DATS is proud to be celebrating its 60th year! Here’s our incredible journey so far…

1958

Founder, Trevor Nickson, completes a five-year apprenticeship with ICI and is promoted to the company’s design offices. However, craving a greater challenge than his nine-to-five routine, Trevor takes the decision to ‘go it alone’ and DATS CAD Services is established.

1960

Metal Box, DATS’ first client, gives Trevor the opportunity to run a three-month project for three people with a Northwest manufacturing company.

Adverts placed locally bring a line of candidates to the office. 45 are interviewed with at least half suitable for the project.

DATS Recruitment is born.

1966

DATS breaks into the Chemical and Nuclear industries, becoming the main supplier to UKAEA, which later became BNFL.

1969

DATS becomes involved in a major glass plant for Pilkington’s, with other Pilk’s companies,  Triplex and Firbreglass, also becoming clients.

1976

The large space in Royal Avenue is rented and converted into a new project and design office, attracting a number of new contracts. DATS starts working with clients in Algeria.

1984

As the business continues to expand, the bank agrees to invest £1.5m in the renovation of the old school building on Norland’s Lane. DATS’ new office space is opened in 1986.