Darlington-based TEP Electrical Distributors, a fourth-generation independent business, is reflecting on and celebrating a year of growth, innovation, and success, underpinned by two prestigious national awards and key project milestones.
TEP was recently named Best Wholesaler: Sole Branch and Best Customer Service: Wholesaler at the Electrical Wholesaler Awards. These accolades showcase TEP’s exceptional service, strong customer relationships, and unwavering commitment to excellence. TEP’s achievement highlights what regional, family-led companies can achieve on a national stage, putting Darlington firmly on the map. To win alongside national giants reflects what’s possible for Northeast businesses and is something to be celebrated.
“We were truly humbled by the overwhelming support from our customers—this recognition reflects not only our strong heritage but also our dedication to customer care,” said Sarah Marshall, General Manager.
These award wins build on TEP’s established culture of innovation and commitment to their longstanding customers. Over the past 100 years, TEP has consistently adapted to changes in the industry—from surviving a World War and a pandemic, to early adoption of LED lighting and sustainable technologies. With a focus on efficiency and future-proofing solutions, TEP has remained at the forefront of electrical advancements, always prioritising customers’ needs to drive innovation.
A standout achievement over the past year was TEP’s collaboration with Vertu Motors Group, delivering a lighting upgrade across 130 sites in England and Scotland. The project has generated £600,000 in annual energy savings, reduced CO₂ emissions by 433 tonnes, and enhanced workplace environments.
“We are delighted with the results of this massive lighting upgrade project. TEP Electrical Distributors have exceeded our expectations, delivering substantial cost savings and significantly reducing our environmental impact. The improved lighting quality has also been well-received by our staff, enhancing their working conditions across all sites,” said Derick Newton, Group Project Manager – Property, Vertu Motors plc.
Both teams are now working closely to explore further opportunities, ensuring this partnership continues to grow from strength to strength.
TEP has bolstered its team to support future growth, recently welcoming Keith Tyrrell to the business. Keith brings over 20 years of experience in the electrical and renewables sector, with extensive expertise in industrial and commercial supply, energy efficiency, and LED lighting projects. His expertise enhances TEP’s capability to help businesses achieve energy efficiency goals and his addition reflects their ongoing investment in delivering top-tier, personal customer service. Aligning perfectly with TEP’s focus on helping businesses meet their net zero targets.
Looking ahead, TEP is committed to driving sustainability for existing and new customers. As active members of the Darlington Employers Environmental Partnership (DEEP), TEP is working collaboratively with trusted partners to help businesses reduce energy costs, lower carbon footprints, and achieve their net zero goals.
“Sustainability and efficiency have always been part of our DNA,” said Sarah. “It’s about futureproofing what we do, staying ahead of the market, and asking: What’s the best tech? Where are we going next? Our customers drive us to innovate and stay at the cutting edge of energy-saving solutions.”
With new team members and a focus on innovation, TEP is poised for continued success as it helps local and national businesses embrace energy efficiency and achieve sustainability goals.
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