ACR Journal

February | March 2021 ADVERTORIAL 12 Volume 7 No.2 Well, we all know how that turned out. Since March, Coolair – like every other business up and down the country – has experienced a rollercoaster of highs and lows. We’ve dealt with unavoidable site closures, joined the chase to secure supplies of PPE, mastered the intricacies of the Job Retention Scheme and kept on top of ever-moving goal posts. We’ve established new ways of working, and words and phrases that meant nothing in 2019 – “furlough”, “social distancing”, “new normal” and everyone’s favourite, “you’re on mute”, became part of our everyday vocabulary. After eight months of upheaval and uncertainty, we approached the end of 2020 and the end of our 40th anniversary year. And while it may not have been the year we had originally envisaged; it has most certainly been memorable. Here at Coolair we have been very fortunate to keep all our oces open while our sta worked safely throughout each of the lockdowns. Thank You On December 20 last year, we locked the office doors and went out to celebrate Christmas followed by a well-earned, two-week shutdown. Everyone in high spirits, our order book full and all at Coolair were looking forward to 2020 and celebrating our 40th year of trade in style. Neil Gibbard, Managing Director, said: “We have many people to thank for helping us through these challenging few months. “Our key suppliers have ensured that despite their own Covid-19 challenges, they have maintained supply lines wherever possible to enable us to keep site works progressing to plan. “Our customers have kept in close ‘virtual’ contact with our sales teams across the country, and this continued smooth flow of information has been vital in ensuring we could still deliver the quality of service we’re famous for.” Helen Sharratt, Finance Director, said: “A special mention must go to the whole team at ACR IT Solutions Ltd who, for many years, have provided our IT and network support. “They have been on-hand day and night to help get all our sta set up for remote working. The flexibility and peace of mind this has given us has been invaluable.” Neil added: “But the biggest, and most special mention, is saved for our nationwide team of employees and subcontractors who have, without exception, been simply amazing. “The support and dedication we have received from the whole team has been incredible, with everyone mucking in to do whatever has been needed. “From my 19 years here, this attitude and work ethic is no surprise. Whether in ‘normal’ circumstances or a global pandemic, I feel very fortunate to have such a loyal and close-knit team who consider each other friends rather than just colleagues. “Our heartfelt thanks goes out to everyone, we couldn’t have got through this without you.” With attention now firmly focused on 2021, Coolair is cautiously optimistic about what the new year will bring, and priorities are: • Stay Safe • Be considerate • Be adaptable We wish everyone health and happiness in 2021 and beyond.