BORN and raised in County Durham, Phil Andrew is passionate about his home and his work at Great Annual Savings, an international organisation with its base in the North-East.

There has been rapid expansion for the last four years at GAS, with the company, as Phil explains: “Growing our market share and creating new jobs in County Durham, which we’re very proud of.”

Phil recognises the “strong pool of talent in the North-East”, and is enthusiastic about the “entrepreneurial spirit” that is prized and nurtured at GAS.

Frank about what he calls ‘the “nuisance” tag’ that the business energy market has earned for itself, Phil sees in the fresh business values at GAS an opportunity to “change the conversation” around energy. “We want to be the business our customers come to for advice and trust to help further their ambitions,” he says.

“People’s eyes roll when you start talking about energy, which is why GAS is so focused on what the business can offer customers. In 2019 alone we’ve launched two new money-saving services for businesses – electric vehicle charging points and mobile shredding.

“We’re always discovering new areas where we can help our clients save costs, so we’re always growing and diversifying. We now offer 12 cost reduction services outside of energy. Despite it being where we started, we’re not an energy broker. We’re a cost reduction specialist and energy brokerage is one of our services.”

The growth of the company is testament to GAS being “not just another energy broker”. Phil says aggressive marketing, mistakes on contracts, and generally poor customer service is firmly off GAS’s agenda.

“Those who do things right will stand the test of time”, he says. “Whether that is looking after their staff properly, offering sincere and valuable advice or having a positive impact on their community. The rest will fall by the wayside.”

GAS supports three corporate charities, including one of Durham’s most famous, Heel and Toe Children’s Charity. “We sponsor youth football teams as well as Spennymoor Town, a number of cricket and rugby clubs and other charities too,” says Phil.

GAS staff are also given one free day each year to spend volunteering in the community. Official energy partner of Lumiere Durham 2019, Phil describes the company’s involvement in the light festival this year as one of his proudest moment at GAS.

“North-East people are proud of their historic buildings and regional art, and Lumiere helps shine a national spotlight on our appreciation of them by creating this festival atmosphere and bringing people together.”