Warren proudly marks 35 years in business. From its modest beginnings in a garage to becoming a leading name in precision engineering, the journey of Warren (formerly Warren Services), is a story of family, dedication and a passion for British manufacturing.
Then:
It all began in 1990, when Richard and Sharon Bridgman officially started Warren in the Old School at Feltwell. But as HR Director Estee Ross reminded us, the very first home of Warren was actually their garage!
In 2004, Warren made a bold move by investing in a near-derelict 30,000 sq. ft building on Fison Way, Thetford.
Now:
Today, Warren operates from two impressive facilities in Thetford. The original Fison Way factory was joined in 2014 by a second site at Brickfields Way. Together, these sites provide over 80,000 sq. ft of advanced manufacturing, fabrication and assembly space.
Staff
Then:
The Warren team began with just five people. Richard and Sharon were joined by three trusted colleagues from Richard’s previous business in Brandon: Paul Green (fondly known as Squeak), Paul Tuffs (Tuffy), and Ray Underhill. Tuffy left in 1993 to pursue a new role, but Paul and Ray stayed on to help shape the company’s future.
The original Warren Services team
Between 1990 and 1997, Warren invested in its people, bringing in apprentices and even acquiring its first computer to generate professional invoices – a forward-thinking move at the time!
Now:
Warren now employs 113 skilled individuals. Paul Green remains a vital part of the team – a testament to his loyalty and the close-knit culture Richard and Sharon fostered from the beginning. Ray has since retired and his contribution lives on in the business he helped build.
Ray recently returned, alongside his wife, to help celebrate Warren’s 35-year anniversary milestone.
Branding – Logo and Website
Then:
In its early days, Warren’s branding was simple and functional, much like the business itself.
Warren Services’ original logo
Warren Services’ original website
Warren Services’ lorry with original logo
Now:
In 2023, Warren Services rebranded to become simply ‘Warren’. The refreshed logo and newly designed website represent a confident, modern business that’s still rooted in its values but looking firmly to the future. The updated identity better reflects the scale, ambition and professionalism of Warren today.
Warren’s newly branded clothing
Directors
Then:
A key moment in the company’s growth came in 2001, when Will Bridgman, (Richard and Sharon’s son) joined the business after studying Business and Finance at the University of Birmingham. By 2002, Warren had reached a £1 million turnover and Will stepped into the role of Managing Director.
Richard, Sharon and Will celebrating the acquisition of the Fison Way site.
Now:
Today, Warren is led by a dynamic board of directors: Will Bridgman (Managing Director), Estee Ross (HR Director), Becky Mason (Financial Director), and Lee Charlton (Operations Director). This talented team is continuing to drive the company forward, combining decades of experience with fresh ideas and strategic vision.
Will, Estee, Beck and Lee – current Directors of Warren
Projects
Then:
Warren’s early success came in the theatre and stage industry, with bespoke winches and automation systems taking Richard and his team as far as the United States. This vintage photo shows Richard hard at work in America – a snapshot of Warren’s hands-on origins and global ambition.
Now:
While still known for its engineering versatility, Warren has diversified into a broad range of industries. Today, the company works extensively in the construction, agriculture and turbine sectors, building on its solid reputation for innovation and quality.
One of Warren’s recent projects – modular balconies
Here’s to the next 35 years!
As Warren reflects on this incredible journey, the Bridgman family and all at Warren thank everyone – staff, customers, suppliers and supporters who’ve played a role in reaching this milestone. From a garage in Brookville to a multi-site engineering powerhouse, Warren’s story is proof that with vision and hard work, anything is possible.
