Kell Systems

Kell Systems’ portable server environments (PSEs), which are compact, sound-proofed cabinets that house computer servers, remove the need for IT rooms. The patented products have attracted a wide range of customers, from small businesses to huge conglomerates like NASA.

The company’s run rate so far this year suggests turnover will exceed £2m. Also, the business is expanding internationally, with offices in the US, Spain and Germany. Chief executive Tim Walsh says investors in the business have been instrumental in helping it set-up overseas, and he has been delighted with his board. “Ensure there are quality people in your boardroom,” he says. “I have two chartered accountants, one of whom used to run a Plc and a top technology business analyst.”

Kell still makes all its PSEs at its Somersetbased factory, bucking the trend of decline in manufacturing in the UK. The area was once home to a thriving furniture-making industry, which means Kell benefits from a strong local skills base. Walsh believes there is still something to be said for UK manufacturing and that businesses should be wary of sourcing from overseas. “If you are sourcing from Eastern Europe, for instance, you have got to get quality control in place,” he says. “We never have quality problems with our products.”

Of course, Kell’s unique and patented product is its main asset, and being the only one in the world has major advantages. “We have no direct competition,” says Walsh, “so we can charge properly and don’t get chiselled by rivals.”

Company stats Company: Kell Systems Founded: 2003 Founders: Tim Walsh and Sara Jones Turnover 2006: £63,000 Turnover 2007: £1.1m Web:www.kellsystems.co.uk