SILVER JUBILEE FOR ICOM
Icom (UK) Ltd celebrated its 25th anniversary with a large party in the grounds of Eastwell Manor, near Ashford, on 17th July. Over 300 guests attended in celebration of the company’s achievement. Among the guests were suppliers, dealers and of course the employees upon whom the company’s success has been built. Guests arrived from over 10 countries including the Vice-President of Icom Incorporated who had travelled from Osaka, Japan, especially for the occasion.
Based in Herne Bay, Icom (UK) Ltd, formerly known as Thanet Electronics, has grown into a multi-million pound company, with a turnover exceeding £8.5 million. The company now employs more than 40 people and operates in a number of radio communication markets.
It was in 1974 that Dave Stockley, founder and now company chairman, opened a small retail shop in Beltinge, Herne Bay. Dave had recently retired from the Fire Service due to injuries and formed Thanet Electronics with partner Paul Nicholson. Initially they distributed various brands including the Japanese manufactured Icom communication equipment. The pair later approached Icom Inc. and were granted the distribution rights in the UK and Republic of Ireland, paving the way for future success.
After several years of steady growth, the company was joined by the present Managing Director, Philip Hadler. Thanet Electronics Limited then launched the highly successful IC-2E handheld radio for the radio amateur enthusiast. This radio proved to be so reliable that it was not long before marine and commercial variants made their way into the expanding range.
Soon after this, the company received a large order from the Ministry of Defence, desperately seeking equipment for the Falklands conflict, and it was all hands on deck for the small team, who needed to modify and inspect each radio to meet the strict MoD specifications. It became apparent that the quality of Icom’s radios, combined with the company’s ability to tailor each product to the users needs, created a formula for success that has made Icom one of the Worlds leading radio manufacturers. Products now satisfy a wide range of customers all over the world and supply the commercial, marine, airband & amateur radio markets.
Over the years, Icom (UK) Ltd has contributed a great deal to the local community. They have provided support for a wide range of organisations including a local junior football team, Herne Bay Harriers, and the Herne Bay and Whitstable doctors on call service, CANDOC. Icom are also supportive of Dave Lee’s Happy Holiday Charity and several staff members have active roles in this organisation.
In addition, Icom has provided sponsorship for a number of larger, national and international events. They have supported Operation Raleigh, provided communication equipment to the BT Global Challenge yacht race and have supported many record attempts. Icom also has a good working relationship with Richard Branson and the Virgin group, providing equipment for all of his daredevil record-breaking activities.
Icom (UK) Ltd has prepared for the 21st century by establishing a strong board of directors, comprising Bob Stockley as Sales & Marketing Director, Dave Stockley as Chairman and Phil Hadler as Managing Director. This is a time of significant change for Icom with the introduction of the most innovative products on the market. Together with new standards and procedures, a newly modernised office and the injection of a vibrant and confident attitude, Icom’s position is consolidated in the radio communications industry today and for the future.
Icom UK Marketing -
marketing@icomuk.co.uk
03/04/2000
