R&B Switchgear Group marks 40 years in business

R&B Switchgear staff at the Heywood office celebrating 40 years

Specialists in switchgear manufacturing and maintenance services, R&B Switchgear Group is celebrating its 40th anniversary since it began life in an office above a hairdressers in Rochdale.

Four decades later, the organisation has flourished from a small service business to an internationally recognised leader in power engineering solutions, supporting a diverse portfolio of clients across the marine, oil and gas, rail, energy, renewables, and construction sectors.

The founder and family-led business is headed up by newly appointed group managing director, Max Beswick, and group operations director, Sophie Gudgeon. The new leadership team has been pivotal in shaping the company’s strategic direction, accelerating growth in key sectors, and securing landmark contracts with the UK’s most notable household names, including United Utilities, TESCO, Carnival and London Underground.

To meet the growing demand for specialist low and high voltage switchgear solutions, the company has expanded its global network to provide agile services from its five UK office locations and hubs abroad in Florida and Singapore.

Together, the leadership team aims to honour the company's heritage while positioning it for sustained growth and success in a rapidly evolving market.

Speaking of the landmark anniversary, group founder Mark Beswick said: “At the age of 24, I took a bold step from my apprenticeship at Whipp & Bourne and co-founded R&B Switchgear Service; a decision inspired by our proud family heritage of engineers, spanning three generations.

“Since those early days in 1985, we’ve grown into a leading industry name, delivering innovative power engineering solutions across a variety of sectors. Our success has been built on decades of passion, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to exceptional service.”

This month, the company is commencing a year-long calendar of celebrations titled ‘40 Stories of Impact,’ as it looks back at its four decades of heritage. The team will be uncovering stories from their teams, both past and present, as well as supporting community projects, engaging in fundraising, and setting out commitments which will shape their business of tomorrow.

Max Beswick, group managing director, said: “As we celebrate four decades in the industry, we are proud of the business we have created. Through our on-going investment in technology, training, and talent, we’ve earned a reputation as a partner of choice for our esteemed global clients. We are excited about the next chapter for R&B as we pave the way for a bright future for the business.”

Sophie Gudgeon, group operations director, added: “This is an opportunity to reflect and celebrate the many achievements of our team. As a people centric organisation, we recognise that our team are the backbone of our business, and we are delighted to share and celebrate this 40th anniversary milestone with them.”

This comes as the company celebrates a record year in 2024, during which it successfully trialled operations in two new regions, with official launches planned for 2025. These efforts were recognised with the Manufacturing Make UK Business Growth and Strategy Award and the Developing Future Talent Award. These accolades highlight R&B Switchgear Group’s commitment to innovation, strategic growth, and nurturing the next generation of engineers through its best-in-class Training Academy.