In the heart of the West Midlands, nestled amidst the industrial landscape, Midland Deburr & Finish stands as a testament to the spirit of entrepreneurship, innovation, and unwavering determination. As the company commemorates its 25th anniversary, Directors Chris and Sue Arrowsmith reflect on the remarkable journey that has shaped their lives and the landscape of metal finishing in the region.
The story of Midland Deburr & Finish begins in April 1999 when Chris Arrowsmith, armed with a wealth of experience from leading operational management roles in the manufacturing sector, embarked on a journey to redefine industry standards. Frustrated by the inflexibility of larger corporations and inspired by the potential for innovation within the sector, Chris took a leap of faith and incorporated the business, laying the groundwork for what would become Midlands’ premier metal finishing specialist.
“From the outset, I was driven by a vision for change,” recalls Chris Arrowsmith. “I saw an opportunity to challenge the status quo, to carve a niche for ourselves in an industry ripe for innovation.”
With a keen eye for branding and a grand vision for the future, Chris branded the business as “Midland Deburr & Finish,” reflecting aspirations for regional prominence and growth. Armed with determination and a meticulously crafted plan for expansion, Chris set out to establish Midland Deburr & Finish as a beacon of excellence in the field.
The early years were marked by challenges and triumphs alike, as Chris navigated the complexities of entrepreneurship and the ever-evolving manufacturing landscape. However, it wasn’t long before his efforts began to bear fruit. Midland Deburr & Finish quickly gained traction, earning a reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation.
Four years into the journey, Chris’s wife, Sue Arrowsmith, brought her extensive corporate expertise to the table, joining the company as Director and HR specialist. Departing from a prominent role within the NHS, Sue’s decision to join Midland Deburr & Finish marked a pivotal moment in the company’s trajectory.
“Sue’s arrival was a game-changer,” Chris reflects. “Her larger ‘corporate’ HR knowledge brought a level of professionalism and strategic insight that propelled us to new heights.”
Together, Chris and Sue Arrowsmith forged a formidable partnership, blending Chris’s operational acumen with Sue’s HR expertise to steer Midland Deburr & Finish towards continued success. Through strategic investments in machinery, expansion into multiple units, and a relentless commitment to excellence, the company flourished, solidifying its position as an industry leader.
“The past 25 years have been a testament to our resilience and determination,” Sue remarks. “Despite facing numerous challenges, from Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic to fluctuating material costs and geopolitical tensions, we’ve remained steadfast in our pursuit of excellence.”
As Midland Deburr & Finish celebrates its silver jubilee, Chris and Sue Arrowsmith remain optimistic about the future. With a track record of success, a commitment to innovation, and a dedicated team by their side, the company is poised for continued growth and prosperity in the years to come.
“As we look ahead, we’re excited about the opportunities that lie on the horizon,” Chris concludes. “Our journey is far from over, and we’re ready to write the next chapter in the story of Midland Deburr & Finish.”
