It’s 10 out of 10 for WestWood’s

Over 150 invited guests, dignitaries, members of staff and VIPs from Germany including current CEO Alexander Westphal and his wife Sarah attended the celebrations to mark the 10-year anniversary of Westwood activities in the UK.

Held at the prestigious Harbour Heights Hotel in Sandbanks guests were treated to a champagne reception and outdoor BBQ accompanied by jazz performer Ivy Knight and her band who travelled especially from London to play to the expectant audience.

“We have been truly blessed that we have been able to capture Ivy and for her to perform tonight. We met over two years ago when she was performing in London and it has been a dream of ours to be able to bring her to Poole and perform tonight”.

Wayne Chissell
Technical Director WestWood

As well as the champagne reception invitees were greeted with panoramic views of Poole and the surrounding bay from the terraces of the Harbour Heights Hotel and as the sun slowly sank to lessen the heat from glorious weather the night-time festivities commenced with resident DJ and open bar.

From humble beginnings back in 2013 Wayne Chissell and Gary Hemmings made the jump from Flag Soprema to set up the UK WestWood business. Under their previous employment with Flag they were introduced to PMMA technology which was supplied by WestWoods but commercial differences provided the opportunity to leave Flag and start the commercial enterprise on behalf of WestWoods resulting in the business we see today.

“It was really tough back then, we started with nothing and managed to turn over £500,000 in our first year, but since then we have growth year on year and have gone from strength to strength adding both head count and turnover which should see us surpass last year’s £10M milestone”.

Wayne Chissell
Technical Director WestWood

The WestWood systems are manufactured in Germany just outside Minden and Managing Director Alexander Westphal was on hand to explain the Groups growth ambitions.

“The UK market has been a good performer after Germany and we are using diverse opportunities from our other European Markets with strong growth in the USA, we are thankful for the support of our Staff, Clients and Installers who have contributed to the ongoing success of WestWoods especially here in the UK”.

The company’s growth in the UK year on year is testament to their philosophy and wanting to improve the industry as a whole promoting good practice. Gary Hemmings sits as Chair of the Liquid Roofing & Waterproofing Association and has been driving the agenda for change and standards within the liquid market along with LRWA Chief Executive Officer Sarah Spink who was also present to mark the occasion.

“We have tried to increase our visibility, there have been a number of established manufacturers in the UK market for some time but we felt it was a real positive move to become immersed within the LRWA and drive the agenda for improvement. It’s made us a better business which is reflected in the awards we have received and recognition by the NFRC, National Federation of Roofing Contractors”.

Gary Hemmings
Managing Director WestWood

Over the last 10 years the business has become synonymous within the waterproofing industry covering all sectors from Roofing, Balconies, Parking and Flooring, their ethos underlined by introducing site technicians to aid client & contractor support during live projects.

“We have been delighted to have attracted some of the best contractors in the industry to install our products and value their input. It has made us better as a business and with their knowledge and experience we have been able to tap into their knowledge and improve our offer, it’s been great that so many have come tonight to celebrate and mark the occasion and support our 10 year anniversary”.

David Morrison
Sales Director WestWood

“The key to good business is trusting the products and approach. Initially from small beginnings we have seen our WestWood business grow over the last few years, they have placed themselves well and are considered one of our key suppliers. I am pleased for them and the hard work they have put in to achieve their current position and honoured to represent Makers on their special day and on behalf of everyone offer our thanks and congratulation”.

Simon Lamb
Managing Director Makers

The celebrations provided the opportunity for guests to network, catch up with old friends and returning colleagues and offer their congratulations and celebrate the last 10 years. Makers would like to congratulate the WestWood team and look forward to what they have in store for the next 10!