The 36 employees of Dundee-based demolition contractor Safedem are taking on its ownership in a move designed to secure the future of the business.
William Sinclair will remain in post as managing director. Sinclair, a former president of the National Federation of Demolition Contractors and of the European Demolition Association has designed the change in ownership structure to recognise and reward the contribution of the Safedem team, many of whom have been with the company for 20 years or more. The staff also include several individuals that joined the company as part of local employment initiatives by clients including the Glasgow Housing Association.
“Truly successful business stand the test of time with careful succession planning and strategic thinking”, said Sinclair. “I have always recognised the contribution of all the Safedem team towards the success of the business. The move to employee ownership will allow the business to develop and plan for the future and is due recognisition of Safedem’s excellent employees”.
Safedem, which was founded in 1974, has been responsible for carrying out some of the largest, most complex and high-profile demolition contracts ever undertaken in Scotland, including major regeneration projects such as Anderston in Glasgow and Ardler in Dundee, both for Sanctuary Group, Sinclair has been managing director since 1994, leading the company through growth from annual sales of £200,000 to peak at about £15m turnover.
SInclair said that clients will see very little change in the day-to-day running of the company, emphasising a commitment to training, health & safety and the environment that has seen the company win numerous industry awards. “All of these awards have been down to the hard work of the entire Safedem team”, he said. “The move to employee ownership recognises that contribution and is a fitting reward for their loyality and dedication”.