Gate 7 marks global growth milestone

A Gateshead-headquartered manufacturing firm is celebrating an anniversary with international expansion.

Gate 7, a family-run global decal manufacturer, is marking 25 years in business after reaching several milestones, including opening a new production facility in Pune, India.

Founded in 2000 by Keith Wickham, Gate 7 has grown from a small UK team into a 120-strong global workforce supplying decals for vehicles, machinery and equipment across multiple sectors. 

Its investment in new digital print technology and expanded facilities in the UK and US reflects its ambition to strengthen its worldwide footprint.

The firm has also diversified its markets, developed its own range of engineered vinyls and continued to build its reputation through innovation and product testing. 

Keith, who is now chairman of Gate 7, said: “When I started the business it was always with the ambition to provide a more specialist and higher-grade service to industry leaders. 

“The fact that we are recognised globally for our work and have bolstered our presence with multiple international sites is a testament to the hard work of our team, many of whom have been with us on this journey for a long time.

“For me personally, it’s an added achievement that the company is still family owned with my son Harry as managing director and daughter Sophie spearheading all commercial operations as commercial director.

“I know the company can grow stronger and I look forward to the future.”

As demand grows internationally, Gate 7 is exploring eco-friendly materials and adopting more sustainable production methods. 

Its new Indian base will support expanded operations in Asia and help connect the business with customers across global markets.

Harry added: “It’s an exciting time for Gate 7 as we strongly affirm our position to become the global leader in supplying innovative industrial decals and printed components.

“A number of milestones in our 25-year history has led us to this point and I’m immensely grateful for the support of not just my family, but my work family I have in my colleagues here at Gate 7. 

“They continue to grow and develop our relationships with customers, which has led to increased projects. 

“And across the business we’re always looking at innovative ways to support our customers and meet their expectations.

“Through the opening of our facility in India we’re in a strong position to reach and support more international markets and meet our ambitions for sustainable growth. 

“As a business who has made a significant investment in India with the opening of our Pune facility, we are excited to see how the new trade deal will help us to unlock new opportunities, break down barriers and drive growth.”

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