Our Story
At Steel Dynamics, we're customer focused, we're committed to service and adding value, we're driven by quality, we're industry leading .... and we’ve only just begun!
Steel Dynamics started out with a vision to improve service levels in the metals processing industry.
From humble beginnings supplying smaller quick turnaround orders with just one machine and limited stock, we now boast over 5,000 tonnes of Stainless Steel stock from European manufacturers, together with the latest, fastest, most powerful and economical processing equipment around - all with safety at the forefront of how we operate.
The Beginning
Steel Dynamics was founded in 2011 by Rob Pattenden and Danny McKinley with a simple mission - to be the lowest cost per ton steel processors, delivered on time door-to-door. Originally based in Bolton with just one machine, Steel Dynamics had turnover exceeding £5 million in the first full year's trading.
Steel Dynamics gained our ISO 9001 certificate in 2012, the following year after the company was founded, and it is this emphasis on quality management, coupled with a desire to strive for excellence, that is still at the heart of Steel Dynamics today. We’ve been providing our customers with a first class, professional and flexible service each and every day for over the last 13 years.
Growth and Expansion
Throughout the early-mid 2010s and early 2020s, Steel Dynamics experienced steady growth, expanding our operations and customer base across the UK, investing in state-of-the-art machinery and technology to improve efficiency and production capacity.
In 2014, we became the first UK business to have a fibre laser cutting machine in the steel processing industry. This laser technology helped to revolutionise steel processing with increased demand for precision cutting, rapid cuts and the need for cost-effective solutions. Continued growth meant we had to locate to a larger 2 unit site on Walker Industrial Estate in Blackburn in 2017.
Market Challenges
Like many steel companies, Steel Dynamics have faced challenges such as fluctuating steel prices, competition from foreign manufacturers and regulatory changes impacting the industry. However, through strategic management, investments and innovation, we have weathered these challenges.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the UK steel industry with a drop in demand from key sectors and difficulties in maintaining operations due to health and safety concerns. But Steel Dynamics were ready to support the government’s efforts during the public health crisis, including offering skilled workers and prioritising the supply of materials for medical equipment.
Recent Developments
With the recent inauguration of a state-of-the-art 100,000 sq. ft. Stainless Steel facility, complemented by a separate, dedicated 25,000 sq. ft. Carbon Steel site, our production facility in Workington and our nuclear machining and apprentice centre, Steel Dynamics are fortifying our position as a prominent player in the UK and European steel market.
Known for our quality products and reliable service, with such diverse multi-metal stockholding facilities, a fleet of vehicles and products spanning several sites and comprising over 150,000 square feet, we are well positioned to service our customers wherever they are.
As a successful, strong and growing business employing over 100 people in the UK, Steel Dynamics are uniquely placed to meet the diverse, ever changing needs of the metals industry.
Our dedication to continually invest in the latest technology means we have a broader offering of added value processing, finishing and inspection than any other metal service centre in Europe.