Derby-based Eggleston Steel Ltd is celebrating its 210th anniversary. The family-run business — a Made in the Midlands member — includes managing director Richard Hewitt and his two children: Jacob, who joined in 2014, and Rebecca, who joined in 2017.
The company has expanded beyond recognition in 210 years and has moved no less than five times. It was originally established as an ironmongers named Joseph E. Hunt, and the Eggleston family acquired it in the late 1800s.
The Hewitt family took over in 1977 after the death of Joseph Eggleston Burrows, who left the business to his nephew-in-law Anthony Hewitt. Richard Hewitt (Anthony’s son) became managing director in 1999.
In 2003, Eggleston Steel (
www.egglestonsteel.co.uk) embarked on an expansion programme that included moving to its current premises in Centurion Way and increasing the number of employees from 20 to 56.
In 2008, the company invested in a high-definition plasma cutter and began to offer plate and profiling services.
The company expanded again in 2011 by acquiring its first laser machine, which could process 25mm-thick mild-steel sheets up to 4 x 2m.
So far this year, Eggleston Steel has invested in a new laser cutting machine, a press brake and a guillotine.
Mr Hewitt said: “When I took over the company it was solely a steel stockholder offering a sawing and guillotining service.
“We are now predominantly a processing centre offering a ‘one-stop-shop’ ranging from standard sections to intricately cut profile shapes. We have changed to meet customer demand and expectations.”