ACEDA Celebrates 35 Years in Business and Announces Major Growth Plans

This year marks a significant milestone for ACEDA as we celebrate 35 years in business.
What began as a small electrical contracting company operating from Teesside has grown into a specialist provider of network infrastructure, fire and security systems, and electrical and instrumentation services, supporting customers across the UK. Today, we employ around 60 people and continue to invest in the people, expertise and technology that enable us to deliver critical projects for our customers.
As we celebrate our 35th anniversary, we are also looking firmly towards the future. As part of our continued growth strategy, we are preparing to relocate our headquarters from Thornaby to a new 6,000 sq ft facility on High Force Road in Middlesbrough, with the move expected to be completed in early 2027. The relocation will provide additional space to support our expanding operations and create opportunities for further growth, including the creation of more than ten new jobs.
For our Founder and Managing Director, Nick Harker, the move represents something of a homecoming. ACEDA’s journey began in a 900 sq ft unit at Collingwood Court in Middlesbrough, just a short distance from our new headquarters.
“When I started the business, it was just me and an Escort van,” says Nick Harker. “I was ambitious from the outset and it wasn’t long before I was employing other electricians, but I don’t think I could have imagined where we would be 35 years later.”
Founded in 1991, our business evolved alongside rapidly changing technology. During the early growth of computer networking, we recognised an opportunity to bridge the gap between traditional electrical engineering and the emerging IT sector. By providing specialist network cabling and infrastructure services, we established strong relationships with customers and technology providers, laying the foundations for future growth.
Over the years, we have expanded our capabilities significantly and today operate through three specialist business groups:
- Network Infrastructure
- Fire & Security Systems
- Electrical & Instrumentation
Our project delivery teams provide design, installation and commissioning services, while our dedicated maintenance teams support customers throughout the operational lifecycle of their systems through planned preventative maintenance, servicing and technical support. This approach enables us to build long-term partnerships and provide a complete service from initial implementation through to ongoing support.
We have developed particular expertise in supporting critical infrastructure and nationally important assets, delivering solutions that help organisations operate safely, securely and efficiently. Our projects range from upgrading network infrastructure and maintaining fire and security systems across large estates to delivering sophisticated perimeter protection solutions for high-security environments.
Quality, compliance and technical excellence remain central to everything we do. Our commitment is demonstrated through a range of industry-recognised accreditations, including ISO certifications, NSI Gold, NICEIC and BAFE accreditations.
Looking ahead, our focus is on sustainable growth. We will continue investing in our people, facilities and technical capabilities while expanding our presence in existing and emerging markets. A key part of our strategy is strengthening long-term customer relationships through ongoing maintenance and support services, helping organisations maximise the value and performance of their systems.
Our growth ambitions are matched by our commitment to our people and the communities in which we operate. Many of our employees live within the local area, and we remain dedicated to creating career opportunities through apprenticeships, training and professional development. We are equally proud of the culture we have built, with many members of our team having been with us for more than two decades.
Beyond our day-to-day operations, we continue to support local charities and community initiatives. Through fundraising activities and volunteering, our team is committed to making a positive contribution to the communities we serve.
As we enter our next chapter, we remain proud of our Teesside roots while continuing to deliver projects and services for customers throughout the UK. Returning our headquarters to Middlesbrough feels like a fitting moment in our journey, bringing us back to where the business first began while providing a strong platform for continued growth.
After 35 years, our ambition remains as strong as ever. We have built an exceptional team, earned the trust of our customers and established a reputation for quality and reliability. With exciting opportunities ahead, we look forward to continuing our growth, creating new jobs and demonstrating what a Teesside business can achieve on a national scale.
