval

ISCVE is proud to congratulate one of our members, Davies Roberts of Flare Audio, based in West Sussex, on being awarded a King’s Award for Enterprise – one of just 46 companies in the UK to be recognised in the Innovation category this year.

A globally recognised mark of business excellence, the King’s Award for Enterprise celebrates Flare Audio’s development of Calmer – a unique in-ear device designed to reduce stress caused by annoying and uncomfortable sounds. Unlike traditional earplugs, Calmer softens high-frequency noises without blocking sound, helping users avoid the isolation that can come with conventional noise-reducing products.

Founded in 2007 by husband-and-wife team Davies and Naomi Roberts, Flare Audio employs just 20 people, yet has made a significant impact worldwide. Their products, including high-clarity earphones and the Calmer range, have found favour among high-profile figures such as Stephen Fry, Tony Visconti and BBC DJ Chris Hawkins.

Flare’s innovations have resonated globally, shipping to 186 countries and building a loyal community of over 4 million social media followers. Their sound technology has proven especially transformative for individuals with sound sensitivities, including those associated with autism and ADHD, offering what some users describe as life-changing relief.

The team was informed of the honour by The Secretary for The King’s Awards, who shared:

“I am delighted to inform you that His Majesty The King has approved the Prime Minister’s recommendation that your company (Flare Audio) should receive a King’s Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category.”
— Nichola Bruno, The Secretary, The King’s Awards for Enterprise Office

In June, Davies Roberts will attend a Royal Reception at Windsor Castle hosted by His Majesty The King. Later, the company will receive a formal Grant of Appointment during a presentation by the Lord-Lieutenant, the King’s personal representative, at their headquarters in Lancing.

Reflecting on the accolade, Davies shared:

“I can’t express how humbled I am that one of my inventions has been recognised by the King. Naomi and I founded Flare to develop meaningful sound technologies, beginning with loudspeakers. We had no idea our continuous R&D would lead us to innovations that help people calm their response to stressful noise. Being recognised for creating something that makes a difference in the world is what every inventor dreams of.”

Now in its 59th year, the King’s Award programme allows recipients to display the esteemed King’s Awards Emblem for five years, a powerful endorsement of business achievement and innovation.

All of us at ISCVE extend our warmest congratulations to Davies and the entire Flare Audio team for this remarkable recognition. Their passion and ingenuity continue to inspire innovation across the sound and communications industry.

Find out more here:

flareaudio.com

gov.uk