Page 37 - GAP 50th Anniversary Book
P. 37
Celebrating 50 years of GAP /
The next ten years would see GAP surge forward in terms of The same year, GAP HQ moved from
growth, with more acquisitions, new locations and a huge increase its premises in 65 Bath Street – where,
in turnover. It was accompanied by hard lessons learned, a move coincidentally, Gordon’s previous
for HQ and a strong, new identity. employer Scottish Land Development,
Following on the success of the had first started - to Carrick Street, just Vintage Teesside Plant depot, 1999.
Henderson Plant deal, GAP acquired off Glasgow’s Argyle Street. At that time
the family business Joseph Thompson there were 14 staff operating out of
& Sons in 1990. With four depots in the Head Office. This would increase to 212
north west of England, this was a new by the beginning of 2019.
geographical area for GAP. However By 1999, the business had 35 depots
initial anticipation faded on realisation operating under six different names,
that the firm had been starved of from HMS Planthire in Anniesland, to
investment. It took three years, Teesside Plant in Middlesbrough and
staff changes and a huge amount of Henderson Plant in Preston. Clearly one
management time to turn the business strong identity was essential for going
around and make it profitable. forward. At the staff conference that
Fortunately, the acquisition in 1997 year, Douglas and Iain presented their
of ACE Hire & Sales was considerably team with three options for a company
different. Operating on the Isle of Man, name - Anderson Plant, Henderson
this was a well-run, family owned Plant or GAP Group. The latter won
business. Producing healthy sales and overwhelmingly and a modern,
profit, this company slotted neatly into consistent brand was created and
GAP’s operations. implemented.
BY 1999
NO. OF DEPOTS 35
NO. OF STAFF 373
Douglas and Iain at staff Christmas night out.
TURNOVER £21.5M
GBV OF TOTAL
FIXED ASSETS £36M
Henderson Plant depot, 1999.
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