Our History

SWS UK is a leading British manufacturer of physical security products with a reputation for innovation and unrivalled customer service.

Established in 1985 and operating from Lancaster premises, the company has grown quickly; necessitating a move in December 2000 to the present Claughton, Lancashire manufacturing base.

The company's dedicated Research & Development Department continues to refine the product range, ensuring SWS UK's security shutters, retractable gates, window bars and garage doors are always at the forefront of technology. In addition to enhancing the existing range, there is also a focus on developing exciting new lines; the SWS UK selection of Police approved 'Secured by Design' products continues to broaden despite already being the most comprehensive range available from any security manufacturer.

2014 - 2020

In 2017 we launched our custom-built online ordering platform; SWS Online. The intuitive system enables customers to order and raise quotations with ease, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with access to technical drawings specific to their order or quotation. 

Kevin Lindeque became SWS UK's Managing Director in 2018. That year we also launched the SeceuroSense Plus - a new, alternative receiver unit for our SeceuroGlide garage doors. SeceuroSense Plus is exclusive to SWS UK and boasts lots of additional security features. 

In 2019, following the acquisition of the business by a group specialising in the manufacture of closure solutions, SWS began a new chapter in its history with the support of its new parent company, and leader in the French roller shutter industry, Stella Group.

In response to a change in legislation, we took the opportunity to redevelop our SeceuroFire Fire Shutter. Whilst ensuring our shutters were fully tested and compliant to the latest standards, we further improved their strength and performance and launched the new and improved Fire Shutter in June 2020.  

Our new and improved SeceuroGlide Sectional garage doors were launched, including the ability to order the SeceuroGlide Sectional Elite in unprecedented widths of up to six metres. 

2011 to 2013

In 2011 we developed and introduced the Flame Curtain, a discreet fire protection product offering a 2 hour rating. Our Fire Shutter was launched in 2012. A Fire protection product that also offers security with 30, 60, 120 and 240 minute ratings. The Fire Shutter and Flame curtain combined to make the SeceuroFire Fire Protection range. 

In 2012, under the leadership of new Managing Director, Colin Reoch, SWS UK's corporate identity benefited from a complete re-brand, complete with accompanying new marketing materials and website. The results of the re-brand led to us winning a Silver, Bronze and Two Highly Commended awards at the 2013 Transform Awards. 

2013 saw the introduction of our Insulated Industrial Door Range.

Our new garage door operator, SeceuroSense, was launched in 2014, allowing us to offer more choice to customers than ever before. 

2005 to 2010

In 2005 we became the first UK shutter and roller garage door manufacturer to comply with the EU’s Construction Products Directive safety standards.

We launched SeceuroGlide Excel in 2007, the first and only Police and Insurance approved garage door on the market.

In 2008 we became part of the globally diversified materials business CRH. The Fortune 500 company, who are also a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index are Europe's leader in building materials. We became part of their Shutter & Awnings division. 

The SeceuroGlide Sectional is launched in 2010 as a further option in our industry leading range of garage doors.

1999 to 2003

In 1999 we became the UK’s sole distributor of the off-the-shelf Xpanda range of economically priced security.

The year 2000 saw us move into our current location in the beautiful Lune Valley. The purpose-built premises boast a large warehouse, modern offices and an impressive factory - ideal for manufacturing on a large scale. 

In 2001 we increased our roller garage door range with the launch of SeceuroGlide Compact, the UK’s first low headroom insulated roller garage door.

We introduced continental commercial shutters in 2003, combining traditional steel shutters with aluminium boxes and guides for higher grade installations.

1985 - 1998

In 1985 former Managing Director Andrew Dootson established SWS UK from his own garage. Between the years 1985 and 2000 the business continued to grow, necessitating a couple of moves into larger properties. 

SeceuroBar removable window bar system was launched in 1997 and became an award winner at Ifsec Security Expo.

SWS brought security expertise into the garage door market, launching SeceuroGlide, the first insulated garage door for specialists in the UK.

 

Another cornerstone of SWS UK's success is its national network of specialist distributors. Working in partnership to supply, install and support, distributors provide a trusted, experienced and local source for the SWS UK product range.

SWS UK is an ISO 9001:2008 registered company. The company also holds membership of the DHF (Door & Hardware Federation) and is a supporting manufacturer of the AGDS (Association of Garage Door Specialists). In addition, SWS UK are also proud holders of the official Police 'Secured by Design' approved manufacturer status.

 

The door has great overall security and safety features accompanied.Quality product at a price affordable.


SeceuroGlide Customer

– 19-11-2023

Moved into property less than twelve months ago and had the original door checked by A. Holdens Ltd, decided to ask for their advice for a replacement.


SeceuroGlide Customer

– 16-11-2023

Moved into property less than twelve months ago and had the original door checked by A. Holdens Ltd, decided to ask for their advice for a replacement.


SeceuroGlide Customer

– 18-11-2023

Look to increase insulation value near the mechanism as gaps will allow cold in.


SeceuroGlide Customer

– 24-11-2023