Our journey
Engineering quiet confidence since 1977
For nearly five decades, Bambi Air has been designing and manufacturing specialist compressed air solutions in Birmingham, UK. Built on engineering expertise, people and a commitment to quality, our story is one of quiet innovation, trusted performance and continuous evolution.
Where it all began
1977 – Founded in Birmingham
Bambi Air was established in June 1977 by Laurence Clutterbuck, supplying the oil lubricated MD compressor range to customers who demanded reliability and engineering integrity. From day one, quality was hands on: Graham, now our Technical Support Lead, was among the first employees and assembled the very first MD compressor ever sold by Bambi.
This foundation of technical know-how and pride in workmanship continues to define Bambi today.
Strengthening our foundations
1981 – Investing in manufacturing capability
Bambi acquired Harris Brothers Ltd, a Birmingham based sheet metal specialist and supplier of Bambi air receivers, in 1981. The acquisition strengthened our in-house manufacturing and brought skilled people into the business, including Stephen, now a machine shop operative, and Lorraine, our Head of Finance & HR.
1986 – Expanding the product offering
The acquisition of Apollo Sprays Ltd in 1986 broadened Bambi’s portfolio to include HVLP paint spray equipment. Ranjit, now one of our assemblers, joined Bambi as part of this expansion.
These strategic moves allowed Bambi to grow without losing control of quality or craftsmanship.
Leading the shift to oil-free
1990 – Innovation in cleaner compressed air
Bambi launched the DT oil-free air compressor range in 1990, anticipating growing demand for clean, quiet, oil-free compressed air across specialist applications.
1994 – Growing capability and scale
The acquisition of Huftons Abrasives Ltd in 1994 further strengthened Bambi’s manufacturing base, bringing additional skills and experience into the team including Jenny, one of our assemblers.
1998 – A home for the future
Bambi moved to its current headquarters on Thimble Mill Lane in Birmingham, creating the space needed to support product development and long term growth.
1999 – Product evolution
An improved oil-lubricated Budget range was launched in 1999, now known as the BB range.
Innovation through engineering
2002 – New technologies, wider applications
Bambi acquired Dawson McDonald Dawson Ltd, the manufacturer of Compton pumps, in 2002. This brought diaphragm pump and gas circulation technology into the Bambi range, opening up new specialist markets and applications.
2004 – Next generation oil-free solutions
The VT range was launched in 2004, featuring improved oil-free pump units and replacing the DT range.
2008 – Specialist systems
The Apollo ProSpray system was introduced in 2008, reinforcing Bambi’s reputation for spraying solutions.
Focused, specialist solutions
2012 – Purpose-built ranges for critical applications
Bambi launched the FS range in 2012, providing dependable compressed air solutions for dry pipe sprinkler systems, built around proven Compton pump technology.
The same year saw the introduction of the VTS range, delivering ultra-quiet, oil-free compressed air for noise-sensitive environments such as dental surgeries and laboratories.
2016 – Transition to oil-free leadership
The PT range was introduced in 2016 as the market increasingly shifted towards oil-free technology. The 40-year running MD range was largely discontinued, reflecting Bambi’s focus on modern, clean air solutions.
A new chapter
2024 – Continuity and renewed ambition
Lucena Capital, the family office of Ben Suquet, acquired Bambi Air in 2024 as part of founder Laurence Clutterbuck’s retirement plan. The acquisition ensured continuity of values while supporting investment in future growth.
2025 – Recognised quality
Bambi achieved ISO 9001:2015 accreditation in 2025, independently validating the quality systems and engineering standards that have underpinned the business for over 45 years. In the same year, Bambi became a member of the British Compressed Air Society (BCAS).
Looking ahead
Today, Bambi Air combines decades of engineering heritage with a clear focus on the future — delivering quiet, reliable, oil-free compressed air solutions for critical and specialist applications worldwide. Our commitment remains the same as it was in 1977: build quality products, support them with expertise, and stand behind them for the long term.
