Seaton’s iconic model railway business PECO has been acknowledged for its resilience in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.
Insurance brokers Gallagher have launched a UK-wide initiative called “Tackling Tomorrow. Together” – aimed at supporting seven pioneering UK organisations that have shown tenacity and pioneering spirit during the Covid-19 crisis.
PECO was selected to participate in the programme in recognition of their efforts and resilience during the pandemic.
Covid-19 provided a huge challenge to PECO, with the factory closing for five weeks during the first lockdown. On top of this the business also had to deal with a cyber attack.
Despite these challenges, PECO has been up and running since last April. With Gallagher’s help, they have managed to fully recover, with demand currently outstripping their ability to manufacture some of the products.
The family company, which started trading in 1946 and is now in its third generation, has been paired with top flight rugby clubs Bristol and Gloucester, who play in the Gallagher-sponsored Premiership.
PECO, along with the other participating organisations, will be given opportunities to promote their business within their local communities with the aim of getting in front of new audiences and potential customers. This includes in-stadia advertising such as big screen promotions and match programme adverts, region-specific digital marketing and tickets to host a networking event when spectators are allowed to attend Premiership games again.
Each organisation will also receive a meet and greet session for employees with their local Gallagher Premiership rugby players.
PECO managing director Ben Arnold said: “PECO are delighted to be part of Gallagher’s “Tackling Tomorrow. Together” campaign. This past year has certainly brought many challenges but thanks to Gallagher’s help, particularly after being hit by the cyber-attack during the first Lockdown, we have been able to recover, and are proud to be keeping households engaged in their railway modelling interests and hobbies during this tricky time.”
Michael Rea, chief executive of Gallagher’s UK retail division, said: “Gallagher is working with UK businesses to help them navigate the challenges and evolving risks that have arisen from the tough trading conditions of the past 12 months.”
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