(PRWEB) May 4, 2009 -- TUUCI, a global leader in innovative shade structures, was named runner-up for the 2008 Manufacturer of the Year award, presented by the South Florida Manufacturers Association (SFMA). TUUCI was one of four finalists in the category of 75-150 employees.

TUUCI was nominated by the Beacon Council, Miami-Dade County's official economic development partnership. Forty-one companies were entered into the contest through self nomination, or nomination by economic development councils, suppliers, vendors, employees or the SFMA Board of Directors.

"We are honored that the Beacon Council and SFMA recognize our vision and dedication to our South Florida community," said Dougan Clarke, founder and CEO of TUUCI. "Our roots are here in Miami and we strive to support this community in all of our endeavors while we continue global expansion."

The SFMA held a 2009 Recognition of Excellence awards banquet on March 12 to acknowledge the Manufacturer of the Year finalists and winners. As runner up, TUUCI was presented with an embossed plaque.

Given annually since 1998, the Manufacturer of the Year award is based on criteria including leadership, customer and market focus, workforce focus, strategic planning, process management and measurement, analysis and knowledge management.

"We are thrilled that our hard work has led to such humbling recognition," Clarke said. "We look forward to continuing what we have set out to do - creating the most beautiful and functionally simplistic shade systems in the world."

About TUUCI
Since its inception 10 years ago, TUUCI's shade structures have redefined the shade category. In addition to artistic beauty, TUUCI products are engineered with marine grade components that are durable and easy to operate. TUUCI also focuses on environmental sustainability including extensive recycling efforts within its manufacturing process, energy conservation and the integration of recycled materials into its products, packaging and supplies. Outdoor cafés and many of the world's leading resorts and hotels have selected TUUCI because of the combination of beauty, durability and function its products provide.

Headquartered in Miami, the TUUCI team includes experts in design, engineering and production. TUUCI products are distributed worldwide through strategically located service centers. On the Web at www.TUUCI.com.