North Dorset MP Bob Walter made a visit to the Wessex Group to congratulate the company on 50 years trading – and praised it as a model business.
Wessex Group Director Simon Morgan gave Mr Walter a tour of the company’s site in Shaftesbury and the pair discussed the current economic climate.
Mr Water was also presented with the Group’s 50th anniversary brochure, which is colourful and nostalgic review of the last half century.
The Wessex Group was founded in 1963 by Simon’s father Tony and now employs 400 people and turns over more than £30m a year.
From humble beginnings as Wessex Electricals the group has grown to include Wessex Fire & Security, Wessex Building Services, Wessex HVAC & Plumbing and Wessex Catering Maintenance, amongst others.
Together they install and/or maintain electrics, heating, air conditioning, plumbing, renewable energy, commercial catering equipment and fire and security systems.
The Group also operates a craft apprenticeship scheme, which currently trains and employs 26 young people, supporting local employment.
To celebrate its 50th anniversary the group is giving away “50 somethings” to a good cause of charity each month during 2013.
Mr Walter said: “Fifty years is a real mile-stone and an anniversary worth celebrating – particularly for a business that started out in a family garage and now turns over in excess of £30million a year.
“The Wessex Group is a great example of a successful family business with strong roots in its local community.
“The company gives back through its philanthropic work and its highly successful apprenticeship scheme for young people, making it in many ways a model business and one that its owners, staff and local residents can be proud of.”
Simon Morgan added: “It was a pleasure to show Mr Walter around and tell him about the company.
“We are all extremely proud of what we have achieved in the last 50 years and I hope that the Group will still be here in Shaftesbury in another 50 years.”
