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History

From a small summer house to award winning factories

1973 - Where it all began

David’s summerhouse at the bottom of his parent’s garden was the start of Shearline’s success.
History - 1972

1977 – Water Lane, Cambridge

David quickly outgrew his shed and needed somewhere larger to manufacture prototype parts for spin out companies from The University of Cambridge.
History 1974

1981 – Milton Factory

The continuing success of Cambridge University’s spin out companies meant a need for more space. Machines were running 24/7 predominantly making nozzles for the then-booming inkjet industry.
History - 1978

1989 – ISO 9001 accreditation

To aid with the streamlining of an ever-growing business, it was essential to become accredited to the internationally recognised Quality Management System ISO 9001. An accreditation we still proudly hold today.
BSI ISO9001

1993 – On the move again

Due to outgrowing the Milton premises, a purpose-built state of the art factory was built in Ely (14 miles North East of Cambridge).
History - 1993

1998 – Ely expansion

Continued growth meant it was time to expand - a dedicated assembly floor was built overlooking the machine shop.
Kitting Service

2003 - Sheet metal

The Ely factory was further expanded to allow for Shearline’s comprehensive Fabrication offerings.
Fabrication

2004 – Environmentally aware

Shearline’s commitment to the environment was formally recognised by gaining the internationally recognised ISO 14001 accreditation.
History - 2004

2007 – Hybrid Laser Tech

Shearline further expanded its offering to include precision ceramic cut substrate via the acquisition of Hybrid Laser Tech (HLT). HLT moved into a £1 million, 10,000 square feet custom built facility attached to the main Shearline factory.
Our Company

2010 - acquired large scale sub-contract engineering business

SXL (Shearline Xtra Large) was born.. Specialising in large scale sub-contract engineering – SXL is the number one supplier for many leading motorsport and automotive companies.
History - 2010

2023 – still privately owned

Today, The Shearline Group remains a privately owned business, continuing its legacy as one of the UK’s leading centres of manufacturing excellence. While the company has grown into one of the largest subcontracting manufacturers in the UK, it retains a strong values-driven culture. David now takes on more of a consultancy role, ensuring Shearline’s ongoing commitment to quality and innovation.
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