Express Engineering wins King’s Award

A North East engineering firm has secured a prestigious national award following a period of strong international growth.

Express Engineering Group, which operates from Gateshead and Middlesbrough, has received The King’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category for Outstanding Short-Term Growth. 

The accolade places the business among just 185 organisations recognised across the UK in 2026.

The group, which includes Express Engineering and QA Weld Tech, has seen overseas sales rise by more than 91 per cent between 2022 and 2024, generating £78 million in export revenue. 

Export activity now accounts for around 75 per cent of its annual turnover.

Chris Thompson, chairman of Express Engineering Group, said: “I have dedicated more than 50 years to this business, and growing the company my father founded into a world-leading exporter has been an immense privilege. 

“This King’s Award is a testament to our people, from those team members who have been with us for decades to the talented apprentices who are the future of our trade. 

“Our growth has always been built on a foundation of technical expertise and a global reputation for excellence.

“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, and I know that the business is in a stronger position than ever to continue flying the flag for North East engineering on the world stage.”

Founded in 1973 by the late Keith Thompson MBE, the business has grown into a £60 million turnover operation employing around 330 people across seven facilities. 

It delivers precision-engineered components for global offshore energy and infrastructure projects, working with clients including TechnipFMC, OneSubsea, Aker Solutions and Baker Hughes.

Growth has been supported by sustained investment, including backing from LDC and the expansion of its manufacturing capabilities.

The acquisition of QA Weld Tech in 2023 and a new dockside facility in Middlesbrough have further strengthened its offer, adding specialist welding and fabrication capability.

Despite its global reach, the group remains rooted in the North East, supporting local supply chains and developing future talent through its apprenticeship programme.

Craig Swinhoe, chief executive of Express Engineering Group, added: “Express Engineering and QA Weld Tech are remarkable businesses with deep roots in this region and a hard-earned reputation for precision and reliability. 

“This award is a fantastic recognition of our ability to service the most demanding global markets from our bases in Gateshead and Middlesbrough.

“We have an incredible team here, and we have worked hard to foster a culture of engagement, making the group a great place to work where people feel valued and proud to contribute. 

“We are immensely proud of our role in the global supply chain and the local partnerships that make our success possible. 

“As we look ahead, we will continue to strengthen the business and attract new talent to help us grow and increase our service offering, ensuring we remain a trusted Tier 1 partner capable of delivering the advanced technical solutions and exacting safety standards our customers rely on across the subsea, power generation, defence, and nuclear sectors.”

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