A&P Birkenhead Scoops “European Shiprepair & Conversion Specialist 2003” Accreditation

Subsequent to an extensive research and selection process, the awards committee at the Institute of Transport Management has decided to present A&P Birkenhead with the “European Shiprepair & Conversion Specialist 2003” accreditation. All major European Shiprepair Companies were canvassed, and this accolade is a true testament to the outstanding company that is A&P Birkenhead. The ever-increasingly popular ITM Awards Programme took place once again, and entailed the canvassing of its members in the Marine sector. The programme was piloted in 1995 and was designed to recognise advances within the Marine sector over the previous 12 months. The decision to present A&P Birkenhead with this coveted accreditation is the result of research which included the polling of Institute members and Shiprepair specialists and is a true reflection of the high esteem the company enjoys within the industry. The Management of the companies interviewed stressed, Customer Service, Marketing Policies, Project Management and Investment as their premier concerns when assessing the nominees’ offerings. A&P Birkenhead scored brilliantly in each area, in addition to special mentions being given to the outstanding Customer Service provided by the staff, and the excellent reputation brought to the table by the very capable management structure within the company. The vast experience the company has, along with its intention to continually develop its operations throughout the world speaks volumes for the direction of the company and its management. The awards committee was convinced of A&P Birkenhead being the correct choice for this prestigious award. The following is the quotation from the Awards Committee: “The Institute felt that the company more than excelled in the criteria needed to be accredited with this award and fulfilled the requirements needed. Throughout the researching process the EITM Awards Committee found the company to be both efficient and effective. It showed itself to be both adaptable and dependable with an ability to maintain both marine and non-marine vessels. Ideally located, the workshops proved to be well-equipped. The high standard of customer service was a huge factor when deciding on the award winner by the Institute. A&P Birkenhead’s skill and experience as well as its 24/7 attitude to service proved to be unavoidable of merit. The company’s commitment to quality, safety and environment has won it several other accreditations within the transport industry, a further reason the Institute felt the company is deserving of an award. Finally, the Institute could not ignore A&P Birkenhead’s aim to accomplish its goals by using its extensive knowledge and understanding of the industries”. Announcing the award, Patrick Sheedy, Media & PR Director of the ITM and Chairman of its Marine Committee said: "A&P Birkenhead faced extremely strong competition from other leading Shiprepair specialists, and we feel that this accreditation is one that will contribute to the final decision in Shiprepair and Conversion Solutions for many companies. The true experts are the managers who do a day-to-day job that requires a level of knowledge that can only be gleaned from years of experience. We appreciate the contribution that our Shipping manager members have made to the Awards Programme and endorse their selection of A&P Birkenhead for this prestigious accolade.” Commenting on the award, A&P Birkenhead’s acting General Manager Andy Mort said: "A&P Birkenhead Limited is delighted to be awarded ‘European Ship Repair & Conversion Specialist 2003' by the Institute of Transport Management. The fact that the company has won this award in its first year of operation is a tribute to the excellent skills and attitude displayed by both staff and subcontractors. It is very satisfying to know that the yard's focus on customer service is recognised within the industry".