National Construction Magazine Issue 112 by SNS Publishing

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ISSUE 112

EDITORS NOTE THIS summer has been fortunate with a long length of beautiful weather. Not only has this given rise to increased productivity but also uplifted spirits and with the grey clouds of the recession looming close by, the sunny weather is a refreshing change of pace. While speaking to companies from a variety of sectors across the whole of the UK, one thing has been constant, that these individual entities are flourishing. While many of these companies have had to shed some of their leaves during the harder times of the recession, this has also helped bring about new growth and the budding fruits of new innovative ways to develop the industry. This growth is helping to reshape the ways in which the construction industry can be utilised and is ever expanding into new avenues and applications. Though this spell of good weather may not last, it has allowed companies to help consolidate and rejuvenate their business in the event of having to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;weather the stormâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the encroaching winter months, only to emerge the other side and repeat the cycle once again.

Features Manager Joanne Cowan Jenny Pollard Nick Maldzinski Dale Livesey Features Manager - Scotland Stacey Aitcheson Editor Andrew Coates Design and Artwork Mark Alsop Admin Beverley Wood Publisher Mohammed Faraz Steve Rushworth

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CONTENTS MJF CLEANING SERVICES

SIGN FAB - PG 26

RUBB BUILDING SYSTEMS - PG 40

DRY TREAT - PG 50

PG 9

RAVEN DECOR

PG 12

WENBAN-SMITH

PG 14

NU-LINE

PG 17

NORTH EAST ROOFING SUPPLIES

PG 22

CSH INTERIORS

PG 24

SIGN FAB

PG 26

FOCUS SB

PG 30

FREEDOM CONNECTIONS

PG 32

VOLVO USED TRUCKS

PG 34

ARMD AUTOMATED FACILITIES

PG 37

RUBB BUILDING SYSTEMS

PG 40

GRAINGER AND MACQUEEN

PG 44

STEEL MET

PG 46

DRY TREAT

PG 50

RAPID TOOLS DIRECT

PG 52

HOS CIVILS LTD

PG 56

PLANT-I TELEMATICS

PG 58

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CONTENTS

EMR - PG 65

GKD CREATIVE WEAVE - PG 68

STONE INTERIORS - PG 71

CHELSEA CONSTRUCTION

PG 62

EMR

PG 65

GKD CREATIVE WEAVE

PG 68

STONE INTERIORS

PG 71

NATIONWIDE

PG 74

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NEWS Local authority mortgage initiative helps thousands in England and Wales buy their first home A scheme designed to help first time buyers - who can afford mortgage repayments but not a large deposit - to get onto the housing ladder, has lent £250m since it was launched, helping more than 2,300 home purchases. The brainchild of Sector Treasury Services, part of the Capita Group, the Local Authority Mortgage Scheme involves local authorities ‘topping up’ the deposits of working people, to bridge the gap between the cost of a typical 75 per cent and 95 per cent loan to value mortgage offered by banks and other lenders. Cecilie Booth, director at Sector Treasury Services, said: “The scheme was developed in response to the turmoil in the housing market which followed the global financial meltdown. Specifically it was designed to help potential first-time buyers, including those on the council’s housing waiting list, or currently occupying affordable or social housing units, who are unable to save a sufficient deposit, even though they could afford mortgage repayments on a typical first home. “Two years on and 100 local authorities have launched, signed up to launch or have already taken part in the scheme. This allows them to free up affordable social housing for those who can’t afford to make mortgage repayments and reduce payouts to private landlords and expensive short-term accommodation. In addition, more people have been able to buy their first home, stimulating the local housing market and benefitting the wider local economy. “

buyers mortgage; •

11 lenders, including Lloyds TSB, Leeds Building Society and Leek United Building Society are participating in the scheme;

•

the average maximum loan size set by local authorities has been £165,000 and the average mortgage taken under the scheme £110,000;

• mortgages under the scheme have been extended on 2,300 properties; •

to date there have been no defaults, suggesting that the scheme is self regulating and that affordability factors are still being sensibly applied.

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah gives go-ahead for world’s largest public transport project THE Arriyadh Development Authority (ADA) today announced the winning metro contractors for the Riyadh Public Transport Project (RPTP) – the largest public transport system project currently in development. Three international consortia won the design and build contracts for the sixline, automated metro project: •

Italian firm Ansaldo STS is the leader of the Arriyadh New Mobility group (ANM) which will be responsible for one line with a total distance of 40.7 km. The contract is valued at 5,211,926,731 USD

Since the scheme was piloted in 2011:

•

US firm Bechtel leads the BACS consortium which will design and build two lines with a total distance of 63.3 km. The contract is valued at 9,447,067,500 USD

• 100 local authorities have signed up to provide financial assistance to fund up to 20 per cent of a first-time

• Spanish firm FCC Construccion heads up the consortium known as FAST which will deliver three lines

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that covers a total distance of 72.5 km. The contract is valued at 7,819,320,950 USD Work will begin on the design of the metro project immediately and construction will begin in the first quarter of 2014, bringing the reality of the project ever closer. The system is expected to transform Riyadh, attracting investment, supporting business and making the city more efficient as it continues to grow. “Riyadh today is one of the world’s fastest growing cities and our citizens deserve a world-class public transport system to enhance their quality of life. The RPTP will be a major driver of employment and economic development. It will also help to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality. This is the biggest infrastructure project to be undertaken in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and is a cornerstone of the bold future we envision for our city,” said Ibrahim Bin Muhammad Al Sultan President of ADA and Member of the High Commission for the Development of Arriyadh. The metro network features six lines with a total length of approximately 180 kilometers and electric driverless trains. All 85 stations and carriages will be air-conditioned and divided into three sections: first, family and single class. The winning designs for the main stations from architects Gerber Architekten, Omrania & Associates, Snøhetta and Zaha Hadid, were revealed last month. The RPTP combines a city-wide metro, bus network, and park and ride services. The RPTP’S plan was developed by the High Commission for the development of Arriyadh and approved by the Council of Ministers on 23 April 2012.

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NEWS CONTINUED , Government s empty rates . relief . designed not to be used IN its response to the empty property rates consultation the British Property Federation (BPF) has said the hugely complex proposal appears designed to be hardly ever used and give the illusion of a Government doing something to support the sector. Announced by George Osborne in last year’s Autumn Statement as a means of stimulating construction, the property industry has been left disappointed by the limited scope of the Government’s proposals and concerned they will have little or no impact unless the scope of the relief is widened to include redevelopment and refurbishment. Government has proposed extending relief from empty property rates. However it applies only to new properties built between 1 October 2013 and 30 September 2016, is only given for up to 18 months, and is limited by EU State Aid rules (roughly £55,000 a year). Also, it can only be granted at the discretion of local authorities. The BPF has argued since the 2008 rise in empty property rates it has had a damaging impact on businesses, jobs and the wider UK economy as it creates a strong disincentive for property companies to develop new space, and causes empty buildings to be demolished instead of refurbished. The BPF has pushed for a complete reversal of the policy, believing it would result in only a minimal loss to the Exchequer given the additional economic activity that empty rates reform would generate. Liz Peace, chief executive of the British Property Federation, said: “The relief is so limited and needlessly complex that it almost appears designed not to be used at all. That the Government has dreamt up a new definition for a building, just to implement this policy, is a case in point. “It will certainly do next to nothing to stimulate development. If Government is serious about boosting construction activity then the renovation or

refurbishment of existing buildings must also qualify for relief. This is economically-productive activity that should be encouraged, not penalised through the tax system.”

CITB INJECT £30M INTO THE INDUSTRY TO INCENTIVISE TRAINING IN a move to get the construction industry training and back into growth, CITB - the Construction Industry Training Board - is awarding employers with extra funding for training carried out under the 2012/2013 Grants scheme. CITB’s Training Committee – with members drawn from across the industry - has agreed to provide an exceptional training grant of £15m to reward employers, and will make an extra £15m available to incentivise employers to train within the 2013/14 Grants Scheme. The Training Committee decision was ratified by the full CITB board at its meeting yesterday (July 24th). All grant claiming employers will be eligible for the additional funding. The additional grant will be based on a percentage of all grants claimed by employers (excluding the supplementary payment). The percentage, which will be determined after the Grants Scheme closes on 31 October, is likely to be 12 -15 per cent of grants claimed with a minimum payment of £250 for each year, for all grant claimers. Employers will not have to claim the exceptional training grant - it will be paid automatically to eligible employers (normal Grants Scheme rules apply) in December 2013 and 2014. Judy Lowe, Deputy Chairman of CITB and Chairman of the Training Committee said: “The aim of this cash injection is to incentivise training and to reward those who have continued to train, despite the economic downturn. “Since the recession, we have seen a substantial drop in training but we hope that this money will kick-start the

industry into upskilling and investing in their employees. Ultimately, CITB’s aim is to invest the industry’s levy back into industry skills and training to make businesses competitive, now and in the future. We believe this announcement will provide a welcome catalyst.” For more information on how to take advantage of the CITB Grants Scheme, visit www.citb.co.uk

NHBC reports highest half-yearly housing figures since 2008 NHBC’s latest registration statistics suggest that the UK house-building industry continues its recovery, with new figures revealing that 2013 has witnessed the highest half-yearly total of new homes registered since 2008. 67,422 new homes were registered between January 2013 and the end of June, with figures for Q2 2013 revealing a 38 per cent increase in registrations for the period April – June compared to the same period last year (35,683 in 2013 compared to 25,798 in 2012). NHBC Commercial Director Richard Tamayo said: “Our latest registration statistics show an encouraging broadbased recovery. While London remains an engine for growth we are seeing overall numbers up across the UK with both the private sector (up 23 per cent to 48,817 in Jan – June 2013 compared to 2012 figure of 39,836) and the public sector (up 56%; 18,605 compared to the same half-yearly period in 2012; 11,960) contributing fully to this growth. “The Chancellor’s announcement this week in relation to mortgage guarantee guidance to help boost housing supply shows that the Government is maintaining its commitment to help the industry and those looking to buy a new home. “After a pause in June while builders focussed on completions for their full and half years, July registrations are showing clear indications that builders

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NEWS CONTINUED are returning to the challenge of ramping up production and increasing volumes from this current low base.”

System City: Infrastructure and the Space of Flows THE latest title in the Architectural Design series, System City: Infrastructure and the Space of Flows effectively formulates highly topical ideas in an urban context. It explores how a radical shift is taking place in the way that society is thinking about cities. In a change from the machine metaphors of the 20th century, the new perspective considers that cities should be regarded not simply as spatially extended material artifacts but as complex systems that exhibit many of the same characteristic as living organisms. There is an emerging view that the design of the thousands of new cities needed for an expanding world population are to be founded on intelligent and inhabited infrastructural systems or ‘flow architectures’. The physical arrays of the flow architecture of the city are intimately connected to the networks of subsidiary systems that collect and distribute energy, materials and information. They animate the city, and should therefore be coupled to the spatial and cultural patterns of life in the city, to the public spaces through which people flow, and should unite rather than divide urban morphological and ecological systems. Drawing on work by up and coming names in architecture, such as Liam Young and Amid/Cero 9, and those of established practices such as Buro

Happold and SOM, System City is guest-edited by Michael Weinstock, an eminent architectural educator and thinker, and features articles by urban climatologist and biologists as well as urban specialists.

Chelmsford train station CyclePoint benefits from Falco range of shelter and cycle parking products

BRE launches new scheme to help product manufacturers reach new markets

JULY saw the opening of the UK’s largest CyclePoint cycle parking hub, with almost 1,000 spaces of mixed use cycle parking. The UK’s hottest day so far saw the The Rt. Hon. Simon Burns MP, Minister of State for Transport and Member of Parliament for Chelmsford officially open Abellio’s (train operator of Greater Anglia).

BRE has launched a new Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) verification scheme allowing product manufacturers to communicate their sustainability credentials to customers. A world leader in certifying sustainable products, BRE has launched the scheme to offer a comprehensive package of services in line with the new EN 15804 standard to help product manufacturer to access European markets. EPD are a standardised way of quantifying the environmental impact of a product or system which can be used to help manufacturers target impact reductions and engage with the supply chain.

GA staff at the network’s second busiest station were delighted as the Cyclepoint was full from day one and following on from the success at Leeds Cyclepoint, Falco’s relationship with Abellio continues to grow with Ruud Haket, Managing Director for Greater Anglia, thanking Falco in his opening speech for their excellent work. Following detailed discussion and planning meetings the facility was designed by Falco in conjunction with the team at Spence and comprises a mix of 991 spaces.

Victoria Blake, BRE’s Associate Director of Sustainable Products said “On completion of our new scheme, members receive a verified EPD and an industry recognised BRE Global certification mark, which demonstrates to the market that their product has gone through a rigorous assessment and verification process.” Members of the scheme will have access to BRE’s Product Category Rules (PCR) and a range of supporting material, which will help ensure products comply with EN 15804. Using BRE’s PCR, an EPD can then be created with the help of a Life Cycle Assessment Practitioner, such as BRE. Once this EPD has been created and verified by BRE Global, the products will be listed on the Greenbooklive websites.

The facility benefits from Falco’s modular product range of shelter and cycle parking products enabling GA to ‘mix and match’ the products to meet the different requirements of cyclists. The FalcoLevel two tier rack is the UK’s most popular high capacity space saving cycle rack, whilst the FalcoRail canopy provides both single and double sided shelter with the option to extend in the future to meet growing requirements.

For more information on the scheme visit: www.greenbooklive.com

The total cycle parking capacity at Chelmsford station has increased

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by over 40 per cent with parking for almost 1,000 cycles in the new facility and both the Council and GA are looking to increase capacity immediately.

young people. We have a dedicated website that is easily accessible, with information that is simple to understand and advice that is helpful for any employer working with young people. I strongly advise employers to check out the resources we have made freely available.”

Employers urged to take extra care of young people starting summer jobs WORKERS are far more likely to be injured in workplace accidents during the first few months of a new job than at any other time says the British Safety Council. With the holiday season approaching, employers are urged to pay extra attention to the health and safety of young people hired for temporary, summer work. By taking some simple steps, says Alex Botha, Chief Executive Officer at the British Safety Council, the risk of injury to young workers can be easily prevented. “Vacation jobs are a great way for young people to earn money, get some experience and develop skills but we know they can be particularly vulnerable when they start work,” he said. “There are many reasons for this: a general lack of work experience; unfamiliarity with the workplace, machinery or work processes; a lack of physical capability to do the job or the confidence to raise concerns; a failure of employers to provide the necessary training and familiarisation.” “Leadership is key in preventing injury to a young person at the start of their working life. Organisations need to ensure that safe and healthy work practices are the rule and they have a culture that promotes and values safe behaviour. The first step is to plan ahead and establish what the risks are - risks from lifting, working at height, using machinery, moving around the site, inhalation of dust, are the most common ones. Then using the knowledge of experienced staff decide how best to control these risks including through the provision of relevant training. Do check that young people have understood what they have been taught.” “The British Safety Council is determined to keep health and safety simple and has a priority to reduce the risks young people face at work. We have worked closely with schools and have provided resources to help them develop hazard awareness among

The award for Product Innovation was presented to A-one+ and Highway Resource Solutions for developing ‘Intellicone’, a safety tool to protect construction workers on potentially dangerous highways projects. In the past six years, 15 road workers have been killed on the UK’s strategic road network. Intellicone has been saving lives by transmitting a signal from the specially designed traffic cones if a vehicle strikes one, giving workers vital seconds to move to safety. The system, which was developed with the contribution of road workers, has the potential to be used across the UK construction market. Construction News Editor, Rebecca Evans commented:

CONSTRUCTION NEWS AWARDS 2013 WINNERS SET STANDARD FOR FUTURE OF UK CONSTRUCTION MORE than 1150 people representing the best of the UK’s construction industry came together last night to celebrate, network and reward success at the Construction News Awards 2013, held at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane. The 18 award categories cover a broad range of areas, including Supply Chain Excellence, Sustainability, Health & Safety and Employer of the Year. Each award is designed to showcase the very best in the industry and highlight best practice. The judges noted the high level of innovative use of technology, focus on sustainability, training schemes and an increase in collaboration between companies to problem-solve. Winners included Mace, receiving an award for Construction Consultancy of the Year, as well as Contractor of the Year for the delivery of London’s iconic Shard, which impressed judges with its health and safety initiatives and innovation. BAM Nuttall was awarded the prize for Project over £50m for the Olympic Park, which was praised for its strong sustainability credentials, major value engineering, the high percentage of apprentices and the fact that it was designed with legacy in mind.

“The winners of the Construction News Awards 2013 represent the very best of an innovative, dynamic industry that builds everything from breathtaking towers that change the skyline, to schools and hospitals that change people’s lives. These companies are leading the way in adopting a more sustainable, collaborative and responsible approach to construction, with exciting technology at its core. Congratulations to all the winners, they are a fantastic reflection of the huge contribution that construction makes to the economy, the jobs market and wider society.”

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TREMENDOUS EXPANSION FOR NATIONAL CLEANING COMPANY, MJF ESTABLISHED in 2006 by Darlington entrepreneur, Martin Ferguson, MJF Cleaning Services has seen tremendous growth and now has a 125-strong workforce. 9

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schools and building companies. The expansion will not only secure jobs for the company’s team of over 100 staff but also create around 80 new positions in the coming year. In addition, MJF’s headquarters in Darlington town centre are undergoing a major refurbishment and plans are in place to open a new office close to the M62 in 2014.

SERVICES Martin set up the company while he was working as a domestic window cleaner, and MJF is today recognised as an office, commercial and specialist industrial cleaning company. They carry out large and small scale cleaning projects such as carpet and upholstery cleaning, window and high level cleaning, and clean-downs on construction sites ahead of handovers to clients.

their daily commercial cleaning staff to complete the NVQ Level 2 in Cleaning & Support Services as well as their induction training.

MJF’s new contracts include work for Shepherd Construction at the New and Renewable Energy Centre (NaRec) in Blyth where the company carried out a major industrial deep clean; an industrial high-level clean at St George’s Park in Burton-upon-Trent- the home of the new National Football Centre with over 330 acres of training facilities, football pitches and 5 star hotel accommodation; and a three year contract with Darlington Council to clean windows on council properties across the town, including the town hall and the Civic Theatre.

Industrial and construction site operatives also receive site specific training. As well as this all industrial operatives have the opportunity to undertake specific training for the use of mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs) and the erection of scaffolding receiving an IPAF and PASMA card.

As a result of their enviable reputation, in the seven years of their running MJF has managed to secure prestigious contracts with companies such as BAE Systems, Rockliffe Hall, the Esh Group, JD Wetherspoon, Cleveland Cable and Tolent Construction.

STAFF MJF is a very employee-focused company. They understand that their team is their greatest asset and they look after them. As a result, their service levels are exceptional and some of the best in the industry. Despite the company’s expansion, Martin has maintained a very hands-on approach to the running of his company: “As MD of MJF Cleaning Services, I manage the entire running of the company from contract management to securing new business and looking after the staff. I started as a window cleaner, going on to carry out commercial cleaning at offices in the local area and now run a national business”. With quality being one of the company’s main priorities, all employees receive job specific training. MJF actively encourage

EXPANSION

AMBITION

Despite the current economic climate, MJF have not stop their expansion and have a predicted annual turnover of £2m for the end of 2013.

MJF Cleaning Services aspire to be the undisputed cleaning company of choice. They aim to achieve this through engaging and inspiring their most valuable asset, their people, by building strong and lasting relationships with their customers based on a professional, personable and cost effective service.

The company has just begun a period of rapid expansion thanks to securing a number of new contracts in the North East and beyond. They have seen demand grow faster than expected for their wide range of commercial cleaning services for business and organisations such as bars, clubs, restaurants, hospitals, doctors and dentists surgeries,

Their Core Values include: • People – teamwork is at their heart and it takes everyone’s contribution to succeed through their dedicated and

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hardworking workforce. • Quality – doing it right when no one else is looking. • Integrity & Ethical behaviour – caring about what they do. • Engagement - creating a good place to work with dedicated staff by providing a supportive environment where staff feel valued and recognised.

“We’re very proud of the reputation that we have gained in relatively short space of time- during a recession. But I firmly believe it’s down to our staff and we’ll be re-investing in our resources as we work on a range of really exciting, new projects- large and small- which are in the pipeline.”

• Customer Focus - long term relations built on their reputation in consistently delivering impeccable service. • Continual Improvement - committed to what they do and seeking to do better.

A WORD FROM THE MD “I attribute much of our success to the exceptional service standards that our committed team provides. We know that our staff make us what we are and we’re a very employee-focused business. Winning new work with these great organisations means we’ll not only secure jobs for our team- very important in the current uncertain climate- but also create a variety of new positions.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PLACE A FEATURE OR AN ADVERT IN THIS MAGAZINE PLEASE CALL STEVE RUSHWORTH AT S&S PUBLISHING ON 01924 920 483 OR SEND AN EMAIL TO STEVE@SNSPUBLISHING.CO.UK

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ASTOUNDING SUCCESS FOR ONE-MAN-BAND RAVEN DECOR WORKING as a self-employed sole trader, Mark Ravenhill set up his business Raven DĂŠcor in January 2012, despite the troubling economy. 12

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Using the best quality paint from Johnstone’s, clients can rest assure that their job will be completed to the highest standards. However, the company are happy to work with products and materials of their customers’ choice should this be required. Mark’s aim is to provide a professional painting and decorating service of the highest quality to the total satisfaction of his customers. His key ambition is to be the leading decorating business of choice in Sheffield.

PLANNING AHEAD THE MAN BEHIND IT ALL

SERVICES

He originally co-owned and ran a company for seven years from 2002 called The Property Corporation. The company was involved in the buying and selling of properties and renting them out to tenants. Mark was the appointed decorator for the modest collection of properties in the portfolio and gained experience mainly in painting.

As a self-employed sole trader, Mark takes a lot of house redecoration projects on himself, but he knows

Once the recession hit, the properties were sold off and the company shut down. Mark decided to attend college and study for a Level 2 Diploma in Painting and Decorating at Sheaf Training in Sheffield. During his time at college, Mark touched up on his painting skills and developed a whole host of new skills required of a professional painter and decorator including wall papering, preparation and treatment of surfaces, graining, marbling, and scaffolding to name but a few. Once his qualification was complete, he decided to set up business as a Painter and Decorator, and thus Raven Decor (short for Ravenhill Decorating), was established.

several painters and decorators who he subcontracts on the bigger projects or through busy times when the company needs to hit deadlines.

Raven Décor has recently completed a project at the Lady Bower Reservoir (Upper Derwent Valley), painting 150 meters of railings and the main gate to the reservoir. As a company that gets a large amount of repeat customers and new business from recommendations from previous customers. Mark hopes to grow the business and take on a team of full time painters and decorators.

The main area of the business is concentrated in the domestic market helping people from all types of properties renovate their homes to a high standard. Mark knows a vast array of highly skilled tradesman, from joiners and electrcians, tilers and plasterers to plumbers and decorators. Whatever job is required on a property, he knows the people to get in touch with. Raven Decor is a Sheffield-based business that prides itself on providing a reliable, high quality and cost-effective service tailored to fit client budgets and requirements.

“I aim to take care of all domestic redecoration projects while my team work on commercial projects.” He explains.

Mark also has 12 years’ worth of experience working in the IT industry, so boasts proficient knowledge in Web Design and SEO, hence he designed his own website to aid business – www. ravendecor.co.uk Due to the fact that he works alone most of the time, Mark’s role involves everything from marketing, advertising, web design and SEO, visiting sites to assess for quotes, doing the actual decorating work, managing other workers, invoicing, and accounts.

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QUALITY SERVICE IS THE BENCHMARK FOR SUCCESS AT WENBAN-SMITH PROVIDING an unrivalled level of service is an integral part of the ethos at Wenban-Smith, a timber merchant that has been around since 1876. 14

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Established by prolific builder Mr. William Wenban-Smith, the company has been owned by the Kemp-Potter family for many years and is now run by four brothers who are the fifth generation. John, Paul, Matt, and James secured a controlling interest in the business in 2010 after the company bought back shares from several outside shareholders. Wenban-Smith has always been focused on providing the very best quality timber to a wide customer base that includes national and local developers, joinery manufacturers, and retail customers. The company has three trading braches in Worthing, Horsham, and Lewes as well as a fully equipped timber mill.

boasting the very latest state-of-the-arttechnology, allowing the manufacture of special run mouldings, and the quickest possible order-to-delivery times. As well as the products usually expected from a timber merchant, Wenban-Smith has evolved to become the place to go for the more unusual items, and the company always welcome enquiries that test both their expertise and extensive stock range.

HEALTH AND SAFETY Health and safety is the highest priority at Wenban-Smith, and one of the most challenging elements in modern business. The company deal with heavy items, mechanical handling equipment, a fleet of lorries as well as a timber milling operation, and as a result there are countless opportunities for serious accidents. It is not simply a case of keeping up to date with the regulations and ensuring all plant is properly maintained for the company, it is about limiting the opportunity for accidents in every area and operation.

QUALITY COUNTS Wenban-Smith is a timber merchant where quality counts and this belief is visible throughout the company. Whether customers are buying timber, boards, doors, worktops or bespoke mouldings, they will find that the company is committed to supplying the best quality products and ensuring orders are processed accurately and promptly. The company’s ethos has always been to provide an unrivaled level of service and a product rarely bettered, and this combination has helped them gain a strong base of loyal clients. Having a loyal and diverse customer base, good credit control and motivated staff has allowed Wenban-Smith to weather the recession well. It also helps that they have good cash flow and have been able to hold £1.4m worth of stock at a time when some of their competitors are looking to reduce stock turn to help cash flow. Wenban-Smith offers a vast range of timber and timber related products, from screws to spiral staircases. At the heart of the company is an impressive mill

The company’s commitment to their customers, their love of wood, and their pursuit of excellence in customer service are their quality benchmarks which they believe guarantee client satisfaction. As a family business that employs 63 workers, Wenban-Smith has a strong team with complete trust throughout. Additionally, their structure means that they are able to make the important decisions quickly, undoubtedly creating a better service structure for their customers.

All of Wenban-Smith’s risk assessments and health and safety training are conducted by Dave Parry a director of the company. Every staff member has a responsibility to maintain a safe working area and ensure procedures are followed.

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WEBSITE Wenban-Smith are looking to develop their online presence and have this year opened an online shop on their website, which although only a few months old, is already proving a success. The growth in online sales is likely to continue, and as such the company has employed a full time website administrator. More information on the company and their products can be found online at www.wenbans.com

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PLACE A FEATURE OR AN ADVERT IN THIS MAGAZINE PLEASE CALL STEVE RUSHWORTH AT S&S PUBLISHING ON 01924 910 483 OR SEND AN EMAIL TO STEVE@SNSPUBLISHING.CO.UK nc_magazine http://www.facebook.com/NCMagazine

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COMMITMENT, TO CUSTOMERS AIDS NU-LINE S GROWTH BASED in the heart of Notting Hill, West London, family business Nu-Line has been trading for more than 35 years, constructing for themselves an enviable reputation for excellent customer service and an extensive product range.

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THE COMPANY Nu-Line Builders’ Merchant has been a supplier of top quality building and hardware products since 1965. From their inception as a family run business near Portobello Road in West London over three decades ago, to their present day position as one of London’s leading merchants, the company’s name has become synonymous with quality goods and services. They have continually provided the trade and public with the best range of products and prices over the years. It is therefore no wonder that the company’s unique combination of flexibility in expansion, demand for their goods and services, and an unbending commitment to customer satisfaction has resulted in their astounding success. This is reflected in all of their ten departments all client building or DIY works. Nu-Line have found that placing the customer first has ensured that they are able to provide a distinctly customer oriented atmosphere where shopping is simple, stress-free and speedy.

DEPARTMENTS The products that Nu-Line stock are broken down very conveniently into departments that they service: • • • • • • • • • •

For over thirty years as one of the leading builders’ merchant companies, Nu-Line has not only been well established, but also continued to grow. Their understanding and providing for customer needs has enabled them to carry an amazingly wide and varied range of building materials as well as go on to develop a unique range of architectural and kitchen ironmongery.

Painting and Decorating Tools Ironmongery Plumbing and Heating Hafele Architectural Ironmongery showroom Timber Electrical Lighting showroom Bathrooms Studio

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EXTENSIVE PRODUCT RANGE Nu-Line offers an unparalleled range of products and services to suit every project and style. Their 10,000sqft Bathroom studio offers a stunning range of products from major brand such as Kohler, Duravit, Hangrohe, Villeroy & Boch, and Dornbracht. The company also has substantial stocks of plumbing and heating suppliers at their trade counter. Their paint department specialises in the Dulux Trade range and Leyland paints and they can match over 50,000 colours. They also carry a large range of wood finishes including the Osmo Range. Nu-Line operates a small fleet of delivery vans which operate six days a week anywhere within the M25.

All Nu-line departments are always stocked with the widest range of well-priced products to ensure that the company are more than able to satisfy the dynamic needs of industrial clients as well as of individual customers. They carry over 20,000 product lines right in the heart of London, and their experienced staff in each department is ready and waiting to provide the fastest, most efficient service that their customers may require. However, on the occasions that they do not have the product(s) customers might require when they come in, Nu-Line provides a rapid order service and efficient delivery service to ensure that their clients continue to enjoy an easy an efficient service.

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SUPPORT, ADVICE, AND COMPETITIVE PRICES ENSURES CONTINUED SUCCESS FOR NORTH EAST ROOFING SUPPLIES SETTING up a successful e-commerce site during a recession is something to be proud of for Newcastle-based North East Roofing Supplies Ltd. 22

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Established just three years ago, the company started off as roofing contractors before they evolved into a material supplier. They have two branches offering competitive prices on roofing supplies, and ship both nationally and internationally.

EXCELLENT SERVICE North East Roofing Supplies pride themselves on being the cheapest roofing materials/roofing supply site online. The company offers a wide range of quality roofing materials from top leading manufacturers delivered directly to their customer’s door. All of the company’s 15 members of staff are employed only after completing at least three years of experience on fitting the product, so they are able to give invaluable advice to the customer on all their roofing needs. “Our level of service sets us apart,” says Graeme Pratt, the company’s Technical Sales Advisor. “No one else gives the same level of support or advice as us”. With a background in roofing, Graeme regularly communicates with customers, offering advice and answering questions to ensure they get the right products for the job. He also manages the company’s website, which is ever-evolving to ensure online customers get only the most up to date information.

“Although the majority of business is not through the website, it is definitely becoming a vital part of the business, and is particularly popular among homeowners,” explains Graeme.

Looking forward, North East Roofing Supplies hopes to be respected as an independent supplier of roofing equipment where people go to for the best service.

Despite having its disadvantages, the company has found that during the recession many people are buying their own materials to complete jobs themselves, and so they have seen an increase in the domestic customer.

The company has a vision to have five branches within five years, and according to Graeme, they are already looking at the possibility of other potential sites.

North East Roofing is open from 7am until 5pm Monday to Friday and 7am until 11.30am on a Saturday, and can be contacted by telephone for any questions or general enquiries. The company strives to provide competitive, if not the cheapest rates on the web and convenient shopping for all their customers’ roofing needs, from Roof Tiles to Rubber EPDM Roofing.

GROWTH AND PROGRESS Despite not starting the business as the best time in terms of the economy, North East Roofing have provided customers with such an outstanding service and competitive prices that many return and recommend the company to others. Among their many milestones over the last three years, the company is particularly proud of moving from their first location to their current Head Office, opening their second branch last August, and a marked increase in their website traffic.

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CELEBRATING A SUCCESSFUL 40 YEARS AT CSH INTERIORS WITH a turnover in the region of ÂŁ6m, CSH Interiors Ltd has successfully turned the economic downturn into an opportunity to streamline the business and focus on efficiency. As a result, they have seen an increase in turnover as they entered their 40th year.

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Founded by John Green in 1973, the company began with just two employees and a van. Today it has grown to employ 30 members of directly employed staff and anywhere between 150-180 subcontractors at any one time.

REBRANDING CSH Interiors is the new trading name for South Humberside Suspended Ceilings Limited who has provided an exceptional service to clients for the last 40 years. With their new name, website and image, the company now look forward to continued growth and unparalleled excellence within the interior finishes sector. CSH Interiors is a long established company with a reputation for delivering quality installations of interior finishes including • • • • • • • •

SKILLED WORKFORCE CSH’s reputation as a specialist contractor is supported by their personal technical advice and cost information service. The company has a highly experienced and competent workforce who are CSCS card trained, with the business recently achieving CSCS Employer Certificate of Commitment platinum award. This gives customer the reassurance that their workforce is capable of delivering a quality finish to exacting programme requirements. This can be measured by the number of satisfied customers who are happy to engage the company for repeat business. Currently the company has a number of goals that include maintenance of healthy profits and revenue, maintained team and the promotion of a healthy and happy working atmosphere.

Suspended and M/F ceilings Internal stud partitioning Demountable partitioning Drylining and plastering Fire protection linings Installation of fire barriers SFS or Metsec external wall panels Acoustic treatments.

The company works in a wide range of sectors including education, healthcare, commercial, retail & leisure and industrial, and are recommended and approved by key suppliers including Armstrong, Ecophon, Rockfon, SAS Direct and British Gypsum.

POSITIVE RECESSION Although CSH’s Managing Director Antony Burton admits that the recession has been tough for the company as it has for everyone, he explains that it gave them the opportunity to review the way things were done, a process that led to increased productivity and better financial management. The company’s restructuring process over the last 12 months has included the introduction of an expanded management team who monitor their day-to-day operations. Founder John Green remains as the company’s chairman, overseeing the changes and running of CSH.

40th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS 40th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS With 2013 being a big year for the company as they celebrate their success over the last four decades, it is hardly surprising that they want to give back to the dedicated team that have helped them remain at the forefront of the industry. The company is treating their staff to an adventure weekend, with all their respective partners enjoying a free spa treatment. “Our team is vital to our success, and we are looking ahead to the next 40 years with optimism,” says Antony.

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An Introduction Carl Hodgson, Managing Director of SignFab (UK) Ltd explains... We started as a company in 2001. I saw there was an opportunity for a centrally based trade only supplier who was able to manufacture everything under one roof. Initially the company was set up with 10 employees, which has maintained controlled growth over the last 12 years, to be up to the current level of 90 staff. Now we are the largest and best Trade Only sign manufacturer in the UK!

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We have a highly committed foundation of staff, customers and suppliers. The mutual respect and communication between all three, enables all parties to not only maintain market share, but also to expand through what has obviously been difficult periods in recent years. All our staff are committed to help advise and consider all options that will help our customers win their orders. Due to our very efficient processes and principles, our aim is not to lose any work on price, lead time or service. This has been enthused onto our customer base and we consider all angles in order to help our clients win their orders.

Growth and USPs The vast majority of our staff have worked within the sign industry for the bulk of their careers. We also have an ongoing apprenticeship scheme that will filter additional employees into the company on a regular basis. Personally, I do not view the current economic environment as a negative, more of an opportunity for growth and investment. Although banks are more restrictive nowadays, borrowing rates are at their lowest for many years and securing investment now has never been better in terms of low risk, providing you have a growth plan in place and stick to it! We have continually invested in good people and industry defining manufacturing equipment. We consciously make specific decisions on what and where to make our investments, in order to improve our efficiencies and increase capacity to meet our customer demands. The recent purchase of an additional factory will enable our staffing levels to reach in excess of 100 people during this year.

We have always focused heavily on what we are good at â&#x20AC;&#x201C; be it from supplying basic flat cut texts to manufacturing built up letters, fascia panel signs and onto the larger more imposing totem/pylon signs. We have the latest technology equipment in all departments, including a 4 metre CNC laser, router cutters and heavy duty fabrication equipment to compliment this. Our pre treatment and powder coating facility is the most advanced in the market. No department is neglected, to ensure we are always at the forefront of developments. Seeing is believing! When our customers visit our factory, only then do they fully understand the level of investment we have made and the scale of opportunity that we can offer them in terms of high quality and increased throughput. Without exception, we actively encourage all customers old or new to visit our works. Meeting our staff and viewing the works is very important to us and can open up further ideas and opportunities.

People Driven SignFab (UK) Ltdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest value isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t one based on technology, it is in fact our team of people. You can invest in all the equipment you want but without skilled operatives, team leaders, problem solvers, initiative thinkers, caring sales staff and a constant desire to strive and improve in every way possible, then all your equipment based assets are underutilised and rendered worthless. First and foremost we invest in people and then allow them to develop and grow within the company. Through becoming highly skilled in any area of the business, our team can then look to invest

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We are flexible and structured uniquely enough to service the largest sign companies down to the sole trader. No sign company is too large or too small to benefit from our services.

in the best level of equipment to maximise workflow based on what customers are demanding and how we can deliver, rather than buy the latest piece of equipment and try and make it work. As far as technology is concerned we are market driven, not trend driven.

We are able to support all types of signmakers, providing anything from a fully finished product, to enabling them to simply buy and sell-on our manufactured products or even provide a part-manufactured product for them to assemble and complete.

Development and Expansion

SignFab (UK) Ltd has a core set of customers whom we manufacture bespoke signs for, often beyond their capability or capacity.

With our structure, the company has evolved with a broad range of customer types. All very much appreciated and we work very hard to maintain good communications and loyalty with them all.

We also specialise in dealing with high volume National roll-out programmes, supporting companies who need to meet strict completion dates, some with very short lead times.

We have just taken on an additional 7,000 sq ft to help produce, assemble and store larger totem/pylon signs and help with current overflow. We will continue to re-invest in people, training and updated equipment where necessary to maximise the now increased 40,000 sq ft factory that we currently have.

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We see metal work and LEDs as our key expansion areas and will continue to offer the very best in trade manufacturing capabilities to our sign company customers. We have always been 100% trade which is a real comfort to our customers and we will never change that ethos. Our integrity is very important to us and valued by our customers. Our team are awaiting your enquiries: sales@signfab.co.uk or 0116 261 0104

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PLACE A FEATURE OR AN ADVERT IN THIS MAGAZINE PLEASE CALL STEVE RUSHWORTH AT S&S PUBLISHING ON 01924 920 483 OR SEND AN EMAIL TO STEVE@SNSPUBLISHING.CO.UK

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COMMUNITY AT THE HEART OF FOCUS SB QUALITY, choice, and service is at the core of Focus SB, a UK based company that manufactures electrical accessories to unparalleled standards. 30

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The company was established in 2001 and was formed out of a merge between Sussex Brassware Ltd and Focus Electrical Ltd. In 2004, Focus SB acquired the general engineering business, C. H. Turner & Sons Ltd and that brought plate manufacturing in-house. Focus SB can design and manufacture everything at their hub in Hastings, UK.

use their expert advice to guide you through your design needs.”

PRODUCT RANGE

The company sends an eBlast out every month to their customers with news about new ranges, products, finishes and other interesting snippets of news. They also have a Twitter account where they upload the latest Focus SB News. Additionally, they have a Facebook page that is regularly updated with any of their new designs or innovations. Customers can also follow the Focus SB Group on Linked-In.

Focus SB offer a quality electrical accessory manufacturing capability to meet the specific requirements of a wide range of customers. The company is proud to have been manufacturing in the UK for over 30 years. When customers want bespoke or quality standard electrical accessories, Focus SB deliver choice, specialist advice, and unrivalled customer service. Their accessories are suitable for both stylish homes and commercial interiors of distinction, and have been used in a variety of refurbishment projects. The company can tailor make accessories to their customers’ design needs with their bespoke service. Focus SB has an extensive range of designs, materials, and finishes that customers can browse through by downloading their brochure (http://www. focus-sb.co.uk/). If customers are looking for something particularly special, then Focus SB can custom design to their exact requirements. They are also able to ensure a next day delivery. Many of the company’s plates are custom and unique as they are made to order. Focus SB work closely with designers, architects, specifiers, and installers. They believe that dialogue between themselves and their customers is of utmost importance.

KEEPING UP Part of the success at Focus SB has been down to the company’s commitment to keeping up with the latest technological advances and keeping their customers informed.

In keeping with this trend, Focus SB has launched an app for Google Android and Apple’s iPhone that enables users to find a lighting plate to perfectly match the décor of any room in a home, hotel or office. Focus SB Roomview is a bespoke ‘product in place’ mobile app, best described as a ‘digital swatch book’ of light switch products. The user can scroll through products and see them in situ by taking a photo of the decor using their camera phone/iPad/tablet and overlaying the range for a realistic impression.

The company also takes an active part in the community by supporting local charities and sponsoring employees on charitable activities. Recently they sponsored an employee to walk the Inca Trail (the story can be found on their website). Additionally, they have an annual donation programme wherein they support a number of charities, which have recently included The Princes Trust, Children in Need, and the Salvation Army.

COMMUNITY Focus SB invests in their people through training and social events.

The company’s New Lincoln range, with its stepped plate design, is manufactured to the highest standards using Crabtree inserts. These plates feature moulded, flat rocker switches to complement the accessory design. The range offers a comprehensive selection of products to suit most application requirements. Managing Director, Roger Kemp, says: “We put just as much effort into our service as we do designing and finishing our accessories. This has, over the years, earned us an enviable reputation of not only offering top quality products but also a free-from-stress, efficient, service. This is down to our talented and creative team of engineers and designers who

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EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE SEES FREEDOM CONNECTIONS THRIVE IN FIRST YEAR CUSTOMER service is at the heart of business for Freedom Connections, formed in February 2012 and added to the other portfolio of services delivered by the Freedom Group.

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Contestable Connections is an expanding market and offers customers an alternative to the traditional method of securing electricity connections. Starting from a zero base and no staff, Freedom Connections won and delivered £4m worth of connections from May 2012 to May 2013. 1200 people work for Freedom Group which Freedom Connections have at their disposal and cover the following activities: • Substation Construction from 415V to 132,000V • Excavation, Reinstatement & Cable laying up to 132,000V • Overhead Lines • Design up to 132,000V • Wayleaves & Legal Services

They are a major part of their holding company EnServe Group Ltd, and as such benefit from being part of a wider cross utility and energy supply business. Within the group they have a number of well-known businesses including British Power International in design, consultancy and advisory services, and Agrilek in renewable energy.

THE COMPANY Having started during a recession, Freedom Connections has done remarkably well so far, and hope to be recognised by their customers as having first class customer service and regularly surpassing their expectations. Managing Director at Freedom Connections, David Rough, said: “We plan to double turnover year on year for the next three years and become the biggest Independent Connections Provider in the UK”. David’s role is to lead and oversee the estimating, design, delivery and commercial aspects of all the projects the company get involved with. More importantly, his primary functions include leading, motivating and inspiring a team to ensure safety, customer service and a team matrix culture exist throughout everything they do.

THE GROUP Founded in 1996 with a management buyout from Yorkshire Electricity, Freedom has grown significantly and now has offices throughout the UK and USA. The company is increasingly recognised as a world class provider of engineering services to the utility sector and wider markets, working primarily with electricity distribution networks.

STARTING IN A RECESSION “To start a business of this type during a recession has been tough and we have targeted customers who have been receiving government subsidies for green energy generation connections such as solar, wind and biomass connections,” explains David. “We also have a large presence in London and see this area as a micro economy within the wider economy which is more insular from recessionary pressures to some extent and therefore still provides a buoyant market”. Freedom Connections would be pleased to offer readers interested in obtaining new electricity connections a service which takes the hassle and pain out of the process and deliver a connection to time, cost and quality, whilst keeping safety at the forefront of everything they do. Many of their clients have electricity connections at the top of their risk register until they engage Freedom Connections, at which point the company manage the process end to end. Freedom Connections can be contacted on telephone no. 0845 1686 315 or email connections@freedomgroup.co.uk

The company is National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS) accredited for all geographic areas in the UK and for all scopes of work up to 132,000V Their plans and targets for future growth are ambitious but realistic and based on a comprehensive business plan, outlining sectors, voltage levels and geographic areas.

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image courtesy of Transport News

VOLVO USED TRUCKS AT THE FOREFRONT OF SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT WITH a vision to be the number one partner of choice for Total Transport Solutions, Volvo Used Trucks Northern Region has a real desire to be partners to their customers and build long term relationships.

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THE COMPANY The company was formed in 2008 through the incorporation by the market company of the used truck businesses of the local Volvo dealers. Since that time, the business has been focused on supplying high quality vehicles and services through the Volvo dealer network. The region covers the north of England and all of Scotland with twelve dealer points geographically spread to offer maximum accessibility to customers. They work directly off the manufacturer and not as an independent franchise.

It is Carl’s responsibility to ensure that the company has the best trucks and supporting offers available and that these are delivered to market by the sales team.

Currently, there are five Volvo Used Trucks Sales Executives operating from – Glasgow, Edinburgh, Lancaster, Teesside and Washington. The regional Volvo dealer: Volvo Truck & Bus North and Scotland – has in the region of 450 employees. Since the Inception of Volvo Used Trucks Northern Region, there have been a number of notable milestones (relating to the region specifically): 1. Doubled retail truck sales since 2008 2. Expanded the Volvo Used Truck retail offer south into Lancaster and north into the Highlands 3. Introduced fixed cost service packages on used trucks 4. Introduced contract hire on used trucks 5. Introduced 12mth Manufacturer based Drivelines Many of the company’s customers are in the building and construction sector and they need a truck that lets them concentrate on their core business. image courtesy of Transport News

CONTINUED EXPANSION “It is not just our products and services that set us apart, it is our attitude and culture as a company,” says Carl. The company genuinely cares about their clients’ businesses and wants to see them be successful. “Times can be tough, but we’re always here. And in recent times when other suppliers have cut back we’ve expanded. We like to get things right first time and focus on having a clear agreement with customers at the outset. And even if things go wrong, which they sometimes do, we pride ourselves on being accessible and having an open dialogue in order to put things right. All in all, that adds up to a first class delivery”.

“Our customers don’t want to be worrying about controlling operating compliance, maintenance and down time, they would prefer that we do that,” explains Regional Sales Manager Carl White. “We can tailor trucks and services to each individual business and it is this approach that has driven our success. We strive to understand our customers’ business and build relationships for the long term. Many competitors look to sell the metal and move onto the next one. That’s not what we’re about”.

Their future plans surround continued development of their supporting offers through maintenance options and vehicle telematics. Telematics is a real growth area for the company’s customers and to be able to monitor a delivery vehicle through the day has huge beneficial advantages for the operator. The Volvo Dynafleet system delivers all this and much more. It means that customers can get the maximum out of trucks, particularly through timed deliveries, extra loads and maximizing payload, not to mention fuel economies. Often this can translate into many thousands of pounds on even a modest construction project. “There’s no doubt that the recession has been tough. Building and construction has certainly been hit hard, and that’s affected us,” shares Carl. “But instead of battening down the hatches we’ve taken the opposite approach. We’ve looked to expand our business into new geographic areas, to quite literally get closer to our customers. We’ve had to be more innovative and develop new solutions to match our customers’ needs as they

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image courtesy of Transport News

change. It’s this type of thinking backed by material investment which has not only seen us through but be stronger for it”.

SAFER AND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLIER SOLUTIONS Along with quality and care for the environment, one of Volvo’s core values is safety. It is what they are known for. They almost certainly have the safest vehicles on the road, both for drivers and other road users, and this intent carries through to their dealer sites. The health and safety of employees and visitors to their sites is paramount and the company put a lot of focus into ensuring that whatever a person’s role or reason for being at their locations, they will be safe. They also take the health of their employees very seriously, and dealer points are now having space set aside for gyms and table tennis tables, and are involving employees in activities like the ‘Global Corporate Challenge’. Care for the environment is a Volvo core value. The company already has very efficient trucks and is at the forefront of global engine development for using alternative fuels. A lot of bus companies in the UK are switching to low or zero emission vehicles, and Volvo are a leading supplier in this area. In terms of fixed sites, many of their factories and dealer sites around the world and in the UK are carbon neutral. When it comes to safety or care for the environment Volvo are a very conscientious company. As Carl aptly states, the company “walk the talk”.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PLACE A FEATURE OR AN ADVERT IN THIS MAGAZINE PLEASE CALL STEVE RUSHWORTH AT S&S PUBLISHING ON 01924 920 483 OR SEND AN EMAIL TO STEVE@SNSPUBLISHING.CO.UK

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ARMD: KEEPING CUSTOMERS HAPPY WITH AN UNPARALLELED SERVICE OFFERING a comprehensive range of services for automatic doors and automatic door systems, ARMD Automated Facilities Ltd offers their customers an exemplary personal service which puts them ahead of their competitors. 37

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and ARMD are the only automation company we would recommend. They provide an exemplary personal service which puts all of their competitors in the shade. Their service is both swift and professional from their initial site surveys to their installation. We would have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone requiring automation services”. ARMD’s customers like their soft sell approach of building a relationship first and assisting with free design and consultancy, as well as ‘free first fix’ to hide any cabling prior to a plastering job being completed.

ARMD consider themselves as Hertfordshire’s most trusted and experienced automated entry system experts. The company pride themselves on offering a ‘one-stop-shop’ for a total entrance solution. Their team of professional designers and installation engineers work closely with customers to ensure that they receive the very best solution that fits both their budget and their specific needs.

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION As a family-run business, ARMD are able to offer their customers a personal service. Since their inception, the company have built their reputation as the most trusted company of its type. Their customer testimonials speak for themselves. One of their major clients said the following: “As a manufacturer of commercial systems we have dealt with some of the largest automation companies in the country. ARMD have installed automatic gearing to our profiles on numerous projects throughout Hertfordshire, Essex and London

PRODUCT RANGE ARMD offers top quality products at competitive prices, from initial purchase and through the product life cycle. With over 20 years in the industry, customers can be assured that ARMD have a wealth of experience and knowledge to assist with any problem and offer a fully guaranteed Service.

SERVICES ARMD offers a full range of services from design and installation of complete shop front, business or public building entrance systems to trouble shooting and fixing existing automatic door systems. They are able to install automated door systems into almost any type of premises by either adding automated door openers to existing doors or by complete entrance replacement.

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The company offers simple and competitive levels of Maintenance Services as well as Extended Warranties for extra peace or mind.

Design Assistance - ARMD can provide help with design specifications and product selection, from small single door automation to large retail entrance solutions. Quality Control - All products are inspected and tested before delivery to ensure the company gives the highest level of reliability and quality products to their customers. Installations, Testing and Commissioning – Full “Start to Finish” service is provided to ensure a smooth and trouble free installation of your automated entrance. Free 12 Month Warranty and Support – From date of completed installation. Extended Warranty Plans - Tailored maintenance and support throughout the product life cycle. Support and Maintenance - ARMD can support most automated entry systems subject to age and parts availability – trouble shooting, repair and maintenance services on a “Pay As You Go” basis or on a yearly maintenance plan (where appropriate).

A detailed list of their services can be seen below: Free Site Survey – The company’s No Obligation Free Site Survey is provided to give customers peace of mind. Their aim is to give their clients the very best advice, recommendations and pricing so that they can make a clear unbiased decision on their entrance system requirements. Personal Consultancy Service - For assistance in planning application submissions where required.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PLACE A FEATURE OR AN ADVERT IN THIS MAGAZINE PLEASE CALL STEVE RUSHWORTH AT S&S PUBLISHING ON 01924 920 483 OR SEND AN EMAIL TO STEVE@SNSPUBLISHING.CO.UK

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FIGHTING TO STAY ON TOP PUSHING boundaries has always been a vital part of business at Rubb Building Systems, a company that has earned a reputation for tackling difficult and unique projects. 40

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THE RUBB GROUP Established in Norway in 1968 as a family business, Rubb Building Systems has gone on to become a world leader in the design, manufacture, delivery and erection of fabric building solutions, with engineering facilities in the UK, Norway, USA, China and Australia. The Rubb Group manufactures prefabricated, portable structures, relocatable buildings, shelters, hangars and custom facilities to suit individual client requirements. The company provides temporary, semi-permanent and permanent solutions for a wide range of sectors including military, aviation, environmental, general industry, sport, bulk storage, ports, marine, construction, energy, architectural and emergency relief.

UNIQUE, QUALITY PRODUCTS

RUBB UK As the only UK manufacturer of engineered fabric structures, Rubb Building Systems in the UK has been established for 36 years. With their UK production facility based in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, the company currently has an in-house team of 55 employees. As the market leader in fabric structures, Rubb relies on its excellent team to ensure that customers receive the very best care, quality, and value for money. They focus on business with local companies, and are committed to helping the UK economy by buying British products, a commendable approach during this economic hardship. Amongst their work in the UK, Rubb has done continuous work with relief aid and has a long standing relationship with the Ministry of Defence for 25 years. They were particularly busy during the Falklands War. This has attracted other prestigious clientele, including the American Special Forces and the UAE Presidential Guard.

Rubb Building Structures has a commitment to never walk away from any challenge that is presented to them and this has allowed them to offer customers a very unique service. Approximately 90 per cent of their projects are custom, and the company prides themselves on being able to offer bespoke designs and flexibility to suit client needs. The company has developed substantial structures that can be moved about on wheels or rails or even lifted around a job site in fully erected form. They offer a strong commitment to code and standards compliance and their customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs are paramount from quotation to installation, project completion and beyond. These structures can comprise of a wellengineered steel or aluminium frame and PVC coated polyester fabric cover which is tensioned over the frame to provide a tight fitting shell. Variations include provisions for alternative materials, such as steel cladding.

highest quality, meeting or exceeding ISO 9001 registered standards. From start to finish, quality is the benchmark for every element of the Rubb process.

FORWARD MARCH Rubb battles to stay the market leader of the industry and has helped forge them into the formidable company they are today. Surviving the double dip recession has been difficult enough for UK manufacturers and to be the sole UK manufacturer of the industry while supporting other local companies and come out with a successful fiscal year is an achievement to be proud of and shows the integrity Rubb strives to maintain.

Rubb structures are available in single spans of 3 metres (10ft) to more than 100 metres (328ft) by any length. Standard module lengths vary from 3 metres (10ft) to 8 metres (26.2ft). Multi-span options are also available to cater for even bigger facilities. The company designs and manufactures engineered fabric structures of the

Recently, Rubb had completed their biggest building and biggest order. With

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SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS With a Managing Director that has over 30 years of experience since starting as an apprentice, Rubb has maintained the values of the close-knit and knowledgeable family business it started out as. This, in part, has put staff training at the heart of priorities and all the staff at Rubb receives regular training consisting of seminars, refresher courses, and apprenticeship programs. Keeping staff well trained and updated within the industry is part of what ensures the company’s continued success. The ambition to remain a market leader while pushing the boundaries of what they can do, has kept Rubb at the forefront of the industry whilst still supporting British manufacture, boasting a successful year despite the double dip recession. They hope to continue making a profit and providing customers with the very best service and quality possible. new benchmarks including both a structure over 22 meters high and an 85 meter clear span, Rubb has not baulked away from the challenges presented to them but has endeavoured and delivered to beat the expectations of both customers and themselves. Rapidly deployed military structures are only a part of Rubb’s alliance with the Ministry of Defence. Now, combined with their continuous support into research and development, Rubb has been an increasing part of the MOD’s UAV/drone market in addition to their work with other defence clients. These contracts are one of the many assets that attest to Rubb’s wellearned market leadership and guide the future of the industry.

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GRAINGER AND MACQUEEN â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MASTER CRAFTSMEN SINCE 1975 KENT-based master craftsmen, Grainger and MacQueen (G&M) pride themselves on almost 40 years of quality craftsmanship. 44

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CLIENT-FOCUSED Established in 1975, the company has worked as far afield as Scotland and Dubai, always using their own moulds and hand-made materials. Whatever their clients require, traditional or modern; bespoke or restoration G&M are able to offer unparalleled service and a quality finish that is second to none. The company has been built with the client always in mind, and maintains a friendly and personal approach that has rewarded them over the years with a large amount of repeat business and customer recommendations. Whether supply or a fully comprehensive fitted service, all projects are undertaken with the same attention to detail and integrity regardless of the size or the budget.

PROJECTS Over the years, G&M have delivered quite literally tens of thousands of projects; from houses to hotels to offices. Their work demonstrates the sheer breadth of their offering which includes cornices, roses, arches, corbels, finger rails and many more elements of plasterwork. The company are able to design and complete bespoke kitchens, fibre optic and LED lighting, and purpose made joinery, all in a complete professional package.

FROM THE MD, MICK GRAINGER

although he is 70 years old, he still enjoys coming in once or twice a week. His wealth of experience is an asset to the continued success of the company and he is very popular with the clients” “We have never had an overdraft but find ourselves in a very comfortable position. We have a vast experience in replicating existing mouldings and a lot of our work is within the insurance business” “Our clients are at the centre of everything we do, and I believe that if we maintain that focus, we will continue to prosper for years to come”.

“I am a co-founder of the company, my partner has since semi-retired and

HIGH STANDARDS G&M boast long standing relationships with many builders who have a reputation of delivering projects to high standards, and who appreciate the quality of the company’s work. They have a small team of tradesman within the company who are all trained and work to exacting specifications to ensure the company retains its reputation for excellent quality. G&M often turn away contracts that may be too large as they refuse to compromise on the excellence of their finished products.

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FAMILY-RUN STEEL MET IN THEIR 20th YEAR OF EXCELLENCE BEING approachable has always been a key value at Steel Met, a specialist buildersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; merchants based in the East Riding of Yorkshire. 46

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With over 20 years of experience and product knowledge, Steel Met stock and distribute stainless steel and galvanised fixtures and fittings to the house building and construction industry. The company was established in 1993, and over the years has built a solid reputation with it’s customers of being price efficient and having a rapid delivery service.

THE TEAM As a small, family-run company, Steel Met currently has a team of just four. Directors David and Christine Rose oversee the running of the company financially and place sales orders. David is semi-retired but seems to still be an integral part of the company. He regularly visits the company’s clients on site to advise and listen to their needs. Their daughter Becky deals with the invoicing/statements for the company’s credit accounts. Her role entails sending and producing remittance for their purchases and chasing payment from customers. She also helps with placing and receiving orders and any other finance-related issues.

The team at Steel Met are all approachable and friendly, and like to think that their customers come to them for help and advice on the products they are ordering. The company hold in stock the majority of Vista products and various other manufacturers’ branded goods. However if there is a product that a customer requires that they do not hold in stock, they are able to order specific goods in.

The final member of the team is delivery driver and warehouse operator Paul, whose job includes the overseeing of Steel Met’s warehouse - keeping it in order and stock management. He also drives the company van and takes deliveries to site in a prompt manner. Additionally, Paul is working in the office more now, assisting with taking orders and answering customer queries.

On a normal working day turn around stainless steel Windposts can be purchased to the required size and specification as dictated by the customer’s architect.

“We feel that the benefits of running a family business include loyalty and dedication to the business, trust between staff, increased flexibility, common values, strong commitment, and good communication,” shares Becky, “We all clean the toilet and make a brew too!”

A QUALITY, PERSONAL SERVICE With an aim to supply and reliably deliver quality products to their customers, Steel Met currently supply to the majority of local and various national home builders and construction companies. They also have many local tradesmen and DIY customers passing through their doors daily.

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Steel Met offers personal consultations to their customers. Due to over 20 years of product experience, David is willing to meet with customers at their convenience to discuss products needed for various projects. The company does not charge for this service and are regularly asked for David to liaise with the Site Agent to check the plans as to which or how many of their products are required within a building. In addition, credit accounts are available to trade customers on a monthly basis.

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS Steel Met opened for business in 1993, making this year their 20th Year Anniversary. They became a Limited Company in 2003, and over the years have continued to trade successfully, reaching a number of significant milestones. The company deals with the majority of major construction companies in the area and are regularly asked to meet with new customers due to personal recommendations. Their website went live in 2011, giving their customers an insight into the products they sell and services they provide â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.steelmetbp.co.uk Steel Met are mentioned as a preferred supplier on the Sewell group Hull Esteem Consortium Yellow Brick Road website http://www.esteem.cc/case_studies/ With the housing and construction markets within their region still struggling at present, the company are working on a month by month basis. Their aims are to meet their costs and still provide a sensible realistic pricing structure for their customers.

DELIVERY Steel Met pride themselves on providing a first class prompt delivery service - they aim to ensure all deliveries are supplied to the customer rapidly. Many of their customers comment how quickly the deliveries arrive and appreciate the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attentive customer service. Steel Met are also able to have many of their products delivered direct to site from their suppliers and approved courier services anywhere in the country. They work with various national builders and construction companies to ensure that their goods are delivered efficiently. The company delivers locally, covering the M62/M18 daily, and as far north as Tyneside in addition to surrounding areas to a large customer base and developing sites. In the past, they have delivered as far as Cornwall and to Scotland to meet the demands of their customers.

Looking forward to the future, the company are always ready to meet with potential new customers and advance their product ranges further to suit the demands of their clientele. Steel Met strives to meet the demands and needs of trade, public and the DIY sector consumers who enter their warehouse, and this will continue to be normal practice in order to maintain their outstanding reputation.

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DRY TREAT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; OFFERING PREMIUM PRODUCTS WITH a reputation for excellence, Dry Treat is a world leader in impregnating sealer technology. 50

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The company was established in 1991 as a premium developer of specialist concrete sealers for the civil engineering industry, to protect large concrete structures such as bridges, high rises and factory floors in harsh conditions, including seawater and alkaline soil. For over two decades, Dry-Treat’s team of engineers and chemical scientists have continued to develop unique sealers to provide premium protection for a wide range of porous materials, including natural stone, tiles, brick and paving.

up to cleaning chemicals, traffic, sunlight, and even commercial cleaning techniques such as high pressure hosing. The sealers are backed with written performance warranties of up to 15 years when they are applied by a Dry-Treat Accredited Applicator.

INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED

to maintain active minds and promote creativity. They support and subsidise further education. Dry Treat has managed the recession extremely successfully by ensuring heightened customer contact to maximise opportunities with each client. Looking forward, the company hopes that their strategies ensure their ability to continue growing commercially.

With a total of 26 employees globally, Dry Treat products are distributed in over 30 countries worldwide. Dry-Treat sealers have been used to protect many landmarks including: • Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia • Kings College, London (Limestone paving) • Nirvana Spa, London (Red brick walls) • Martello Tower, Essex (York Stone) • Vienna Hotel, Vienna, Austria • BBC Scotland • Dallas Cowboy Stadium, Dallas, Texas, US

PRODUCTS Dry-Treat impregnating sealers provide premium protection for natural stone, tiles, paving, brick concrete and grout. Their unique products penetrate much deeper and bond permanently without affecting the look or breathability of the treated surface. The sealers are suitable for a wide range of applications, including sealing granite countertops, sealing patios and other entertainment areas, sealing cladding, paving, kitchens and pool surrounds. The company’s impregnators are simple to use and suitable for residential and commercial applications and indoor or outdoor surfaces. Dry-Treat’s superior penetration and permanency creates a deep water and oil repellent barrier. The Dry-Treat barrier provides premium stain protection, which, unlike other penetrating sealers, also protects many other common types of damage, including salt efflorescence, spalling, freeze-thaw damage and picture framing. Dry-Treat impregnating sealers stand

SUCCESSFUL STRATEGY Dry Treat set themselves apart from other companies through their major technological advances and the best training program and customer service within the industry. They constantly review new developments worldwide and seek to always be ahead of the world’s best practice standards. The company believes that constant education (for employees) is important

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ONLINE RAPID TOOLS DIRECT OFFERS CUSTOMERS UNRIVALLED PERSONAL SERVICE FOUNDED in 2010 as an online shop selling tools and equipment, Rapid Tools Direct pride themselves on only working with industry leading manufacturers to provide customers with top quality products at prices that represent real value for money. 52

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THE COMPANY Based in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, Rapid Tools Direct is an off-shoot of Rapid Hire Centres, which was founded in 1996 and has grown year on year. With Rapid Hire Centres purchasing a vast amount of equipment, both for its hire fleet and resale, its buying power became greater and greater achieving great discounts from its suppliers. “It seemed a sensible step to offer our great prices to other customers all over the UK rather than just in Huddersfield, which is where Rapid Tools Direct comes in,” explains Co-Director Andrew Jones. “With the knowledge we have gained over the years, it puts us in a great position to offer advice and technical help to our customers should they require it”. Andrew is supported in his role by fellow Co-Director, Kirk Stansfield. The company currently have 15 employees, who assist as necessary to get sales items parceled and dispatched for delivery (usually the same day where possible). The online store is run by Howard Crosland along with Andrew for the technical support, and Linda Boyle, Accounts Manager, who deals with the majority of financial matters.

Despite starting off in a recession, the company have seen continued growth, and put this down to the personalised service they offer their clientele. “Hopefully Rapid Tools Direct will continue growing month on month, as it has been doing, and will help ensure employment for all staff throughout these difficult times,” shares Andrew.

PRODUCTS Rapid Tools Direct’ is a supplier of hand tools, power tools, building, hardware, DIY and safety equipment for both domestic and trade customers. The company can deliver direct to their client’s door and to anywhere in the UK, within rapid timescales. Their online store contains thousands of products, and their aim and commitment to their customers is to provide them with exactly what they want, when they want it, and at great prices. In fact, if customers fail to the product they need, the company pledges to try their best to source it in order to ensure complete customer satisfaction. The company’s comprehensive product range includes everything from workwear

to automative tools, and diamond core drilling equipment to plumbing equipment, among a host of other essential tools for a large number of industries, as well as DIY equipment for the domestic client.

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RAPID HIRE CENTRES Rapid Hire is an independent Huddersfield based company committed to providing its customers with a personal, friendly and efficient service at the right price. They believe that if their customer’s business does not benefit from their association, then the company in turn do not benefit. Rapid Hire Centres are major stockists of Snickers and Scruffs Workwear, Stihl chainsaws and brushcutters, Duro cutting equipment, Paslode nailers, Armorgard site security and much more. The company has been at the forefront of supplying quality tools and equipment to the UK trade and DIY markets since 1996. Their personal local service gives them the edge over their ‘national’ competitors, because they are able to deliver direct to their customer’s door or to site far quicker than the rest.

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IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PLACE A FEATURE OR AN ADVERT IN THIS MAGAZINE PLEASE CALL STEVE RUSHWORTH AT S&S PUBLISHING ON 01924 920 483 OR SEND AN EMAIL TO STEVE@SNSPUBLISHING.CO.UK

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USING THE RECESSION AS A CATALYST FOR GROWTH Continuous Improvement is at the heart of HOS Civils Ltd, an established company based in South Wales serving the whole of the UK. 56

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Established more than 25 years by Henry O’Sullivan the company is now run by his son Sean, who took over just eight years ago. Back then, they were doing a turnover of £300, 000, but Sean has worked hard to achieve an outstanding turnover of £2.5m last year.

relevant studies. Additionally, HOS has created an in-house HSQ (Health, Safety and Quality system) to move their business forward. This has been developed alongside main contractors with a view to gain ISO9001 and achieve a realistic method of continuous improvement.

With concrete building as their primary focus, HOS have been involved in and completed many successful projects. The company is confident that they possess the experience and expertise required to realise the professional services required for any project that clients have in mind.

The company’s key ambition is to be recognised as the place to go for any concrete related work, and with their current rate of development and enviable reputation, it will be difficult for them not to achieve this.

SERVICES HOS (Civils) ltd has been responsible for contracts within both the public and private sectors, and is recognised as a leading advocate in their field of reinforced concrete, formwork and shuttering. The company takes on projects of almost any size ranging from £500 to £1m. They have worked in almost every sector, from small housing projects to new concrete frame buildings. Their public sector work has included sewage treatment plants, electricity sub stations, and various rail projects. One of the company’s key specialisms is the use of patterned concrete, something that has become more of an affordable option in recent years. They cover all other aspects of concrete work, including formwork, steel fixing, power floating, and floors.

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION HOS Civils aims to meet their business requirements by satisfying the needs of clients in respect of cost, quality, and time. With approximately 50 well-trained subcontracted workers, the company has the capability to take on between 12 and 14 projects at any time. As a major construction company, HOS works closely with project owners to ensure their wishes are taken into account. They can also advise on alternative solutions that could be less costly and take less time to complete without compromising on quality. The company has successfully completed an impressive variety of construction projects, and built up a large amount of experience over their years within the industry. With their dedicated and loyal team, they are able to deliver projects reliably, on time, and within budget. Their list of completed projects demonstrates their ability to manage and construct a huge variety of jobs for customers, whatever their requirements.

SUCCESS IN DIFFICULT TIMES Despite the current recession, HOS have been one of very few companies seemingly not affected. In fact, for them the recession meant an opportunity to grow from a small business into what they are today. The catalytic changes they made during the recession has put HOS within the top t companies in their field. The growth of the company, particularly over the last three years, is something to be celebrated. Workers are always ahead of the game when it comes to training, undergoing regular concrete courses alongside other

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AWARD-WINNING PLANT-I GAINS ISO ACCREDITATION PROVIDING fast support for their customers to ensure the system is solid throughout is pivotal to operations at Plant-i. The company aim to ensure that their customers are getting the best service they can offer.

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Their biggest step in becoming a leading company in vehicle telematics came this year when they achieved full ISO 9001 status. Plant-i demonstrated to The British Standards Institution (BSI) that they had rigid quality management systems in place, thorough staff training, processes for new product development and implementation, and even how they interface with customers; this is a huge USP as it gives a massive reassurance to customers that no other tracking company can offer. With their ISO accreditation, awards in innovation and business, along with their no tie-in contracts, Plant-i are leading the way in the tracking and the telematics industry today and are the natural choice in vehicle GPS solutions.

THE COMPANY Since it was first formed in March 2004, Plant-i has grown to become a major provider in asset and vehicle tracking services within the UK. With hundreds of customers currently using Plant-i systems and thousands of vehicles being tracked every single day of the year, the company is confident that they are able to cater for a variety of requirements. The initial concept of the company was focused on providing bespoke tracking and telemetry solutions almost exclusively for the plant industry. Having redefined the levels of both solutions and service in the industry, Plant-i has organically grown to encompass fleets from all industry types, providing a much wider range of solutions than any other solutions provider in the UK. Plant-i systems are now the most comprehensive available with an unparalleled level of customer service available 24 hours a day.

fleet management, vehicle tracking and asset security, they are now offering software applications for smart phones and tablets to help manage work flow and communication, and systems to help reduce workshop costs such as waterless coolants and monitoring driving standards.

Most of Plant-iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business comes from referrals as a result of excellent service and happy customers.

The company has also added a unique asset security system that has been designed from scratch using the latest technologies available along with their many years of experience. They work very closely with their customers, providing ongoing support in all aspects of Fleet Management. The success of Plant-i tracking systems has been recognised by a number of prestigious business awards. In 2010, the company was awarded with the Powys Innovative Award and a year later they followed in their success, earning the Powys 2011 Small Business Award.

IN-HOUSE SOLUTIONS All staff members receive full in-house training from senior members of the team who have years of experience in the game. Most of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s software is created in-house, and therefore they are the only people who know how to use it, meaning they can create and provide a solution for most customers.

ACHIEVEMENT Within the last 12 months Plant-i has expanded rapidly, adding new sectors to the company. Not only do they offer

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TESTIMONIAL Plant-i has recently won a contract with one of the largest underwriting agencies in the UK, Andeva. Here is what they have to say: Rachel Evans â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Director of Andeva â&#x20AC;&#x153;Andeva Underwriting Agency Limited (Andeva) was formed in 2011 to manage the distribution, online and via a wholesale broker network, of specialist niche motor insurance products. Andeva was originally created to provide the UK fleet market with a bespoke offering to rival the rigid solutions generally given by the large composite insurance companies. The founders of Andeva felt that it was essential that, as well as providing a first class level of service through the use of information technology systems, they provide their clients with the guidance and support required to actually improve their risk. In order to manage the risks effectively, Andeva install Telematics systems into their fleets. Specific systems were required to monitor driver scoring and provide First Notification of Loss Alerts to the client, broker and underwriter. Andeva approached Plant I and have over the last 18 months worked together to design a system to meet the needs of the organisation. Plant I have been exceptionally flexible, helpful and understanding in working with Andeva to a point where Andeva are able to arrange and manage tracker installations effectively to meet their needsâ&#x20AC;?.

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PERFECTION ENSURES CHELSEA CONSTRUCTION REMAINS INDUSTRY LEADERS MAINTAINING a “can-do” approach has ensured that Chelsea Construction Company Limited has remained at the forefront of their field, even during the economic downturn. 62

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Established in 1997, Chelsea Construction specialises in residential refurbishments, working either directly with the client or alongside designers and architects to achieve a bespoke hand crafted home. Working primarily at the higher end of the market, the company’s objective is to provide excellent quality building and contracting work to the residential sector.

SERVICES Chelsea Construction offer clients a range of services that cover all aspects of property refurbishment, from demolitions and structural work through to impeccable finishes in joinery, marble, cornices, flooring, specialist finishes and decoration. The company manages all aspects of the construction from gaining planning permission though to high quality finishes, ensuring that the job is stressfree for the client. Despite the varying time scales and budgets that each project brings, their “can-do” approach always brings a unique design and feel to each of completed job. Additionally, the company prides itself on always remaining on time and within their client’s spending plan. As well as their more hands-on services, Chelsea Construction offers a free quotation service that provides a comprehensive cost plan document and advice on all aspects of the project prior to commencement of the works, which ensures that clients know exactly what they are going spend before agreeing to any work.

With between two and five projects being undertaken at any one time, the company focuses on every minor detail to ensure that every aspect of the work lives up to their client’s expectations. They pride themselves on being

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perfectionists, and it is perhaps this that has led to repeat business over their years of trade. On the lower end, projects can range between ÂŁ150-250k, while larger projects in the region of ÂŁ1.2-1.5m. It is their comprehensive range of services, commitment to customer satisfaction, and consistent high quality that have led to the company to help create a large number of beautiful homes over the last decade.

EXCELLENT TEAM Each of the 25 employees at Chelsea Construction are time served tradesmen and qualified site managers with an emphasis on Health and Safety, creating a good foundation for the working environment. The company believes that this leads to the high standards of detailed finishing which has become their trademark.

It is through a combination of their dedicated team and outstanding reputation that has ensured the company was not really affected by the recession, and looking forward they hope to maintain client levels as well as the high standards to which they work.

Chelsea Construction works with the best Interior Designers in the industry and has an enviable client list, with many of their customers returning for additional services. This is a testament to the relationships they build with all of their patrons. The company regularly ensures that their workers receive the latest training, with courses being undertaken in health and safety, first aid, and any other relevant skills that are required to meet the expectations of the job and industry certification.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PLACE A FEATURE OR AN ADVERT IN THIS MAGAZINE PLEASE CALL STEVE RUSHWORTH AT S&S PUBLISHING ON 01924 920 483 OR SEND AN EMAIL TO STEVE@SNSPUBLISHING.CO.UK

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WHY EMR? Whether you want to turn your scrap metal into an income stream, or source the best quality recycled products, the same solution applies - EMR. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading metal recyclers, offering the personal service of a local independent, with the capabilities of a global corporation. 65

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Our Liverpool based 10,000 horse power ‘mega shredder’ can alone manage 700,000 tonnes of material every year and has the power to recycle the equivalent of a double decker bus in less than three minutes. In the UK, our processing capabilities include nine additional shredders, a national network of heavyweight shears and more than 50 fixed and mobile balers. In line with government requirements, we operate more than 40 DVLA Authorised Treatment Facilities for the safe and environmentally sound handling of End of Life Vehicles. In addition, we operate two dedicated fridge plants which capture and safely store the ozone depleting substances contained in these appliances. With more than 150 depots around the world and over 70 in the UK, we’re confident we can meet your needs no matter how big, small or complicated they may be. We recycle more than 10 million tonnes of Ferrous and 600,000 tonnes of Non Ferrous material every year sourcing from a huge range of industries including construction, manufacturing and demolition. We have worked hard to build a strong reputation and are proud to be known for providing outstanding customer service and for always paying attention to detail. We listen to your feedback and continually invest in our depots to ensure everyone we work with has a positive EMR experience. We’re confident we can turn your scrap metal into a steady revenue stream, while reducing your waste disposal costs through our wider industry contacts. Our industry leading position and ability to sell directly to markets all over the world means we can pay the most competitive prices. This combined with our robust financial strength gives you the confidence of working with a responsible and financially secure company. We continually invest in our logistical strengths allowing us to maintain optimum efficiency which not only helps keep us competitive on price, but also minimises our impact on the environment. We transport by rail and water where we can, which cuts down CO2 emissions and keeps traffic off the road. Our modern weighbridges are fully calibrated and fitted with CCTV monitoring allowing us to weigh your waste materials accurately.

Our vast fleet of more than 400 dedicated vehicles means we can provide a reliable collection service. All of our vehicles are monitored using our advanced computer tracking system. We also have heavy lift capabilities to handle all shapes and sizes of material and mobile balers and shears for downsizing material, so that we make fewer journeys. In addition we have thousands of purpose built containers and can station whatever you need at your site, including lockable containers with unique seals for added security. We invest in the most advanced plant and equipment allowing us to handle your scrap metal more effectively and produce the highest quality end products. Furthermore, this enables us to operate at maximum efficiency and minimise emissions.

Our Newmarket depot is home to Europe’s biggest and most sophisticated Dense Media Separation plant. ‘Mixed heavies’ (non ferrous, aggregates, rubbers and dense plastics) resulting from the shredding process are sent to the plant, which makes use of a series of floatation tanks to further separate the different materials, giving us the ability to increase our recycling rates even more. Using recycled metal instead of finite virgin ores significantly cuts down CO2 emissions, air pollution (by 80%), water pollution (by 76%) and water use (by 40%.) Through recycling, EMR saves 15 million tonnes of CO2 every year, compared to using virgin ores. What’s more, our ongoing journey towards zero waste is inflating this figure year after year.

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GKD CREATIVE WEAVE Creativity is central to operations at GKD, the world market leader in manufacturing woven wire mesh products for architectural applications. Established more than 85 years ago in Germany, the company has grown immensely with multiple production facilities, not only in Germany, but also in the United Kingdom, USA, France, China, Spain and South Africa. The UK division is family-owned since its inception 15 years ago.

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scale upwards of 15-20 metres wide.

PRODUCTS As a market leader with DIN EN ISO 9001:2000 certification, GKD always maintains the highest standards in all their Creative WEAVE wire meshes and other metal components, as well as in all processes. The company uses high performance and sustainable material to manufacture their architectural wire mesh products. Their metal meshes have textile-like structure, are supple, adaptable, yet at the same time durable and robust. Also, the interplay of transparency and opacity provide an endless scope to the architects and designers they work with.

GKD (UK) LTD As a modern service company, GKD are able to offer services far beyond the architectural mesh itself. Apart from standard solutions, the company delivers tailor-made metal fabrics in designs according to the requirements of the specific project. In this way, their highly specialised team supports the planning, construction and installation processes.

The technical know-how aquired over the years has helped GKD to successfully complete hundreds of projects throughout the world. GKD (UK) Limited has experience working with a variety of contractors, both in the UK and Ireland, on projects ranging from one square metre to several thousand square metres. GKD (UK) Limited is able to offer a full design, supply and installation service

Availability of large mesh screens, minimum maintenance and long life are some added advantages of GKD’s woven wire meshes, and these benefits have attracted leading architects and designers around the world. Their stainless steel, bronze, anodised aluminium and other products have been used for both interior and exterior architectural applications. Applications include internal wall cladding, partition walls, external façades, ceilings, solar shading, floor covering, shop display mesh screens and roller shutters. Laminated mesh, Okatek double glazing mesh, Mediamesh and ILLumesh are some recent additions to the company’s product range. They are also increasingly focusing on façade lighting systems, as it is currently what the market is leaning towards. In terms of application, the company specializes in walls/ceilings, and expanded internal roller mesh. From their design centre in North Yorkshire, the company manufactures large scale mesh, and acoustic paneling that can

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for our Creative WEAVE mesh products; alternatively they are able to work closely with any appointed subcontractors. GKD’s subsidiaries and agents around the world together with a complete packaged solution for architectural wire mesh products helps their customers to coordinate international projects from their local office.

INNOVATION In any industry there can be an adversarial element between companies even within a joint project and this can limit the potential of the industry as a whole. With cooperation and innovation as a cornerstone of what they do, one of GKD’s key ambitions over the coming years is to expand the business with new products and deliver absolutely perfect service to the delight of their clientele. Currently, they are working hard at making it through the challenging economy, although their focus has ensured the company’s continued success. With exciting prospects for the future, GKD continues to lead the way in mesh manufacture.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PLACE A FEATURE OR AN ADVERT IN THIS MAGAZINE PLEASE CALL STEVE RUSHWORTH AT S&S PUBLISHING ON 01924 920 483 OR SEND AN EMAIL TO STEVE@SNSPUBLISHING.CO.UK

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EFFICIENT RUNNING AND ENVIABLE REPUTATION KEEP STONE INTERIORS AHEAD WITH their management and design team having over 20 years of experience in the business, Stone Interiors has developed manufacturing and fitting techniques that represent best practice in their industry.

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EXCELLENT REPUTATION

EFFICIENCY

Stone Interiors never compromise on quality and always strives to turn their client’s dreams into reality. The company’s absolute focus is on quality and service. They have developed a hard won reputation as a business that consistently delivers to the very highest standard, and their client list is a testimony to this. It includes industry-leading kitchen companies who have all worked with Stone Interior’s for many years because they know that they can count on them to go the extra mile to deliver something special.

The efficient running of operations has helped Stone Interiors to successfully navigate through the recession.

Unlike many stone businesses, Stone Interiors manufacture in London and have the design expertise to make sure their clients get the very most out of the stone they have chosen. The company takes each project seriously and is open and honest when design has to be changed to ensure an optimum finish. They work closely with the designers, architects and main contractors both at tender stage and in live projects to ensure that oversights are picked up and dealt with before valuable time and money is spent.

“The quieter times are dedicated to continually overviewing what we do to further maximize efficiency when it’s busy,” explains owner Alan Macnae. Despite the current downturn, the company boasts an impressive turnover of £2.4m and currently employ 20 members of staff, taking on listed subcontractors at peak times. Staff are continually monitored and are trained in all aspects of their roles. Additional training is given to all staff in the help with their progression in the company. Stone Interiors’ future plans include the fine tuning of operations in order to ensure efficient running with growth. They are particularly focused on the growth of their bespoke furniture designs which only launched in May this year.

Each new, larger project awarded to us is a milestone and with Stone Interiors tendering projects above the £1m mark, makes each Milestone an achievement. The company’s ambition is to have an established trade mark with the high end clientele that would simply strengthen a good reputation earned over the years.

HEALTH AND SAFETY Stone Interiors believes that excellence in the management of health and safety is an essential element within its overall business plan – a good health and safety record goes hand in hand with high productivity and quality standards. “People are the most important asset to this company, and therefore we are totally committed to ensuring their health, safety and welfare at all times,” shares Alan. “From an economic point of view, the company believes that prevention is not only better, but cheaper than cure. There is no necessary conflict between humanitarian and commercial consideration. Profits and safety are not in competition. On the contrary, safety is good business”. From a legal perspective, the company is committed to ensuring that it complies with all relevant health and safety legislation. Where it is reasonably practicable to do so, the company will strive to go beyond the requirements of legislation. Stone Interiors is committed to ongoing monitoring and review processes, so that continual improvement in the management of health and safety can be achieved.

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ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT The company believes that continuous improvement in environmental management is also an essential element within its overall business plan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; minimising waste, consumption of resources and pollution goes hand in hand with high productivity and quality standards. This policy therefore applies to, and will be integrated with, all business activities, products and services with the potential to adversely affect the environment on a local or global scale. Stone Interiors recognises and accepts their legal duty of care toward the environment and are committed not only to complying with these legal duties and with other requirements to which they subscribe but to exceed these requirements where reasonably practicable.

The basis of their environmental management system will be an ongoing review of business activities and the identification of aspects of their work that could have an impact upon the environment and the implementation of ongoing steps to eliminate, minimize or manage them so that adverse environmental effects are minimised. To enable them to measure their environmental performance they will review the suitability of their Environmental Policy and the performance of Environmental Management System in order to promote continual improvement year on year in their environmental performance.

Energy generation and consumption is a major contributor to the production of greenhouse gases and global warming. Although their use of energy is limited primarily to energy efficient IT equipment, they will nevertheless seek to manage their use of energy, reducing consumption and continuously improving efficiency wherever possible. The company continuously seeks to identify all processes that generate waste and endeavours to avoid environmentally harmful disposal by eliminating, minimising or reusing waste products wherever reasonably practicable or, where this cannot be achieved, identifying and taking advantage of opportunities for recycling.

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INTEGRITY AND CITIZENSHIP PUSH NATIONWIDE TO ASSIST WITH HOUSING FOR FRIENDS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES CITIZENSHIP has always been high on the agenda list for Nationwide Building Society, who always endeavours to give the best to their customers and the communities they work with. 74

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HISTORY The company’s origins lie in the Provident Union Building Society established in Ramsbury, Wiltshire, in 1846, the Northampton Town and County Freehold Land Society, Northampton (1848) and the Southern Co-operative Permanent Building Society, London (1884). Well over a hundred mergers later - most notably the mergers between Nationwide and Anglia building societies in 1987 and between Nationwide and Portman in 2007, they are now the UK’s third largest mortgage lender and second largest savings provider. Just as significantly, they are the largest building society in the world and are committed to remaining mutual.

PROVIDING HOUSING SOLUTIONS Funding from the Nationwide Foundation has enable four friends with learning disabilities to move into a new, specifically adapted property allowing them to live independently in a decent, affordable home. The Nationwide Foundation has made a significant social investment into a bond offered by the Golden Lane Housing (GLH), the housing arm of Mencap. The funds raised by GLH are being used to buy and adapt up to 30 houses across the country, where people with moderate to severe learning disabilities can live independent lives. So far, two properties have been acquired and the first people to benefit from investment in the bond moved into a specially adapted house in Easingwold, North Yorkshire, over the May bank holiday.

Department for Business, Innovation and Skills to include ‘order of payments’ in its review. Unlike many other credit card providers, Nationwide operates a more customer friendly ‘positive’ order of payments which means that when customer make a payment to reduce the balance on their credit card, Nationwide reduce the most expensive debt first. They played their part in promoting financial stability in the UK during the credit crunch by merging with the Derbyshire and Cheshire building societies in December 2008 and by acquiring selected assets and liabilities of Dunfermline Building Society in March 2009. Since 2008 Nationwide has campaigned for fairness in allocation of payments into the Financial Services Compensation Scheme and a fairer risk based scheme is now planned. In October 2002 they became the first UK credit card issuer to introduce a ‘summary box’, outlining all the key rates and charges. As a result of Nationwide’s leadership, all credit card issuers are now required to provide a summary box. They have launched a similar summary box for their current account and personal loan products. Nationwide were the first organisation in the UK to sign Age Concern’s Business Pledge designed to rid business of age discrimination; and increased their maximum retirement age to 75.

A shortage of decent, affordable homes means just one in three people with a learning disability live independently. Instead many live in residential homes, away from their friends and families, or stay living with often ageing parents well into adulthood. James, Claire, Sarah and Elizabeth have been friends since they went to school together. They all have severe to profound learning disabilities and Claire has some physical disabilities. Their parents approached GLH to help them find them their perfect home. Ged Wilkinson, James’s father said: “We always wanted our children to be able to live together, and as independently as possible. For our children to live in a home not a ‘home’ if you know what I mean. That is why we are so thrilled that GLH have been able to use money from the bond to get the perfect house for our children.” Lisa Suchet, chief executive of the Nationwide Foundation said: “Our aim is to create decent, affordable homes for people in need. We hope that our investment will encourage other funders and investors to put money into this bond and therefore increase the availability of this type of much needed housing.”

A REPUTATION FOR INTEGRITY Nationwide have campaigned for the use of ‘soft quote’ credit score assessments across the industry. This would make it easier for customers wanting a loan to shop around and get quotes from different organisations as each ‘soft quote’ would not impact on their credit scores. The Society has raised awareness of ‘negative order of payments’ practice on credit cards and influenced the