This issue we speak to Alan Brown who is the Managing Director of East Coast Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Ltd in Brechin.
We asked Alan a few questions to find out all about the business, as well as how learndirect scotland for business has helped with their training requirements.
Q: What is your business called?
A: East Coast Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Ltd
Q: Where is it based?
A: It is based Brechin, Angus and was established in 2006.
Q: What service does it offer?
A: We supply, install, service and repair all types of commercial and domestic refrigeration and commercial air-conditioning equipment throughout the Fife, Angus and Aberdeenshire areas.
Q: How many employees?
A: There are five in total.
Q: What did you do before you decided to start-up on your own?
A: I was a service engineer with a refrigeration company.
Q: Why did you take the plunge?
A: I wanted to get into business for myself for a number of reasons, one of which was that, to be honest, I was fed up working to line other people’s pockets! I also knew that running my own set-up would allow me to provide the kind of service that the bigger companies are unable to give because of their size.
Q: What was your biggest break?
A: I don’t think there have really been any ‘big breaks’ as such. I put the company’s ongoing success down to hard work and a total belief in what we are doing.
Q: What training has been offered to staff?
A: One apprentice has been receiving driving lessons, safety passports are being planned in the near future and health & safety documents through N.H.S. Scotland are available to employees.
Q: How has this training benefited the business?
A: We are able to better comply with the demands of all our major customers.
Q: Has the business any major training initiatives planned for the future?
A: Yes. All members of staff will eventually hold an up-to-date Health and Safety Passport. Also, one member of our team is due to do a first aid course. A gas handling course will be completed by an apprentice as required by law.
Q: What do you most enjoy about running the business?
A: The freedom to change things the minute you see the need to improve any aspect of the business without having to go through various levels of management – something that is often required in larger companies.
Q: What do you least enjoy?
A: Dealing with some banks!
Q: What are your top priorities?
A: The health and safety of our workers and customers.
Q: What was the most important lesson you have learned?
A: I think that it’s vital to make sure that you keep to your word, and do exactly what you promise your customers. That way, you can earn their trust and build up a long and profitable relationship.
Q: What single thing would most help?
A: Less Government paperwork!
Q: What do you do to relax?
A: When I have some time, which isn’t often, I like to listen to music and watch football.