THE closure of a long-running equipment hire firm may “present an opportunity for other local businesses to step forward and support the continued needs of the construction sector”, according to the president of the Chamber of Commerce.
Lee Madden’s comments came after BrandSafway – which owns SGB – revealed earlier this week that “a decision has been made to close our SGB Hire Channel Islands operations”.
The parent company stated that this was “not an easy decision” and that it followed “careful consideration and consultation with relevant stakeholders”.
During its 58-year history, SGB Hire Channel Islands supplied a range of equipment and services to the construction, landscaping and events sectors.
The Chamber of Commerce said it was “saddened” by the news, adding that the group’s “thoughts are with the employees and others locally who will be affected”.
However, while acknowledging that “situations such as this are always difficult for those directly involved”, Mr Madden noted that: “…those services may also present an opportunity for other local businesses to step forward and support the continued needs of the construction sector.”
Earlier this week, Jersey Construction Council chairman Adrian De Gruchy also paid tribute to the services of the SGB team, adding that the JeCC “wishes to recognise the impact on all parties affected, including the directors, employees, clients, sub‑contractors and suppliers”.
