Warrington-based SME Croft Filters Ltd is marking 40 years in business, reflecting on four decades of growth, resilience and manufacturing of bespoke filtration solutions for diverse high-spec sectors; including food and drink, power generation, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and Formula One.
When brothers Mark and Neil Burns founded the company in 1986—originally established as Croft Engineering Services—they could not have predicted that their filtration business would still be thriving in 2026. Influenced by the town’s strong wire-manufacturing heritage, Croft began by supplying products made from metal wire mesh.
Whilst still at school in 1988, Darren Travis joined the team as a part-time Saturday worker —a move that would prove pivotal. Through his unwavering commitment, he rose steadily through the business, eventually becoming a partner, then director.
The foundation of success
While the founders were ambitious, establishing the business required vital external support. Neil brought extensive experience in wire mesh, whilst Mark had previously spent nine years as a Jet Engine Fitter in the Royal Air Force.
Through Mark’s military service, the Royal British Legion provided an interest-free loan of £2,500—equivalent to approximately £7,500 today—to support former service personnel in establishing their own businesses. In addition, Croft received a £1,000 grant (around £3,000 in today’s terms) from The
Prince’s Trust now known as The King’s Trust Enterprise Programme, which supports young entrepreneurs and aims to improve employment prospects. Introduced in 1983, the Nationwide Enterprise Allowance Scheme provided £40 a week—approximately £120.99 today—to the unemployed with entrepreneurial ambitions. In addition to these grants and loans, Croft received an inheritance of £3,500; this support proved vital for the directors during a period of financial constraint, enabling them to purchase essential manufacturing equipment, such as a lathe that is still used to manufacture filters today. Without this initial backing, Croft believe they might not be here today.
Innovation
Mark, Neil and Darren proved early on that innovation would be the key to the company’s success. Over the years, this would take many forms; one key pioneering step was in 1997 when they secured the website domain name www.filters.co.uk at a time when the internet was only just starting to take off.
Throughout the years, Croft have invested heavily in machinery, processes, and equipment despite their SME status, in order to deliver cutting-edge filtration solutions. One milestone demonstrating this was 12 years ago when they purchased their very first metal 3D printing machine, paving the way for enhanced filtration design and development.
From the early days of retailing mesh components in 1986 to pioneering metal 3D printing in filtration Croft’s journey has mirrored the evolution of British manufacturing itself.
Leading by example
After 38 years, founder and director Neil Burns retired from the company, leaving an ethos centred on the importance of supplying quality products and investing in the future.
Neil’s profound knowledge of wire mesh and his innovative thinking paved the way for Croft’s achievements over the years. His pursuit of excellence resulted in groundbreaking product innovations, advanced filtration processes and pioneering methodologies. Through collaborative research projects with academia and industry partners, Neil significantly contributed to global filtration knowledge.
A legacy of loyalty
Croft have a dedicated team of staff which is evident in the fact that many remain with the company for a significant portion of their careers. The firm currently have a workforce of 16 who collectively represent over 220 years of service. In the 40 years since they were founded Croft have provided over 650 years of employment with members of the team working for as long as 23 years right up until their retirement.
Investing in the future
Croft also maintain a strong focus on the future through their apprenticeship and student programmes. For over 20 years, they have supported successful apprentices in roles ranging from metal fabrication to accounts. Furthermore, by collaborating with universities and colleges across the UK and abroad, they have welcomed more than 200 students, providing them with essential hands-on industry skills.
A blast from the past
As Croft celebrate their 40th anniversary, they are reminiscing about the stories that still make them laugh today. One that comes to mind for many is the day an employee brought a Second World War bomb into the workshop with the intention to saw it in half and see what was inside. Used for many years as a doorstop, the device was actually live. Fortunately, a member of staff discouraged him before he proceeded to saw into it. The bomb disposal team was called, and a controlled explosion was carried out in a field across from Croft.
Proud sponsors
Since 2024, Croft Filters have been a proud sponsor of Culcheth Eagles Girls RL. The company were drawn to the team’s dedication and spirit—qualities Croft admire. This has provided a fantastic opportunity for the business to further support the local community and next generation of local sporting talent.
As a long-standing sponsor of Croft Carnival, Croft take great pride in supporting this annual community event. For a number of years now, they have proudly manufactured bespoke medals for the day’s competition winners—something they hope to continue to do for many years to come.
Mark Burns director and founder of Croft added:
“The last 40 years have presented many challenges and achievements. It has been a privilege to work with many different characters over the years. I would like to express our gratitude to those who were there at the start and those who have continued to help along the way. We believed in our vision and the future of the company. Here’s to many more years and stories to follow.”
As Croft celebrate this milestone, they look forward to another four decades of continued success in the filtration industry, driven by their commitment to supplying quality filtration solutions to a diverse range of global markets, whilst continuing to evolve with the same determination that has defined the business since 1986.
Contact: Rosa Gee