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A New Chapter for SDE:
Our Office Move and Business Growth Journey

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Celebrating a Milestone 

SDE Group are delighted to share that they have now moved offices! Having grown out of their previous space, this move marks an exciting new chapter for SDE. It reflects not only continuous growth but also their commitment to fostering a more collaborative environment for our team. Our new office provides us with a fresh, modern space designed to enhance productivity, creativity, and teamwork, ensuring that we continue to deliver excellence to our clients. This milestone is a testament to SDE Group’s progress, and they can't wait to see what the future holds in this inspiring new setting.

SDE Group’s founder, John Buckton, officially opened the new office on 26th February 2025, “I have seen SDE grow, and the new offices are a modern vision of what I thought about many years ago. It will provide much more space and offer more relaxed areas for employees.

It has been an honour and a privilege to watch SDE grow into the company it is today, and I wish them all the best for future growth.”

Growth
The Story of SDE Group: From Humble Beginnings to Today

 

Founded in 1992 by John Buckton, SDE Group, originally known as Storage and Display Equipment Ltd, began as a small business specialising in pallet racking and display fixtures for the DIY market. From the outset, the goal was clear: to provide businesses with a complete, all-in-one solution to help them grow, develop, and expand their facilities. This vision of taking projects from ‘Concept to Completion’ has remained at the heart of SDE’s journey.

The first major milestone came in 1993 when Ian Buckton and Jonathan Bennett joined the family business and John decided it was time to move the business from his dining room table and move into rented office space in Bolsover. As the business began to take off the need for more space became apparent and so SDE moved to a larger office in Sheepbridge and acquired a warehouse in 1995. The start of a new chapter began in 1997 when John decided to buy the first official office in Stanfree, and this is where SDE started to see things really take off.

John decided to rebrand Storage and Display Equipment Ltd to SDE Ltd shortly after buying their office in Stanfree.

By the year 2000, John Buckton had retired, passing the reins to Ian Buckton (Group Director) and Jonathan Bennett (Managing Director), who set out for further expansion. To reflect its growing portfolio of services, Jonathan and Ian decided rebrand the business again to SDE Group, as they are known now.

SDE’s evolution continued in 2011 with the launch of its Interiors division, spearheaded by Robert Cartwright. This addition led to the investment in a dedicated joinery workshop, allowing the company to manufacture trade counters, doors, and furniture in-house.

Innovation remained a driving force, and in 2015, SDE reached another key milestone when its first employee, Paul Jackson, became a SEMA Approved Racking Inspector. This qualification allowed the company to expand its services into external racking inspections, with a second fully certified inspector, Josh Bennett, who joined the business in 2017. The company’s forward-thinking approach led to the recruitment of a 3D design specialist in 2020, enabling SDE to offer detailed project visuals and 3D models for clients across all sectors. That same year, the sales team expanded, welcoming recent graduates eager to build their careers within the company.

By 2021, SDE Group had further diversified, launching SDE Electrical, followed closely by SDE Energy Solutions division focused on renewable energy. Reflecting on the company’s journey, Group Director Ian Buckton shared:

"I have worked for SDE for 33 years, and I have enjoyed helping the company grow and diversify into the group of companies it is today. We have a young, vibrant team in place, and I am confident we will continue to grow for the next 30 years."

From a small family-run business to an industry leader offering a wide range of services, SDE Group’s story is one of continuous growth, innovation, and commitment to its clients. And with an ambitious team driving the company forward, the future looks bright.

Business Growth: More Than Just a Bigger Office

 

Since its founding in 1992, SDE Group has grown significantly - not just in terms of headcount, but in the range of services offered and its ever-expanding client base. When John Buckton first launched SDE, the company focused on just two core services: selling and fitting pallet racking, as well as providing display fixtures to the DIY market.

John’s strong relationships with trusted clients, built during his previous employment, gave SDE an initial foundation of loyal customers. As the business grew, Johnathan and Ian played a pivotal role in expanding its reach, but they credit much of SDE’s success to the dedication and loyalty of their employees.

"The way your employees feel is the way your customers will feel, and if your employees don't feel valued, neither will your customers. The new office gives everyone the tools to push SDE on to yet another level."

From its humble beginnings with just two services, SDE has continuously evolved to meet the needs of its customers. Today, the company offers a comprehensive range of eight specialised services, including:

Industrial Storage Solutions – Maximising warehouse efficiency with tailored racking and shelving systems.

Interior Design & Fit-out – Transforming commercial spaces with expert planning and execution.

EV Charging – Supporting the future of transportation with high-quality charging solutions.

3D Modelling & Visualisation – Bringing concepts to life with advanced digital renderings.

SEMA Racking Inspections – Ensuring safety and compliance through professional inspections.

Fire Door Installation – Enhancing building safety with certified fire protection solutions.

Electrical Contracting – Providing reliable and efficient electrical services for businesses.

Energy Solutions – Helping companies reduce costs and improve sustainability through smart energy management.

As SDE Group continues to grow, its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction remains at the heart of everything it does.

SDE Group has not only experienced significant business growth over the years but has also seen a remarkable increase in its workforce. When the company first acquired its head office, Group House, in 1997, it operated with a team of just 10 to 15 employees. Today, that number has grown to over 60, reflecting the company’s ongoing expansion and success. Many long-standing employees have been part of this journey, witnessing firsthand the evolution and growth of SDE Group.

The New Office: Designed for the Future


Our previous office served us well, featuring a fully equipped boardroom, private offices for directors, an open-plan sales area, and a kitchen. It was also where SDE Electrical and SDE Energy Solutions were established. While SDE Electrical had a dedicated office, SDE Energy Solutions did not. As both companies grew, it became clear they needed their own private spaces to operate professionally. This was a key consideration when selecting our new office building, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of our business.

In the new office, each sister company now has its own dedicated space, designed with its individual brand colors to create a unique identity within the Group. SDE Energy Solutions’ Managing Director, Adrian Searl, now has a designated office, providing a private space for meetings, Microsoft Teams calls, and important phone conversations. The space has also allowed for members of the Energy Solutions team to visit from Plymouth and hot desk. Kate Searl, Contracts Manager at SDE Energy Solutions said:

"I think the new space is everything that SDE Energy Solutions needed. It’s modern and professional, providing not just a fresh new look but also a better environment for our team to collaborate. The additional space has given the company - and our staff - a new lease of life, and I can’t wait to see what’s next for SDE Energy Solutions."

SDE Electrical has significantly more space compared to its previous small and restrictive office. Their new, larger office provides a more collaborative work environment and includes a private meeting room for team discussions and client visits.

Another key addition is our new reception area. Previously, we lacked a dedicated space for clients to wait or for deliveries to be received. Now, we have a welcoming reception area, and we look forward to greeting visitors for years to come.

Employee feedback played a major role in designing the new space. One common request was a designated area to step away from desks during lunch breaks. In response, we created a comfortable breakout space featuring a sofa, bean bags, a TV, and home-like furnishings to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere.

“SDE Group previously operated in a shared office space, but as our team expanded, we needed more room. The new layout allows each department to function independently while also providing dedicated spaces to welcome clients and take breaks.

Each area has been designed to reflect our brand identity through colour, texture, and lighting” — Charlotte Bennett, Creative Lead & 3D Designer

At SDE, sustainability is a core value that drives our business decisions. As part of our commitment to a greener future, we actively integrate eco-friendly practices across our operations. Our sister company, SDE Energy Solutions, specialises in renewable energy, allowing us to offer sustainable solutions not just to our clients, but to implement them within our own facilities.

A key step in our pathway to net zero has been investing in solar energy. Having previously installed solar PV at our former office, we knew it was essential to continue this commitment by incorporating it into our new premises. This investment not only reduces our carbon footprint but also aligns with the wider global push for renewable energy adoption.

Looking Ahead: The Future of SDE


As SDE Group settles into its new office, this move represents more than just a change in location—it’s a statement of ambition, growth, and commitment to innovation. With a dedicated team, an expanding range of services, and a forward-thinking approach, the future holds endless possibilities. From embracing sustainable solutions to continuing to provide industry-leading expertise, SDE is poised for even greater success. This new chapter is just the beginning, and we’re excited for what’s to come as we continue building, evolving, and shaping the future of our industry.

Ally

Ally Snee – Key Account Manager | Timber & Fire Door Specialist

With 15+ years in the timber and fire door industry, Ally Snee delivers expert solutions, ensuring businesses meet fire safety and construction needs. Known for exceptional client service and deep industry knowledge, she supports large-scale projects and provides tailored advice on fire-rated doors, timber solutions, and compliance.

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