Our Journey: Building Excellence Since 1981
Elecon’s story begins some 42 years ago when Steve Stratton set out to build a metal fabrication business. With only a welding set, Steve manged to secure his first contact: three stainless steel benches for Unigate diaries. As the work began to build, the business was able to secure its first unit – a tractor outbuilding on a disused pig farm.
In 1983 the company manged to buy the goodwill and machinery of Inverness Metal Fabrications. Now with a press brake and guillotine, the business employed three people to operate the machines.
In a real turning point for the business, Elecon won the confidence of BVC (British vacuum cleaners) and therefore a £400k per annum contract. With a letter of intent from the customer, the business was able to negotiate a £30k loan from the bank. This facilitated securing a lease on a much larger 5,000 square foot factory and employing further staff to bring the team up to 20 full time employees.
Over the next few years, the business weathered some challenging times but managed to navigate these. By 1987, they had invested in a CNC press brake and new punch machine that were located at the Kanes Hill site.
2007 was a landmark year, with the business making the bold decision to invest in Elecon’s first laser machine. Though a significant investment and risk, the business rose to the occasion and secured additional jobs to put this new machine to work.
Innovation and Expansion: The Elecon Evolution
The following years saw Elecon going from strength to strength, making acquisitions of four further freehold properties to house the ever-growing team and manufacturing plant. The business made strategic investments in additional plant and additional core processes, giving Elecon the capability to laser, punch, fold, weld, powder coat, and assemble all from one integrated site.
From those humble beginnings, Elecon has grown, earning a reputation for delivering top-notch quality, unwavering consistency, and lightning-fast turnarounds.
A Modern Marvel: Elecon’s High-Tech Facility
Today, Elecon thrives in a cutting-edge 15,000-square-foot facility in Gosport, equipped with the latest fabrication machinery and fully integrated live time production software.
A New Chapter: The MBO in 2022
In 2022, Elecon entered a new era with a successful Management Buyout (MBO). Since then, the business has stayed true to its legacy, securing additional factory space, and investing in a new cutting-edge laser welding technology to prepare for the next phase of growth.
Expanding Horizons: Securing the Future
At Elecon, the journey is marked by a commitment to evolution and innovation. The business looks ahead with excitement, anticipating more growth and success as they continue to provide top-tier fabrication solutions to a growing array of valued clients.
