Founded in 1976 by Stephen Trott in New Malden, Surrey, under the trading name S J Trott Limited, the business began during a memorable year that saw Concorde take to the skies on its first commercial flight to Bahrain, Britain endure its famous summer heatwave, and James Hunt crowned Formula One World Champion. From these early beginnings, Stephen steadily developed the company throughout the Southeast, building a reputation for quality products and exceptional customer service.
As the business expanded, it evolved under a number of well-known trading names. In 1986, the company became London Garage Doors before adopting the name Access Garage Doors and Gates Ltd in 1989. The same period also saw the launch of Capital Garage Doors, together with Sparesmaster, a specialist garage door parts supplier, while Garage Door Associates was established to support ambitious entrepreneurs looking to develop their own garage door businesses.
A key figure in the company’s development has been James Wright, who joined the business in 1987 as a branch manager before quickly progressing to company director. In 2008, he was appointed Managing Director and helped lead the company through a significant period of growth and diversification. Following the sad passing of founder Stephen Trott in 2020, James took personal responsibility for guiding the business through a difficult period while continuing to support the Trott family. Having worked alongside Stephen for many years, James regarded him not only as a colleague, but also as a close friend. Today, the company remains family-owned and operated, with Stephen’s wife and children continuing to oversee the group.
In September 2024, James stepped back from his role as Managing Director to take on a part-time director position within the business, allowing him to enjoy a more balanced home and work life. His son, Ashley Wright, was appointed Managing Director of the group, continuing the company’s strong tradition of family leadership and long-term commitment to the industry.
Today, the Access Garage Door Group operates as a successful and dynamic organisation across both the retail and trade sectors, with each division managed independently to ensure there is no conflict of interest. Its wholesale businesses, Capital Garage Doors and Sparesmaster, have grown into major industry players over the years. Sparesmaster now offers one of the largest ranges of garage door spares, tools and consumables available to the trade, while Capital Garage Doors has established itself as one of the UK’s leading trade suppliers. In addition to its core garage door offering, Capital now includes dedicated building plastics and industrial door divisions and undertakes projects for major developers throughout the South and Southwest of England.
Meanwhile, Access Garage Doors has expanded to six retail locations and recently acquired Dons Doors in Southampton. The acquisition represents an exciting opportunity to further strengthen the group’s retail presence across the South and Southeast. Dons Doors, a well-established business trading for nearly 20 years, adds coverage in a region previously untouched by the Access brand.
Looking ahead, 2026 will also see a renewed focus on expanding Garage Door Associates Ltd, the company’s franchise division, which supports and trains individuals looking to build successful businesses within the garage door industry. Eastbourne is the latest franchise location to open, with discussions already underway regarding a further franchise in Peterborough.
With its diverse operations, experienced workforce and strong infrastructure, the Access Garage Door Group is able to undertake projects that few others in the industry can match, from bespoke specialist installations to high-volume developments. The group currently employs 65 staff, including 18 installers and service engineers operating across the region, and continues to invest heavily in both its people and future growth.
Alongside its commercial success, the company remains committed to supporting charitable and community causes, including Great Ormond Street Hospital, The Salvation Army, local children’s football and rugby clubs, and Free Shop Crawley, which receives the group’s largest charitable donations.
To mark the milestone anniversary, the company will host summer celebrations with colleagues, customers and industry friends aboard a Thames River cruise, featuring food, drinks, live music and entertainment.
Commenting on the anniversary, Wolfgang Gorner, Managing Director at Hörmann UK, said: “Reaching 50 years in business is a tremendous achievement and a reflection of the strength, professionalism and vision that has driven Access Garage Door Group over the past five decades. We have worked alongside the company for many years and have seen first-hand its commitment to quality, customer service and continual investment in both people and the future of the industry, while maintaining the family values on which the business was founded. On behalf of everyone at Hörmann UK, I would like to congratulate the entire team on this remarkable milestone and wish them every success for the next 50 years.”
www.hormann.co.uk
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