EIC to expand in the North East

The North East is to become the focus of expansion plans for national contracting firm EIC. The mechanical and electrical specialist, which has seven key delivery centres and three further regional offices around the UK, is set to invest in the future of its Gateshead team.

The move will see the creation of a number of posts, from management to administration, and provide employment for local electricians and contractors. The company also plans to implement an apprenticeship scheme to develop the talents of local young people.

Under the leadership of divisional director Paul Fitzpatrick, the planned expansion will compliment EIC teams currently working from Manchester, Leeds and Edinburgh. The ultimate vision is to create a standalone centre by 2012 providing the full range of EIC services for clients across the North East.

Ian Lyall, joint managing director of EIC, said: “EIC is a national company capable of delivering large scale mechanical and electrical installation, and building maintenance projects across the UK. Our network of regional offices and delivery centres enables us to build close relationships with our clients and provide them with tailor-made solutions with a local focus.

“This is an exciting time for the North East which is home to a thriving business community and has drawn significant national and international investment in recent years, bringing huge benefits to the people and the economy of the area. Expanding our Gateshead office presents the perfect opportunity for us to build on our existing relationships, develop further and contribute to the success of the area.”

Gateshead itself is fast becoming an attractive option for national firms keen to support the expansion of the region’s arts and business communities, exemplified by landmark developments such as the Baltic arts centre and the redevelopment of the international athletic stadium.

Currently specialising in electrical installation in the food retail sector, counting Tesco and Asda among its client base, EIC’s Gateshead team will also offer a fully integrated mechanical service to increase its current delivery capability. The team also intends to broaden its client base and is looking to expand into the education, health, leisure and construction markets, in addition to offering the full range of building and facilities maintenance services.

EIC is headquartered in Warwickshire and has divisional offices in Cornwall, Devon, Hampshire, London, West Yorkshire and Edinburgh with further regional offices around the UK providing a national network of coverage.