The History of Lyon

In the same year Ben, with Mike Meredith, took a party of cavers to France, and called in on Fernand Petzl's 3-man workshop. Mike started imports to the UK, handing on to Ben's business in 1974, making 'Lyon' the first overseas Petzl distributor. The next move was to change our name to Lyon Equipment.

More leading Brands have been added to our portfolio. Adding staff of exceptional quality has allowed us to develop an unrivalled range of gear and techniques for tackling every type of play, work, and rescue at height. (And other places too!)

Today, with even wider scope to our activities, you may find yourself talking, under the banner of Lyon Equipment Limited, to Lyon (Manufacturing), Lyon (Outdoors), Lyon (Work & Rescue), Lyon (Training) or Lyon (Logistics). . . .

. . . and 40 years on we still make caving ladders!

What is Lyon Equipment Limited today?

Today we have a many-talented staff of over 60, with an annual turnover in excess of £10 million.

We are:
• The leading distributor of quality caving, climbing and mountaineering equipment to outdoor retailers throughout the UK and Ireland.
• Specialist suppliers of safety equipment for access and all kinds of work (and rescue) at height, in enclosed spaces and in the dark.
• Market leaders in the provision of PETZL hands-free personal lighting for every conceivable activity and situation.
• Providers of training and certification for Work at Height.
• The experts in the manufacture of flexible sided ladders.
• Manufacturers of lanyards, slings, tackle bags and bespoke sewn goods.
• A provider of warehousing and logistic support to other companies.