Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Professional Translation Services Stafford
Established in 1971, Foreign Language Services (FLS) has built a reputation as a trusted provider of translation and interpreting solutions for industry and commerce. Founded by Peter Elphick at GEC's Stafford site, the business remains independently family-run under the leadership of his daughter, Ann Elphick. Our expertise spans technical and commercial translations, including operating manuals, tender documents, and website localisation, supported by cutting-edge technologies like Computer-Aided Translation (CAT) tools and Machine Translation with Post-Editing (MTPE). We prioritise ethical practices, granting clients full control over translation databases while maintaining rigorous quality standards through EN15038-compliant proofreading processes.With a client base ranging from SMEs to global blue-chip companies, our commitment to fair pricing and responsive service has sustained long-term partnerships with organisations like JCB and Alstom. Backed by 50+ years of industry experience, we combine heritage knowledge with forward-thinking innovation to deliver cost-effective, high-accuracy language solutions tailored to each client's unique requirements.
Services
Translation
Interpreting
Translation Memory
Machine Translation
Desktop Publishing
Technical Proofreading
Voiceover Services
Market Consultation
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- 50+ years' experience serving global industry leaders since 1971
- EN15038-compliant quality assurance processes
- Family-run business with direct client accountability
- Proprietary translation memory technology reduces costs by 30%
- Full client control over translation databases
What people say
Fantastic quality
Efficient and accurate
Key supplier
Great turnaround time
Punctual response
Services
Technical Translation
Specialised translation of engineering manuals, technical specifications, and industrial documentation. Our ISO-certified linguists ensure precise terminology conversion while maintaining regulatory compliance. Clients benefit from reduced costs through translation memory reuse, with quality assured via EN15038-standard proofreading processes.
Machine Translation
Custom machine translation systems tailored to specific industries. By leveraging existing translation memories, we create bespoke engines that reduce costs by 30% while maintaining 95% accuracy. Post-editing by qualified linguists ensures technical precision in sectors like automotive and aerospace engineering documentation.
Desktop Publishing
In-house typesetting for global markets using industry-standard software. We maintain brand consistency across 100+ languages while optimising layouts for foreign language expansion. Our localised DTP solutions include XML integration and cost-efficient template design for future translation projects.
Translation Memory
Proprietary translation memory systems that reduce project costs by 30-50%. Clients retain full database ownership while benefiting from consistent terminology across all documentation. Regular updates ensure evolving technical vocabulary remains current for long-term clients in engineering sectors.
Technical Proofreading
EN15038-compliant proofreading by native-speaking specialists. Our two-stage verification process includes source document validation and post-translation review. This ensures technical accuracy in critical documentation like safety manuals and regulatory submissions for global manufacturers.
People
Peter Elphick
Founder
Established FLS in 1971 after leading GEC's language department. Pioneered technical translation standards for engineering documentation. Laid foundation for family-run business now serving global clients like JCB and Alstom.
Ann Elphick
Managing Director
Third-generation leader with 25+ years' experience in language technology implementation. Oversees daily operations and client relations while maintaining the company's ethical commitment to transparency and quality assurance standards.
Questions
What industries do you specialise in?
We focus on technical translation for engineering sectors including automotive, aerospace, and industrial manufacturing, with expertise in safety documentation and regulatory compliance materials.
How do translation memory systems work?
Our systems store previously translated segments, reducing costs by 30-50% for repetitive content while maintaining consistency across all your technical documentation.
Can you handle urgent translation requests?
Yes, our responsive team delivers time-sensitive projects within 24-48 hours while maintaining quality through our established quality assurance processes.
Do you offer certified translations?
We provide officially certified translations for legal and regulatory documents, with sworn translator availability across 15 major languages.
How are translation costs calculated?
Costs depend on document complexity, language combination, and volume. Translation memory reuse and machine translation integration help reduce expenses for regular clients.
What quality standards do you follow?
We adhere to EN15038 standards with mandatory proofreading by second linguists, plus ISO 9001-compliant quality management systems for continuous improvement.
