When people think of cutting-edge software, international trade, or big innovations, their minds usually go to London or Manchester. But one of the UK’s leading customs tech companies has been quietly making waves right here in Wigan since 1985.
Langdon Customs & Excise Solutions, based at the iconic Wigan Pier is a local, privately owned business creating software that keeps Britain’s imports and exports moving smoothly. Their Duty Management Systems are used by some of the UK’s biggest names, including Tesco, World Duty Free, GXO, Very Group and Disney, helping them stay compliant, optimise cash flow and reduce duty spend.
A Small Wigan Company With a Big Impact
With a close-knit team of around 20, Langdon might be small, but their reach is huge. Over 200 UK businesses across retail, manufacturing and logistics rely on their tech. They are also one of the leading declarers of UK supplementary declarations to HMRC, and their systems power large-scale excise and customs warehouse operations. Companies like World Duty Free have trusted Langdon since 2001, relying on them for smooth, accurate, high-volume operations.
Each year, Langdon handles duty liabilities of national importance, keeping businesses compliant while making sure HMRC gets accurate, timely declarations. For a small Wigan company, that is no small feat.
Deep Local Roots
Langdon isn’t just based in Wigan, they invest in it. In 2024, they signed a 10-year lease at 1 Wigan Pier,(after turning down an offer to move to Manchester). This has cemented their home in one of the town’s most historic waterfront locations, supports their growing team and contributes to the ongoing regeneration of the Pier district, which is evolving into a vibrant mix of heritage, homes, community spaces and leisure spots.
Wigan Pier: A Landmark With History
Langdon sits beside Wigan Pier, a place with a story as rich as the town itself. Once a coal-loading jetty on the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, the pier became famous thanks to George Formby’s jokes and George Orwell’s The Road to Wigan Pier, which shone a light on working-class life in 1937. Today, the area is being reshaped into a modern district blending history with new life, and Langdon is right at the heart of it.
A Leader in Customs Technology
Langdon’s success isn’t just about longevity. Their Duty Management Systems help businesses improve cash flow, automate customs declarations, reduce duty liabilities and stay fully compliant with HMRC. Their expertise is so trusted that logistics giant GXO chose Langdon over international competitors to build a new Excise Duty Management System for tobacco operations. From cloud-based customs platforms to bonded warehouse solutions, Langdon is powering the next generation of UK and Ireland trade.
Proudly Wigan, Proudly Supporting UK Trade
Langdon Customs & Excise Solutions shows what a Wigan business can achieve: world-class expertise, deep local roots and a real commitment to clients. From their base at the historic Wigan Pier, this small but mighty team delivers software relied on by some of Britain’s biggest names, all while shaping the future of the town they call home.
A true Wigan success story worth celebrating.
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