1966 – Die-Pat Ltd was incorporated on 4th June by Kathleen Gleghorn and Ben Lee. The name derives from steel dies and wooden patterns and operations began at a small foundry at Baginton near Coventry
1971 – Partnered with a major refrigeration manufacturer to produce a 6” adjustable levelling leg, sparking rapid growth and the expansion of Die-Pat’s product range to serve OEMs throughout the catering equipment sector
1972 – Stuart Gleghorn joined the company
1973 – Die-Pat exhibited at Hotelympia (now HRC) for the first time
1978 – Christine Brander joined the company
Christine’s company Die-Pat Hardware and Stuart’s company Midland Wheels and Castors merged with Die-Pat, and Die-Pat Divisions was formed
1987 – Ownership was transferred to Christine and Stuart, alongside a third partner, Martin Lee, whose shares they purchased in 1993
2000 – Foundry and manufacturing stopped and all product was outsourced
2003 – Louise Brander (now our Commercial Director) joined the company
2006 – Began the New Year in larger premises, moving from 14,000sq ft to our current 49,000sq ft location, modernising all systems and utilising space for continued expansion
2008 – Vantage Products became part of the Die-Pat Group of Companies and manufacturing began again within the group
2008 – Joined the Catering Equipment Suppliers Association, CESA (now Foodservice Equipment Association, FEA)
2017 – Further investment into Vantage Products to bring more manufacturing processes in-house. This included a new laser cutter, press brake and state of the art ventilation system, offering significant operational benefits to the group
2018 – Joined ENSE UK, catering equipment buying consortium
2019 – Added our portfolio to AutoQuotes UK
2024 – Launched our new look website and logo
2024 – Proud winners of the Associated Products & Services Supplier of the Year at the annual ENSE awards
2026 and onwards – As we celebrate 60 years in business, we reflect with pride on a journey built on three enduring principles; quality products, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer service.
These values have helped to shape who we are today and remain at the heart of everything we do. Our customers continue to choose Die-Pat because we deliver more than just products – we deliver confidence, reliability, and lasting partnerships.
Thank you for being part of our journey so far. Here’s to the next chapter, as we continue to evolve, meet the changing needs of our customers and strive to exceed expectations for many years to come.
A throwback to celebrating 25 years!
