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Neill Western Obituary 

Posted on Thursday 5 November 2026

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our founder Neill Western.

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our founder Neill Western.

Neill passed away last month, aged 68, following a brave battle with illness.

He founded Western Business Publishing in 1991. Initially, he launched Industrial Plant & Equipment and eventually growing it to include Handling & Storage Solutions, Health & Safety Matters, Cleaning Matters, Control Drives & Automation, Fire Safety Matters and Security Matters.

He also oversaw the launch of numerous B2B exhibitions including The Health & Safety Event, The Fire Safety Event, The Security Event and more.

Neill sold the business to Nineteen Group in 2018, but was instrumental in helping us buy back the publications in 2019 and the company remains named after him.

He enjoyed a 35+ year legacy in B2B publishing and events. He was admired by clients, contractors and staff – many of whom still work for the business. 

A man who was incredibly generous and always available to offer support. A proper Old School publisher who will be greatly missed by us all.

Our love and sympathy goes out to his wife Julie, his son Cameron and his wider family.

Published By

Western Business Media,
Dorset House, 64 High Street,
East Grinstead, RH19 3DE

01342 314 300
[email protected]

Contact us

Simon Duddy - Editor
01342 333 711
[email protected]

Liza Helps - Property Editor
07540 624 360
[email protected]

Louise Carter - Editorial Support
01342 333 735
[email protected]

Neill Wightman - Sales Manager
07818 574 304
[email protected]

Sharon Miller - Production
01342 333 741
[email protected]