Family firm is cooking with gas after new deal
An Ayrshire family firm is toasting its latest big deal after landing a “significant” long term contract.
O’Neil Gas & Plumbing has signed a maintenance deal with Irvine- based Cunninghame Housing to carry out work on the company’s units, which number more than 2300.
O’Neil bosses say the social housing agreement provides them with the relevant “stability” to continue the company’s growth as it prepares to enter its 23rd year of trading.
Managing director Brian O’Neil, who succeeded father John at the helm six years ago, insists the future is looking bright for his operation, based in Ayr’s Green Street.
He said: “It’s a big contract and has certainly given us that five year stability in terms of looking forward.
“As a local company, it means a lot to us to get these kind of deals secured.
“All of our staff live and work in Ayrshire and investing in things like apprenticeships is at the forefront of our minds.
“I was given an apprenticeship so appreciate more than anyone the opportunities they provide.
“And getting deals like these done are key if we’re to bring through the next generation in the company.”
O’Neil is currently operating with a turnover of £ 1.8million and now employs 25 staff on a full- time basis.
The firm’s expansion from the traditional gas and plumbing market into bathrooms during the last five years has also been hailed a success.
Brian, 42, said: “It’s something we were keen to do and has been a nice addition to our core business.
“But we’re well aware that people across Ayrshire will always associate us with gas and plumbing.
“It’s how we came to make our name, and we’re fine with that.”
The firm has grown to carry out some 18,000 individual jobs per year and, after a significant technological investment, is now aiming high when it comes to tenders.
The launch of O’Neil Care Division – the company’s own maintenance package for customers – has also been seen as a breakthrough.
Brian added: “Whether it’s homeowners or businesses, we offer the same protection as the big companies.
“And what this latest contract proves is that local firms like us can compete on a level playing field with the bigger companies.
“Hopefully it proves a good inspiration to other companies of our size as well.”