Furniture and fit-out business Glendale UK is helping inspire young minds in schools up and down the country – and its expertise is growing.
David Pringle, founder of the business, in Walton Summit, invited me to visit to meet staff and hear about the work they’re doing in education and their potential to go further.
Based at Walton Summit for 19 years, Glendale works nationally but has transformed school facilities, from science labs to washrooms, more locally, including Longridge High and St Cecilia’s. Equipment is sourced from a range of suppliers, both in the UK and internationally, and installed by Glendale’s own team on site.
There are so many innovative and fascinating businesses in Ribble Valley and I’m always interested to hear how they came to be.
Stronger offering
In the case of Glendale, it was founded by David in June 1976 with his brother and their wives, mainly providing furniture and fit-out services for schools and commercial premises. In 2025, the business was bought by MPS Group, with new owner Anthony Devenish taking on the role of director and David staying on as a consultant.
Bringing both together has filled in the gaps in both businesses, giving them a stronger offering. While Glendale focuses on the furniture in a classroom, MPS can provide technology such as interactive whiteboards and even stationery.
David told me work tends to be seasonal, ramping up over the holidays when schools are closed, and there is an increasing need for SEND furniture such as heavy-duty tables.
Ambition
We toured the office, met staff from the 11-strong workforce and looked at some of the products, including an office pod that’s soundproofed and uses smart glass that can turn opaque, and a digital A-board that can be used outside schools.
The business has a real ambition to work with colleges and universities and there are some huge projects ongoing in Lancashire and the wider North West. We also spoke about the Employment Rights Bill and some more local issues. Thanks to David, Anthony and managing director Ben Trevvett for being so welcoming and congratulations on almost 50 years in business.
I’m keen to engage with more businesses in the constituency so please get in touch with my office if you’d like to arrange a meeting.
