Leeds-based integrated surveying and engineering firm, the Met Consultancy Group, is investing in new equipment and expanding its workforce, despite the misfortune of suffering a recent robbery.

This summer, Met Consultancy Group, which employs more than 45 people and operates nationwide, was targeted by a group of thieves who stole a large amount of high-tech surveying equipment from its vehicles.  The company approached asset finance provider Ignition to help replace the missing equipment, but also took the opportunity to reassess its needs and purchase additional items to support plans for growth and expansion.

Director, Sam Roberts, explains:

“The robbery was a real blow to the business and came at a very busy time when we had several projects underway.  Rather than waiting for the insurance claim to process, we decided to replace the equipment immediately – it was essential to keep the business operating and fulfil our commitments to our clients.

“However, we also saw this as an opportunity to assess the needs of the business going forward, and to invest in additional equipment to support our expansion plans.”

The Met Consultancy Group contacted Ignition, who swiftly arranged finance for a suite of new high-tech equipment on a Hire Purchase plan including Radiodetection products, two Total Stations and CCTV inspection equipment, and, in a significant upgrade to their fleet of ground penetrating radar systems, an IDS Stream C multichannel GPR array, a system that represents the cutting edge of GPR technology.

Sam Roberts continues:

“We chose Ignition as we have worked with them in the past and always found them easy to deal with, helpful and quick to respond. Crucially, they have also been very patient and understanding, giving us time to finalise exactly what we needed.  As well as the equipment, we have also recruited four surveyors to keep up with demand.”

Managing Director of Ignition, Paul Caunter, comments:

“Theft of essential equipment can be very damaging and often puts a huge strain on small businesses.  Thankfully, we were able work quickly to help the Met Consultancy Group continue operating, and to assist them in future-proofing the business in preparation for expansion.”

Atlas Surveys, based in Newport in Wales and Wotton-under-Edge in Gloucestershire, undertakes land surveys, building surveys and hydrographic surveys across the country.

The company recently purchased a Faro Focus X330 Laser Scanner from Opti-cal Survey Equipment, with a three-year Hire Purchase plan from Ignition. This high-speed 3D scanner has an extra-long range and increased accuracy, scanning objects up to 330 metres away even in direct sunlight. It allows distance dimensions, area and volume calculations, analysis and inspection tasks to be carried out quickly, precisely and reliably.

Justin Taylor, Director of Atlas Surveys comments:

“This new scanner replaces an older model we had for a number of years, and will be particularly useful for external work.

“We first used Ignition to help purchase equipment 18 months ago and were very impressed with the offer and the service provided, so didn’t hesitate to contact them again.  Surveying equipment is expensive, but this way the cost is spread over three years, and we don’t need to worry about servicing, as all servicing costs are included.”

Curtis Scaffolding Ltd are scaffolding installers based in Liskeard, providing scaffolding services to residents and businesses in the local area, including builders, construction companies, housing developers and housing associations.

The company was formed in 2011, and since then Managing Director Nik Curtis has worked with Ignition on many occasions when purchasing new vehicles and equipment.

Nik recently purchased £450,000 worth of new scaffolding equipment through a Hire Purchase deal with Ignition – a finance solution which gives ownership of the asset but without upfront costs.

He has always enjoyed a very good relationship with Ignition and would never go anywhere else for finance:

“Ignition has helped me grow my business from the outset, and I absolutely trust them to provide me with a good deal and exceptional service.”