Crane Garden Buildings celebrates 50th anniversary

Crane Garden Buildings, based in Narford, near Swaffham, was founded in 1974 by David and Linda Crane, and has since grown into the UK’s leading supplier of its kind, with 14 show centres.

The family firm is now owned and run by their sons, James and Nick Crane, and employs more than 120 people.

James Crane said: “It’s a proud moment for all of us.

“Many people have been part of this journey with us and the anniversary is a chance to celebrate their contributions.

“We’re not just surviving, we’re thriving. As a growing company, we're looking ahead to the next 50 years.

“We’ve learned so much about this industry, and now we’re using that knowledge to ensure we remain a profitable, planet- and people-first company.”

Crane Garden Buildings, from left to right: Paul Darby, Swaffham Town Council leader; James Wild, MP for North West Norfolk; David Crane; Paul Bland, mayor of King’s Lynn; Lindsey Beech, deputy mayor of Swaffham Town Council; and Linda Crane (Image: Supplied) Based at a sprawling 34-acre site in Narford, the company offers a range of sheds, summerhouses, studios and garden offices, providing customers with a personalised service from the initial design phase all the way through to final installation.

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To mark half a century in business, the firm held an event at its Norfolk headquarters where it unveiled a new multi-million-pound robotic spray line – the firm’s largest investment in its 50-year history.

Mr Crane added: “It’s the biggest investment we've ever made, without question. It represents our commitment to growth and quality for the future.

“I’m extremely pleased, especially for our people. We are, and always have been, a people-first company.

“The fact that we’re eliminating half a million manual lifts each year means we’re safeguarding the health of our employees. That’s the biggest win.

“Beyond that, the quality of our buildings is better than ever, which sets us apart in a crowded market.

“It also sets us up for the future, allowing for steady growth of around 10pc per year over the next decade, without needing more physical space.”

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Alongside staff, sponsors, and charity partners, several special guests attended the event, including: Paul Bland, the mayor of King’s Lynn; Alistair Beales, leader of the Borough Council of King's Lynn and West Norfolk; James Wild, MP for North West Norfolk; Jack Weaver, chief operating officer at the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce; and Paul Darby, Swaffham Town Council Leader.