Darlington electrical firm sparks growth plans

A North East electrical services business is set to expand under new ownership.

Darlington-based Harvey Electrical Services, built over 20 years by Karl Harvey from a one-man operation to a 20-strong team, has been acquired by private investor Emre Yilmaz. 

The purchase secures the future of existing staff while providing a platform for growth across the North East and beyond.

Emre plans to develop the business further and explore acquisitions in complementary property services trades, including electrical contracting, heating, plumbing, roofing, renewables and HVAC companies. 

He said: “I am looking to form a group of companies within the North East across property services and trades and I aim to grow Harvey Electrical aggressively to be one of the largest in the area, through organic growth and further acquisitions,” Emre said.

“When I first spoke with Karl, his biggest concern was for his staff as he wanted to know they would be looked after.

“That really struck a chord with me, because, for me, acquisitions aren’t about cutting jobs or changing cultures, they are about people, and I have promised Karl his team would be supported.

“That is a promise I intend to keep.”

Emre added: “The human element is very important to me when it comes to my investments – I’m not a private equity guy who is all about money.

“For SMEs like Harvey Electrical, it’s all about emotions and the human element.

“A lot of people have worked here for a long time, and they work here as if they own the business, they care that much.

“While we have got that, we will always have success.”

Karl, who began his career as a market stall entrepreneur in Richmond and said he and his wife Mags had poured “a great deal of passion and hard work” into building the company, added: “It has always been more than just a business to us – it’s been about people, trust and community.

“Over the years, we were fortunate to have a lot of interest from those who recognised the strength of what we’d built, but when it came to the future, it was important for us to find someone whose values truly aligned with ours.

“That’s why we’re so pleased to see Emre take the company forward.”

Karl added he is proud son Owen remains a key part of the team.

“His ongoing role ensures continuity and helps carry forward the standards and values we’ve built the company on, giving both staff and clients the reassurance that the business remains in safe and capable hands,” Karl said.

“With that strong foundation in place, I’m excited to focus more on expanding my real estate ventures, while watching this company continue to thrive under Emre’s leadership.

“We wish him, Owen and the entire team every success as they carry the business forward into a bright future.”

Harvey Electrical Services is also responding to the rising demand for renewable energy, operating its Green Atlas Solar brand to install solar panels and EV charging infrastructure for both commercial and residential clients.

The company continues to support businesses and landlords with compliance services, such as Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs), working with more than 30 leading agents.

Chris Simpson, the firm’s general manager, added: “It is good to see Emre carrying on the firm’s legacy, by keeping the Harvey name and its loyal and committed team.

“Harvey’s has always been about people – staff, customers and community.

“Emre understands that and he’s here to grow with us, not over us – and that’s why the whole team is excited for the future.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →