A well-established family-run manufacturer of temporary steel products, supplying everything from Heras fencing panels and crowd control barriers to secure access solutions for construction sites based in North West England. With an on-site powder coating facility, the business relies on LPG-powered ovens to deliver high-quality coated products in a range of colours to meet customer requirements.
Looking for Greater Value
Operating in a highly competitive market means keeping a close eye on costs. The business made the decision to review its LPG supply arrangements to help reduce operating expenses and remain competitive, particularly at a time when fuel costs across many industries continue to fluctuate.
Managing a Complex Tank Exchange
The business had no concerns about changing LPG supplier, but the logistics of replacing the existing tanks presented some challenges. The tanks are located within a busy yard where space is limited, with regular vehicle movements and forklift activity throughout the day.
Following detailed planning discussions, Northern Energy worked closely with the customer to find a practical solution. After several unsuccessful attempts caused by operational constraints, it was agreed that a weekend installation would provide the safest and most efficient way to complete the project while minimising disruption to the site.
A Smooth Installation with No Downtime
The tank exchange was completed successfully over the weekend, with careful planning ensuring business continuity throughout the process.
One of the key factors in the project’s success was the ability to isolate the tanks individually during the changeover. This meant the customer’s powder coating ovens could continue operating, allowing production to continue uninterrupted and ensuring customer orders were completed on schedule for the following week.
The project also demonstrated the importance of having a responsive and proactive supplier. When an unexpected fuel supply issue arose late on the Friday afternoon, a call was made to Northern Energy Area Sales Manager, Paul, after 5pm. Recognising the urgency of the situation, arrangements were quickly put in place for a partial fill ahead of the planned tank exchange.
As a result, the business was fully operational again by 7am on Saturday morning, allowing work to continue as planned and avoiding any disruption to production schedules.
The Result
Through careful planning, flexibility and a commitment to finding practical solutions, Northern Energy delivered a seamless tank exchange with no interruption to the customer’s day-to-day operations. Despite the logistical challenges of a busy, space-constrained site, production continued throughout the project and the business was able to meet customer demand without delay.
What the customer said
“The installers were working in a challenging area with limited space and plenty of vehicle movements, but Northern Energy’s planning and flexibility helped make the project a success. Everyone was friendly, professional and willing to find solutions when problems arose. What impressed us most wasn’t that challenges occurred, but how they were resolved. I’d happily recommend Northern Energy to other businesses.”Manufacturing customer, North West England
Why Northern Energy?
For businesses that depend on LPG to keep operations running, reliability and flexibility are just as important as competitive pricing. Whether it’s managing a complex tank installation, maintaining continuity of supply, or finding practical solutions to unexpected challenges, Northern Energy works closely with customers to keep their businesses moving.