MOVERS & SHAKERS MARK EVANS

It was during the dark days of 2008 when the entire edifice of capitalism was on the brink of collapse that Mark Evans decided to start his own business.

Mark explained: “I started my own business after the Credit Crunch. I’d just lost my full-time job as a fence erector on new build sites and it was anything but the right time to go it alone but it was my only option.

“I’d ploughed what little savings I had into a tractor mounted post driver in the hope that it might help pay my mortgage. It was a scary time!” added Mark who grew up as a farmer’s son that started doing fencing to subsidise his income.

“I’m still doing it now until I can figure out what I want to do for a living!” quipped Mark.

Eighteen years on and that decision looks to be an inspired one with MJ Evans Fencing Ltd now established as a professional fencing contracting business based at Leominster in Herefordshire. The business specialises in domestic, agricultural and security fencing.

Mark went on “We’re very fortunate to have a very broad variety of repeat clients from agricultural estates, industrial/commercial to film studios and pretty much everything in between.

“We are very fortunate with our customer base that would be considered sought after but it does mean we have to cover most of the country. Fortunately, I have a great team of staff that are always ready, willing and able!

“We are constantly investing in new machinery. I’m a firm believer in mechanising as much as possible to save wear and tear on my staff and help with productivity.

“Last year proved to be another good year for us. We kept some very sought after contracts and gained a few new ones whilst also squeezing in a work trip with my two longest serving staff to the Golden Pliers fencing competition in New Zealand,” added Mark who currently runs a full-time staff of 4 including himself with a lot of help on the admin side from his wife and a few local subcontractors when needed.

Mark also has a strong commitment to his local community through sponsorship: “We do like to get involved with our local community and sponsor events, from the local rugby team, swimming club, pony club and Young Farmers.

“I think these are all very valuable parts of a community so we like to try to support them whenever we can.”

When it comes to challenges faced by the industry, Mark is crystal clear: “Keeping up with the ever increasing admin and regulation that seems to be thrown at us on what seems a very frequent basis from multiple bodies is a major challenge.

“Trying to gain recognition as a true craft and tradesperson and not just a bunch of hole diggers is another challenge. It’s something that I feel very strongly about and love to champion what wonderful engineers and craftmanship we really do have within our industry.”

Looking ahead, the affable Mark is feeling distinctly positive about the future.

“We hope to carry on exactly as we have for the last 18 years with slow growth based on a reputation of reliability and high-quality work.

“I’m also looking forward to putting on more Best Practice Days across the country with the aim of elevating awareness of some of the more intricate aspects of fencing whilst creating an environment where contractors can come together in what can sometimes be a very fragmented and lonely industry.

“No one has a crystal ball but if you’d told me back in the back in 2008 that I’d have a flourishing business almost decades on, chances are I wouldn’t have believed them!” concluded Mark

IN THE HOTSEAT

Where would you most like to visit in the world?

Already been but can’t get enough of it – New Zealand

What was the last book you read or are currently reading?

Sniper One

What is your favourite film of all time?

Hot Fuzz

What is your favourite band / singer / type of music?

ACDC – Back in Black

Which do you prefer most… wine, whisky or real ale? (or teetotal!)

Fridge beer

Which sports if any do you follow most closely?

Rugby