Meet the exciting people behind our member businesses.
Name: Craig Reid
Company: Allied International UK Ltd
Job title: Branch Manager
Give us the elevator pitch for your business.
Allied International one-stop solution and worldwide leader in distribution and stock management for all kinds of fittings, flanges, pipes, lined-clad and bored pipes, large radius bends and special supplies for petrochemical, oil, gas, nuclear and power industries for the production, transportation and transformation of energy.
Who are your customers?
We support local fabricators, EPC’s and end users as well as exporting to our clients around the globe.
What is the biggest challenge and opportunity your organisation is facing right now?
The biggest challenge is the unpredictable policies set by government which has direct costs and indirect costs to the business. Additionally the EPL windfall tax has resulted in significantly reduced investment in infrastructure, reducing demand for piping products.
Despite the reduced activity in the oil and gas industry, we are seeing opportunities due to our manufacturing capabilities in other markets that government are supporting. For example we are supporting large scale products in the nuclear industry whilst also carrying out research and design for products to support emerging markets such as hydrogen.
What is your word of advice for fellow Chamber members?
Hardship breeds strength and character. Businesses specifically in the North East have had to endure many hardships over the last decade from Brexit, to Covid-19 to now the EPL effecting many businesses across different industries. I have an optimistic approach to the future of the North East and believe that the grit and resilience shown over the last decade has given us all lessons that will allows us reap the rewards in the future.
What is the best thing about being a Chamber member?
Having a united body that can speak up and have voices heard of the North East business community at the highest level is a highlight. Additionally, the informative events and sharing of information, highlighting the positive news in the region is of great benefit.