RE:GEN Group has topped the North East’s fastest growing companies list, driven by their commitment to decarbonisation.
Through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions, the company is transforming the region’s social housing sector, setting new standards for sustainable growth.
Leading the Decarbonisation Effort
The North East region is witnessing significant growth driven by the drive towards decarbonisation. The RE:GEN Group has emerged as a leader in this transformation, becoming the overall winner in the 2024 Ward Hadaway Fastest 50 Awards. This success is largely attributed to their strategic focus on decarbonising the social housing sector.
RE:GEN Group has forged strong partnerships with key housing associations in the region. These collaborations have fostered innovative solutions that address the evolving needs of housing providers and communities. The company’s commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable housing options has earned them a reputation as a trusted partner.
Addressing the Skills Shortage
One of the challenges currently facing the RE:GEN Group is the shortage of skilled workers needed to meet the increasing demand for green building projects. It is estimated that the sector requires around 1,500 new skilled workers annually. This shortage is impacting both RE:GEN and the wider supply chain.
In response, RE:GEN has established the non-profit RE:GEN Academy, which plays a crucial role in training and providing employment opportunities for those entering the sector. This initiative is instrumental in bridging the skills gap and preparing a workforce capable of supporting the region’s decarbonisation goals.
The Role of Coleman James
Coleman James, a recruitment firm, ranks as the third fastest-growing small business in the North East. Their focus is on sourcing talent for the built environment and infrastructure sectors. Their ability to identify candidates with expertise in sustainability and green building roles is commendable.
According to Andrew Mackay, CEO of Coleman James, the demand for individuals with sustainability skills has seen a marked increase over the past five years. This rise illustrates the growing importance of green initiatives in the construction industry.
By understanding the specific requirements of construction businesses, Coleman James is helping to facilitate the achievement of the government’s Net Zero agenda through their recruitment strategies.
Regional Opportunities and Challenges
The North East region is poised to take advantage of the opportunities that decarbonisation presents, particularly within the construction sector. While these opportunities are significant, they come with their own set of challenges.
The collaboration between large-scale construction firms and smaller enterprises, like SMEs, is crucial to ensuring the sector can meet the current demands. Nick Gholkar from Ward Hadaway emphasises the need for collaboration across industries.
By fostering innovation and embracing new technologies, these regional businesses can continue to drive sustainable growth while simultaneously addressing environmental concerns.
Supporting Sustainable Growth
The strategic focus of the North East, particularly in the construction sector, is on sustainable growth and innovation. With businesses like RE:GEN and Coleman James leading the charge, the region is setting a standard for others to follow.
By prioritising decarbonisation efforts, the North East is not only enhancing its economic prospects but also contributing to a healthier environment. This dual approach is proving essential in navigating the challenges and opportunities of modern development.
The ongoing investment in skills development, infrastructure, and green technologies is setting the foundation for lasting success and regional leadership.
Fostering a Collaborative Industry
As the demand for sustainable building projects continues to grow, so does the need for collaboration within the industry. This cooperation involves not just builders but also recruiters, engineers, and educators.
Collaboration is key to meeting the ambitious decarbonisation targets set by the government and ensuring that the construction industry remains a vital contributor to regional development.
The synergy between sectors is enhancing innovation, with each player addressing specific challenges and leveraging their strengths to support the broader agenda.
Future Outlook
The future for the North East appears promising, with continued emphasis on sustainability and innovation within the construction sector. As regions pursue their decarbonisation objectives in alignment with governmental policies, the foundations for a robust market are being laid out.
North East businesses are at the forefront of a sustainability revolution, establishing a benchmark for innovation and growth.
As decarbonisation remains central to their strategy, these companies are not only enhancing regional development but also improving community living conditions.
