Fourth generation family business engineers contract wins

A Lincolnshire-based engineering business has secured contracts with both UK and international clients.

Family-owned Tong Engineering Ltd, which recently transferred its banking to Barclays, has agreed new funding to develop its premises which will support the delivery of the new contracts.

Tong Engineering, which was established in 1930, is a fourth generation family business which specialises in the manufacture of vegetable handling and grading machines.

It began trading as an ironmonger in Spilsby, Lincolnshire. Over the past 90 years, the business has continued to evolve with other members of the Tong family joining the company.

Today the company exports equipment to more than 50 countries, and offers a vegetable handling solution for a wide range of crops and vegetables.

Managing director Edward Tong said: “We are delighted to have secured these contracts. As a supplier to the food industry, we have continued to perform well as a business throughout the pandemic despite the challenges.

“These latest contract wins will result in the company exceeding their budgets for this financial year.”

Funding was provided by Barclays. Relationship director Alastair West said: “We are pleased to be supporting Tong Engineering with the finance they require to fulfil these contracts and to welcome them to Barclays.

“The company has an interesting history which has continued to evolve over the years, responding to changing market needs.”

Keith Ross, head of mid corporate for Barclays in the Midlands, added: “We are absolutely delighted that Tong Engineering have chosen Barclays as their financial partner.

“While the business is steeped in history, it is also very progressive and we are delighted to be able to support them with their future growth aspirations.”

The business currently employs around 170 staff and has an annual turnover of more than £18m.