The Johnston name is synonymous with shop fitting in Ireland with the family run business first established back in 1947. The company has seen many changes over the years resulting in significant expansion and diversification. Given the level of service, experience and passion Johnston Shopfitters bring to every project, it is not surprising to see the business go from strength to strength. They have recently built and refurbished 330sqm of design and office space at their head office in Dublin and expanded their facility in Doncaster, UK by 600sqm.
Managing Director Conor Cahill spoke to Building Ireland about the direction the company is heading:
Johnston Shopfitters are regarded as the leading provider of fit-out services and equipment to all retail and commercial sectors. Providing customers with a reputational led focus on excellence in design, build, manufacturing, installation and customer service.
Through innovative solutions, harnessing current and emerging trends coupled with excellent value for money, Johnston Shopfitters strive to always exceed their customers’ expectations. Customer focused, client driven, inspirational commercial design solutions, serving all convenience, technology, fashion, gift, jewellery, hospitality, office, sports, pharmacy & specialty businesses.
Their experience, quality and service has resulted in numerous nominations and awards within the industry, with 2020 being no different as they are nominated for two awards at the ICI (Irish Construction Industry) event to be held in October.
“It is nice to get the recognition for our work in the industry. We are up for two awards, the small sub-contractor of the year and retail project of the year for Rocks Jewellers in Stillorgan,” said Conor.
“Business is going well and while we are currently working within a challenging environment we have adapted to provide additional services including our latest ‘Stay Safe Workplace’ range of products which allows our customers make their premises safe for both staff and customers alike.
“We have trained up new Covid-19 Compliance Officers, with updated Method Statements and Health & Safety Plans. Full recommendations have been adopted from CIF, HSE & Government guidance documents and all our employees and sub-contractors have completed their return to work induction and CIF’s on-line Covid-19 induction.
The company provide a complete turnkey service to its client base with everything from Design & Planning to Project management, Manufacture, Installation.
“Our extensive inhouse manufacturing facility allows us provide bespoke joinery to meet our clients design expectations. We have over 70 employees giving us the size and scale to undertake all Retail Fitout Projects. “Our team are highly experienced, and we provide extensive inhouse training to ensure that the employees are kept up to date with any changes in legislation or regulations.”
For the past four years, Johnston Shopfitter have an office in Doncaster as they look to build their portfolio in the U.K.
“We now have offices in Dublin and Doncaster. We were asked to complete a project in the U.K by one of our clients and the business has grown from there. It is an area of the business we are committed to developing further evidenced by our recent addition of 600 Sqm of office and warehousing in Doncaster. On occasion, we have also worked in mainland Europe and the U.S.”
Johnston Shopfitters have a great understanding for the industry:
“Our experience allows us to offer expert advice and guide the client through the process. We pride ourselves on the work that we do. Many of our projects are within different industries and this level of variety and complexity excites and challenges us. The time constraints within this industry are often challenging therefore we plan every project meticulously to ensure a smooth transition.
“We have a very good management team in place where we work well as a team. A solution can always be achieved for any issue that may arise, while continuing to complete the project on time and within budget.”
Aside from the issues that Covid-19 have brought about, Conor has advised that the company are currently preparing for how Brexit will affect the business.
“I do believe freight both too and from the UK will slow significantly creating additional challenges in a time sensitive market. There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding BREXIT but as a business operating on both sides of the Irish Sea we must prepare for all eventualities.”
Conor is pleased with the direction of the business as they continue to be at the forefront in a very competitive market.
“while the company has achieved significant year on year growth over the past few years we are always looking for new opportunities to expand our market and service offering.”
Contact Details:
Johnston Shopfitters
E, Bluebell Industrial Estate,
D12 P922
Tel: (01) 419 0419
This article was published in Building Ireland Magazine, July/August 2020, Vol 6 No 4
