Hazardous area lighting maker Petrel reaches West Midlands investment shortlist
Iain Hoey
Share this content
Lighting specialist Petrel shortlisted for investment award
Petrel, a Birmingham-based specialist in hazardous area lighting, has been shortlisted in the Investment category at the West Midlands Business of the Year Awards 2026, with winners due to be announced on 26 February 2026.
Petrel said it has been shortlisted to a final group of three after a judging process.
The black-tie awards ceremony will take place on 26 February 2026 in the West Midlands.
Petrel was founded in the 1930s and has operated under the Petrel brand since 1984.
The company manufactures ATEX, UKCA and IECEx-certified lighting solutions for hazardous and industrial environments.
Petrel operates from a 3,650 sqm manufacturing facility in Birmingham.
Its work covers end-to-end design, engineering, testing and production for sectors including renewables, chemical processing, distilleries, manufacturing and heavy industry.
Investment programme and manufacturing footprint
Petrel said the nomination follows a period of investment after it became part of Pioneer Safety Group (PSG) in early 2024.
Phase one of the programme included refurbishment of its Birmingham site and upgrades to IT and supply chain infrastructure.
The company also expanded its research and development and testing capability.
Investment extended to staff benefits, wellbeing initiatives and clearer progression pathways.
Petrel said these changes have improved productivity, reduced lead times and supported plans for growth in the UK and international markets.
Pemberton said: “We’re incredibly proud to be recognised alongside such respected organisations and to represent the strength of advanced manufacturing in the West Midlands.”
Petrel named the other nominees in the category as Debrett’s and Likewise Group.
Further information about its hazardous area lighting portfolio is available at https://www.petrel-ex.co.uk/
Petrel now goes forward to the February awards alongside two other shortlisted organisations.
