BD Precision Engineers Ltd.

BD Precision Engineers Ltd. Originally established as BD Engineering in 1972 by Barry Fogden and Doug Hart, began as a subcontract machine shop producing component parts for many industry sectors. Operating from a modest workshop in Northchurch, Berkhamstead, with limited facilities and second-hand manual machines, they embarked on their engineering journey.

In 1977 the company moved to an 800 sq ft unit in Markyate. The extra space allowed for more machines and their first members of staff to be employed.

Barry’s son, Andrew, joined the company in 1987 after completing his engineering apprenticeship at Dexion Comino Ltd after gaining valuable industry experience. Andrew brought a fresh perspective to the business, driving innovation and growth.

In the early 1990s, Doug retired, leaving Barry to steer the company forward.

In 1990, Andrew embraced CNC technology, installing the first of many CNC machines, which transformed the company’s operations and direction, offering a Second Operation service to the mass turned parts industry a core part of the business for 10 years. This transition to CNC also enabled BD Engineering to expand into prototyping and batch work, serving industries such as Defence, Aerospace, Rail, and Medical. However, with advancements in technology, the need for second operation work to the mass turned parts industry then diminished as modern CNC turning machines where increasingly able to perform milling tasks and components could be completed on a single machine in a single operation. This shift prompted BD Engineering to refocus its business strategy again to what it is today.

In 1999, BD Engineering relocated again to a 3,000 sq ft facility with an enclosed yard in Leighton Buzzard. This move provided the space needed for further growth and opportunities. From 1999 to 2014, the company continued to invest in the latest technology. Transitioning to nearly all CNC machines, including multiple lathes and mills.

In 2014, BD Engineers transitioned from a partnership to a limited company, becoming BD Precision Engineers Ltd. A Precision Engineering Company in Leighton Buzzard. With Andrew as Managing Director. Since then, the company has continued to invest and grow, commissioning two 5-axis machines and a live tooling lathe. The addition of a fully equipped, temperature-controlled inspection department with the latest technology underscores their commitment to quality.

From 1972 to 2024, BD Precision Engineers Ltd has relied on word-of-mouth referrals. A testament to the exceptional services they provide. As we look to the future, the prospects for engineering in the UK remain bright.