Baldwin & Francis
Baldwin and Francis have been powering hazardous environments for over a century. We are known throughout the world for the quality of our electrical equipment.
About Baldwin & Francis
Baldwin and Francis began life in 1919.
In 1919, Mr H.T. Baldwin (Harold) formed the “Baldwin Electrical Co.” based in Sheffield. A chance partnership with mining switchgear company ‘Wilfred Francis & Co Ltd’ landed him a contract to produce and distribute electrical switchgear.
As time progressed, some flameproof switchgear was in the collieries under the name of Wilfred Francis, therefore, when the chance arose to become a partnership, Mr. Baldwin wished to keep part of the name intact. Using his own surname, followed by Francis Perry’s (of Wilfred Francis & Co Ltd.) surname, the company “Baldwin & Francis” was born.
The devices very quickly became the ‘switch gear of choice’ for the mining community where safety and reliability were of paramount importance.
1919
‘Baldwin Electrical Co.’ formed by Mr H. T. Baldwin.
1928
‘Wilfred Francis & Co Ltd’, a manufacturer of mining switchgear, appoint Baldwin Electrical Co. as Sole Agents.
1946
Foundation of Baldwin & Francis Ltd (B&F). The leading supplier of underground electrical equipment to the UK Coal Industry.
1978
Northern Engineering Industries (NEI) acquire Baldwin and Francis.
1989
NEI merges with Rolls-Royce. Baldwin and Francis continue to operate as a RR strategic business unit.
1994
Diversification into Oil and Gas, Rail markets, Industrial Power Sectors
2019
Pioneer Safety which is part of the Longacre Group acquired Baldwin and Francis to operate as an independent company and achieve significant growth.
About Facilities
Baldwin & Francis is a long established and respected brand worldwide. It is proud to be part of the Sheffield community and its reputation for Quality, Innovation and Integrity.
B&F’s headquarters and factory is situated in President’s Park. We utilise our Sheffield heritage by working closely with local suppliers, institutions and trade associations.
All Baldwin & Francis products are designed, manufactured in our Sheffield facility ensuring quality throughout the entirety of the project.
How we work
Renowned for tailor made solutions, B&F design, manufacture and install high quality certified products and custom engineered solutions for use in the most challenging environments across many industries.
From component level design to custom designed specials and full turnkey projects, B&F offer not only bespoke product design but also seamless integration with leading industry technologies.