As we celebrate our 55th anniversary in 2023, the history of Upminster Containers stands as a testament to our enduring commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the pursuit of excellence. What began as F&J Dartnell, a machinery merchant venture, has evolved into a thriving business that has not only embraced change but has also driven it.
From our humble beginnings in the late 1950s, we recognized the potential of emerging markets. In 1968, seizing a golden opportunity in the wake of standardized shipping containers gaining international approval, we became pioneers in the UK by offering container repair, hire, and sales services. This marked the beginning of our journey into a realm that would transform global trade and logistics.
Through the decades, Upminster Containers continued to lead, becoming a national market leader in container repair, conversion, hire, and sale. As the container industry evolved, so did we. In the 1990s, with the shifting economic landscape, we turned our focus to conversions, diversifying our offerings while maintaining the same dedication to quality and customer satisfaction.
Steered by the vision and leadership of our late founder Jim Dartnell, and with Maria, his daughter, taking the reins with Lee, the business embarked on a new chapter in the 21st century. Embracing the demand for sustainable solutions, we ventured into modular buildings, a reflection of our adaptability and commitment to staying ahead of the curve.
Maria, our Managing Director, states, “Whilst our company has seen significant changes over the years and has grown and evolved to meet changing customer needs, our principles and morals have always remained at the core of our business – to work as a team to offer a customer-led service to the local and wider community and provide assistance to the local community in need, with special emphasis on the appreciation of our team of staff.”
As we step into the future, sustainability and efficiency remain at the heart of our endeavors. We continue to innovate and create solutions that echo our commitment to reducing environmental impact and enhancing operational excellence. Our recent addition of an apprentice to our team, in line with our expansion plans for the modular unit Containex side of the business, reflects our dedication to nurturing talent and shaping the future.
Join us as we celebrate 55 years of progress, innovation, and customer-driven solutions. We remain steadfast in our mission to provide not just containers and modular buildings, but a promise of quality, sustainability, and the pursuit of excellence.
As Upminster Containers commemorates its rich history and marks 55 years of progress, our gaze inevitably turns toward the horizon, where the landscape of possibilities unfolds. The future beckons with promise and challenges, and just as we’ve done throughout our journey, we stand poised to adapt, innovate, and lead.’
