A Cumbrian playground equipment firm is expanding into Croatia due to high demand in Europe.

Playdale, founded in 1978, has been building play areas based on nine generations of expertise in the timber and steel industries.

The firm was established after a request to upgrade local playground equipment prompted Jack and John Croasdale to utilise their construction skills.

Playdale was founded in 1978 (Image: Supplied) The company uncovered a need for durable, sustainable products that could withstand harsh environments, not just in the UK but globally.

Realising the international demand for quality British manufacturing, Playdale began exporting to European markets in 2009.

Having constructed 26,000 play areas in the UK, the Haverthwaite company has expanded its distributor network to 52 export markets, including Sweden, Hungary, Romania, Poland, Spain, and Germany.

The company has been working with the Department for Business and Trade and was part of the national campaign ‘Made in Cumbria, Sold to the World.’

Playdale began exporting to European markets in 2009 (Image: Phil Rigby) They were named one of the department's founding Export Champions.

The Cabinet Office highlighted their work as an example of best practice during Brexit.

President of Playdale, Barry Leahey MBE, said: "Children have a right to play all over the world, and no matter where you are, there will always be a demand for fun.

"What struck me as surprising is how easy it has been exporting, and the willingness of those abroad to do business with us, as it seems there is a real demand for high-quality British engineering and manufacturing.

"There will always be a demand for fun" (Image: Supplied) "Obviously, different markets are on different timelines, and it has been important for us to get on the ground to understand the cultural differences in the development of children's habits and needs.

"We’re thrilled to be adding Croatia to our list of export markets, and I would encourage others considering exporting to take the plunge and do it, not least because it is fun, but also because there is massive opportunity in Europe."

Playdale Playgrounds is one of many UK businesses contributing to a total of £352.3bn in exports to Europe from June 2023 to June 2024.

The Department for Business and Trade is encouraging businesses interested in expanding or starting their global operations to attend free workshops and seminars during International Trade Week from November 11 to 14.

Data from Santander’s Trade Barometer Report shows that the proportion of businesses trading internationally that see growth opportunities in European markets over the next few months has increased – in Germany from 20 per cent to 23 per cent, and in France from 15 per cent to 19 per cent.

Croatia is the newest country to welcome Playdale (Image: Phil Rigby) Minister for Exports, Gareth Thomas, said: "Our mission is to grow the economy.

"Using International Trade Week to boost exports across Europe and to reset our relationship with our nearest neighbours on the continent is an important part of that.

"It’s incredible to see Playdale’s success around the world and its continued expansion.

"The European market offers big demand for these skills and we’re encouraging all businesses to take advantage of that."