A Family Business in Its Third Generation

New beginnings

I would like to introduce myself and pass on a little of this family business history, which is now in its third generation. My name is Daniel Herold, grandson of Arthur Preou and son of Julia Herold.

The company was founded in 1961 by my grandfather, and began as a small operation from his home. As the business grew, he moved into an office in Forest Gate and shifted focus from residential to commercial engineering, quickly building a strong local authority client base. In 1964 the company was incorporated, and growth led to a move to larger premises in Manor Park. In 1986 the company relocated to Bridge Close, Romford, closer to Arthur and Julia's home.

I joined the company in 2009, working on the tools while attending college and university. Within seven years I took charge of project management and later the contracting department.

In 2015 we faced a major challenge when our Bridge Close offices were subjected to compulsory purchase by the local authority, and Julia led the six-year battle to secure a new home for our business. In 2019 my grandfather was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma. It was a difficult time, especially for my mum, Julia, who had worked alongside her father since 1982, but it only strengthened her resolve to protect and build on the legacy Arthur had created. Recognising my potential, my grandfather entrusted me with the contracting side of the business.

The pandemic in 2020 brought unprecedented challenges, but our 60 years of experience helped us through the shutdown, and I made sure we kept continuity for our clients, particularly the hospitals we serve. With Julia by my side, we have driven the company forward while upholding its core values.

Very sadly, my grandfather passed away on 30 October 2021, comforted by knowing the company and his legacy were in good hands. Remarkably, Julia concluded negotiations with the London Borough of Havering just the day before. On 17 December we collected the keys to our new offices in Radford Crescent, Billericay, and after an extensive renovation we moved in during September 2024.

Preou has grown by over 400% under the new leadership. We are proud to provide mechanical and electrical engineering solutions across the healthcare sector, from NHS refurbishments to complex medical environments, and to do the same for schools, universities and public buildings.

Our mission is to put our clients at the heart of everything we do, integrating advanced technologies and future-proof systems to ensure the highest standards.

Daniel Herold, Managing Director

Two years at Radford Crescent

This year marks two years since we moved into our new facility, and it feels like the perfect opportunity to reflect on just how far the business has come.

Our purpose-built facility, with its warehouse and brand new office space, represents much more than simply a new premises. It represents years of hard work, continued investment and the growth of a business that has been built on strong family values.

Our new home has given us the space and infrastructure to grow our team, expand our capabilities and take on increasingly ambitious projects. We are incredibly proud of how far we have come and grateful to everyone who has been part of the journey.