Founded in 1948, we have experienced remarkable growth and development over the past 75+ years
Founded in 1948
CPE was established in West Bromwich, initially producing compressors and engines in the corner of a carpentry shop in Blackheath, Birmingham. The company moved to Rea Street, Birmingham, in 1950, and then to West Bromwich in 1952.
1960s
In 1960, John H. Newall, Ted Scanes, and Jim Hartshorne attended a night school class to learn welding. This enabled CPE to begin manufacturing its own filter housings and air receivers. Over time, CPE’s core business evolved to focus on the design and manufacture of pressure vessels
1970s
In 1970, CPE relocated to its current premises in Tamworth. Throughout the 1970s, the company primarily produced filters and dryers for compressed air systems. Notable innovations from this era included cyclonic separators (a technique later adopted by vacuum cleaner manufacturers), multi-stage filters, and highly reliable automatic drain valves. CPE also manufactured air receivers for its range of compressors, as well as filter housings for its various filter designs.
1980s
During the 1980s, CPE expanded its focus on the manufacture of air receivers and, over the following decade, began producing more specialized equipment such as stainless steel and offshore-specification vessels. This growth marked CPE’s transition into a leading manufacturer of high-quality pressure vessels, earning a strong reputation for reliability and craftsmanship
1990s & 2000s
The business entered its third generation as Steve Newall took on the role of Acting Managing Director, bringing a fourth generation into the family business.
The company has continued to grow steadily, with the facility expanded twice and the team increasing in size.
2010s
In 2013, CPE opened Anders Works—a brand-new, purpose-built pressure vessel facility.
Today, CPE boasts excellent manufacturing capabilities, including a state-of-the-art stainless steel workshop and enhanced lifting capacity. These upgrades have significantly improved production efficiency.
Despite its growth and modernisation, CPE remains committed to delivering the same high levels of service, quality, and value that have long defined its reputation.
2018 and 2019
in 2018 CPE were acquired and became part of the Global Energy Group which then became Envoy & Partners was formed, and CPE branched away from GEG with several businesses. Steve Newall retired from the business with William Stanley taking over as acting Managing Director in 2019.
2020s and the Future
Now as part of the Langfields group, we look forward to a prosperous future with lots of new and exciting projects on the horizon.
