April 2020
As we start May, some thoughts on the last month at Furdeco.
“I cannot stress enough my gratitude, admiration for our team during the last month. They are aware of their responsibilities and have adapted to change with minimal fuss. “
Andrew Turner, Head of Change at Furdeco
The world in unprecedented times with the COVID-19 disruption to business paling into insignificance against the saddening global loss of human life.
Operationally we have had many positives. Demand for goods sold online, including large ticket items such as garden furniture, televisions, refrigerators and furniture has seen a surge in sales for many of our clients.
The Furdeco team has had to ramp up service capacity to cope, all with the backdrop of ensuring strict safety and hygiene policies. While our assembly and installation has had to be paused, and we have reduced our customer service team due to self-isolation, we are still arranging alternative solutions with customers on behalf of our clients. This begins with contactless delivery and includes an expanded range of delivery date options for customers, as well as assisting our clients in planning more streamlined delivery which involves additional route optimisation and storage.
Our robust technical infrastructure has been invaluable to maintain service. We are an IT forward business and so adapting to the rapid change in working protocols was implemented against existing scenario planning. We have missed the office atmosphere and our Friday team meals, but it is a small price to pay.
Our clients understanding and cooperation as we adapt to change has been made possible with clear communication and a common can-do attitude.
We have also implemented the expansion of our Midlands base with an additional 40,000 square foot warehouse space to increase our storage capacity. This facility is in use and we are already planning more capacity and another recruitment event in September if it is safe to do so.
We know how blessed we are to be trading while many are struggling with uncertainty. Observing the dedication of all key workers and the Furdeco family, has strengthened our resolve to continue service for our clients without any compromise on quality and safety.