Our History

Steel chain began to replace wrought and the 750 T machine was installed at Netherton in 1934. During the war years there was a boom which continued into the early 1950's. Then competition from Japan, Germany and Sweden reduced the shipping tonnage ordered in the UK. Proving houses were closed, leaving eventually only Netherton and Newcastle. Industrial testing and repair began to replace chain and cables and anchors, particularly at Newcastle as a major part of the work undertaken. Steps began by shipbuilders to remove the 1899 Anchor and Chain Cable Act from the Statute Book.

Industrial testing, repair and supply of lifting tackle developed at an accelerating rate Newcastle leading the way, where it has been increased to over 95% of total turnover. Netherton was less adaptable and had more local competition in this field. The Directors looked for diversification activities. In 1965 the crane hire business was offered to them but rejected. In 1967 they advertised and bought two small companies which required finance for expansion. By 1969 these had failed and were sold, together with a new division which had been developed at the same time. In November 1969, Close Brothers approached the Board for discussion of a merger with Hiracrane Ltd. This was rejected. In 1970, Netherton was re-organised to cope with expansion in the industrial testing field. The repeal of the 1989 Act became effective.

Lloyds British became part of the Davy Corporation

Lloyds British and Morris Cranes were sold to Trafalgar House.

Due to KONE focusing on crane maintenance service. The hire division of Lloyds British Testing was put up for sale.

During January a management buy-in led by now Chief Executive, Ian White, was announced. Completion of the buy-in was completed on 4th March and Lloyds Equipment Hire was born. That same year discussions started up with KONE Cranes (now Lloyds KONE Cranes) in respect of purchasing our former parent company Lloyds British Testing Co Ltd. This unusual deal was valued at more than £5 million.

Lloyds British Group was floated on the AIMS market and became a PLC.

After a short spell on the AIMS market, Lloyds expanded into new markets with the acquisition of Somers Handling and was integrated into Lloyds British Testing and now known as Lloyds Somers. Lloyds went on to acquire Rota Handling in Dudley.

Lloyds acquires Military Marine and become Lloyds British Defence

In December 2016, Lloyds British becomes part of the Speedy Services family