Texcel Technology Plc marks its 50th anniversary, celebrating five decades of engineering excellence, technical innovation and advanced electronics manufacturing.
Founded in 1976 by three former GEC–Elliott Automation engineers, Texcel was established with a clear objective, to design the world’s most advanced ship loading computer. The resulting Cargomaster system rapidly gained approval from all major international ship classification authorities and achieved global adoption, including entry into the highly restricted Japanese market, competing directly with multinational engineering groups.
From the late 1970s, Texcel moved early into digital computing, transitioning from analogue systems and developing in-house hardware and software expertise that would become central to its long-term success. This ability to adapt to emerging technologies has remained a defining characteristic of the business.
During the 1980s, Texcel diversified beyond a single-product model and entered the telecommunications sector, working with major global operators including British Telecom, Sprint and AT&T. This period established the company as a trusted supplier of high-reliability electronics for critical infrastructure, nuclear environments and mission-critical systems.
Growth continued through the 1990s and 2000s as Texcel expanded its international reach, delivering telemetry, monitoring and communications systems across Europe, Africa and the Americas. The relocation to Crayford, Kent in 1997 provided a permanent manufacturing base, enabling sustained investment in people, processes and production capability.
Over the past two decades, Texcel has built a strong reputation in complex, high-specification electronics manufacturing, supporting sectors including subsea, energy, telecommunications, transport, medical and industrial systems. The company now operates from a 35,000 sq ft facility, employs over 110 staff and exports the majority of its output into global equipment platforms.
Recent years have seen significant investment in automation, advanced inspection, selective soldering, high-voltage testing up to 150kV, clean manufacturing and energy-efficient systems. These investments reflect Texcel’s continued focus on quality, reliability and long-term customer partnerships.
Speaking on the milestone, Andy Mcleod, MD at Texcel said:
Reaching 50 years is a significant achievement and a reflection of the people, customers and partners who have shaped the business. Texcel has always focused on solving complex engineering challenges and delivering work to the highest standards. That focus will continue as we look to the future.
As Texcel enters its next 50 years, the company remains committed to expanding its advanced manufacturing capabilities, increasing automation, supporting sustainable production and working more closely with customers at the design and development stage.
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