'We run on ambition' - South Tyneside battery pack business celebrates 25 years of success
A brand which started by running production lines across corridors in Jarrow is celebrating 25 years in business.
A South Tyneside business that began life in a tiny office with makeshift production lines stretching along business centre corridors is celebrating 25 years of success.
Cell Pack Solutions has grown into one of the UK's leading designers and manufacturers of custom battery packs and portable power options.
The anniversary marks a big milestone for Managing Director Eddie Czestochowski, who grew the firm from a small office at Jarrow Business Centre, often working late hours when the site was quiet to create the first series of items on corridor floors.
Eddie said: "We’ve come a long way from our early days. Not only did we used to take over the corridors after hours to form makeshift production lines, the office was tiny! But it helped us get a start and was such an important moment in the history of the company.
"Like many businesses, you run on ambition. Every move we've made has been about creating opportunities that would take us to the next level as a business."
The company expanded into larger premises at South Shields Business Works before purchasing its own facility in 2013. It has also secured planning consent for an additional warehouse to support future growth plans.
Today, Cell Pack designs, develops and manufactures battery packs for use across sectors including manufacturing, construction, engineering, healthcare and the arts.
Moving to the borough over 40 years ago, Eddie worked at battery manufacturer Crompton Eternacell before establishing Cell Pack.
Two years ago, Eddie sold a majority shareholding in the business to Swedish investors, but only after securing assurances that Cell Pack would remain firmly rooted in South Tyneside.
He added: "Keeping the business here was incredibly important to me. The South Tyneside business community, particularly the Manufacturing Forum, has been hugely supportive.
"It's also fair to say we wouldn't be where we are today without South Tyneside Council's business team. They've been with us every step of the way, from helping us secure our first office through every move we've made since.”
The brand marked its 25th anniversary with a celebration at its headquarters on West Walpole Street.