Aberdeen, Scotland – JCE is proud to announce the celebration of a significant milestone: 25 years at their purpose-built headquarters, JCE House. This anniversary marks not only a quarter of a century in their Blackburn location but also highlights their ongoing success, resilience, and commitment to both their industry and community.
A Permanent Home for Expansion
Founded in 1988, JCE has grown steadily over the years. In 1999, JCE Group moved to JCE House, driven by a clear need for expansion due to rising demand for their world-class ATEX and safe area electrical control systems. The move wasn’t simply about acquiring more space—it was about building a permanent home where the company could grow and innovate. With JCE House custom-built for the company's needs, it became the foundation from which JCE has operated globally, designing, manufacturing, and delivering critical systems. Additionally, JCE expanded their operations by opening a manufacturing facility in Plymouth 36 years ago, further supporting their growth.
Growth and Employee Retention
Since the move, JCE has continued to thrive despite industry challenges, including fluctuating oil prices and global economic shifts. In recent years, the growing focus on renewables has become a major part of JCE’s strategy. The company has diversified into the renewable energy sector with great success, leveraging its key products and core strengths to support both new clients in the renewables industry and existing clients in oil and gas as they transition to cleaner energy solutions. JCE's ability to adapt to changing market conditions has solidified their position as a key player in the industry.
Since establishing JCE House, the company has experienced tremendous growth. Their team has doubled in size, and they have maintained a strong focus on employee retention. Many senior staff and apprentices have remained with the company for decades. Long-serving employees, like Frank Maes, JCE’s Technical Director, will be retiring after 35 years of service, exemplifying the loyalty and dedication JCE fosters.
JCE’s commitment to nurturing talent is evident in their workforce, with former apprentices returning as full-time employees or subcontractors. JCE remains a company where careers can flourish and grow.
As the company has expanded, so has their headquarters. JCE House has grown with the addition of offices, a canteen, an engineering and digital lab, and further stores facilities. While the building once housed EPIT, their training arm has since moved to its own facility, freeing up space for internal development.
Community Engagement
Beyond their business achievements, JCE is dedicated to supporting the local community. They have regularly sponsored local football teams, pipe bands, and employee-related initiatives, keeping their community engagement "close to home." A notable example of their community support is the long-standing funding of the Grampian MS Centre, reinforcing their commitment to the region.
Looking to the Future
JCE’s goals for the future are ambitious: to continue increasing turnover, expanding their workforce, and diversifying into new sectors with their core products and services. Despite their growth, JCE House will always remain the company's heart—a place of innovation and collaboration that will lead them into the next 25 years.
Reflecting on the company’s achievements, JCE Chairman Jim Craig shared:
"From our Blackburn headquarters, we have proudly designed, manufactured, and delivered world-class ATEX and safe area electrical control systems to clients across the globe. The journey to this milestone has been shaped by the unwavering dedication and expertise of our incredible team, as well as the trust and support of our customers and partners."
Alison Cox, JCE’s Joint Managing Director, added:
"Our success is truly a testament to the collaboration and hard work that has driven us forward. As we celebrate 25 years in JCE House, we look ahead to the next chapter of growth, innovation, and continued excellence. Here's to the future and another 25 years of success!"
Joint Managing Director Martin Craig shared his perspective:
"As we look toward the future, our focus remains on pushing boundaries while keeping our focus on ex safety, delivering excellence, and supporting our talented team. Our foundation is strong, and with our shared vision, we are excited about what lies ahead."
JCE’s celebration of 25 years at JCE House marks not just a milestone but a springboard for continued growth and success. With a strong foundation and ambitious plans for the future, JCE remains poised to lead in their field for decades to come.
For more information on JCE Celebrates 25 Years at JCE House: A Legacy of Growth, Resilience, and Community talk to JCE Group (UK) Ltd