Business Spotlight - Gap Group
Gap Group, a Gateshead-based recycling and resource management company, has transformed from a small "two men and a van" operation into the UK's largest fridge processor, handling 35% of the nation's discarded refrigerators.
Recently, the company launched Gap Renew, a division focused on refurbishing electrical appliances and diverting waste from end-of-life disposal. By taking in used or returned appliances, Gap Renew repairs and refurbishes them, offering high-quality goods at competitive prices under the Renew 2 U brand.
In a significant social initiative, Gap Renew is partnering with National Housing Projects and Coventry Housing Projects to provide affordable, refurbished appliances for young care leavers. These partnerships allow care leavers to equip their homes with essential appliances, such as washing machines, fridges, and cookers, at a fraction of the cost of new items. This initiative enables care leavers to stretch limited budgets, ensuring they have access to multiple appliances for the price of one or two new ones. Gap Renew aims to replicate this model across the UK, increasing support for care leavers and housing projects nationwide.
The company also places a strong emphasis on workforce development, recognizing the industry's skills shortage. Gap Renew is actively exploring apprenticeship programs to train engineers in refurbishing large home appliances. Currently, the company has a core team of engineers, supported by trainees who rotate through different sections—engineering, cleaning, and logistics—to gain a broad understanding of the business. One recent hire, Kieran, exemplifies this approach, having shown drive and enthusiasm despite his young age and limited formal qualifications.
Gap Renew has set ambitious growth targets, aiming to expand within five years. Despite its national reach, Gap Renew hopes to increase its local impact in the Northeast, working closely with housing projects and businesses to raise awareness of its services and create more local job opportunities.