About Us
Since being founded in 1963, Arbil has grown to become a trusted industry leader in the sales, hire, and service of lifting equipment, specialist rail tools, and 4x4 aftermarket accessories. With 60 years of experience, Arbil has built it's reputation on providing high-quality, brand-leading products, bespoke solutions, and exceptional customer service.
Our History
1960’s
1963: Founded by Raymond R. Bills as Raymond R. Bills (Cradley) Ltd in Wolverhampton, initially supplying mooring chains and servicing lifting gear for industries, including British Rail (now Network Rail).
Mid 1960s: Expanded into equipment hire, becoming a pioneer in hiring lifting equipment. Developed the first hydraulic synchronised lifting system, patented as the Arbil Synchronised Pump.
1966: Relocated to Providence Street, Lye, near the founder’s roots in Cradley Heath.
1970’s
Early 1970s: Opened branches in Bristol and Coventry.
1970s: Expanded to new premises along Providence Street and established a wire rope rigging shop.
1970s: Launched a separate hire division factory in Bromley Street, Lye.
Late 1970s: Acquired WV Booker, leading to the establishment of the Cradley Heath engineering facility.
1980’s
1983: Tim Bills, the current chairman, joined the business, gaining hands-on experience on the shop floor.
1988: Celebrated 25 years with the launch of the trade counter, accommodating growing demand in the chain shop and service bay.
1990’s
1990s: Launched the 4x4 Automotive division to cater to a growing market.
1990s: Secured AQAP 4 defence accreditation, strengthening Arbil’s reputation for quality and reliability.
1996: Incorporated as Arbil Limited.
2000’s - Present
2000s: Developed the exclusive Zwicky range of bespoke rail jacks, showcasing innovation in the rail sector.
2013: Celebrated 50 years of service, reflecting on decades of achievements.
2020: Launched an e-commerce platform to enhance customer access to products.
2020: Improved quality management and backend systems, setting the stage for continued growth and evolution.
2023: Celebrated 60 years in business, marking six decades of quality and service.
Meet the Team
Our experienced and dedicated team of professionals are passionate about providing unparalleled service and support to our customers. With a strong focus on innovation, safety, and efficiency, our team works tirelessly to deliver the best solutions for your unique needs.
Tim Bills
Chairman/CEO
Paul Inett
Managing Director
Dave Nicholls
Lifting Manager
Marcus Taylor
Rail Manager
Simon Picken
4x4 Manager
Molly Smith
Hire & Sales Support
Chris Maughan
Coventry Controller
Margaret Priest
Financial Accountant
Amanda Brindley
Sales Controller
Matt Durbidge
Lifting Gear Engineer
Commited to Quality
At Arbil, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality products and services. Our five extensive UK sites are backed by significant in-house manufacturing capabilities and high-tonnage testing and calibration facilities, ensuring top standards of quality and performance across all divisions.
Arbil is accredited to ISO 9001: 2015.
