Entrepreneurs Forum

8th March 2010 - It Never Rains But It Pours At Northern Washrooms

It Never Rains But It Pours At Northern Washrooms

While many small businesses are sinking under the weight of the recession, a Consett Company is managing to survive the storm.

Northern Washrooms, a washroom equipment company that started up almost two years ago, has forged ahead in the market place with new products that promise to significantly reduce businesses’ water bills.

Northern Washrooms is a privately owned local company that prides itself on offering high quality products with a superior service. The brainchild of Chris Lowery, 32, who prior to forming the company in March 2008, was the No. 1 Area Sales Manager for Wessex products.

These Environmentally friendly products such as the Veltia hand drier, Dyson Airblade hand dryer and Ureco Urinal Sleeve Sytem can save £££s off a company’s water consumption with the added advantage of cleaning pipe work in the process, thereby eliminating blockages.

Northern Washrooms Director Chris Lowery said:
“The benefit to businesses using these highly advanced systems is huge. They save water and money, protect the environment and reduce their carbon footprint. The intelligent features of the units make operation and ownership very straightforward. We understand that our clients don’t just require the very best in washroom equipment; they also want safe, reliable and long lasting products. We guarantee to provide customers with a range of equipment that is second to none in terms of performance and affordability.

The combination of reliable products and high standards of customer care has resulted in quick growth to Northern Washrooms’ expanding client list, which includes Newcastle University, Rockcliffe Hall, RSPB Saltholme, several schools and entertainment venues.

Chris added:
“In the last eighteen months we have increased our turnover by 20%, and I’m more than happy about that considering the current economic climate. I’m confident enough concerning the growth of the business that I have taken on a Business Development Manager, and have plans to increase staffing levels further within the next twelve months. We’ve just moved into larger premises on Consett’s Number One Industrial Estate – just next to Phileas Fogg, so I’m hoping that the international success of that particular company has a knock on effect for their neighbours!
Many young businesses may feel nervous about investment, but I am naturally a positive person, with huge self-belief, and it has been said that the word “No” is not in my vocabulary! I am grateful for the support I have had from both Business Link and Durham County Council, who have certainly helped me to achieve phase one of my business plan. The only way is up!”

Joanne Urquhart-Arnold, Senior Business Start Up Advisor at DCC, said:
“After developing a business plan with Business Link, Chris approached Durham County Council for further support and advice. He was fortunate to receive a start up grant from the Intensive Start Up Support programme which he used to purchase office equipment. In just over a year after he commenced trading from his home, Chris was able to move into his first business premises with further support from the Council’s Business Growth Grant”.

Joanne added, “Chris offers a wide range of technologically advanced and innovative products which have successfully targeted a niche market who are looking for washroom hygiene solutions in a cost effective and efficient way. Chris has worked hard to set up his first business and I wish him the very best luck for the future”.

Northern Washroom’s product range includes state-of-the-art hand-driers, feminine hygiene services, baby care, air freshening, air care, water coolers, dust control mats and logo mats.

www.northernwashrooms.co.uk

---