Celebrating Progress

When former fireman Jack Hoyle started a fire extinguisher company from a garage, little could he know that almost half a century later the firm would have flourished into a global operation.

From humble beginnings, Hoyles Electronic Developments has grown to become a leading manufacturer of niche market fire, safety and security products, counting several blue chip companies among its clients including ADI Global, Chubb, ADT and Niscayah.

Established in 1964, the company was later taken over by Jack’s sons Neil and David. Although now in semi-retirement David is still the managing director and runs the firm with his daughter Lindsay Mellors and nephew Stephen Hoyle. Seventeen staff are employed at the company’s 6500ft², purpose-built factory in the North West of England, strategically positioned close to motorway networks and airports.

“Hoyles is very much a family concern and we pride ourselves on our family values and strong customer relationships. We are happy to boast about the fact that all of our specialised products are still manufactured here in the UK,” said Lindsay, company director.

Around 15% of its business is exported, mainly to countries in the EC and the Middle East, and Lindsay explained how the company hopes to boost its export sales with the recent appointment of UK and export sales manager Dermot Williams.

“Dermott brings a wealth of experience with him and we are confident that this will really help to strengthen our position in Europe and beyond. He is joining a fantastic team of people, most of whom have more than 20 years’ experience with Hoyles. Our longest-serving employee has been with us for more than 30 years.”

She added: “We are delighted with our growth and progress of over the last five years, especially during these challenging economic times. I feel sure that our grandfather Jack Hoyle would be very proud, particularly as the company is now being run by third generation members of the Hoyle family.”