Location and Environment

Duferco UK Ltd, a prominent steel trading company, has found its perfect home in the picturesque Chowley Court on Bolesworth’s Chowley Oak Business Park. Relocating to this serene rural location five years ago has been a delightful change for the team. One of the standout perks of their new office is its proximity to the countryside, offering refreshing lunchtime walks that everyone enjoys, especially the team’s dogs who are regular office companions. When we visited, we were warmly welcomed by the team and their friendly Pointer, Penny.

Visitors, especially international clients, are often enchanted by the beauty of the location, adding a unique charm to their business interactions.

Global Connections and Services

As part of Duferco International Trading Holding (DITH), headquartered in Lugano, Switzerland, Duferco UK Ltd plays a vital role in the global steel market. They specialize in purchasing steel from South Korea and importing it to the UK, where it is sold to customers in the UK and Ireland. Their services extend beyond trading to include insurance, logistics and shipping, technical support, and finance.

Niche Products and Market Influence

Duferco UK Ltd is renowned for its niche product: pre-painted steel, which is processed into various products including coils, beams, and roofing materials. With an annual volume of 50,000 tonnes, they have significant influence over pricing and logistics. Although they deal in smaller volumes, their focus on niche products allows for higher margins.

In addition to pre-painted steel, they also purchase stainless steel, handling around 8,000 tonnes per year. This product, while yielding lower volumes, remains a key part of their specialized offerings.

Team and Growth

The current team at Duferco UK Ltd has been together since 2015, having previously worked together before starting from scratch at Duferco. Their collective efforts have led to a successful business, with over 10,500 invoices raised in 2024. Despite being a small team, their dedication and expertise shine through. Director Spencer Southwell, a long-time industry professional with 30 years of experience, expressed his love and enjoyment for his role.

Future Prospects and Challenges

Looking ahead, Duferco UK Ltd is exploring new opportunities with steel mills in North Africa and Vietnam, with sales already planned for July, August, and September 2025. The company acknowledges the challenges posed by the need to move away from carbon-laden production, a transition that the entire industry must navigate.

The market for pre-painted steel has plateaued, prompting the team to focus on stainless steel and carbonless steel for future growth. The Grenfell tragedy has also had a significant impact on the industry, leading to stringent testing and compliance requirements for steel cladding, which Duferco sells.

Industry Impact and Regulations

Duferco UK Ltd operates under the quota restrictions introduced post-Brexit. Initially perceived as restrictive, these quotas have ultimately benefited the industry. However, current news on steel import tariffs into the US could have global implications, adding another layer of complexity to their operations.

Duferco UK Ltd continues to thrive in the steel trading industry, leveraging their niche products, dedicated team, and strategic global connections. As they navigate future challenges and opportunities, their commitment to excellence and innovation clearly remains unwavering.