Where it all began…
Established by our founder Mr Lionel Mitchell, Mitchell’s was born in 1905 from a company of electricians who specialised in wiring housing stock at the advent of electricity. New technologies were embraced and added to our portfolio of services, seeing us evolve and diversify into the fields of refrigeration and air conditioning. Our positive approach to the design and release of new innovations is something we continue to hold on to this day, and has fostered the company belief that anything is achievable. Forward thinking continues to be encouraged within the organisation, which has led to our complete turnkey solutions, with the addition of our Heating Division.
Today we’re a multi-skilled HVAC and refrigeration and heating company using the latest design tools, including AutoCAD, and computerised calculation programmes. We undertake diverse projects encompassing all disciplines for the provision of commercial offices and premises. We also work within the public sector and are a well-respected contractor working in schools, libraries, hospitals and other public buildings, and you can join that list of clients by calling us on 01452 302206.
1905
Following an apprenticeship as an electrician in Bristol, Lionel Cadogan Mitchell gained experience in America before returning to Gloucester to set up his own business.
1914
A shop was established in St Aldate Street, Gloucester, which served as the base for the electrical installation contracting business. As mains electricity became available to homes and businesses, the demand for appliances appeared. Lighting fittings and shades, electric irons, boiling rings and toasters eventually grew into today’s standard appliances. Industrial work developed in the manufacturing industries of Gloucestershire with electric motors, dynamos, lifts and machines powered by electricity becoming the norm.
1920
Mr Mitchell acquired larger retail premises in Northgate Street where the shop became one of the main suppliers and repairers of electrical appliances in the city, also supplying radio receivers and repairs.
1935
Cold and ice storage and ice manufacturing was growing, and electricity took over from steam and other forms of power. The butcher’s cold room and farmer’s milk cooling led Mitchell’s into the refrigeration business, and it was not long after the domestic refrigerator was selling from 52 Northgate Street and the commercial refrigeration business was developed as distributors for York Refrigeration. By the later thirties the company was well-established, and during the Second World War provided many electricians at the Gloster Aircraft Company in Brockworth to keep wartime aircraft production going. Wiring looms for the aircraft were also assembled at their Northgate Street premises. In the fifties television signals had spread to Gloucester and Mitchell’s became retail agents for some of the leading brands within the home repair facilities available as well.
1959
L C Mitchell died, and his son Bob Mitchell succeeded him as Managing Director.
1977
With the rise of the discount retailer in Gloucester the retail business was sadly closed. 1977 also saw the death of Bob Mitchell at the rather young age of 62, and the business passed to his son, Norman Mitchell. Premises had been acquired in Bristol Road long before 1977 and the electrical contracting business had moved to avoid the tightening parking restrictions in the city centre. The commercial refrigeration and air conditioning team was moved into the old farm buildings of L C Mitchell in Hucclecote.
1982
When more space became available adjacent to our Bristol Road premises, a large purpose-built workshop and offices were built and the refrigeration and air conditioning team moved to the head office site.
2000
Garrion Leeds was appointed Managing Director and has continued to direct Mitchell’s in their pursuit of exemplary service to all of our customers.
ESTABLISHED IN 1905
SERVICE & MAINTENANCE
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Meet our team
Garrion Leeds
Managing Director
Garrion started his working life as a sales representative for a printing company after completing 4 years in higher education obtaining a Business & Finance HND specialising in Sales & Marketing. After 2 years of successful and continued target attainment, Garrion decided a career change was required to prevent stagnation and afford a continued ongoing challenge in his working life. He went back to college for 3 years to attain an HND in Building Services Engineering whilst working as a project engineer before becoming a project manager for Mitchell’s in 1994. Garrion became the Managing Director in 2000 following the retirement of the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Divisional Director, and since this time has altered the Company structure and operation to enable Mitchell’s to offer exemplary service across a wider and more diverse range of services.
Justin Fisher
Operations Director
Justin joined Mitchell’s as Operations Director in October 2024, bringing over 18 years of experience in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry. Starting his career as a Refrigeration Engineer apprentice, Justin steadily advanced through various roles, eventually becoming a business director. This journey has honed his expertise in managing complex projects, teams, and overcoming industry/business challenges.
With industry training at Bath College and an apprenticeship as well as an active membership of the Institute of Refrigeration and IOSH, Justin’s career reflects his dedication to professional growth and delivering results.
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Outside of work, Justin is a proud father with a variety of hobbies that reflect his hands-on approach to life. He enjoys clay pigeon shooting, caring for his marine aquarium, and riding his motorcycle. With a passion for craft and a strong belief in the power of teamwork, Justin is eager to bring his expertise and leadership to Mitchell’s, helping drive success alongside a dedicated team.
Sophie Young
Financial Director
​​Sophie Young discovered her passion for finance by chance, but it quickly became her calling. Driven by her ambition, she pursued her Accounting Qualifications independently, laying the blocks for her future career. With experience in manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, leisure, and service industries, Sophie brings a wealth of diverse knowledge to her role at Mitchell’s. Joining the company in 2008, her initial task was to implement new accounting software and streamline reporting processes. Once this was accomplished, Sophie took the opportunity to expand her expertise, gaining a qualification in HR and evolving her role into something far beyond that of the traditional ‘bean counter’.
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Known for her forward-thinking approach and multi skills, Sophie is far more than finance; she’s an integral part of the Mitchell’s team and continually drives for growth and improvement across the business.
Steve Thomas
Service Manager
Steve Thomas has been a valued member of the Mitchell's team since 2002, starting his journey as an apprentice engineer and working his way up through the ranks to Senior Engineer. In 2022, he transitioned into the role of Service Manager, where his technical expertise and years of hands-on experience have made him an exceptional role model for the engineering team.
Known for his dependable support and approachable nature, Steve is a trusted guide for our engineers and a familiar, friendly face for our customers. His commitment to delivering outstanding service and his dedication to the Mitchell’s team ensure that every task is handled with care and professionalism.
Justin Jordan
Ducting Manager
With 34 years of experience in the ducting industry, Justin brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to his role as Ducting Manager at Mitchell’s. Over the years, he has been part of major projects, including the London Olympics in 2012 and Mali, Africa, in 2016.
Since joining Mitchell's in 2019, Justin has been instrumental in establishing and expanding our in-house ducting manufacturing department. Equipped with an i-Fold duct manufacturing machine and a Swift-Cut plasma table, Justin leads the production of a wide range of high-quality ductwork. As a qualified manufacturer of Firemac fire-rated ductwork, Justin ensures every project meets the highest standards of safety and precision.
Justin’s vast experience and commitment to high quality work make him a key part of the Mitchell’s team, delivering innovative solutions tailored to our clients’ needs.
Chris Perks
Operations Manager
Chris Perks has been a vital part of the Mitchell's team since 2016, bringing a unique blend of expertise and leadership to his role as Operations Manager. Beginning his career in education, Chris transitioned into engineering, where he discovered his talent for organisation and business development.
With exceptional people skills and a forward-thinking approach, Chris is dedicated to fostering growth and high standard practices within the company. His passion for building strong relationships with clients and improving systems ensures that Mitchell’s continues to deliver outstanding results for both our team and our customers.
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