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Darke Engineering: Celebrating 15 Years in Excellence


On this day, 15 years ago, directors David Taylor and Paul Farrance incorporated Darke Engineering. The journey to this milestone has been extraordinary, filled with triumphs, challenges and countless lessons. Today, we celebrate the hard work, dedication and passion that have made these past 15 years possible. For Darke Engineering, it’s a moment of reflection and gratitude as we continue to strive for improvement and look ahead for what the future holds. 

A look back at the journey

Directors David and Paul embarked on a mission to deliver exceptional service. Operations Director, Paul says,

“My reasons for starting the business were to create a company that offered and delivered the products required by our clients. To create a business that would provide stability and longevity for the employees, and to leave a legacy for the younger generation to continue in this aging industry.

I was conscious of my young family (at that time), and wanted to provide the best opportunities for them. Our success is down to hard work and commitment, and I would like to express a huge thanks to all those involved in our journey, and I hope that the next 15 years are as good as the last.”

Commercial Director, David added:

When the opportunity came to start our own company, we left our stable jobs and made the leap into the unknown. Our aim was to create a business that focussed on long term relationships with both our customers and suppliers.

We wanted there to be a connection between the Directors and the employees to ensure that everyone has a voice and their say in how the company operates.

I hope that we have achieved this and more, and as a result the business has grown each year. I’d like to thank all those who have worked with us to make Darke Engineering the success it is today.

One thing that hasn’t happened over the past 15 years is Spurs winning a trophy, hopefully that will change soon…

Whilst the path to success has had its challenges, the perseverance and unwavering commitment from those involved pushes us to always strive for excellence.

Milestones and Achievements

Paul commented:

“Our aim has always been to strive to be the best that we can be. We have been given opportunities by our clients to understand their requirements and to become part of their supplier networks. Without the backing from our clients, our success would never have been achievable. There have been challenges along the way, but working collaboratively, and the willingness to learn has made it possible to get where we are today.”

One of the proudest achievements to date is the long lasting relationships that have been built with clients and trusted suppliers. Trust, transparency and mutual respect have been the foundation of these relationships, and we are confident that we can maintain these in the years to come. 

In 2015, Darke Engineering achieved ISO 9001, 14001, 18001 then later 450001; accreditations for quality, environment and health and safety. These standards are reviewed annually and have continuously been upheld. 

Darke Engineering is proud to be awarded the Best Medium Business 2021 at the The Peterborough Telegraph Business Excellence Awards, the region’s premier business awards celebrating excellence in enterprise. In 2017, Sunday Times Top 100 Businesses included Darke Engineering as one of the fastest growing companies. The recognition of our quality and excellence is what drives the business forward to constant improvement. 

Stronger Team and Brighter Future

The success of Darke Engineering would not be possible without the incredible team of employees and subcontractors who have worked with us over the years. We have brought together individuals with diverse skills, backgrounds and perspectives which has created a vibrant and dynamic workplace. Together, we have collaborated, grown, overcome obstacles and celebrated success. 

As a thanks to our employees, and a way to express our gratitude to their hard work and dedication Darke Engineering organises an annual trip to Portugal. A long weekend spent exploring the local area and immersing ourselves into a variety of team building activities helps to foster teamwork in a fun, hands-on way. The trip is always a reminder of how important it is to connect not only as co-workers, but also as people with diverse perspectives. Simultaneously, setting a positive tone for future projects.

With the ever changing Health and Safety legislation, it is important that Darke Engineering and its employees are up to date with the current laws and regulations. Every year, we host a Health and Safety conference to showcase the important measures the company takes to ensure compliance. 

Our mission to deliver exceptional service remains at the core of everything that we do. Still, we will always continue to adapt and evolve when faced with new challenges and opportunities. 

Thank you for being part of the journey

To our clients, employees, suppliers and supporters — thank you. You are the reason Darke Engineering has reached this remarkable milestone. The future is filled with exciting possibilities and together, we will continue to take on whatever challenges come next and make an even greater impact on the years to come. Here’s to the past 15 years, and to the next chapter of excellence, growth, and innovation. Let’s continue this journey together!

Cheers to 15 years of excellence and to many more ahead!

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