Hewer Facilities Management is celebrating a landmark 60th anniversary, marking six decades of growth from a small family plumbing business into one of the region’s leading names in heating, renewables, and building services.
From Humble Beginnings
The company’s story began in 1965, when founder David Hewer, the son of a general builder, turned his army-learned plumbing skills into a livelihood. After marrying his childhood sweetheart, Rona, and working locally in Gloucester, David took the bold step of starting his own business to support his growing family. His early focus was on domestic heating and plumbing services for local households across Gloucestershire.
Generational Growth
Nearly 60 years later, David’s son, Simon Hewer, leads the business as CEO alongside his four fellow directors and co-owners. Under Simon’s guidance, Hewer has expanded far beyond its roots, growing steadily into the commercial sector and diversifying into electrical, mechanical, and renewable energy services. The firm now provides solutions for residential and commercial clients alike, with specialist capabilities ranging from solar PV and EV charging to the installation of advanced air source heat pumps.
Today, Hewer counts among its clients not only local households and businesses but also national organisations such as the Ministry of Defence and British Gas, as well as schools, hospitals, and social housing providers.
A New Era: Management Buyout and Expansion
The company entered a new chapter in early 2024 with a successful management buyout. Alongside Simon, directors Ian Haughton, Chris Yates, Stuart Hesk, and Ian Leitch took ownership roles, strengthening leadership for the next stage of growth.
Since then, Hewer has seen headcount climb to 160, turnover surpass £21.3 million (up 16.9% year-on-year), and an overall growth of more than 80% in the past six years. The expansion reflects both rising demand in renewables, the retention of existing contracts, and the successful winning of new ones. Looking forward, the company is especially excited about future growth linked to the success of its innovative Heat Saviour product.
This smart, British-built retrofit interface simplifies heat pump installation, protects systems long-term, and helps housing providers and local authorities make homes heat-pump ready without expensive pipework overhauls.
Business with a Heart
While growth has been strong, Simon and his team have been careful to preserve the company’s family-first ethos. Staff wellbeing remains a central priority, reflected in initiatives such as the workplace “Cheery Wheel” prize scheme, seasonal celebrations, and a vibrant community spirit.
Over the past year, staff have raised thousands of pounds for charities including Teckels Animal Shelter and a local primary school. At the same time, Hewer has invested heavily in apprenticeships, currently employing 14 apprentices across the business to support the next generation of skilled engineers.
Recognition and Awards
The company’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. In the past year, Hewer was shortlisted for seven industry awards, winning the C2S 2025 Regional Business Award for Innovation and Change Management, a recognition of the company’s forward-thinking approach and adaptability.
Looking Ahead
As it enters its seventh decade, Hewer remains committed to its founding principles: adding value, integrity, reliability, professionalism, teamwork, and customer care. Simon explains: “Reaching this milestone in the company’s history has been a proud moment for all of us. Over the past year, our team has shown tremendous commitment, driving growth, securing key contracts, and embracing innovation. What matters most, though, is that we have achieved this while keeping our family-first culture at the heart of everything we do. That balance between growth and enjoyment is what makes Hewer special, and it gives us great confidence for the future.”
From a one-man plumbing business in 1965 to a £21 million regional force in 2025, Hewer’s journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and family values. As the company celebrates 60 years, it looks not only back on its rich history but also forward with confidence to a sustainable and customer-focused future.
