Founded in 1912, Cressall began by manufacturing asbestos resistor nets, later expanding into porcelain and mica resistors, sterilisers, and battery chargers. During WWII, it produced welding resistors, radio nets, and degaussing equipment, vital for naval defence.

In the 1950s, Cressall introduced wire-wound rheostats and vitreous enamel resistors, merging with Expamet in 1955 to create Britain’s largest resistor range. By 1965, it diversified into medical screening and electronics.

Acquired by Halma in 1990, Cressall moved to Leicester in 1993, developing neutral earthing resistors and load banks. It grew further by acquiring GEC Rugby, H A Birch, and Eaton Cutler-Hammer’s resistor businesses.

In 2006, Telema SpA purchased Cressall, integrating it into the world’s top power resistor group. Innovations like the EV2 braking resistor enhanced efficiency and expanded dynamic braking applications for modern technology.