National growth for Gateshead maintenance firm with John Lewis Partnership deal

A Gateshead-based maintenance company has secured a new contract with a national retail group.

Commercial Maintenance Services UK Ltd (CMS) has secured a ‘major’ deal with John Lewis Partnership for an undisclosed sum.

Founded by engineers Neil and Nic Smith in 2000, CMS provides a range of commercial maintenance services, working with the likes of Four Seasons Health Care, Nuffield Gyms and Hospitals, and Travelodge.

Secured through principal contractor CBRE, the new contract will see CMS provide planned preventative maintenance to 173 John Lewis and Waitrose stores across the country.

Nic Smith, co-founder and managing director of CMS, described the contract as a “significant and prestigious win” that will help secure jobs. He explained: “We have worked throughout this pandemic across a range of sectors – including care homes and private hospitals – ensuring they have remained operational.

“We are again starting to see work in certain sectors dry up, particularly in hospitality, which is facing further challenges, so this contract will help bridge what we hope is a temporary gap.”

“Both John Lewis and Waitrose are successful and instantly recognisable brands in the retail and grocery world, and we are extremely pleased to have been selected by CBRE to deliver our facilities management and maintenance services.

“This contract win underlines the growing reputation of CMS as a reliable partner for nationwide business.”