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The business is involved in various developments across the region , from roads and sewers infrastructure to hospitals and student accommodation . Three of its latest projects are within major housing developments , which have boosted its order book by a whopping £ 17 million alone . Established in 1983 by its current Chairman , Fred Champion , the business began with a single machine and three employees . Today , it has recently celebrated 40 years , and we sit down with John Cheffings , Commercial Director at Champion , to reflect on the company ’ s journey to success .

“ It all started with Fred purchasing his first machine , a second-hand Case 580 G wheel digger , in 1983 ,” begins John . “ The first swing shovel , a 580 D Hymac followed two years later , and we initially completed works for local housebuilders and developers .

“ We quickly grew over the years and built a positive reputation as a reliable construction company , delivering high quality services to commercial and residential clients throughout Devon and Cornwall . As our clients grew their respective businesses , we grew alongside them , and many of those initial customer relationships still form our customer base today .

“ Throughout our growth , we have endeavoured to maintain our core family values , which we believe are at the heart of our success ,” he reflects . “ Having started with one excavator and three men , it ’ s amazing that we now have 320 direct employees , an annual turnover in excess of £ 70 million , and we ’ ve just started working on our 402nd site .”

John continues : “ Turning 40 is such

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