Playground equipment specialist enjoys record-breaking year

ESP Play, the Burnley firm which designs, manufactures and installs equipment for playgrounds has recorded a 40 per cent increase in turnover, up to £9.1m.

In addition to designing high-quality play areas for early years, primary and secondary schools, the company also operates a commercial division, catering for a variety of playground equipment for businesses, housing developers, local authorities, and public play areas.

Over the last 12 months, ESP Play completed 712 playground, an increase over the 579 completed the year before.

And, for 2024, the business has set an ambitious target of achieving 25 per cent growth, with the projection of £12.5m in turnover. 

Andrew Wood, ESP Play’s managing director, said: “2023 was a tremendous success for the company as a whole and for our people. The substantial growth we've achieved needs to be attributed to our dedicated team, who not only contribute to the business's expansion but also thrive on continuous development and achievement."

Commenting on potential future growth, he added: “Providing appropriate play provision for children with special educational needs is a huge challenge. The demand for SEN support both in and out of the classroom is on the rise yet many don’t have access to the correct outdoor environment. Our goal is to help all children enjoy physical activity with the correct and appropriate equipment.”