Forging Ahead Since 2010: 15 Years of Forge

This year, Forge Property Consultants is celebrating the company’s 15^th birthday, since it began trading in 2010. To mark the occasion, we have discussed the company’s roots, current working practices and future plans with Director Charles Lawson.

Where did FPC originate?

At the end of 2009 I was leaving my previous job and was speaking to a couple of large firms about possible roles. In those discussions I realised I did not want to carry on working for another corporate and wanted to try setting up on my own with a focus on providing high quality advice at a reasonable cost to clients, to build long term relationships with those clients, support young surveyors and operate a business that was socially and environmentally responsible. The business name ‘Forge’ comes from my house which used to be a Blacksmiths - there used to three Forges in the smithy, the name seemed appropriate and seems to have stood the test of time!

True or false: Forge originally started as a small, one-person operation before growing into a full team.

True

Who were the first key hires at Forge, and how did they shape the business?

In the second year of trading, we appointed James Wadland as an assistant surveyor on placement from Harper Adams. He assisted with sub contracted work for one of the water companies as well as a range of property management and other professional work.  James is now a partner in a national firm specialising in utility work.

What was the original vision for Forge when it was first founded, and how has that evolved over time?

I wanted to try setting up on my own with a focus on providing high quality advice at a reasonable cost to client, to build long term relationships with those clients, support young surveyors and operate a business that was socially and environmentally responsible. The aim was to become a regional firm with a great reputation. I am proud that we have been able to support a number of charities and grass roots sports.

What’s one aspect of the company that has remained the same since day one, and why?

I believe we have maintained a healthy and supportive culture since day one, and we always go the extra mile to be helpful to our clients.

What geographical areas does the company cover?

Our core area is the West Midlands and Wales, although we have worked further afield on occasions with work undertaken in Northumberland, London and Devon!

What’s one area of the business you think has grown the most over the past 15 years?

In recent years the main growth area has been development of our valuation services, we have four registered valuers currently and provide in the region of 30 valuation reports every month for a range of purposes.