An electrician from Coventry, Steve Friel, has been named a runner up in a competition to find the best tradesman in the country.
Thousands entered Britain’s Top Tradesman, organised by trade retailer Screwfix, with the top 10 attending a final at Wembley Stadium, on 5 November, to face a panel of esteemed judges. Due to the high standard of finalists this year, Friel, aged 34, has been recognised as a runner up along with one other tradesman.
Britain’s Top Tradesman, organised by trade retailer Screwfix, is a comprehensive search to find and recognise the best in the trade, from bricklayers to carpenters, helpful handymen, exceptional electricians and perfect plumbers that keep the UK’s homes and businesses in top condition.
Friel, who runs Central Electrics, impressed the panel of judges with his hard work and commitment in establishing his successful business. His use of technology to provide great customer service also made him stand out – he sends customers automated text messages to let them know he is on his way and uses cloud computing so his team know what’s happening in the business in real time.
Friel said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to receive this special recognition from Screwfix. I strive for excellence in customer service and always keep an eye out to see what other companies do to see if I can adapt it for my business. I also detail fixed prices on my website so customers know what to expect from a job and will follow up with them when we have completed the work to make sure they are happy.”
John Mewett, marketing director at Screwfix, said: “Britain’s Top Tradesman, is a nationwide search to find and recognise the best in the business. We were overwhelmed by this year’s finalists, and it was such a difficult decision to pick the winner. Steve goes above and beyond for his customers and demonstrates an entrepreneurial spirit and passion. What’s more, he had great feedback from his customers, does remarkable work for the local community and is a fantastic example to others in the industry.”
The overall winner of the competition is Tom Ball, a joiner from Stockport. The additional r‘unner up is heating engineer, Neil Birnie from Scotland. Ball will receive a PROACE van from Toyota worth up to £27,000, whilst Birnie and Friel will receive a special award from Screwfix.
