BG Pearce and R&C Crispin were among the family-run Mid Devon Businesses that received a visit from local MP Mel Stride last week to celebrate Family Business Week. The initiative, organised by the Institute for Family Business (IFB) in partnership with NatWest, champions the vital role of family-run businesses in creating local jobs and shaping the fabric of local communities. 14 million people are employed by family firms, contributing £637 billion to UK GDP and around £205 billion a year in taxes.
BG Pearce near Cheriton Bishop was established in 1969 by Bernie and Hilary Pearce and is now run by sons Tony & Paul and Paul’s sons Luke & Aran. Initially dealing with many aspects of farming, the business soon progressed to agricultural contracting, civil engineering, liquid waste disposal and animal bi-product collection and disposal. BG Pearce also has a wide range of vehicles and machinery available, as well as a public weighbridge on site, and offers an agricultural plastic collection and recycling service.
The company also support other businesses on their site such as MMK Engineering & Ellis Event Power Services.
R & C Crispin, based in Bradninch, is a private hire taxi company. Their vehicle range includes a 1923 Austin 12/4 Tourer, a 1929 Rolls Royce 20hp Limousine and a 1964 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud III, all perfect for weddings or special events. The business also operates a taxi service and limousine hire for funerals. Founded in 1923 by Henry Crispin, it will celebrate its centenary next year. Many family members have worked for the business, including Henry’s sons George and William, before William tragically died in a POW Camp in Poland during the Second World War. It was then run by George’s son Tony until he was forced to retire due to ill health. The business is now run by Colin and Rob Crispin, Henry’s grandson and great-grandson.
Paul Pearce said:
“I’m delighted Family Business Week is highlighting the importance of local businesses like ours. It was great to welcome Mel to BG Pearce, to show him the machinery and equipment we sell and to tell him about our agricultural recycling services.”
Rob Crispin said:
“It was very useful to meet Mel and talk through some of the challenges we face as a business, particularly increased fuel and insurance costs.”
Mr Stride, who was recently appointed as Secretary of State for Work and Pensions by Rishi Sunak, added:
“Family-run businesses play a really important role in our economy and are part of our local heritage. I very much enjoyed meeting Paul and Rob and learning more about two businesses with 150 years of history between them. For more information please visit www.bgpearce.co.uk or www.crispinprivatehire.co.uk.”
