google.com, pub-5163334352799848, DIRECT, f08c47fec0942fa0 google.com, pub-5163334352799848, DIRECT, f08c47fec0942fa0 Search Results | FamilyBusinessUnited
top of page

1503 items found for ""

  • Hendy Group Supports Family Business Road Trip 2024

    Members of Family Business United will be travelling across the UK for their annual road trip in electric style this year thanks to support from Hendy Group. The Family Business Road Trip is an annual event which aims to put the family business sector on the map, and this year the team will be arriving at a range of family-run businesses in style as they take to the road in a Mustang Mach-E. Hendy Group chief executive Paul Hendy said he was delighted the group could once again support this road trip and enable the team to sample the very latest in electric cars. “As a family business now in its sixth generation, we are celebrating our 165th anniversary in business and keen to support other family-run enterprises,” said Paul. “Family Business United is a great organisation which champions the success of so many family businesses across the UK and we’re sure the team will enjoy this year’s road trip in the Mustang Mach-E.” During the course of the 2024 Family Business Road Trip, there will be behind the scenes tours of family firms, interviews, dinners and plenty of photo opportunities and social media posts that all seek to raise the profile of the family business sector and all that it does on a daily basis to keep the nation going. The road trip will visit a wide range of companies, showcasing a range of success stories in industries as diverse as manufacturing, farming, communications, recruitment, wine making and food distribution. Companies set to feature in this year’s road trip include Saffron Grange Vineyard, Cladspray, Carrs Pasties, JJ Smith & Co, David Nieper, The Cleenol Group, The John Good Group, Grommets, Tims Dairy, The Pantry UK, The Wilkins Group and Bridgman. As Paul Andrews, founder and CEO of Family Business United explains, “The world of family business never ceases to surprise, delight and demonstrate positivity, be it in Bristol, Bolton, Bradford or anywhere else for that matter. Families in business are different. They take the long-term view, they care and they know they have to innovate, invest and evolve to become sustainable for generations to come.” “Family businesses are the engine room of the UK economy and each year the Family Business Road Trip affords us the opportunity to get behind the scenes, see what family businesses do what they do on a daily basis, where they do it and it is a real privilege to be welcomed and shown around by family businesses that are justifiably proud of what they do, many of whom have been doing it for generations.” “Each and every business we visit cares about what they do, how they do it, the people that work for them and the broader community in which they operate. We are delighted to be on the road once again in a car provided by the Hendy Group and look forward to putting the family business sector on the map.” “As we sit here about to embark on our journey that will take us all over England, I cannot help wondering what incredible stories we will uncover this year as we shine a light on dozens of family firms across England, hear their stories and reflect on the legacy of previous generations and discover their plans for the future.” “Let the journey of family business discovery begin!” You can keep up to date with the journey as it unfolds on social media using the hashtag #FamilyBizRoadTrip.

  • Trust Donation Enhances Inclusive Play For Children With Autism

    In a heartfelt commitment to enhancing the lives of children with autism, the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust is proud to announce a funding award of £2,000 to the ASN Club for Children. This significant contribution will enable the club to purchase a range of engaging and sensory-friendly resources, including a much-desired bouncy castle, sensory toys, and mobility toys like bikes and scooters, to create a welcoming and fun environment for children for whom making social connections can often be difficult. The ASN Club for Children was founded by Leah Deans, whose seven year old daughter is autistic, when she became disheartened by the lack of play and socialisation opportunities for children with autism and other neurodivergences. Leah’s club operates with the aim of providing a safe and joyful space for children with autism to play, socialize, and form new friendships. Leah said: "I put this group together voluntarily as my little girl who is seven years old is autistic and the sad reality is there is not much in the community for our kids to go to." Held every Tuesday evening, the club has become a vital part of the community for families seeking inclusive activities for their children. "This funding from Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust is a game-changer for our club. It will allow us to enhance our activities with fantastic resources that our children will love and benefit from immensely," Leah expressed. The ASN Club for Children's commitment to supporting children with autism aligns with Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust's mission to empower community initiatives and support the well-being of people of all ages across Glasgow. David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles Group, commented on the funding, saying "We are inspired by Leah's dedication to creating this valuable resource for children with autism in our community. We’re happy that we can support the ASN Club for Children and help them to provide a fun, safe, and inclusive environment where children can thrive."

  • SME's Need More Accessible Finance Options

    A survey of 500 SMEs by invoice finance company Novuna Business Cash Flow , highlights the critical need for more accessible and flexible financing options for small and medium-sized enterprises if they are to survive. 34% OF SMEs COULD CEASE TRADING IF UNABLE TO SECURE FUNDING The survey revealed a concerning statistic: 34% of SMEs are at risk of closing their doors permanently if they are unable to secure necessary funding. This alarming figure contrasts sharply with the surprising revelation that 50% of SMEs have not sought any form of financial assistance since November 2023, despite the precarious position many find themselves in. 28% OF SMEs HAVE BEEN REJECTED FOR ESSENTIAL FUNDING The reluctance to seek financing during these difficult times can be attributed to a variety of factors. A significant portion of respondents (43%) believe that the current economic conditions have exacerbated the difficulty of accessing funding. Additionally, a concerning 28% of the businesses surveyed reported being turned down for funding since November 2023, further discouraging attempts to secure much needed financial support. 29% HAVE HAD TO APPLY FOR FUNDING FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER Highlighting the urgency of the situation, nearly a third (29%) of SMEs surveyed have found themselves applying for business funding for the first time ever since November 2023. This statistic not only reflects the growing financial strain on businesses but also the changing landscape of SME financing. These findings highlight the urgent necessity for enhanced and adaptable financing solutions for SMEs to ensure their survival. By providing a broader range of financial assistance and support, we can safeguard the future of these essential pillars of our economy. John Atkinson, Head of Commercial and Strategy at Novuna Business Cash Flow commented, “In light of our recent survey findings, it's clear that SMEs are facing unprecedented financial challenges, with 34% on the brink of closure due to funding shortages. Surprisingly, half of these businesses haven't even applied for financial help since November 2023, a decision influenced by tougher access to funds and previous rejections. As we navigate these turbulent times, our focus must be on creating a more supportive financial environment that acknowledges the evolving needs of small and medium-sized enterprises."

  • New Home For British Army Band

    Willmott Dixon continues to establish a solid track-record for quality in the defence sector by handing over on a new c£12m Band facility for Army musicians at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS). The purpose-built facility can now house all 54 musicians serving under British Army Band Sandhurst, offering a modern and acoustically optimised environment for rehearsals, performances and musical collaboration. The project saw Willmott Dixon refurbish former stables dating from c1850 as well as old offices at RMAS to deliver an instrument store, music library, offices, rehearsal rooms, changing rooms, and a crew room. The facility also has sustainable features, with two of the blocks being installed with solar panels and heat source pumps. Called the Joint Bands School project, which began in February 2023, Willmott Dixon worked with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and Pick Everard. It was funded under the Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Army Programme, which is investing £3.35Bn over 10 years to improve living, working and training accommodation for soldiers. Accelerated under the SCAPE framework, the completed work achieved Defence Related Environmental Assessment Methodology (DREAM) ‘Very Good’ and ‘Excellent’ ratings, contributing sustainably to the built environment. Debs Thorne, Joint Bands School programme manager, said: “This project is a fantastic example of the significant investment underway across the Army estate, to support military training and future capability through delivery of modern, sustainable infrastructure. I have been really impressed by the quality of the finished buildings and I trust that the British Army Band Sandhurst will soon feel at home in their new, purpose-built music facility.” Aleksia Xhaferraj, DIO’s project manager, said: “We are proud to have delivered this new purpose-built facility, which will bring significant benefits to Army musicians. The successful completion of this project is testament to excellent collaboration between DIO, the Army and our contractors.” Richard Poulter, managing director of Willmott Dixon in the South, said: “We take great pride in our contribution to the creation of this cutting-edge facility, dedicated to those who serve our nation." "The building is truly exceptional, and I hope that the musicians find inspiration and flourish within the space. The Ensemble Band at RMAS will move into the building over the summer. An official opening event for the new Band facility is planned for autumn 2024." The DEO Army programme of work makes up a large proportion of the overarching DEO Portfolio, which is investing £5.1Bn in infrastructure across the Defence estate."

  • Luxury Bedmaker's Major Initiatives To Cut Emissions

    Fifth generation, family-owned luxury bed and components manufacturer, Harrison Spinks, has announced a raft of sustainably-focussed initiatives in its new Impact Report from both the main beds business and its components manufacturing company to further improve the planet whilst enriching the local environment and enhancing colleagues and communities. The business, which employs around 500 people and is already one of the largest growers of hemp in the UK, will increase its flax crop from 20 to 120 acres to replace cotton – not only is the crop more suitable for the British climate, there is no requirement for pesticides or irrigation for it to grow. Meanwhile its Yorkshire-based spring manufacturing business has introduced a patent-pending, pocket coiling machine that reduces energy consumption by 60%, as well as minimising raw materials needed in the process. Manufacturing production within the beds division at the 180-year-old company has moved to a four-day working week with longer production shift patterns after identifying the benefits of an improved work life balance – which they achieved without a reduction in overall output – and central operations has moved to a 4.5-day week, leading to increased productivity and reduced direct and indirect emissions. Harrison Spinks' partnership with Scottish luxury accessories manufacturer Alex Begg is now enabling the business to upcycle clean, high-quality cashmere offcuts to replace the virgin cashmere wool in its mattress fillings, also leading to lower transport emissions. Last year alone, the company’s hemp crop absorbed over 3,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions – which is equal to all of its annual Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions. Further changes to improve its production, CO2 emissions, and local biodiversity have been announced within the newly-launched Impact Report. These include: Further investment in weaving its own mattress ticking fabric from naturally fire-retardant wool, covering 100% of production needs and saving 28 tonnes of fire-retardant chemicals being used each year. Creating its own pocket springs through efficient wire-drawing processes that save 330,000kWh of energy each year. Becoming members of the UN Global Compact – the world’s largest corporate sustainability programme. The business is also boosting the local natural habitat, shifting from overseas carbon offsetting and investing into programmes in Britain, such as the Wild Ingleborough initiative led by Yorkshire Wildlife Trust to help restore the natural habitat and combat climate change. Harrison Spinks has committed to becoming Nature Net Positive across all operations and as part of this the two farms are working towards being fully organic by September 2025. It is also planting 2,750 metres of native hedgerows in Yorkshire to support animal welfare and encourage wildlife, while 47 acres of Ings grassland on the farm is left unstocked in spring to allow ground nesting. Furthermore, a higher stewardship grant from Natural England has enabled 33 acres of wildflower, bird, and butterfly margins to be created and maintained. Simon Spinks, Chairman at Harrison Spinks, said: “Our Impact Report details how we’ve adapted our business in the last year and the fundamental commitments we’re adopting for the future to make beds and components in the most responsible way possible." “We are a business that’s been recognised with seven King’s and Queen’s Awards, including two for Sustainable Development, so we understand the importance of playing our part in making the world happier and healthier." “We’re making some big commitments, going from 20 to 120 acres of flax crop production – allowing us to replace cotton with Yorkshire-grown luxury mattress fillings – and we have a patent pending on a coil manufacturing machine which reduces energy consumption by 60%." “This machine was designed and built by us here in Leeds and we aim to share this technology in our sector and beyond to allow others to benefit from these energy savings." “From using renewable energy at our Leeds manufacturing site to our partnership with children’s bed charity Zarach, providing them with 20 mattresses every month to give every head a bed, we want to make sure we’re supporting local communities and the environment." “Owning a farm gives us a unique and unbreakable connection to nature, and that’s why we’ve taken more steps to monitor exactly how we’re affecting the local environment, from making sure we lower emissions, right down to encouraging rare bird species onto our farms." “We have been refining our manufacturing processes to be more responsible, and we’re now working on industry-leading ways to repurpose clean waste back into production and looking further ahead to re-purpose our mattress components.” Harrison Spinks is the only UK bed manufacturer to have its own farms, blend its own natural filling layers in-house, weave its own naturally fire-retardant mattress fabric and manufacture 95%* of its mattress components in-house. It has 180 acres of arable land where it grows hemp and flax, and a further 200 acres of grassland where sheep are raised. Further commitments Harrison Spinks is making include: Investing in Solar PV technology to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which is projected to create 400,000 kWh of energy per year. Digitising the wire-drawing process within its components division to reduce CO2 by 40%. Working towards becoming Net Zero by 2050 under the net zero strategy approved by the Science Based Targets initiative. Planning to decrease carbon emissions from direct operations by 95% within 10 years To read the full Impact Report, please visit here. *By weight – Harrison Spinks manufactures its own mattress components in-house, equating to 95% of the total mattress by weight.

  • Carrickfergus Menswear Designer Marks 100 Years

    Douglas & Grahame, a family-owned men’s fashion house based in Carrickfergus is marking its first 100 years in business. Chaired by Donald Finlay and now led by sons Adam and Michael Finlay, the company which employs 124, is aiming to achieve its target of £50m turnover in the next five years. Douglas & Grahame designs all its garments in the modern Carrickfergus plant and is aiming to further develop its portfolio of brands. These include Remus Uomo, Daniel Grahame, DG's Drifter, 1880 CLUB and others. Managing director Adam Finlay says the centenary is an opportunity to re-establish the firm’s position at the heart of the fashion sector. “We have built tremendous foundations over our long history and have managed a strong recovery post-covid resulting in record turnover levels last year in excess of £30m,” says Mr Finlay. “We are an ambitious team and we are setting our sights on achieving £50m turnover in the next five years. The company says it is now pursuing all routes to market to achieve that growth across all territories of the UK and Ireland. Particular areas of focus include retail partnerships such as branded shop-in-shops, franchises, concessions and national chain retailers. The development of Douglas and Grahame’s online presence is also a priority. Douglas & Grahame brands are sold in over 400 independent stores and department stores across the UK and Ireland. The firm also has dedicated showrooms in Belfast, Dublin, London and Manchester. Mr Finlay says: “We have spent the last 100 years in the menswear trade, which means 100 years of fabric, of needle and thread and dedication to our industry." “From our humble beginnings selling fabrics to the tailors of Belfast, to the design and production of readymade garments to the building of brands – we are now one of the UK and Ireland's leading menswear fashion houses.” The firm is planning to mark its centenary with a series of profile-building events culminating in October this year with a gala evening for past and present associates and friends of the company.

  • Cream Of The Crop - First Strawberries Of 2024

    It is a sure fire sign that summer is on the way - the first Hampshire-grown strawberries of 2024 have been harvested and have hit the shelves at a Meon Valley farm shop. The arrival of the super-sweet, famous Westlands strawberries brings memories of long, lazy summer days, Wimbledon tennis and picnics on the beach. It’s a strawberry harvest to bring a smile to everyone’s lips. There is now no need for shoppers to rely on high food-mile strawberries shipped in lorries from Spain and Morocco when they can get Hampshire grown and harvested, sweet strawberries at Westlands Farm Shop near Wickham once more. And with a strawberry and raspberry growing and picking season running right through to late October early November there will be plenty of fruit to go round right throughout this summer and beyond. Shop manager Harry King said Westlands’ soft fruit is always a top pick for the shop’s customers. “Our strawberries are by far one of our most popular products - they’re very quick to fly off the shelves." “You can even see the glasshouses where these strawberries are grown from the window of the farm shop - keeping our food miles to a minimum and the shelves well-stocked for months.” During summer of 2022, Westlands farm harvested a record-breaking 200 tonnes of strawberries and raspberries - keeping shelves stocked all the way through to mid-November. Westlands’ Graham Collett said he is expecting another successful soft fruit season in 2024. Graham said: “We harvest an enormous amount of soft fruit throughout the year. Even if the weather is hot and dry, our own water reservoir means we can irrigate the plants using collected rainwater." “We’re a family-owned business committed to ethical and sustainable farming. Stocking our shelves with produce we’ve grown and picked ourselves means a lot to us - it’s so important we encourage our shoppers to support local agriculture.” Westlands Farm Shop is based in the Meon Valley and offers a range of locally sourced groceries and gifts as well as its own butchery.

  • A Pitch Perfect Partnership – Dunsters Supports Bury FC

    Dunsters Farm is proud to announce a three-year sponsorship deal with Bury FC, the beloved fan-owned team, situated in the same area as our humble beginnings. The partnership, extending until the 2025/26 season, will entail our sponsorship of the esteemed ‘Starkies Bar’, located within the historic Gigg Lane ground. Bury FC began its incredible comeback, after the club was saved by its own fans, after falling into administration in 2019. Dunsters Farm are committed to making a positive impact in the community, and this collaboration underscores our commitment to serving the area we proudly call home. Bury FC aligns seamlessly with our core values – with a community-centric ethos that resonates deeply with us here at Dunsters. Not only is it an organisation ‘for the community, by the community’, but the football club also works as a local hub, supporting people with its foodbank, community spaces for vulnerable adult training, as well as the Kidzone area for families who need it. Tom Mathew, our Commercial Director said of the exciting new partnership: “We’re delighted to support Bury FC, not only were we inspired by the recent developments at the club, but we also identified with their journey. Just like us, Bury FC boasts a rich local heritage and serves as a force for good within the community, a principle that has driven our business since its inception.” Tom and Hannah, Directors and third generation members of the family business, also have a personal connection to the club. Attending matches as youngsters with their grandfather, and Dunsters Farm founder, Les Ratcliffe – a keen Bury fan, who was also awarded an MBE for his charitable work locally. “My first memories of attending Gigg lane are with my Grandad, and his legacy looms large in how we do business. No matter how much Dunsters Farm has progressed, we are still focussed on being a force for good in our community – it’s in our DNA. Whether it be by feeding our local schools with quality produce, or supporting community groups like this one." "This partnership means we can support a like-minded organisation and continue to do good nearby – something our grandfather would be proud of.”

  • Future-Proofing Safety: Five Trends Shaping the PPE

    New technology, sustainable materials and smart designs are all key trends driving the evolution of PPE for a safer tomorrow. Workwear safety expert Arco has revealed its predictions of the five top innovations influencing the future of personal protective equipment (PPE) over the next decade. 1. Technological advancements Over the years there has been an increasing rise in robotics, which has revolutionised manufacturing environments and how we produce goods. In 2023, the robotics industry generated £29 billion in revenue worldwide and is projected to hit £33 billion by 2027. As robots continue to develop to be more advanced and widespread, working safely and collaboratively alongside them is becoming crucially important. Dr Ian Pearson, a respected Futurologist, commented: "We can anticipate a future where an increased number of robots operate on sites, which will mean that there is powerful equipment present in these areas. Augmented Reality (AR) and other technologies will play a crucial role in supporting individuals in adapting to these conditions.” 2. Sustainable materials Manufacturers are striving to achieve a more sustainable production line, with consumer demand showing a growing interest in PPE made from recycled fibres, biodegradable/reusable options and alternatives to plastic. Leading safety brand Arco has expanded its Responsible Choice product range by 72 per cent over the last year. Jim Harbidge, Head of Sustainability at Arco, commented: "At Arco, we focus on durability and circularity: garments made from recycled materials, designed to be washed multiple times, and at the end of their life are ready to recycle again. These offer the best opportunity to reduce carbon and water usage." 3. Customisation and comfort Achieving comfort in PPE involves a tricky balance between effective protection and user wellbeing. Selecting materials that offer both safety and comfort is key, requiring innovation in design and construction. Nick McLaren, Head of Range Proposition at Arco, said: “There is a sharp focus on developing breathable, flexible, and user-friendly materials to satisfy both safety and wearability. This ongoing effort reflects a commitment to safeguarding individuals in hazardous environments without compromising their comfort.” 4. The new world of AI, AR and VR AI, AR, and VR are reshaping health, safety, and PPE in industries like construction and healthcare. Advanced AI-driven CCTV systems instantly monitor PPE use, inspect compliance and identify hazards using cutting-edge algorithms. This technology can help to eliminate human error, speed up processes and enhance overall site safety. 5. Post-pandemic preparedness In August last year, the UK Government National Risk Register declared a 5-25% chance of another pandemic striking in the next five years. This month, Arco released its whitepaper on Emerging Disease Preparedness which highlights key insight on pandemic planning, PPE stockpiling and PPE compliance. Futurologist, Dr Ian Pearson, said: "In the years ahead, we may witness the emergence of more viruses, which will no doubt show the need for detection measures in workplaces with close human interaction. The integration of rapid testing, possibly within or in conjunction with PPE, will prove to be a valuable asset for organisations."

  • Novus Appoints New Head Of Operations

    Novus Property Solutions has appointed Sean Ryan as head of operations for Partnerships, part of its dedicated Interiors service which is a vital element of the national contractor’s five-year growth strategy. Sean brings over 23 years’ experience in facility and project management services across multiple sectors, including healthcare and education. An accomplished engineer who has spent the past 12 years in senior leadership roles, Sean has led services in both central consulting and operational capacities, which has developed his ability to deliver exceptional quality-driven services. Sean’s varied experience will be invaluable as Novus continues to expand its Interiors service, which offers a streamlined approach to turnkey refurbishment services through the contractor’s team of technical experts and trusted supply chain. Interiors features the three distinct areas of Partnerships, Major Projects, and Fast Track Fit Out to ensure all work – which spans small one-off projects to multi-million pound national refurbishments – is completed on time, on budget, and to the highest standard. Partnerships provides a single source hard maintenance, minor works and small projects service for long term MTC clients and framework agreements. Commenting on his new role, Sean said: “I am delighted to join Novus as Head of Operations for Partnerships at what is a very exciting time for the business. I’m looking forward to managing and enhancing our existing portfolio of clients in the healthcare and education sectors, as well as driving our overall business strategy through my passion for forming successful teams and creating strong customer relations." “My decision to join Novus was bolstered by its highly regarded reputation within the industry, and its commitment to maintaining a personable yet quality-driven service that is not eroded by its ambitions for growth. The onboarding process has been outstanding, and it’s clear that Novus prides itself on holding true to its core values as a family business.” Matt Hiley, Executive Director at Novus Property Solutions added: “Novus has a long-held reputation for delivering operational excellence and reliability across our key sectors, and the structure of our streamlined Interiors service allows us to continue to build on this. We’re pleased to welcome Sean to Novus, and have no doubt that his impressive experience will play an important role in helping us achieve our business growth targets.”

  • Exciting News For Glasgow Based Allied Vehicles

    Allied Vehicles are pleased to announce the latest acquisition in exciting plans for growth for the north-Glasgow based business. Allied Autocare and Fix Auto Glasgow North are two brands in the Allied Vehicles Group, repairing vehicles through the largest independent bodyshop in Scotland. Allied Vehicles are expanding their bodyshop offering into the north-west of England through the acquisition of Fix Auto Wigan. It's hoped the purchase will help bring Allied Vehicles headcount of employees to nearly 750 across the group. The move signals a programme of expansion for the Scottish repairer with owner Gerry Facenna stating the purchase was the first of several planned over the next three years. The sale includes the two main units that totals 17,500sq ft of bodyshop workspace and the additional 7,500 sq ft purpose-built bodyshop opened in March 2019 as the company’s dedicated smart repair centre that also houses its alloy wheel refurbishment facilities. Shortly after securing the sale Gerry, said: “These are certainly exciting times for the industry as a whole and for our business. After 30 years repairing cars in Glasgow where, I am extremely proud to say, we have built one of the largest bodyshops in Scotland, the time is now right to expand our business and explore other avenues." “Andy has run an extremely tight ship, the business is in a great place and is ideally placed for further investment and expansion. It really is a perfect acquisition.” Ian Pugh, Managing Director for Fix Auto UK, added: “We are so delighted Gerry and his team have stepped in and taken Fix Auto Wigan over and kept it firmly within the Fix Auto UK family. Anyone who knows his business will know it’s a colossal organisation with several world class divisions to it. Gerry’s decision to invest and expand his own repair footprint is truly exciting, not just for Fix Auto UK but for the industry as a whole.” Fix Auto Wigan has been bought from previous owner, Andy Sankey, who will continue the day-to-day running of the site, reporting directly into Fix Auto Glasgow North's General Manager, Ronnie Stewart. Said Andy: “I have dedicated a huge part of my life to the business and fulfilled my personal ambition of owning my own repair centre. But, the time is now right for me to spend more time with my family, especially my grandchildren. Thankfully, while I’m still going to be helping to manage the day-to-day running of the site, my arrangement with Gerry and Ronnie will hopefully give me that much needed time.” Andy concluded: “What has been absolute paramount to me has been to safeguard my team and to ensure the business remains part of the Fix Auto UK network. I know the business and each and everyone who works within it is in the safest of hands thanks to Gerry and his team. It really is a new chapter for Fix Auto Wigan.”

  • Abseiling The London Eye On Live TV

    Working at height specialists from Arco Professional Safety Services abseiled down the lastminute.com London Eye with BBC Breakfast presenter John Maguire to give the iconic attraction a fresh coat of paint on the first day of spring. Positioned high above the capital, the Arco team worked at heights of 68m from the hub of the London Eye to help safely carry out the abseil and painting on live TV. The team had to utilise a range of work at height kit to ensure safe access and egress, including fall arrest lanyards, work positioning systems and personal suspension (abseil) equipment. The full paint refresh, which takes place every three years, requires around 5,000 litres to cover the entirety of the 135m high observation wheel - roughly the equivalent of painting 1,660 cars. Taking a team of eight painters working five nights a week for six months, this iconic London landmark requires a staggering 9,360 hours of painting maintenance to look its best. The Arco team consisted of Steve Dawson, work at height training manager, and Level 3 IRATA (Industrial Rope Access Trade Association) training instructors Pete Hancock and Chris Fricker. Steve Dawson said: “The London Eye has been a great partner of ours for the past 20-25 years and it was a pleasure to work with the team on this event to showcase a British landmark and ensure it was carried out safely and securely." “This event showcases the truly bespoke offering that we are able to deliver at Arco and demonstrates the strength and breadth of expertise within our team.” Arco Professional Safety Services covers a complete range of safety solutions, including working at height, confined spaces and respiratory services visit here for more information.

bottom of page