The chairman of the largest independently owned catering, cleaning, events and support services company in Ireland has revealed that the business almost went under during the pandemic.
“We were saved by the speedy actions of our management team who quickly renegotiated contracts with our clients. Otherwise, we could've been a casualty of Covid. That was a very challenging time. “If I was to try and create Mount Charles today, I genuinely doubt if it would succeed. But I had fire in my stomach and, while I knew there were risks, I wasn't going to let that hold me back.“
The company's current headquarters at Annon House on Belfast's Ormeau Road is a far cry from its humble origins – a small office loaned to him by a business friend. “Food prices have gone through the roof and, post-Covid, there's been a major short supply of staff. The margins within contract catering are so tight we're putting a lot more focus into securing long-term cleaning contracts in Northern Ireland and Ireland.“
As founder of the outsourcing and facilities management empire, Trevor has guided Mount Charles into the all-island operation it is today, comprising five individual companies.