Power engineering specialists, R&B Switchgear Group, are commemorating their latest milestone with a special visit from Mayor of Rochdale and advocate for local businesses, Councillor Shakil Ahmed.
The Mayor visited the company’s global headquarters and manufacturing facility in Heywood, Greater Manchester, to meet the team and learn how the company is investing in the local community and creating jobs through its award-winning Apprentice Academy.
An industry leader in switchgear manufacturing and maintenance services, R&B Switchgear Group was co-founded by Group CEO Mark Beswick and has flourished from a small service business to an internationally recognised leader in bespoke power engineering solutions.
During the visit, the Mayor was given an insight into the company’s work with some of the UK’s most notable household names, including United Utilities, TESCO, Sainsbury’s, and Scottish Water, along with a tour of their dedicated training facility, which serves as the hub of their recognised apprentice and T-Level programme.
The company continues a year-long calendar of celebrations as it marks its 40th anniversary and embarks on a new chapter under new leadership. The family-run business will now be headed by Group Managing Director Max Beswick and Group Operations Director Sophie Gudgeon.
Speaking of the milestone visit from, Group Founder and CEO Mark Beswick said: “It’s an honour to welcome Councillor Shakil Ahmed to share in our landmark celebrations and showcase how businesses in the region can have a lasting legacy in their local communities.
At the age of 24, I took a bold step and co-founded R&B Switchgear Services—a decision inspired by our proud family heritage of engineers, spanning three generations. Since those early days in 1985, we’ve grown into a leading name in the industry, delivering innovative power engineering solutions across a variety of sectors. Our success has been built on decades of passion, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to exceptional service.”
“R&B Switchgear Group is a shining example of how local businesses can thrive while giving back to the community. Their dedication to creating opportunities through apprenticeships and investment in future talent is truly commendable. R&B is a real hidden gem, and we want to help get the word out – more people should know about the fantastic work this business is doing right here in Rochdale.”
Councillor Shakil Ahmed, Mayor of Rochdale
The celebrations come as the company enjoys a record year in 2024, having opened two new offices in Sunderland and Southampton and secured the Make UK Business Growth and Strategy Award and the Developing Future Talent Award. These accolades highlight R&B Switchgear Group’s commitment to innovation, strategic growth, and nurturing the next generation of engineers through its Training Academy.