The History of Premier1 Filtration

From Engineer to Chippie Owner and back to Engineer…

The story of Premier1 Filtration begins back in 1992, when founder Jeff was running two fish and chip shops in Norton and Hardwick, Stockton-on-Tees. Like most fryers at the time, he changed oil weekly to maintain quality, but with three pans holding 25 litres each, the costs soon mounted.

While sieving and cleaning oil daily helped, Jeff noticed that scraps of batter, chips, and breadcrumbs broke down into black carbon dust that quickly spoiled the oil. That’s when he spotted an advert in the NFFF magazine for a machine by Ernest A. Bitterling Ltd, designed to filter oil while hot and remove sediment.

Jeff bought two machines, and within weeks saw the vast improvement. The oil lasted longer, the food quality improved, and he was hooked.

From User to Innovator

With an engineering and electrical background, Jeff soon approached Bitterling to see if they needed a sales or service engineer in the North East. They welcomed him onboard, and after forming Filtersupplies UK, Jeff was soon servicing and selling machines, including those used by McDonald’s franchises.

But daily use revealed flaws. The rectangular base leaked oil, the filters weren’t fine enough, and the motor lacked the strength to pull oil through tighter media. Jeff shared his thoughts with fellow engineer Steve Hill, and together they dreamed of a better design… a round stainless-steel spun base, no leaks, a finer filter, and a stronger motor-pump unit.

Bitterling’s management did not feel ready to adapt, but a sympathetic MD, Barry Adams, introduced Jeff and Steve to a fabrication company in Peterborough that was willing to manufacture a machine to their design.

Building For The Future

In 1999, Jeff and Steve spent months developing drawings, wiring diagrams, and sourcing components. By the end of the year, the prototype was ready, and the results were startling. Not only were scraps removed, but microscopic particles too, restoring clarity to oil.

The prototype went on trial in a local shop and proved so effective it became their first sale. Production began under the company Opal System 2000, and the new round filter system quickly outperformed existing machines.

Demand outstripped supply, and trade shows spread the word. 

The message was clear… oil filtration could be better, cleaner, and more efficient.

Recognition and Growth

By 2002, even Bitterling acknowledged the impact. Their executives met with Jeff and Steve, admitting the new machine had dented their sales, and offered to collaborate. While production challenges remained, the recognition confirmed that Jeff’s vision for better oil filtration was transforming the industry.

From Then to Now

From those early experiments in Stockton to the launch of Opal System 2000, and eventually Premier1 Filtration, the company has continued to grow and innovate. Now based in North Yorkshire, Premier1 designs, builds, and refurbishes filtration machines in-house,  with the flagship Merlin Maestro trusted in kitchens across the UK, Ireland, and worldwide.

The Merlin Maestro has become the cornerstone of modern oil filtration. It combines practical engineering with user-focused design:

• Preheat motor protection and overheat protection safeguard components and extend machine life.

• Modular sub-assemblies make servicing simpler and faster.

• An updated coupling system ensures smooth performance.

• A maintenance-friendly build saves kitchens both time and money.

• Quieter operation keeps service areas calmer and more efficient.

Looking Ahead

Premier1 Filtration isn’t just about machines. With sustainability at its heart, from biodegradable filter pads to supporting global reforestation through Treedom, the company continues to build on its proud history while preparing for the future.

From a small chippie in Stockton-on-Tees to a trusted partner for independents, chains, and even international kitchens, Premier1 Filtration’s journey is a story of innovation, resilience, and care.