From a One-Man Consultancy to a 12,000 sq. ft Engineering Hub
On the 2nd of December 2025, HDL celebrates 20 years of engineering. Two decades of innovation, growth, and a consistent commitment to solving complex engineering challenges across the UK and beyond.
What began as a one-man design consultancy in 2005 has grown into a thriving 12,000 sq. ft engineering hub in Stockport. Today, HDL employs more than 40 specialists and delivers expertise in compressed air and vacuum systems, CNC machining, hydrogen consultancy, mechanical and electrical design, software development, and full process engineering.
The HDL journey began with founder and Managing Director Paul Hollingworth, who, after recovering from cancer, made the bold decision to leave full-time employment and launch a design consultancy from his home. Demand for prototype machining increased quickly, first with two small machines in Paul’s shed, then with a move into a 4,000 sq. ft facility in Denton, and eventually to HDL’s current headquarters in Stockport.
Growing Capability and Global Reach
Kris’s Hyde General Manager Says:
“Over 20 years, HDL has evolved in capability and competency to the point where we are now a leading engineering SME in North West, with equipment installed around the world. Going forward, we are excited about applying our skills to new sectors and customers.”
Today, HDL supports an impressive range of engineering projects. Our sub-contract machining capability has become a key strength, serving customers in multiple industries. In addition, continued investment in world-class machining technology, including two INDEX G200.2 turn-mill centres with robotic automation, has positioned HDL as a leader in high-precision manufacturing for aerospace and advanced engineering sectors.
Behind each upgrade and innovation is the human side of HDL: a team committed not just to engineering excellence, but to looking after one another. From long-serving engineers to newly trained apprentices, the culture remains supportive, ambitious, and people-first.
A culture built on People and Progress
Tom Farnworth Production Manager Says:
“In my 15 years with the company, we have expanded from a four-person operation to a team of over forty experts with diverse skill sets. This growth in numbers has been matched by a significant expansion in our capabilities and services, driven by continuous investment in cutting-edge machinery and equipment. This investment ensures that our customers consistently receive the best quality, value, and service.”
This supportive culture extends to customers as well. Whether designing a bespoke compressed air system, machining a batch of 72,000 high-spec components, or providing hydrogen consultancy for future energy systems, HDL’s mission remains the same: to deliver solutions engineered with care, efficiency, and total customer confidence.
20 Years Behind Us – and a Bright Future Ahead
As HDL marks this milestone, the focus is firmly on the future. The company continues to invest heavily in automation, robotics, new CNC machinery, and smarter manufacturing technologies that enable 24/7 production, faster lead times, and even greater precision.
From the FANUC 200iD robotic integration to expanded machining capacity and advanced design capabilities, HDL is preparing for the next decade with ambition.
HDL’s strategy is simple:
invest in people, invest in technology, and keep solving the engineering problems that others say cannot be solved.
As we celebrate this anniversary, we want to thank every employee, customer, supplier, and partner who has been part of the journey. HDL’s success is built on collaboration, trust, and a shared belief in engineering done properly.
Here’s to the next 20 years. Smarter, greener, more precise, and more ambitious than ever.
