Working with Entrepreneurial Clients
Since our inception in 1992, we have been extremely fortunate to transform some amazing spaces for our clients, working in collaboration with national brands on their aggressive growth strategies along with one-off clients on their first project.
In recent years we have noticed the growth in what I would class as the entrepreneurial client. i.e. Looking to open their first or second premises, to make this a success with the potential of opening more sites in the future. Working with this client can be challenging but is very rewarding when you support them through the journey working as a collective to the same goal, helping make their ideas a reality.
Below we have provided insight into how we, GS Contracts, can add value when working with entrepreneurial clients whilst highlighting the key factors to consider when thinking about your first project.
How can we add value?
We offer a complete project management service from start to finish making the process as stress-free as possible- Which includes the development of a scheme prior to starting on site, management of on-site works, health & safety, subcontractors, and financial management. We ensure to host weekly meetings to discuss all of these topics whilst ensuring the project remains on track.
- On all of our projects, the bespoke joinery items are manufactured in-house from our workshop in Colchester, giving us complete control of our supply chain; ensuring that all items are the highest of quality.
With over 30 years of industry knowledge and experience, we can share our expertise in terms of material specifications, value engineering options and legislation that needs to be adhered to (to ensure a compliant fit-out).
Our operatives are highly skilled undergoing regular and ongoing training, coupled with a hand-picked specialist supply chain that supports us on all of our projects.
Factors to consider when thinking about your first project:
1) Budget
Budget is an important factor to consider when looking to fit out your first project. It is easy to underestimate the cost of a project, so we would advise being cautious whilst ensuring you have a contingency available to capture any unexpected items that arise throughout the project. If you want a better understanding of the funding options available, we work with a selection of finance brokers who can help fund all or part of your project. We are always more than happy to make an introduction to you.
2) Time Frame
It is not uncommon for projects to take longer than initially planned. For you to receive a comprehensive quote, time is required at the initial stages to visit the site, understand the information, put together prices and gather information from subcontractors and suppliers.
3) Team
Having the right team is essential when delivering a project. You need to ensure you select the right contractor and understand their capabilities. Some contractors will only carry out the building works, whereas others will offer the design and build element under one umbrella.
Are you looking to employ an interior designer to put together a design scheme in terms of finishes, layout, space planning e.t.c?
Will you need an architect to provide technical know-how such as licensing, planning, listed building consent?
Other stakeholders involved in a project can include building control, the landlord, the local council, the property agent and many more.
These are just some areas to consider when selecting the right team. At GS Contracts, we are well versed in offering a complete turnkey solution in terms of design and build.
We are also more than happy to assist by just offering our fit-out services if our client has a preferred designer they wish to use.
Ultimately, having the right team on board should help eliminate any potential problems along the way.
Upon acceptance of a quote, planning time will be necessary to carry out any procurement, health & safety, mobilising resources and identifying any long lead items such as the manufacturing of joinery & metalwork etc. In our opinion, getting this stage right is essential to create a seamless and more efficient project delivery.
Testimonials
Do you have a project you wish to discuss?
In summary, your first project is an exciting prospect; and luckily, we are here to help. Our role is to make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible whilst providing advice and support along the way.
If you have a project you wish to discuss or would simply like some advice, feel free to reach out to Gary Smith or me- and we would be more than happy to discuss this further.
