SD Team, one of the largest cosmetic finishing groups in the UK, has launched an all-new training facility, SD Academy, at its headquarters in Caldicot to conduct off-site classroom teaching at a time of skills and labour shortages in the construction industry.
With more than a quarter of a million additional construction workers needed by 2026* to fulfil industry demand, SD’s training academy aims to develop necessary practical skills in complex surface repair and will ready participants for a cosmetic technician role within the business.
The training facility officially opened in January 2023 new recruits coming on board to begin developing their skills immediately. The academy will be run by senior members of the SD finishing team, with plans to expand the programme in the coming months.
At present, SD Training Academy offers three separate classrooms complete with workstations presenting a range of materials that are to be repaired and finished ‘as new’, as well as an open-plan workshop.
On launching the facility, SD Managing Director, Nick Jones, said: “We are delighted to be able to open our training centre for apprentices and new staff. Investing in training, and in our people, will not only demonstrate to our clients that we are serious about the quality of our work but also ensure that our team is equipped with the right experience to carry out a brilliant job.
“We hope to be able to invite customers to visit the training facility so that they can see how our team work, and they can also get involved and try out some quick and easy repairs to see what goes into a service like this.”
The training academy has been developed in the wake of a record year in business, with figures for the last three quarters showing that SD has achieved a 25% increase in turnover year on year.
The business, which will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2023, has gone from strength to strength, becoming one of the UK’s largest sealant, repairs and marine interiors companies, with nine offices across England, Scotland and Wales.
Evan, a Trainee, who will be learning at the facility, said: “Having the opportunity to gain confidence and perfect new skills before you get on-site is a huge benefit as it can be quite daunting to get started on a big development when you’re still relatively new to the industry. I’m really grateful to be able to learn from some of the best in the business, and have the chance to shadow them here as well as on the job.”
Launched in 1973, SD teams originated as a family-run business in Somerset that specialised in the supply and application of sealant. Since then, the business has gone from strength to strength, becoming one of the UK’s largest repairs and sealant companies, with nine offices across England, Scotland and Wales.
In 1973, S&D was launched and originated as a family-run business in Somerset, specialising in the supply and application of sealants. Now, the business is celebrating its 50th birthday as one of the UK’s largest repair and sealant companies, with nine offices across England, Scotland and Wales.
Business Growth
Since its humble beginnings, the business has grown from being a small, family-run sealant- provider to a large-scale team of sealant experts, cosmetic repair technicians, insurance repairers, marine interiors specialists, and now an all-new academy for apprentices.
Managing Director, Nick Jones has commented on the impressive milestone:
“We are delighted to be celebrating 50 years of business. We pride ourselves on taking care of customers and the community that we have built over the years. The time has flown by and it’s great to see how far the business has come since its start in 1973.
“As we move forward, we don’t intend to rest on our laurels. We have big plans to develop our business throughout the UK and even into Europe We are actively expanding our presence across the world – from new offices to Caribbean marine repairs and will continue to scale up production to meet the demands of our clients.
“In line with this, we plan to continue investing in recruitment to further build our teams and will continue to offer a first-class service to a growing number of customers.”
Nick added, “Thank you to our staff and clients who have been brilliant since the start. We look forward to celebrating the 50-year achievement by giving recognition to our long-standing team members, taking a sustainability pledge and much more.”
Some achievements over the years
- Developing divisions and departments
From originally specialising in the supply and fit of sealants under the name S&D Sealants, Nick Jones expanded the business in 2013 by adding cosmetic repairs to its portfolio. Since then, the service has taken off, significantly contributing to the business’s continued success.
It was a couple of years later that SD recognised that its cosmetic repairs skills would be perfect for the cruise industry. As a result, SD hired experienced marine interior professionals to help develop the very successful Marine Sector Division, which covers both repairs and refitting.
But it didn’t stop there! In 2020, SD identified an opportunity to expand its services into insurance repairs and launched ‘SD Claims’. This service is available UK-wide and includes a two-year warranty rather than the industry-standard one-year guarantee.
So, what’s next? Very soon, SD will be launching its all-new training programme called ‘SD Academy’ which aims to develop necessary practical skills in complex surface repair. The academy will be based at its headquarters in Caldicot to conduct off-site classroom teaching at a time of skills and labour shortages in the construction industry.
- Growth in staff & projects
Since starting as a small family-run business, the team now stands at 200+, with plans to expand in 2023. The business understands that its staff are integral to its success and takes great care to ensure they are looked after. It offers training to those who’d like to develop skills on-site and provides opportunities to learn first-hand from its professional technicians.Overall, SD has estimated that they work on around 22,000 projects a year across a range of sectors including housing, hospitality, leisure, schools and more. Some of the most memorable projects include working on the Orient Express, boats on the Thames, the Tollcross International Swimming Pool, Hinkley Point, Wrexham FC, Goodwood Racecourse and so many more.
SD trains all of its own staff and encourages each one to develop their depth of knowledge and establish a rewarding career. It’s constantly on the lookout for new products and services, with a drive towards environmental quality in everything they use.
- Raising awareness for environmental issues
SD believe it’s everyone’s responsibility and duty to reduce, reuse and recycle wherever possible and it has been working hard to help businesses towards a greener, cheaper and more efficient alternative to replacing interiors.
The company launched its initiative ‘repair, don’t replace’ which encourages businesses to consider greener alternatives. As an industry leader in cosmetic repair, SD intends to set the bar high and ensure that its trained technicians offer only the best service in sustainable restoration even to the most heavily damaged items. This approach has been extremely successful and led to many businesses becoming recurring clients.
- Supporting & sponsoring incredible sporting talent
SD has been an avid follower of cycling in Wales. SD Teams got involved with Welsh Cycling back in 2015 and from there, the partnership has continued to develop in strength. Having supported individual cyclists in the past, SD is aware of the sacrifices, hard work and determination that this sport demands.We are incredibly proud to be the main corporate supporter of Wales Racing Academy. The Academy leads on from the existing Youth and Junior programmes to continue developing cyclists to further prepare and support them for the world of professional cycling.
As well as the cycling team, SD has sponsored the Leicestershire based Team Parker Racing for 8 years. The motorsport team continues to be branded with the SD Teams logo and colours, with the success of the crew increasing year after year.
Team Parker Racing has previously competed in Formula Vauxhall Junior, British Formula 3, and, more recently, in the British Touring Car Championship, where it is a race-winner. It also competes in the Porsche Carrera Cup GB and Caterham.
Everything we’ve achieved over the last fifty years has all played a part in making SD the company that it is today. We’re so proud of these accomplishments and we are eternally grateful to the excellent team members we’ve had working with us for over five decades – they have been instrumental in driving the business forward and we look forward to seeing what’s next!
We are almost halfway through March and spring is nearly upon us. With its warmer weather and lighter evenings, spring encourages us to focus on both starting new work and finalising the last legs of our existing building projects. So for many, it’s a great time to plan and address cosmetic repair needs, such as those unsightly chips, scratches and cracks that start to show from the harsh winter weather or from construction imperfections.
Whether you are developing or renovating a block of flats, municipal building or single home, leaving chips or scratches on interior or exterior surfaces at the end of the job is guaranteed to make a bad impression.
Why is spring the perfect time for cosmetic repair solutions?
For many construction projects, winter isn’t the ideal season for work due to the cold, wet and unpredictable weather. Not only do these conditions make construction projects difficult, but they can also hold up the process.
Another difficulty of winter working is that the days are undeniably short. It can get dark before 4pm, leaving projects delayed due to insufficient time for them to take place during the daylight hours. Additionally, without natural sunlight, many cracks, scratches and dents go unnoticed.
With its milder weather and longer days, spring is a good time to look out for any damage caused in the construction process or from wear and tear, and to restore even the most heavily damaged items to their former glory. This way, construction companies and building contractors can present an immaculate property on schedule, without the need to replace expensive items.
How can SD help?
Here at SD Cosmetic Repairs, we specialise in providing the construction industry with quality cosmetic repair solutions that can be relied on. As a cosmetic repair company with a long history of excellence, we are the go-to for businesses in the construction sector. We have a specialist team who are on hand throughout the UK, providing assistance for those who need cosmetic repairs in the final stages of their projects.
First established as a family business in Somerset, SD Cosmetic Repairs has since grown to be a leading, reputable cosmetic repair company and one of the largest sealants specialists in the UK. Dedicated to providing first-class construction cosmetics, we make sure we always meet even the highest standards by investing in the continuous cosmetic repair training of our team.
To back up our reputation as the UK’s leading cosmetic repair company, we’ve made sure that everyone who is part of our workforce has years of on-site experience and holds hard-earned CSCS qualifications. As well as professional qualifications certifying our cosmetic repair training, our years of experience providing cosmetic repair solutions make us unrivalled in the industry.
Contact us today to find out more info about our cosmetic repairs service, or get in touch today and we can discuss your needs.
The History
In 1973, SD teams and Cosmetic Repairs was launched and originated as a family run business in Somerset that specialised in the supply and application of sealant. Since then, the business has gone from strength to strength, becoming the UK’s largest sealant and finishing company, with offices across England, Scotland and Wales.
The year in review
Although Covid-19 continued to affect society, 2021 started to feel a little more normal with SD teams continuing to press ahead working hard on its business development and growth. As a result, SD teams increased its turnover by 47% in 2021, compared with 2020.
This marks the fourth consecutive year of growth as SD continues to provide sealant application, decorating services and cosmetic repairs for homeowners, house builders and commercial businesses.
A large change to the business in the last few years has been the addition of a claims service for insurance providers, as well as a marine arm. Managing Director, Nick Jones has commented on the growth of the business and where he sees the company growing in 2022:
“2020 and 2021 were very challenging years for the construction industry, which inevitably had a knock-on effect for businesses like ours that depend on gaining and delivering significant contracts – but I am so pleased that with some forethought, good business planning and diversification, SD has bucked the trend and reported even more growth in 2021.
“These results are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the whole SD team, from those working on sites around the UK, as well as our great office and support staff at the head office in Caldicot, South Wales. We are the best in the business and that’s down to the team I’m lucky enough to have around me.”
2021 highlights
Here are some of the most memorable moments from SD teams in 2021. The whole team is extremely excited to see what 2022 will bring.
- New hires were made:
This year alone, the team at SD had a 33% increase in its headcount, with the business continuing to look for talent in 2022. SD teams understands that its staff are integral to its success and takes great care to ensure that they are looked after. It offers training to those who’d like to develop skills on-site and provides opportunities to learn first-hand from its professional technicians.
- SD worked on some impressive projects:
SD carries out up to 22,000 projects a year, with the professional team working hard to please clients with their restorative approach which is not only cheaper than replacement but also more sustainable and environmentally friendly, as far less waste goes to landfill.
The SD Marine team, for example, have had lots of success with key members dedicating the first six months of 2021 to renovating two of Windstar Cruises’ luxury ships – its namesake yacht, the Wind Star, and the world’s largest sailing ship, Wind Surf. The SD team were also delighted to have been invited to survey the Wind Spirit in Tahiti, prior to the ship going into dry dock in Singapore in January 2022.
- Attended some incredible events:
SD’s marine arm also attended one of the world’s biggest exhibitions in Miami Beach last year, with its management and sales team at the Cruise Ship Interiors Expo. Whilst there, they were able to showcase the renovation of the two luxury cruise ships carried out on behalf of Windstar Cruises.
This year, the SD team will be attending the Seatrade Cruise Global event in Miami from 25th – 28th April 2022. This large event hosts suppliers and buyers from around the world and features a multi-track conference programme headlined by the industry’s most knowledgeable speakers.
- Finishing the year with a strong GT performance:
SD sponsor Team Parker Racing which had a strong end to their maiden season, with its Porsche making top-six finishes in all three final races this year. Altogether, they finished the season 10th in the championship category.
- Proud to be sponsoring Welsh Cycling:
Being an avid follower of cycling in Wales, SD teams got involved with Welsh Cycling back in 2015 and from there the partnership has continued to develop in strength. Having supported individual athletes in the past, SD is aware of the sacrifices, hard work and determination that this sport demands of its athletes.
The new Bristol City Football Club Training Ground is based just a few miles from Ashton Gate Stadium in Failand, and brings the first team and Bristol City Academy – its youth development squad – under one roof for the first time. The ground will also be a central hub for the players and coaching staff outside of match days.
Led by construction company Beard, ground was broken on the facility in February 2020 and was completed this Spring, with the SD team coming on board to carry out finishing and repairs.
A large team of repair technicians were on site from February 2021 until April, carrying out high gloss panel repairs as well as general internal repairs leftover following construction. Some of the Panels needed to be taken away to a specialist spray booth to ensure the high gloss level was achieved as seen here:
Facilities on the site include the main stand, tactical pitch and goalkeeping pitches, medical and rehabilitation facilities, gym, sports science facility and space for physiotherapists and coaches. There is also a kitchen and restaurant area, office space, and education and welfare facilities for the club’s young players.
SD are delighted to have been involved in this project and we can’t wait to see the team in action this season!
The company, which provides sealant application and cosmetic repair for house builders, commercial, insurance and marine businesses, has seen a rapid growth in the past three years. Steve’s appointment will further strengthen the cosmetic repairs team in the North West.
Steve has a long and varied career in the construction industry and worked in the Middle East and UAE before moving to Leeds.
Steve said: “After spending 12 years in the military I moved into business working for a paint manufacturer for 10 years, looking after nearly 200 trade stores. I then worked with various companies within the construction sector selling power tools and plumbing supplies before moving into selling consultancy services for the industry leading Sports Turf Research Institute.
“In 2013 I moved to the Middle East selling consultancy and training courses into the hotel and leisure industry, which gave me a great insight into the way the industry operates. I also worked with SMEs across all market sectors from the UAE and the UK, selling products and services into education, facilities management and construction.”
Steve moved back to the UK in December 2019 and worked within the cosmetic repair business focusing on corporate accounts until he joined the SD Team.
Nick Jones, Managing Director at SD Team, said of Steve’s appointment: “Steve has sales in his blood and comes with a wealth of experience that will be of huge benefit to the SD Team. Having worked across so many sectors his knowledge and experience is going to be of great benefit to us and his colleagues in the North West and Yorkshire.
“We are really pleased to welcome him to the SD Team to reinforce our foothold in the North West. In the past three years we’ve launched services in Manchester, Yorkshire and Leeds and Steve’s appointment as Business Development Manager will help us expand further in these areas, as well as allow us to use his network and knowledge of the retail sector to secure work in this area as lockdown lifts further.”
Steve added: “I am enjoying my time with the SD Team as I believe we are now moving forward into different sectors which will enhance our current portfolio and lead to further opportunities across multiple sectors.”
SD teams has been involved in a number of notable projects in the North West including work on Liverpool FC’s training ground and Aintree racecourse in Merseyside, Lincoln Cathedral and the Dewsbury and District Hospital.
For more information on recruitment opportunities, visit our vacancies page.
The SD Team has seen a rapid growth in the past three years and Robert’s appointment will further strengthen our offering in the North West.
Robert, who lives in Liverpool with his wife and two children, has a long and established career in cosmetic repairs. His first role took him to major golf events around the world before he settled back in the North West, working with repair teams and production management.
Roberts says: “I had been in the spraying game for a number of years before I got into the cosmetic repair industry. I returned to become a production manager and then moved to Merlin Repairs, where I quickly became a senior technician for the North West team.”
Robert was keen to hone his talents and gain more responsibility and is delighted to be joining the SD Team, where is hoping to build a bigger client base.
He adds: “My day-to-day activities will include building a successful team here in the northwest as well as building new relationships with new clients. I am looking forward to the challenge and I am confident we can be very successful here.”
Nick Jones, Managing Director at SD Team, said of Robert’s appointment: “Robert has a built a reputable career in cosmetic repair and comes with a wealth of experience that will be of huge benefit to us. We are really pleased to welcome him to the SD Team to reinforce our foothold in the North West.
“There is a great deal of skill and expertise to be found in the workforce in the North and we’re looking forward to having some new faces on our team. We pride ourselves on having the best crew in the business.
“In the past three years we’ve launched services in Manchester, Yorkshire and Leeds and we’ve found that there are many great opportunities in these regions. Robert’s appointment as Production Area Manager will help us expand further in these areas, as well as allow us to use his network and knowledge of the repairs sector to secure work here when lockdown lifts.”
Robert added: “It’s an exciting time for the SD Team and I’m delighted to be part of it.”
SD teams has been involved in a number of notable projects in the North West including work on Liverpool FC’s training ground and Aintree racecourse in Merseyside, Lincoln Cathedral and the Dewsbury and District Hospital.
For more information on recruitment opportunities, visit our vacancies page.
SD saw continuous growth prior to the covid-19 pandemic and we are now looking to expand our workforce after successfully weathering the storm for the past six months.
The recruitment drive aims to bring in up to 50 new recruits, from experienced/ skilled workers to those starting out in the trade, who will join us as we begin to relaunch SD’s full range of services, from marine and cruise repairs to providing the finish for new build developments.
Nick Jones, Managing Director at SD said: “This has been a really tough time for everybody in our industry, between construction projects halting and many workers being furloughed or having lost jobs over the past six months. We’ve been very lucky to have seen through the pandemic unscathed and being in such a fortunate position, we want to offer as many hard-working, skilled people as possible the chance to get back to work.
“We pride ourselves on having the best team in the business and our door is always open for talented new recruits. I’m thrilled that we’re in a position to be able to grow our team again, especially in such difficult times, and we really look forward to welcoming some new faces this year who can help us as we start back on our trajectory of growth.”
The SD team have been involved in a number of significant construction projects in the UK, including five of the emergency NHS hospitals that were erected in response to the rise in Coronavirus cases this year. They have also seen particular growth in the North of England, with recent projects including Liverpool FC’s training ground, Lincoln Cathedral and the Dewsbury and District Hospital, Yorkshire.
In the financial year 2019-20, SD turned over more than £1million in what was a record-breaking 12 months for the firm. This August, the company marked its return to full steam with the launch of SD Claims, an insurance service for claims made on household and commercial damage that needs repair.
Launched in 1973, SD teams and Cosmetic Repairs originated as a family run business in Somerset that specialised in the supply and application of sealant. Since then, the business has gone from strength to strength, becoming one of the UK’s largest sealant companies, with eight offices across England, Scotland and Wales.
For more information and to apply, visit our careers page.
NHS emergency hospital building programme
In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, 2020 saw conference centres and stadium facilities from Cardiff to Glasgow transformed in quick succession into emergency field hospital sites, each with the capacity to hold hundreds and even thousands of patient beds.
SD teams were honoured and delighted to be one of the teams onsite at these NHS hospitals, providing mastic application to ensure that the facilities are sealed and secure.
Supercar showrooms
SD teams had a busy start to the year, providing sealant application for a range of luxury car showrooms in Hatfield including Aston Martin, Jaguar Landrover and McLaren.
Our specialist sealants team worked tirelessly to complete high quality mastic application and finishing to a series of areas around four dealership showrooms in Hertfordshire.
Wrexham FC
Back in 2017, the SD team assisted Lendlease on a community day at Wrexham Football Club. Our work detail was to carry out sealant works to the toilet, kitchen and classroom areas with a mind to giving the Racecourse Foundation a safe and suitable place to run its soccer schools.
The project was a big success and meant that we could help out a great cause in the local community.
Caudwell International Children’s Centre
The Caudwell International Children’s Centre (CICC) is Britain’s first independent centre dedicated to autism diagnosis, therapy and research. Purpose-built with autistic people in mind, the centre includes state-of-the-art assessment suites, a sensory garden to help children interact with nature, family training suites as well as training kitchens for cooking classes to encourage a healthy diet.
SD carried out sealant application for kitchens, floors, toilets and internal windows on the premises and we are incredibly proud to have been involved in such an impressive project.
To see more examples of our expert mastic application and to find out more about SD’s services, visit the Sealants Services page here.