We recently marked a major milestone in our history with a special 80th anniversary celebration in Control Room A at London’s iconic Battersea Power Station, bringing together colleagues, clients, suppliers, friends and family to commemorate eight decades in business.
On Thursday 8th October, we welcomed approximately 200 guests for an evening of celebration, reflection and appreciation, recognising the people and partnerships that have shaped Gratte Brothers since its founding in 1946. It was a privilege to welcome colleagues, clients, suppliers, friends and family members, with guests representing all industries and sectors in which the Group operates. The occasion provided a rare opportunity to bring together so many of the people and partnerships that have contributed to Gratte Brothers’ success over the past eight decades. Scroll to the bottom to see our photo gallery & video from the evening, or read on to find out more.
Eight Decades of People, Partnerships and Progress
Throughout our 80-year history, Gratte Brothers has continued to evolve, adapting to changes in the industries we serve while remaining committed to the values on which the business was founded. Addressing guests during the evening, Group Managing Director David Gratte (grandson of co-founder Derek Gratte) reflected on the company’s heritage and continued commitment to quality with pride, commenting that in 1946 “the Gratte Brothers were simply two electricians offering a high-quality service at a decent price”. Quality has remained one of our core values to this day.
Founded by brothers Derek and Andre Gratte as a small electrical business operating from a Nissen hut, Gratte Brothers has since grown to encompass five specialist companies, employing more than 550 people across eight UK offices. Despite this considerable growth, David emphasised that the principles established by the founding brothers remain central to the business today, particularly its commitment to building long-standing relationships.
“It’s often remarked at Gratte Brothers that you don’t do business with companies. You do business with people.”
— David Gratte, Group Managing Director
David also took a moment to pay tribute to his uncle, former Group Chairman Martin Gratte, who sadly passed away earlier this year following more than 50 years of service to the business. His leadership, dedication and contribution to the Group’s development remain an important part of its history and legacy.
Above all, David’s remarks served as a reminder that Gratte Brothers’ longevity is not simply measured in years, projects or achievements, but in the people whose dedication, trust and loyalty have made them possible. For those who weren’t there (or those who were and want to relive the moment), read a copy of David’s speech.
A Celebration to Remember
As we started out as an electrical contractor, Battersea Power Station felt like a very fitting setting for the occasion. Inside the venue, guests got to see our 80 year history illustrated across five screens – almost like an interactive exhibition. More than simply marking the passage of time, the evening was an opportunity to reconnect, share memories and celebrate the relationships that continue to underpin the Group’s success.
As Gratte Brothers looks towards the future, the milestone serves as both a celebration of everything achieved over the past eight decades and a reminder of the people who will shape its next chapter.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special occasion, and to all our colleagues, clients, suppliers and partners, past and present, who have played a part in the Gratte Brothers story. Here’s to the next 80 years!
