A Brief History of Block
We started creating our first vocational training equipment in 1984, growing from a one-man-band in a shed to a world-recognised name of excellence.
In The Beginning
It must be said that we are the product of our surroundings and our history defines who we are as individuals and as a business.
History therefore plays a large part in Block Automotive’s journey and how we interact with our clients, customers and community. We look back to the early days of Block, the date now is 1984, Geoff has finished university and is keen to make his mark. Working from a modest shed in Mutford, Norfolk, where he worked on the units by candlelight, whilst also working a full-time machining precision job.
Business Grows
Coming from a successful engineering family, he sought to find an opportunity to apply his abundant skills and business flair. The first real opportunity to arise when he secured an order for 300 mixed engine rigs ranging from ford, maxi, marina and avenger units all for the then manpower services commission, the year is now 1985 and the Block Automotive business is now truly motoring.
Opportunity Knocks
Building on this he then received an order from the RAC who requested that he produce a Golf K jet-fuel injection engine for them. However, when he went to deliver the engine, they no longer wanted the equipment as specs requirements had changed.
With his ever-determined mindset Geoff then went on to see 5 different colleges and went on to sell that unit and indeed many others. This was the starting point for what is today Block Automotive Limited.
The Present
Now in 2026 we find Block Automotive operating from a site measuring 40,000 square foot nestled in a 3.5 acre site located in the centre of Kessingland, Suffolk. Staff levels have risen from the original 2 part-time chaps to the current level of 33 staff generating 14500 vocational training rigs, designed, fabricated and manufactured over the last number of years dealing with over 250 universities and colleges UK-wide as well as numerous education facilities spanning 6 continents.
Mission Statement
"The mission of Block Automotive Limited is to inspire the future generation of Automotive Engineers through a process of innovation, engaging, market leading teaching equipment that seeks the highest levels of excellence"
- Geoff Block
