As we move through the first quarter of 2026, I have been taking time to reflect on where we are as a Group, what we have achieved so far and what lies ahead. It is only eighteen months since the business listed and already the progress made across the Group gives me confidence in our direction and our long term potential. We have added new capability, strengthened our governance and continued to support clients with practical energy and retrofit services that improve homes and buildings across the regions in which we operate.
When I consider the past year, the most striking feature is the consistency with which our teams have delivered. Each of our businesses has faced its own challenges but they have continued to demonstrate resilience and a clear focus on quality. That ability to deliver stable outcomes in a changing environment is one of the reasons I remain confident about the next phase of our development. As a Group, we now have a broader base of capability than ever before and we are using that foundation to build a business that can grow sustainably and support clients for the long term.
The shift from early stage growth to disciplined integration is becoming more visible across the Group. I have always believed that strong governance underpins strong performance. Over the past year we have strengthened the structure that sits beneath the Board with new appointments in people leadership and health and safety. These roles are central to the way we run the business. They support our focus on safe working practices, consistent standards and a culture that encourages responsibility and accountability. As a listed business, it is important that we continue to align our governance systems with the scale we want to achieve. I am pleased with the progress we have made so far and with the progress I expect us to make throughout the year.
Our strategy remains unchanged. We are building a Group made up of capable regional businesses that deliver practical energy services and retrofit solutions. The demand for these services continues to grow as more organisations seek to improve the performance of homes and buildings. While government policy shifts from time to time, the underlying need for improved efficiency, reduced costs and long term resilience remains. It has always been my view that we must remain focused on delivery rather than allow ourselves to become distracted by short term changes in the political environment. The strength of our order book and the quality of our relationships with clients show that we are building on a stable footing.
I am particularly pleased with the way our businesses are working together. Each brings a different strength but they share a common approach to quality, safety and customer care. That alignment is important as we continue to grow. The Board has spent considerable time over the past year clarifying how we want our businesses to operate and how we expect our teams to collaborate. This is not about centralising everything. It is about ensuring that the systems which support our work are consistent and that we make the most of the combined capability that exists across the Group. That approach allows us to protect the individuality of each business while still benefiting from shared processes and efficiencies.
One of the most encouraging signs as we enter 2026 is the confidence of our clients. We have seen continued demand from the housing sector, from insurers and from commercial customers seeking support with energy improvements. The work being delivered across the regions is a reflection of the trust placed in our teams. Our businesses are often working in occupied homes and in sensitive environments. That requires professionalism, clear communication and high standards of conduct. I see this being delivered every day and I want to recognise the effort of our people who continue to uphold these standards.
Looking ahead, we will continue to focus on disciplined growth. We have always taken a measured approach to acquisitions and we will continue to do so. There are opportunities in the market but it is important that any new addition strengthens our capability and aligns with our long term ambition. We are not trying to build scale for its own sake. We are building a Group that delivers consistent performance and long term value. Where the right acquisition presents itself, the Board will consider it carefully but our priority remains to support the businesses we already have. The full year effect of the more recent additions gives us a strong base for further growth and I believe this will become more visible as the year progresses.
Although the environment remains competitive, the breadth of our service offering puts us in a strong position. From heating maintenance and mechanical services to retrofit design and energy improvements, we are well placed to support a wide range of clients. This breadth is important because it allows us to respond flexibly as the market evolves. It also ensures that we can grow in a way that remains balanced and sustainable. The Board will continue to invest in the areas where we see the greatest long term opportunity and where we believe our businesses can make the most meaningful impact.
As we move further into 2026, my focus remains on maintaining stability while supporting the next phase of growth. The past year was about building the foundations. This year is about strengthening them. I am proud of the progress our teams have made and the professionalism they demonstrate every day. We have a capable Board, strong operational leadership and a clear sense of purpose. With these elements in place, I believe we are well positioned to deliver another year of progress.
Thank you for your continued support. I look forward to sharing more updates as we move through the year and as we continue to grow our presence across the regions we serve.
