Cleantec, a power-cleaning equipment supply company based in Omagh, plans to expand cross-border and across Ireland by 2008 using an innovative product range to break into the new markets. The company used the successful Innovate Programme to focus its new product development activity and create its new market entry strategy.
Cleantec was set up by Ben Monaghan in 1999 after having worked in the industry for five years. John Brogan joined him as a partner in 2002. The company currently operates in the North West selling and servicing a wide selection of pressure-washers ranging from household DIY cleaners to heavy-duty professional machines.
Cleantec specialises in leading world brands such as Karcher, Kranzle, MAC and Interpump and it is an authorised Karcher dealer. Cleantec also provides related power cleaning equipment including industrial vacuums, carpet/upholstery cleaners, floor cleaners, industrial sweepers and cleaning detergents.
Ben Monaghan explains how the Innovate programme has helped Cleantec focus on creating new product ideas that will attract strong demand in new markets.
"Through the programme we have been able to explore the manufacture and installation of purpose built type equipment for the industrial and forecourt markets," he says. "The programme has also given us the confidence and skills to better prepare for that market."
The company is currently working with a local product designer to develop a prototype for its new product. This will enable Cleantec to test and further develop the product in the market ahead of its launch and full market entry.
Ben Monaghan would strongly recommend the Innovate programme to other business owners.
"The programme is a great way of disciplining yourself by setting down time to investigate new ways of operating your business. It helped us to look at new ways of doing things, such as looking at methods of producing hot water other than electric or oil heating. It has also been an incentive to prioritise our growth and employ a full-time service engineer."
Innovate is a joint initiative from Omagh Enterprise Company and Leitrim County Enterprise Board designed to help companies become more profitable by reducing costs and improving their business processes. Part of the funding for Innovate comes from the European Union which provides ¤856,391 through the Interreg IIIA Programme. These funds are managed by the Special EU Programmes Body through the ICBAN Partnership.
This programme provides invaluable assistance to companies such as Cleantec that have the potential for significant growth. It provides the mentoring, training and access to technology that many companies need if they are to reduce their costs and focus on innovative growth.
Sharon Tracey-Collins, Business Innovation Officer at Omagh Enterprise Company, stresses the valuable contribution a programme like Innovate can make to local companies.
"Continuous new product and service development is essential for the long-term growth and success of local companies," says Sharon. "No business can stand still. Innovate is all about using the latest technology and efficient business processes to allow companies to develop and become more profitable. It can be a great benefit to any local company striving for success."
To find out more about Cleantec please call 028 82251166, email info@cleantec.biz or visit www.cleantec.biz
If your business would like to find out how the Innovate Programme could help you, contact Sharon Tracey-Collins, Business Innovation Officer at Omagh Enterprise Company, on 028 822 49494 or email sharon.tracey@oecl.co.uk, or visit www.improvethroughchange.com or www.oecl.co.uk
