Howcroft Group Ltd

Welcome to Howcroft

Howcroft Group Ltd — 07/10/2019

We are pleased to introduce ourselves to the "Made in" community. Hopefully Howcroft Group Ltd brings added benefits to the group where we can help each other grow.

Howcroft first opened its doors for trade in December 1998 by Allan Howcroft and quickly began receiving acclaim after winning the Shell LiveWire Best Young Business award in the Yorkshire region after only 1 full year in trade. Allan quickly drove the company forward becoming one of the favoured suppliers of Industrial and MRO supplies in the region and becoming an elected member to the EPTDA (European Power Transmission Distributors Association) in 2001. This enabling Howcroft to supply market leading industrial parts from all around the World, strengthening our reputation among our large customer base. Howcroft was once again the recipient of a Shell LiveWire award but this time for Best Service Provider in the Yorkshire region. An award which set the foundation for our company philosophy of Quality – Value - Service.

By 2005 Howcroft had grown enough to warrant a move into larger premises in Goldthorpe which opened the doorway for manufacturers such as Cooper Roller Bearings to approach us and form a formidable relationship in distribution. Howcroft soon became one of the largest stockists of Cooper Roller Bearings, plus the sole bearing and power transmissions supplier to UK Coal until the industry closure in 2015.

In 2012 Howcroft relocated to the popular industrial and business area of Manvers, Rotherham, reinforcing our position as one of the leading independent MRO suppliers in South Yorkshire. This also allowed us to increase our stock holding, improving our efficiency and response times, with same day delivery available on thousands of engineering spares and MRO products, within our region. As we stand Howcroft boast many strong relationships and stockholdings from our suppliers, World leading brands such as, Diamond Chain, SKF Cooper Bearings, Gates Belts, NTN-SNR Bearings, WEG Motors, Radicon Gearboxes, Fristam Pumps, Rexnord, KTR and Flender couplings to mention but a few.

The Howcroft Group are suppliers of: Bearings, Power Transmissions Including All Drives Systems Such As (Belt & Chain, Motors, Gearbox, Automation & Direct), Couplings, Pumps, Pneumatics & Filtration, Lubrication, Oils & Greases, PPE, Tools, All Maintenance/Workshop Consumables and All Engineering Work Including General Fabrication/Repairs

At Howcroft we also have our own technical department offering other unique services, which allows us to stand out of the crowd against other competitors. Our group is not just made up from engineering & MRO, even though that is our main strength. We also have a printing and embroidery side in JJ Leisure which offers all personalised goods, from work wear to stationary. You can count on the Howcroft Group Ltd to drive industry forward.

25th Anniversary - OPEN DAY Invitation: 21st June 2024

Howcroft Group Ltd — 23/05/2024

Celebrating 25 years of SUCCESS!

We are delighted to extend an invitation to you for our special Open Day event, celebrating our 25-years in business. This event is a tribute to the enduring relationships we've developed with our valued customers and suppliers, reflecting our shared history and successes.

Date: 21st June 2024
Time: 9am – 2pm (Talk & Tour from Managing Director 11am & 1pm)
Location: Unit 9B Brookfields Way, Manvers, Rotherham, S63 5DL

Experience firsthand our recent warehouse renovation, upgraded facilities and explore a comprehensive display of products and services from esteemed partners like NTN Bearings, Dewalt Tools, Megadyne Belts, Nilfisk, Puma Footwear, Martor Knives, Blaklader Workwear, MCR Safety, Switchtec, and Rockwell Automation.

This day provides a prime opportunity to engage directly with industry specialists, absorb valuable insights, and uncover the latest industry trends that can propel your business forward.

Why Attend?

Exclusive Access: Preview the newest and most innovative products.
Learning: Participate in demonstrations and understand how these solutions can advance your operations.
Expert Advice: Obtain customised advice and answers from seasoned experts.
Catering: Enjoy a variety of buffet foods and beverages throughout the event.
Special Offers: Take advantage of our special offers – exclusive on the day prices.

This Open Day is more than an exhibition—it's a celebration of our shared history and a reaffirmation of our commitment to supporting your business with knowledge, experience and cutting-edge solutions.

Please confirm your attendance by 1st June with an approximate time of attendance. We would also ask if there’s any company/products you are particularly interested in. RSVP by emailing sales@howcroft.group or through your Howcroft account manager.

Two Decades of Dedication: Celebrating Dennis Till's 20 Years at Howcroft Group!

Howcroft Group Ltd — 03/06/2025

At Howcroft Group, we believe that our greatest asset is our people. Today, we're incredibly proud to shine a spotlight on a remarkable milestone – Dennis Till's 20th anniversary with the company!

Transport Supervisor - Dennis's journey with Howcroft Group began two decades ago, and since then, he has been an invaluable member of our team, contributing significantly to our growth and success. His dedication, hard work, and commitment have been truly exceptional, embodying the very spirit of what makes Howcroft Group a leading force in our industry.

To mark this special occasion, we held an internal company ceremony where staff members gathered to celebrate Dennis's outstanding loyalty. Our Managing Director and founder, Allan Howcroft, had the immense pleasure of presenting Dennis with a £2,000 bank cheque as a token of our profound gratitude and appreciation for his two-decades of service.

This milestone is a testament to Dennis's unwavering commitment and the strong, supportive environment we strive to cultivate at Howcroft Group. We are immensely grateful for his contributions over the past 20 years and look forward to many more years of working together.

Please join us in extending a huge congratulations to Dennis Till on this incredible achievement!

Beyond the Box: How Howcroft Group is Redefining Industrial Maintenance in Yorkshire

Howcroft Group Ltd — 14/05/2026

In the fast-paced world of manufacturing and logistics, the traditional view of an industrial supplier is simple: you order a part, it arrives, and you fit it. But at Howcroft Group, we know that in the modern industrial landscape, "fitting a part" is often the easy bit - the real challenge is keeping your production line moving when lead times are long and budgets are tight.

That is why Howcroft Group has evolved. While we remain a trusted source for MRO parts, we have significantly expanded our technical service offering, positioning ourselves as a leading provider of machinery and equipment refurbishment.

The Shift from Replacement to Restoration The "replace-on-failure" mindset is becoming a relic of the past. Today’s industrial managers are under pressure to improve sustainability metrics and reduce capital expenditure. Refurbishment offers the perfect solution: a faster, more cost-effective way to restore critical equipment to OEM performance standards.

Whether it is high-precision SEW-EURODRIVE servo motors, heavy-duty Rexnord couplings, or specialized Interroll drive units, our workshop has become a hub for technical restoration. By applying rigorous diagnostic testing, precision engineering, and specialized assembly techniques, we are saving our clients the weeks - or sometimes months - of waiting for brand-new replacement units from overseas.

Local Expertise, Global Standards Our transition into technical refurbishment is about more than just tools and oil; it is about expertise. We have invested heavily in the skills required to diagnose and repair complex drive systems that drive the beating heart of the Doncaster industrial sector.

When a wire rope manufacturer faces a breakdown, or an automated warehouse system stalls due to a servo failure, they aren't just looking for a vendor - they are looking for a partner who can get them back online within 48 hours. That is the Howcroft difference. We don't just supply the product; we restore the process.

A Commitment to Uptime We are proud to serve the Doncaster business community, ensuring that whether you are a local manufacturer or a national logistics giant, you have the technical backing to maintain operational continuity. As we look to the future, Howcroft Group remains committed to proving that sometimes, the best new piece of equipment is the one you already own - expertly restored.

Discover how we are keeping industry moving at: https://howcroft.online/EquipmentRefurbishment

Self-Disinfecting Alcohol Gel Door Pushpads Now Supplied by Howcroft Group

Howcroft Group Ltd — 05/11/2020

In response to the ongoing challenge of improving hand hygiene, heightened by the events of the coronavirus pandemic, Howcroft Group are now supply Self-Disinfecting Alcohol Gel Door Pushpads.

Based in South Yorkshire, Howcroft Group's aim is "to be the best independent MRO supplier within our defined service area, through continued growth & providing a world class service to our customers."

Howcroft Group also offer a range of PPE products, including the likes of infrared thermometers, medical facemasks, alcohol-free wipes, latex gloves and more. Howcroft Group have recently launched a brand new hygiene product - a Self-Disinfecting Alcohol Gel Door Pushpads - by a Leeds-based company name Surfaceskins.

The Centre of Disease Control of Prevention reports that "80% of infections are transmitted by hands". Therefore, with many businesses seeing hundreds if not thousands of people pass through their doors daily, it only takes one individual who is carrying depositing germs to put the successive users in danger. In response to this ongoing challenge heightened by the coronavirus pandemic, Surfaceskins have developed Self-Disinfecting Alcohol Gel Door Pushpads.

Surfaceskins are proven to KILL E.Coli, Salmonella, S.Aureus, E.Faecalis in SECONDS over 7 days or 1000 activations (whichever occurs first), during independent In-Vitro Trials. Alternative copper, silver & plastic based products can take many hours to achieve a similar germ kill level

In between one user and next passing through the door, Surfaceskins release alcohol gel, killing germs and bacteria in the process. This support & actively promotes existing infection control practices. Surface skins report that "study shows implementation of Surfaceskins INCREASES hand hygiene compliance & awareness by 80%."

“Surfaceskins doorplates were efficient at reducing surface contamination by S. aureus, E. faecalis, and E. coli. Reducing microbial contamination of frequently touched door surfaces, and so bacterial transfer via hands, could feasibly reduce the risk of healthcare-associated and other infections.” Professor Mark Wilcox, The Journal of Hospital Infection

This product has been expertly engineered to kill germs within seconds of them being deposited. It is effective against bacteria and some viruses, including coronavirus.

Another practical benefit of this product is that it is very quick and easy to install - making it appropriate for a wide range of buildings and facilities. Alongside this, Surfaceskins these door pushpads are available for an affordable cost.

Find out more about these Self-Disinfecting Alcohol Gel Door Pushpads, and more PPE products that Howcroft Group are supplying, on their website or get in touch at sales@howcroft.co.uk / 01709 878 282.

Howcroft to be Presented With Manufacturing Hero Award

Howcroft Group Ltd — 24/01/2022

Howcroft is excited to announce that we have been named 'Manufacturing Hero' by the distinguished Made in Group.

The Manufacturing Heroes recognition is a campaign set up by Made in Group, to celebrate manufacturers within the membership group who have demonstrated strength in a time of crisis.

Trade associated Made in Group began this to highlight the achievements of UK manufacturers who worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic, which was started with those who participated in the UK Ventilator Challenge to help save lives. Made in Group have voiced their view that government procurement for the NHS had failed over a preference to source from overseas suppliers and overlooked the quality manufacturing talent domestically.

Ultimately, all ‘Manufacturing Heroes’ will be presented with a specially commissioned badge manufactured in the world-renowned Midlands Jewellery Qtr by Thomas Fattorini Ltd, a company based in Birmingham and who were granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2008. Many of these recognition ceremonies have taken place in 2021, with Made in Group planning to continue the recognition ceremony into 2022 with more companies to be announced in the near future.

In response to the ongoing challenge of improving hand hygiene, heightened by the events of the coronavirus pandemic, Here at Howcroft Group we now supply Self-Disinfecting Alcohol Gel Door Pushpads and as a result of innovating and responding to demand have been awarded a Manufacturing Heroes recognition badge.

To find out more about the 70+ companies who have already received this recognition, please read this article: https://madeingroup.madeinyorkshire.com/news/70-uk-manufacturers-recognised-as-heroes-with-more-to-be-announced-in-2022

Are Your ISO Symbols Correct?

Howcroft Group Ltd — 11/04/2022

Did you know that its a legal requirement by law to display the correct safety signage in the appropriate locations and to current legal standards?

Safety signs are essential for preventing accidents and injury. Symbols that are internationally agreed and globally used in safety signs ensure clarity and consistency, regardless of language, culture or setting.

The ISO standard that is a reference for safety signs is constantly being updated to incorporate new safety symbols to meet the needs of the modern day world.

It is important that you check your signs and replace signs to ensure consistency and legibility - which Howcroft Group can help you with.

Our Safety Sign & Solutions catalogue is also available, simply request your copy today! Site visits also available on request. Contact Howcroft Group through the company microsite today.

Stock Administrator Predicted to Reach the Top at Rotherham Firm

Howcroft Group Ltd — 05/02/2021

As the Howcroft Group grew and became a stronger force within the sector, there became a growing need for a full-time Stock Administrator employee to be added to the team.

This position was offered to James Larkin, who lived locally to the Rotherham-based company, at the time he was 18 years old. James had come straight out of school and had several options to go to university, however, he quickly made his mind up to accept this role and move forward with it.

This role as a full-time “Stock Controller” at Howcroft Group became James' playground for the next 2 to 3 years, in which he geared up, learned all of his tools and got his bearings about the company" (i.e. learning the core products that the company sells).

James thoroughly embraced this role and soon developed skills that did not go unnoticed by his superiors. It didn't take long before James was promoted to the sales office, which became the next step of his learning curve. Once more, James continued to excel and was soon given the role of managing the company’s online sales network.

Business Development Executive Gaynor McNiff spoke of the value James added to Howcroft Group: "He not only got sales in the UK, but also managed to get our products on view for the rest of the world to see, promoting our company name worldwide! This shows that if you are able and willing, any young local lad/lass can make a good future for them and proves that they can go far within our industry sector."

After continuing with this job for the next 3 to 4 years of his career and setting high standards for online sales, James has now moved onto his next adventure within Howcroft Group, which is working closely with the MRO internal sales team.

James provides a fantastic example of how a company in the manufacturing industry like Howcroft Group provides a platform for hard-working employees to learn new skills and progress their careers.

Allan Howcroft, Managing Director at Howcroft Group, revealed, "James is a very honest, polite and conscious person who has now been with the company for nine years and is one of our many success stories. James has a very bright future within my company and if he keeps up his efforts and attention to detail, undoubtedly he will reach the very top within Howcroft Group Ltd."

Howcroft Group Limited Announced as new Stand Sponsor at Doncaster Racecourse

Howcroft Group Ltd — 03/06/2025

Doncaster Racecourse is proud to announce a new partnership with Howcroft Group Limited, who will become the official sponsor of the racecourse’s prestigious Leger stand. This collaboration brings together one of the region’s leading commercial and industrial service providers with one of the UK’s most historic sporting venues.

The newly named Howcroft Leger Stand will offer guests a premium race day experience, combining top-tier service with panoramic views of the track. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence, community, and Yorkshire heritage.

Rachel Harwood, Executive Director at Doncaster Racecourse, commented: "We are delighted to welcome Howcroft Group Limited as our new stand sponsor. Their strong local roots and outstanding reputation in the commercial services sector make them an ideal partner for Doncaster Racecourse. We look forward to working together to enhance the experience for all of our guests. Having worked with Allan and his team for over 7 years as one of our valued Sponsors and Annual box holders, it’s amazing to watch the relationship develop and I look forward to us working with Howcroft for many years"

Allan Howcroft, Managing Director of Howcroft Group Limited, added: "Partnering with Doncaster Racecourse is a proud moment for our team. The racecourse is a cornerstone of the local community and has a long-standing tradition of sporting excellence. We’re excited to align our brand with such an iconic venue and to support its continued success. I sincerely hope this is just the start of a very long term partnership, not just for both parties involved, but serving the whole community of Doncaster and South Yorkshire making everyone proud of one of the most iconic places to visit"

Howcroft Group Ltd is the 4th emergency service to businesses, keeping all industries turning. As a trusted MRO (maintenance, repair & overhaul) supplier, they make ease of ordering, cost savings and uptime efficiencies as priority to your daily rituals. Specialising in bearings & lubricants, belt & chain drives, branded workwear & PPE, manufacturing automation, signage & shadow boards, vending and stock management solutions, tools & workshop products across all mechanical & electrical engineering - safety solutions - workplace essentials platforms, Howcroft Group Ltd have all your one stop shop needs covered.

This sponsorship marks another milestone in Doncaster Racecourse’s ongoing investment in partnerships that enhance its facilities and visitor offering and working with Allan and his team at Howcroft mean anything is possible.

Howcroft Group appoint new Sales Director

Howcroft Group Ltd — 20/03/2023

We're excited to welcome back Jake White to Howcroft Group after a 4 year period of working for a European MRO specialist. Jake returns as Sales Director, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and proven track record of delivering a clear sales vision and strategy with the needs of the customer at heart.

For those of you who already know Jake, feel free to reach out to him or for those of you who are looking for a supplier who is passionate about solving problems and helping companies to achieve their commercial objectives please also feel free to reach out to Jake.

Teamwork, Grit, and Premium MRO: Company Ambassador Mark Crossley Visits Howcroft HQ! ⚽️⚙️

Howcroft Group Ltd — 01/06/2026

What a new-week boost at Howcroft Group! Today, we welcomed our friend and official Company Ambassador, former pro footballer Mark Crossley, to site for a brilliant catch-up with our MD, Allan Howcroft.

Mark went straight into the thick of it, touring our trade counter, checking in with our office team, and heading out to the warehouse floor to get hands-on with our extensive Megadyne power transmission lines and premium bearing stock from FAG, INA, and ISB.

Standing next to our heritage wall, it was a great reminder of how far we’ve come—from Allan starting the business with just £1,000, a Nokia 3210, and a white Vauxhall Astra, to a multi-million-pound industrial MRO leader.
Whether it's on the football pitch or managing critical supply chains for heavy industry, the rules for success are exactly the same: relentless work ethic, absolute reliability, and incredible teamwork.

More about Howcroft’s Ambassador: Mark Crossley
Before stepping into corporate ambassadorship, Mark Crossley built a legendary career at the absolute pinnacle of British football. As an elite professional goalkeeper spanning over two decades, Mark made more than 300 appearances for Nottingham Forest under the iconic Brian Clough, playing in both FA Cup and League Cup Finals.

A full Wales International, Mark's illustrious career in the top flights also saw him feature prominently for Middlesbrough, Fulham, and Sheffield Wednesday, earning a reputation for incredible resilience, sharp reflexes, and commanding leadership from the back. Notably, he holds the legendary distinction of being the only goalkeeper to ever save a penalty from Premier League maestro Matt Le Tissier.

Mark commented:
"Seeing what Allan and the team have built here from such humble beginnings is incredibly inspiring. The grit, work ethic, and teamwork required to scale a business to this level is nothing short of magnificent and not to dissimilar to what the team and I created at Nottingham Forest under the iconic Brian Clough. I am incredibly proud to represent Howcroft Group as Company Ambassador."

Great to have you on site, Mark! We are proud to have you championing the Howcroft name. 🙌

To see & read more on Mark's visit > Click Here: https://howcroft.online/MarkCrosslandVisit

#howcroftgroup #companyambassador #industrialmro #Teamwork #ukmanufacturing #BusinessGrowth #networking #PowerTransmission #bearings #markcrossley #professionalfootball #BigNorm #professionalfootballer