In 2014, you might recall Scotland voting to stay part of the United Kingdom, the dramatic drop in the oil market, or the mysterious disappearances of planes. However, for us, 2014 marked the beginning of the NWCE Business Journey. North West Catering Engineers (NWCE) was born, setting the stage for a remarkable journey in the catering industry.
The NWCE Business Journey began with just one man, Ben Odling, and his trusty van, back in September 2014. Ben dedicated himself to developing a solid reputation as a reliable and competent engineer. Through his commitment and hard work, he laid the foundation for a company that would grow far beyond its humble beginnings.
Subsequently, the business expanded into catering equipment supply, fabrication, and installations. To facilitate this growth, Ben and Matthew Hopkinson decided to join forces. Matthew brought his expertise in fabrication and installation, which became integral to NWCE’s operations.
THE NWCE JOURNEY
In March 2015, the pair managed to hire their very first engineer, marking a significant milestone in the NWCE Business Journey. NWCE’s growth did not stop there—the team expanded further with the addition of the first office staff in May of the same year. At that time, office work was conducted from someone’s back bedroom office, which was a testament to the company’s grassroots beginnings.
Finally, in July 2016, they moved into their first ever office and warehouse in Bury. The company continued to grow and attracted valuable customers, with turnover exceeding £2 million in 2016. The focus shifted to creating a team with industry experience to enhance the business’s reputation.
Peter Overton, who had assisted Ben and the team on an ad hoc basis, joined as a director in 2018. The following year, the company rebranded as NWCE Foodservice Equipment, reflecting its nationwide service and supply operations.
With this rebrand came a move to a new warehouse and office. The team relocated to the current premises in Bolton, which now houses the impressive and fully equipped Northern Powerhouse developmental kitchen.
NWCE FOODSERVICE EQUIPMENT – 7 YEARS ON
Seven years later, the NWCE Business Journey has transformed into a thriving business that employs nearly 40 people. The company’s engineers provide nationwide coverage, and further expansion looms on the horizon.
Not bad for a venture that began with just a man and his van! Today, NWCE stands as a testament to hard work, collaboration, and strategic growth, continuing to serve the foodservice industry with excellence and innovation.
