For a company that had its origins in manufacturing wooden boxes to transport fruit and vegetables, the Tewkesbury Saw Company has come a long way in 50 years and now has a highly regarded, international reputation as experts in the sharpening and maintenance of saw blades.
Being based in Tewkesbury gives the company easy access to customers via the town’s excellent transport links and Gloucestershire’s strong manufacturing base has given Bruce a talented pool of expertise within his workforce, as well as a thriving customer base.
“When my father John started the business in 1961 the motorway wasn’t in place so he couldn’t take advantage of it like we’ve been able to,” explains Bruce. “You can get to most of the country in a two-hour journey, which is great for us in being able to reach customers quickly and easily.”
Bruce joined the family business in 1975 after qualifying as a Saw Doctor, the recognised qualification for sharpening saw blades to cut and saw all kinds of materials including wood, metal and plastic.
Over years of service the company has become more specialised and as well as sharpening blades the company also provides training for machine operators and equipment users.
“There was a time when most of our customers were just an hour away but now they are all over the world. As well as big names such as the Williams Formula 1 team and the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT), we also support people with machines as far afield as Hong Kong and the South Antarctic,” says Bruce.
Throughout his working life Bruce has valued the support of fellow businesses and is a firm believer in the benefits of a strong business community. He was chairman of the Chamber of Commerce for three years including the time of the 2007 floods, which made Tewkesbury headline news all over the world. He’s also been an active member of the Federation of Small Businesses.
Bruce added: “We’ve got a great business community here in Tewkesbury and there’s no doubt we’re stronger when we all pull together. We saw that first hand in 2007. I love running a business here and can thoroughly recommend it.”
Tewkesbury Saw Company Newtown Trading Estate, Tewkesbury GL20 8JG. Tel: 01684 293092
