Fire and security specialists create new jobs in city move with bank support

08 October 2015

A leading provider of security and fire safety services will create jobs over the next 12 months after purchasing new premises in Gloucester, with a six-figure funding package from Clydesdale Bank.

Allcooper will move from its current premises in Hucclecote to the new 0.7 acre site in Kingsholm after the business carries out a full refurbishment of the premises. The move will bring the family firm closer to customers in the centre of Gloucester while improving links with local businesses.

Following the move, Allcooper will recruit 20 new employees over the next year, growing its current team of 80. Additionally, the firm is aiming to increase its turnover from £6m to £9m over the next 12 months.

Allcooper Limited has offices in Gloucester, Bristol, Bromsgrove and London, catering to more than 5,000 clients across the UK and Europe. The business designs, manufactures and installs a wide range of safety systems for both domestic and commercial customers.

Gary Cooper, founder of Allcooper, established the business in 1987, operating from the back room in his family home after he took early retirement. He started the company with his son, Gerard Cooper, a qualified electrical & security technician, along with Roman Cooper who joined straight from school, aged 16.

Gary’s two sons, Gerard and Roman, now lead the business in their roles as directors. Gerard was recently honoured with the Freedom of the City of London for his services to the security industry.

Three generations of the Cooper family work in the business, with five of Gary’s grandchildren now also on board.

John Cary, relationship manager at Clydesdale Bank’s Business and Private Banking Centre in Gloucester, arranged the funding for the new premises. Allcooper have been a customer of Clydesdale Bank since 1994.

Gary Cooper said: “We were one of Clydesdale Bank’s first customers when it came to Gloucester and the team has been fantastic to work with. I would never have been able to purchase the Hucclecote site without the Bank’s help and now it has supported our move to the city which I believe will enable further growth for the business.

“The core of Allcooper’s success is the family element. My sons and I have been committed to working together to grow the business since it began and we have built up a very loyal customer base.”

Rob Spearman, head of Clydesdale Bank’s Business and Private Banking Centre in Gloucester, said: “The leadership team behind Allcooper is responsible for the consistent growth the business has experienced, which will now bring a significant number of jobs to the city. We have been proud to support the business’ progress and will continue to do so in the future.

“As economic conditions continue to improve, Clydesdale Bank remains focused on supporting the growth ambitions of businesses in the South West.”