New Website, Same Derwent
We’ve given Derwent a fresh new look, with updated branding and a completely new website that better reflects the business we are today.
But while the look may be new, the experience behind the Derwent name certainly isn’t.
As we launch our new website, it seems the perfect opportunity to look back at where we started, how we’ve grown and where we’re heading next.
Nearly 30 Years in Plymouth
Tucked away in our Plymouth office is an original Derwent job book, with the very first Plymouth job recorded in October 1997.
Back then, Derwent Flooring formed part of Bristol-based Dynamik, providing commercial flooring services across the South West.
In 1999, Darren Wills joined as an apprentice floorlayer, progressing through the business to become a qualified floorlayer, Contracts Manager and eventually Branch Manager.
When the opportunity arose to take the Plymouth operation forward independently, Darren established Derwent Plymouth Limited in 2012, beginning a new chapter for the business.
Almost 30 years after that first recorded job, the Derwent name remains firmly established in Plymouth.
Building on Our Experience
Since 2012, Derwent has continued to grow, expanding its team, capabilities and the range of projects we deliver.
Today, we specialise in commercial flooring and hygienic wall cladding, working across healthcare, education, government and defence, commercial, hospitality and other specialist environments throughout the South West.
From live hospital departments and secure government facilities to schools and commercial developments, our projects demand much more than simply installing floor coverings.
They require technical knowledge, careful planning, coordination with other trades and experienced people who understand how to deliver quality installations, often within challenging working environments.
It’s this practical, hands-on experience that continues to shape how we work.
The People Behind Derwent
While the business has evolved, our approach remains firmly rooted in the flooring expertise on which Derwent was built.
Darren continues to lead the business as Managing Director, alongside Operations Director Steve Hatfield, who joined in 2014.
With Kaye Wills as Commercial Director and Fay Maitland as Finance Director, our management team brings together operational, commercial and financial experience to support the next stage of growth.
Alongside our experienced site teams and developing apprentices, we’re continuing to invest in our people, systems and processes to strengthen the service we provide to clients.
The Branding Is New. The Experience Isn’t.
As Derwent has grown, our existing branding and website no longer fully reflected the business we’d become.
Our refreshed identity is about showcasing who we are today while recognising the experience and heritage behind the Derwent name.
The new website provides a platform to highlight our services, share recent projects and offer insight into the specialist work we undertake.
Most importantly, it gives clients, contractors and partners a clearer picture of the people, expertise and capabilities behind Derwent.
Looking Ahead
As we approach 30 years since that first Plymouth job, we’re proud of our history and excited about what comes next.
Our focus remains on building lasting relationships, developing our team, investing in the business and continuing to deliver high-quality flooring and wall-cladding projects across the South West.
The business may look a little different, but our commitment to doing the job properly remains unchanged.
New look. Same Derwent. And plenty more to come.
