About us
Established over 100 years ago, TEP is a multi-award-winning, fourth-generation family-owned electrical wholesaler, trusted by businesses across the region.
We supply a wide range of domestic, commercial, and industrial electrical products, and support our customers with expert advice, technical insight, and a commitment to delivering energy-efficient solutions.
Our team is here to help you reduce costs and carbon, while improving the environments where you live and work.
Over 100 Years of Expertise
Energy Efficiency Specialists
Award-Winning Service
Our history
TEP’s journey began in 1920, when Fred Thompson, a former Captain in the Royal Engineers and a qualified electrical engineer, laid the foundations for what would become a family legacy. Starting as an independent electrical wholesaler in Hartlepool, Fred’s vision for the business was one of service, innovation, and resilience.
In 1946, Fred’s son Douglas Thompson, a WWII Spitfire pilot, returned from the war and expanded TEP with a Darlington branch. Despite his injuries, Douglas’s determination grew the business from a one-room office to its Valley Street base, cementing TEP’s reputation as a trusted local name. By the 1980s, leadership passed to the third generation, Nimble Thompson, whose legal expertise brought fresh perspectives. The fourth generation followed with Nimble’s son Archie, whose investment management background shaped the company’s strategy.
Exceptional leadership outside the family has also been vital, with Mike Prior guiding TEP as General Manager for over 23 years before passing the baton to Sarah Marshall. Now leading the team, Sarah builds on Mike’s legacy, as he continues to oversee customer service and sales. TEP’s resilience and commitment to service have laid a strong foundation for today’s vision and future growth.
What we do
Whether you’re upgrading your lighting, planning a large-scale installation, or simply need quality products you can rely on, our expert team is here to help.
We’re proud to support our customers in reducing energy costs, improving efficiency, and meeting sustainability goals—backed by award-winning customer service.
Our customer ethos
At TEP, our customer ethos is rooted in trust, collaboration, and a dedication to delivering tailored solutions that truly make a difference.
We promise to:
Exceed the expectation of all our customers and go the extra mile
Work with you to solve the problems you are encountering and develop a solution that meets your needs.
Be open and honest and work in partnership with you.
