Latest News
Sure Construction M&E Division, Sure Group, celebrate after winning a £1.5 million mechanical, electrical & plumbing contract
Fri, Jul 9th, 2010
Sure Construction M&E Division, led by Isaac Bendrau, has been awarded a significant mechanical, electrical and plumbing contract by Wynne Construction.
Wynne Construction is a leading construction company operating throughout North and Mid Wales and the North West of England, providing high quality innovative solutions on a partnering, design and build and traditional basis for projects in the public and private sector.
Wynne Construction’s client is St Dunstan’s, the national charity supporting blind ex-Servicemen and women, which is investing in the alteration and refurbishment of a Grade II listed building and the construction of a new 3 storey extension at the former North Wales Medical Centre in Llandudno. The new Centre will provide rehabilitation and training as well as nursing and respite care for blind ex-Servicemen and women.
Isaac Bendrau, Divisional Director, Sure Construction M&E Division, Sure Group said “We are delighted to have been chosen by Wynne Construction to deliver the mechanical, electrical and plumbing aspects of the project. Work is already underway and we intend deliver what we promised, and achieve high standards of workmanship and customer care. The Sure Group Team are well trained and well qualified to deliver top quality installations.”
Speaking on behalf of Wynne Construction Graham Dickson, Contracts Manager said “The Sure Group were chosen for their ability to provide a complete and cost effective solution for the mechanical, electrical and plumbing aspects of the contract. We look forward to working with them on this prestigious project in North Wales.”
Nigel Harwood is Appointed Group Buyer, to Deliver Supply Chain Savings for Sure Group,
Fri, Jul 2nd, 2010
Sure Group, today announced, that Nigel Harwood has been appointed to lead and develop the Company’s purchasing activities, including full responsibility for delivering savings through sourcing and negotiation with suppliers.
Darren Cunningham, Chief Executive of Sure Group said “In this challenging market, it is crucial that costs are managed effectively. Nigel’s role is to lead negotiations with suppliers and sub-contractors to deliver the maximum overall cost savings to the business, by ensuring that we purchase quality products at the most competitive rates. We are determined to get closer to fewer supply partners, and it will Nigel’s job to achieve this”
Nigel is really pleased to have been given the role. When asked about his appointment Nigel said “I have over 20 years experience in purchasing and supply chain management. I intend to use my commercial expertise to further enhance the Sure Group’s reputation for delivering excellent services.”
Education Really Does Make A Difference! - Sure Group’s IT Officer Successfully Completes His First Year of Study and is Already Impacting on the Business
Wed, May 26th, 2010
Ben Oates, Sure Group’s IT Officer, is celebrating after successfully completing his first year of study of a 2 year programme to achieve Level 3 NVQ in ICT. Once he completes his course, Ben will be a Certified ICT Technician. Ben attends Manchester City College, Openshawe Campus, on a part time basis.
When asked about how the course has helped him with his job, Ben said “The course I am doing has really benefitted me at work. I am now able to replace hardware in PC’s, perform upgrades to computers, diagnose and repair faults really quickly, and even change over the server Cat5 cabling and panels.
I am really enjoying learning - I think that if you are really passionate about a subject it is always going to be enjoyable. Yes at times it is difficult, but I am having a great time expanding my knowledge, and intend to continue on with my studies to Degree level.”
Darren Cunningham, CEO for Sure Group said “It is crucial to our business that staff are trained and competent to perform their job effectively. Every individual within our business has their part to play in our success, and I want staff to feel confident in their role and the contribution that they can make. Ben is doing really well with his studies, and we can see that it is paying off. I wish him well, and I look forward to watching him grow.”
Sure Group Gas Engineers in ‘High Spirits’ as they Win Contract to Replace the Boiler and Upgrade the Gas Supply at ‘Haunted’ Croxteth Hall in Liverpool
Mon, May 24th, 2010
Sure Group are delighted to have been awarded the contract by Liverpool City Council to replace the boiler and upgrade the gas supply at beautiful Croxteth Hall. The only issue is whether the ghosts who live there will be happy with the upgrade!!
Paranormal experts are investigating an alleged ghost sighting apparently caught on CCTV in the grounds of the Edwardian country house in Liverpool just last month. Like many old buildings, the hall has a reputation for being haunted, and the mystery light - captured at 3am last month - has left paranormal enthusiasts in high spirits.
David Jones, who is Liverpool City Council Lead for the Contract said “I look forward to working closely with Steve Baldwin and his team on this unique project”
When asked about the contract Darren Cunningham, the CEO for Sure Group said “We are delighted to have been awarded this contract with Liverpool City Council. Such an historic house requires a careful treatment. The building is listed and every aspect of the work has to be overseen by a Specialist Listed Buildings Team, to ensure that nothing is damaged, and that everything is put back exactly as it should be. I feel very confident that Steve Baldwin, The Sure Group Contract Manager, and his Team, will deliver an excellent service, and will do there best not to upset the ghostly residents!.”
For further details contact sbaldwin@suregroup.co.uk
Sure Group Green Technologies Experience proving to be of Major Importance to Social Housing Sector Customers
Mon, May 24th, 2010
Following the successful award of a suite of green certifications and a number of recent contract awards, Sure Group has built a specialist ‘energy saving’ business providing a consultancy and installation service ranging from building insulation, solar and a range of air/ground source technologies.
The Sure Group team has worked closely with our customers to enable the introduction of renewable technologies. Together we have made informed decisions on the effective application of the technology in order to achieve the necessary carbon reductions.
To support our green credentials Sure Group is Microgeneration Certified (MCS) for the design, supply, installation and commissioning of Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems and heat pump technology. This has enabled clients to access grant funding for 50% of the costs of the technology.
Sure Group is accredited for the installation of Vaillant and Worcester Bosch systems. Our engineers have been trained by the manufacturers to maximise the warrantee periods and performance attainment.
We have developed our own “kit” from specialist suppliers, also guaranteed, that allows customers’ the choice of a full range of products from the market place and not be restrictive when considering options.
Simon Marsh is Development Director for Sure Group when asked about Sure Group’s commitment to the ‘Code for Sustainable Homes’ - the national standard for the sustainable design and construction of new homes – Simon said “The Code aims to reduce our carbon emissions and create homes that are more sustainable. Sure Group has the experience and expertise to advise on compatibility and options for maximising effectiveness and value. Whilst we have installed equipment to “new build” property it is our experience in the retro-fit market that is proving to be of major importance to our clients and the social housing market.”
To contact Simon: smarsh@suregroup.co.uk
Sure Group Celebrates Winning Plumbing Services Framework for Scotland’s Newest Social Landlord - River Clyde Homes
Tue, May 18th, 2010
Sure Group has been appointed by River Clyde Homes to deliver Plumbing Services as part of a Framework Agreement. River Clyde Homes is Scotland's newest and third largest social landlord. It owns and manages approximately 7,000 homes.
Alistair Patterson, Regional Manager, Sure Group Scotland said “After such a tough and rigorous tendering process, we are pleased to have been chosen by River Clyde Homes to deliver plumbing services for their property portfolio including modernisation works. It is now time for us to deliver what we promised, and achieve high standards of workmanship and customer care. The Sure Group Team are well trained and well qualified to deliver top quality installations.”
To contact Alistair: apatterson@suregroup.co.uk
Domestic Gas Contract with South Liverpool Housing is secured for a further four years
Tue, May 18th, 2010
Since 2001, SURE Liverpool have been installing, servicing and maintaining
domestic gas appliances for South Liverpool Housing. The Company is celebrating today after receiving the great news that the contract will continue for a further four years following a rigorous tendering exercise, and some stiff competition. Paul Cornes is the Operations Director for Sure Group. Commenting on the news Paul said “This is fantastic news. The South Liverpool Housing Team has been great to work with. They are open, fair and supportive, and we are delighted to be able to continue with such a positive relationship. We are not complacent about our position – we know we have to continue to work hard.”
Phil Nunn is the Gas Contract Manager for South Liverpool Housing. When asked about Sure Group winning the contract he said “The tendering process was tough, and we received many bids for the contract. However, Sure Group’s track record, commitment to quality and the ability of the team to go that extra mile made their bid stand out. We look forward to continuing our relationship, and working in Partnership with Sure to provide a first class service to the residents of South Liverpool Housing.”
To contact John Hargreaves,Contract Manager:
Carl Jackson is appointed ‘Sure Homecare’ Divisional Director to Support the Growth in Domestic Refurbishments and New Build Business
Tue, May 18th, 2010
Carl Jackson has been appointed as Divisional Director, Sure Homecare, and will take operational and profit responsibility for the M&E business focused on the domestic housing market.
Carl is delighted to have been given the role. When asked about his appointment Carl said "I am focused on utilising my extensive experience to deliver successful M&E projects for Sure Group customers. I have been in the construction and refurbishment industry since leaving school at 16, and have worked my way through the ranks to achieve a Director position. My focus now is to deliver contracts on time/in budget, to the highest quality and to our customers’ complete satisfaction.”
Darren Cunningham, Chief Executive Sure Group said “Sure Group has grown significantly, and we need high calibre people like Carl to continue with this expansion. Sure Homecare is a very significant part of Sure Group business, focusing on the domestic housing market providing a full range of maintenance, void and installation services. I feel very confident that Carl will deliver excellent levels of service to our domestic housing customers.”
To contact Carl: cjackson@suregroup.co.uk
Trafford Housing Trust Contract Win
Tue, May 18th, 2010
Sure Group chosen to provide Service and Maintenance Support for the Sheltered Scheme Portfolio
Sure Group has been chosen to undertake the routine planned maintenance and 24hr responsive repairs contract for the sheltered scheme owned by Trafford Housing Trust.
The contract is for three years, with the option to extend for a further two years. Sure Group will service and maintain the boiler house plant, control systems and pressure systems, calorifiers and associated equipment. Sure Group will also service and maintain LPHW heating equipment such as pipe-work, radiators, TRV’s etc throughout the schemes including the residents’ flats and communal areas. Dave Hatton, Senior Mechanical and Electrical Manager, Trafford Housing Trust said “The Tendering Panel where very
impressed with the professionalism shown by the Sure Group Team. Our decision to use Sure Group is based on previous experience of the Group undertaking plant room installations on behalf of the Trust. Their tender showed a strong commitment to offering value for money and delivering
a top-quality service.”
Darren Cunningham, Chief Executive, Sure Group said “After such a rigorous tendering process, we are delighted to have been chosen by Trafford Housing Trust to deliver service and maintenance support to the sheltered housing schemes. It is now time for us to deliver what we promised, and achieve high standards of workmanship and customer care.”
To contact Steve Baldwin, Operations Manager:
ISO14001:2004 Environmental Management System Accreditation to Sure Group
Tue, May 18th, 2010
Sure Group has been awarded ISO14001:2004 Environmental Management System Accreditation.
Simon Marsh, Development Director, Sure Group said “By having Sure Group’s environmental management system independently assessed and approved by an Accredited Certifying Body, we are making a powerful statement about our environmental credentials and demonstrating our environmental commitment to our customers.”
To contact Simon: smarsh@suregroup.co.uk
Sure Group Unify all Subsidiary Companies Under the Single ‘Sure Group’ Brand
Tue, May 18th, 2010
There have been a number of notable changes in the Sure Group business over the past 12 months. Sure Group has experienced significant growth through various contract wins and the recent acquisitions of PT Hill Electrical and Evans M&E. We now have offices in Motherwell, Liverpool, Wrexham, Birmingham and Cardiff.
With these acquisitions and geographical growth our customers face several ‘brands’ (FJ Jones, Sure Maintenance, Evans M&E etc) and at times, this can be confusing. The time is now right to unify these subsidiaries under a single brand. All businesses will re-brand under the ‘Sure Group’.
Subsidiary brands such as FJ Jones and Evans will be replaced by the parent, Sure Group brand.
It is important to note that there has been no change of legal entity – just the trading name to unify under the parent brand.
In addition, the business will be grouped into Divisions to provide greater consistency and to reflect the market and the customers’ we serve. These are:
Sure Homecare: The Sure (domestic) Maintenance and FJ Jones Installations subsidiary will mergeinto one business Division focusing on domestic housing market providing a full range of maintenance, void and installation services.
Sure Construction M&E: As our new build and contracting business grows, we have decided to concentrate our project management and site expertise into one specialist Division comprising of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, ventilation and air conditioning contracting services. This Division hasbeen formed by the merger of the Sure (commercial install business) and Evans M&E businesses.
Sure Facilities Management: During the last 12 months, we have recruited expertise from major blue chip competitors to build a dedicated FM expertise providing a full building and facilities management service including planned, responsive maintenance and capital programmes.
Sure Energy Save: Following the successful award of a suite of green certifications and a number of recent contract awards, Sure Group has built a
specialist ‘ energy saving’ business. Sure Energy Save provides consultancy and installation services ranging from building insulation, solar and a rangeof air/ground source technologies.
Sure M&E Consultancy: To meet the growing demands for higher value design and consultancy services, we have invested in design expertise / systems in partnership with Hurstwood M&E. As a result, we have created a new stand alone M&EConsultancy Practice staffed by experienced Chartered Engineers to support our growing new build business.
Our vision for the Sure Group brand is that it will continue to represent to you a specialist mechanical and electrical contractor delivering excellent levels of service, risk management and a portfolio of services in line with your needs.
Darren Cunningham, Chief Executive
To contact Darren: dcunningham@suregroup.co.uk
Celebration as Sandwell Warm Zone Central Heating Programme Contract Retained Until March 2011
Tue, Mar 30th, 2010
Sure Group, the leading national provider of mechanical and electrical contracting and maintenance services to the social housing sector, public sector and private sector are celebrating today after receiving the news that the Group has retained the Sandwell Warm Zone central heating contract for April 2010 to March 2011.
Sure Group has been successfully delivering heating services for Sandwell Borough Council since 2004. Sandwell Warm Zone is a grant heated funding scheme. Sure Group has successfully installed over 200 full central heating systems annually into Sandwell homes.
Ian Baker, Warm Zone Account Manager, Sure Group said “We are delighted to have been chosen by Sandwell Warm Zone to be a delivery partner for a further year. The Warm Zone Team is a pleasure to work with. Over the years we have developed a great relationship based on honesty and good communication. The expectations of the Warm Zone Team are very high, and we strive to ensure that we meet the excellent standard of workmanship and professionalism required.”
Julie Poole, Project Manager, Sandwell Warm Zone said “On behalf of Warm Zones chic, I would like to thank you for the excellent service received from your company last year, and I look forward to working with you again this year.”
Trafford Housing Trust Contract Win – Sure Group Chosen to Provide Service and Maintenance Support for 18 Sheltered Schemes
Wed, Mar 24th, 2010
Sure Group, the leading national provider of mechanical and electrical contracting and maintenance services to the social housing sector, public sector and private sector are celebrating today after receiving the news that the Group has won the routine planned maintenance and 24hr responsive repairs contract for 18 sheltered schemes owned by Trafford Housing Trust.
The contract is for 3 years, with the option to extend for a further 2 years. Sure Group will service and maintain the boiler house plant, control systems and pressure systems. Calorifiers and associated equipment. Sure Group will also service and maintain LPHW heating equipment such as pipe-work , radiators , TRV’s etc throughout the schemes including the resident’s flats and communal areas.
Dave Hatton, Senior Mechanical and Electrical Manager, Trafford Housing Trust said “The Tendering Panel where very impressed with the professionalism shown by the Sure Group Team. Our decision to use Sure Group is based on previous experience of the Group undertaking plant room installations on behalf of the Trust. Their tender
showed a strong commitment to offering value for money and delivering a top-quality service”.
Darren Cunningham, Chief Executive, Sure Group said “After such a rigorous tendering process, we are delighted to have been chosen by Trafford Housing Trust to deliver service and maintenance support to the sheltered housing schemes. It is now time for us to deliver what we promised, and achieve high standards of workmanship and customer care.”
Isaac Bendrau Is Appointed Unit Director to Support the Growth in the New Build and Contracting Business for Sure Group
Tue, Mar 23rd, 2010
Sure Group, the leading national provider of mechanical and electrical contracting and maintenance services to the social housing sector, public sector and private sector today announced that Isaac Bendrau has been appointed and will take operational and profit responsibility for the M&E business focused on new build schemes and major projects. Paul Cornes, Operations Director of Sure Group said “Sure Group has grown significantly during the last 12 months, despite the tough market conditions. To support the growth in the new build and contracting business, it is important that we continue to invest in high calibre staff. We are delighted that Isaac is joining the Group. He has a very successful track record in delivering large domestic, commercial and industrial installations, and shares the Sure Group ethos of delivering top quality services, on time and on budget.” Isaac is delighted to have been given the role. When asked about his appointment Isaac said “I am pleased to have been given the opportunity to take on such a significant role within the business. Having worked within this industry for some time, I know that the key to successful project delivery is detailed planning, precise and accurate estimating and cost control, and open and consistent communication with customers and supply partners. I intend to make a positive impact on the Sure Group business.”
Sure Group Celebrates as Gas Contract with South Liverpool Housing is Retained
Tue, Mar 23rd, 2010
Since 2001, SURE Liverpool have been installing, servicing and maintaining domestic gas appliances for South Liverpool Housing. The Company is celebrating today after receiving the great news that the contract will continue for a further 4 years following a rigorous tendering exercise, and some stiff competition.
Paul Cornes is the Operations Director for Sure Group. Commenting on the news Paul said “This is fantastic news. The South Liverpool Housing Team has been great to work with. They are open, fair and supportive, and we are delighted to be able to continue with such a positive relationship. We are not complacent about our position – we know we have to continue to work hard.”
Phil Nunn is the Gas Contract Manager for South Liverpool Housing. When asked about Sure Group winning the contract he said “The tendering process was tough, and we received many bids for the contract. However, Sure Group’s track record, commitment to quality and the ability of the team to go that extra mile made their bid stand out. We look forward to continuing our relationship, and working in partnership with Sure to provide a first class service to the residents of South Liverpool Housing”.
Contact John Hargreaves jhargreaves@suregroup.co.uk
Sure Group Celebrates Approval to Install Air Source Heat Pumps
Tue, Mar 23rd, 2010
Sure Group is now an approved installer of air source heat pumps manufactured by Mitsubishi Electric. Sure Group has been pro-active in meeting market demands for renewable technologies, and has already secured certification as an accomplished Microgeneration installer for Solar Thermal Hotwater Systems.
To become an approved installer, Sure Group engineers had to participate, and successfully complete the accredited Mitsubishi Training Programme. Alistair Patterson, Regional Manager Sure Group Scotland led this initiative. Alistair said “Modern air source heat pumps can help homeowners cut CO2 emissions by up to 50% compared to a modern condensing gas boiler. Air source heat pumps absorb heat from the outside air. This heat can then be used to warm water for radiators or underfloor heating systems, or to warm the air in the home. We have a responsibility to our customers to reduce fuel bills, and a responsibility to the environment to cut down on wasted electricity. Air Source Heat Pumps satifies both of these requirements”
Contact Alistair Patterson. Email a.patterson@suregroup.co.uk
Wates Living Space
Tue, Mar 23rd, 2010
The F.J.Jones Team successfully delivered all M&E services to the Showell Park Site on Behalf of Wates Living Space.
Wates - Wellingborough Homes
Mon, Mar 23rd, 2009
We have recently won a contract with Wates to carry out a range of heating, electrical and plumbing works for arround 300 properties commencing 1st April 2009 for a period up to 4 years.
Wirral Borough Council - Contract Win
Thu, Sep 18th, 2008
We are pleased to announce that we have won a contract through our Commercial Department to install boilers, flue systems and control panels for Wirral Borough Council, the contrract will last 6 weeks.
Wates - Low Hill Project
Thu, Sep 18th, 2008
We are pleased to announce that we are working in partnership with Wates Living Space to carry out Commercial M&E on 64 purpose built flats for the elderly. This contract will last 64 weeks.
Bromsgrove District Housing Trust
Thu, Sep 18th, 2008
We are pleased to announce that we have recently won a contract with Bromsgrove District Housing Trust to replace 36 boilers in various locations in the Midlands area. This contract started in August 2008 with all work being complete by January 2009.
Golden Gates Housing Association - Solar Systems
Thu, Jul 9th, 2009
We have recently installed 3 Central Heating Systems incorporating Solar Thermal Hot Water in partnership with Valliant for Golden Gates Housing Association. A further 10 properties have been idenified to also have theses systems fitted.