Electro Technical Services (Mechanical)

Origins

Lee Turner and Phil Vaulters established the business in 2006. Their objective was to become one of Wales’ largest independent building services engineering companies. Their experience in engineering and design management, together with their absolute determination to succeed, provided the basis for the company to begin trading and win their first major contract.

Our main challenges when starting the business

As with all new businesses, the early years were a series of constant challenges. Trying to obtain credit facilities with trade suppliers and banking facilities with no trading history or assets was difficult. Establishing a sound financial basis for the business and dealing with cash flow were paramount to surviving the early years. Building and developing a highly skilled, motivated team was a major task. Having reliable, competent tradesmen was essential to building and expanding the business whilst gaining recognition as a company that delivers above and beyond the required standard. With so much competition in the marketplace, a reputation that inspired confidence in the client and developer was, and is, essential. Learning to manage every aspect of the business from sales to delivery of service required total commitment and dedication especially as the global markets and local economic problems were having and still are having a major effect on the construction industry as a whole.

Success Factor

The success and growth of ETS is based on close liaison with clients, a positive approach coupled with collaborative working, honesty, integrity and professionalism. This approach has ensured ETS has received repeat orders from the majority of its clients including Jehu Project Services, Waterstone Homes, Jehu West, Carter Lauren Construction, Hale Construction, Jistcourt, Edmunds Webster, Pembrokeshire Housing Association, Coastal Housing Group, Leadbitter, Interserve, Abtertawe Bro Morgannwg Health Trust and Bridgend CBC. The franchising of the name ETS added to the quick growth of the company as the name and brand were already well established in the marketplace. Identifying the strengths of the business was key to continuing growth and success. A major factor has been the invaluable experience and depth of knowledge ETS is able to bring to a project through its workforce. ETS utilises the skills of its employees and ensures ongoing training is made available across the board ensuring these skills are constantly updated putting ETS at the forefront of new technology and procedures. This has resulted in a constant, committed workforce with excellent working relationships forged within the company and with all clients and associates.

The Future

ETS is currently looking to create a new company to deal with Mechanical Maintenance Contracts. All maintenance contracts currently held will be transferred into the new company and a dedicated staff appointed to develop, expand and run the business. ETS is also in the process of training staff within the ‘renewable energy’ sector. The long term objective is to set up a company to target this area of the market. We believe ‘renewable energy’ will see significant growth as legislation and ‘Green’ issues become more prominent. During the past year, the company has installed in excess of £500,000 in renewables. This is viewed as a good starting point for a new business.