The new company, to be named GSL Dardan, will have a combined staff of over 500 and an annual turnover approaching GB pound 12 million. Both businesses will operate under a new Group structure with the merger process being phased over the next six months.
GSL Dardan will be based at a purpose built 5,000sq ft building at the Longwater Business Park in Norwich. The new headquarters at Longwater will provide the company with the space it needs for further expansion as well as a state of the art 24-hour control centre.
Gary Thirkettle, Gardwell managing director, said: “This is an exciting opportunity for both companies and will help us build on the strengths of the existing management teams as well as providing opportunities for all employees.
“Both businesses are already profitable and growing – this merger gives us a platform to accelerate that growth in a controlled manner, ensuring we maintain the quality of service and flexibility which has been a cornerstone of our success.”
Common ethos
The merger will see Thirkettle as managing director of the new company and Mark Duffy, the existing managing director of ISL Dardan, becoming group chairman. Michael Taubman, one of Dardan’s founders, is group commercial director. The board will also be supported by Gardline Shipping managing director, Mervyn Wooltorton.
Duffy said: “Our businesses have a common ethos and approach to looking after customers. It is our aim to continue our strategy of maintaining close personal relationships with our clients and staff, offering the professional service we have become known for. The security industry is constantly evolving and we will ensure that the company is at the forefront of that change ensuring the best possible service to our clients.”
Both businesses are accredited as Security Industry Authority Approved Contractors.