Wired for growth as Harbro looks to expand

A County Durham-based electrical wholesaler is preparing for expansion as it builds on 30 years of trading success.

Harbro Electrical, based in Peterlee, was founded in 1994 and is now run by managing director Phil Harbord, alongside his brother David and wife Jackie. 

Starting out as Steadfast Electrical, in Horden, the business has grown to a ten-strong team and now generates more than £2 million in annual turnover.

Phil said: “We’re so established, and our turnover has sat at £2 million for a few years now, which is good because it shows we’re a secure business.

“But what I would like to do is go back to where it all started and get back in with some of the factories in Peterlee. 

“We recently started working with NSK which is great as they were one of our first customers, but there are so many others we’d like to start and work with.

“I would like to grow, and I know there are businesses out there that would benefit from our expertise. 

“Our staff really know their stuff and I personally offer free energy, lighting and heating surveys to show people how they can save money.”

Now operating from a large showroom and warehouse on the South West Industrial Estate, Harbro supplies lighting and electrical products to major clients across the region, including factories, colleges and local authorities. 

With a portfolio of more than 70 electrical contractors, the firm is looking to strengthen its ties with East Durham manufacturers as part of its expansion plans, which could lead to the creation of new jobs.

Phil added: “The business is in a good place, but there’s definitely an untapped market out there for us, so my priority over the coming months is to get in front of the factories in this area and see how we can work together.

“If we do achieve our growth plans, we will need to add to our team to support the increased workload.”

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