LOVE LOCAL
M & J Abbs MEET THE FAMILY BRINGING WARMTH TO HOMES ACROSS CAMBRIDGESHIRE – NOW OVER A DECADE INTO THEIR JOURNEY INDIE OF THE MONTH
taying warm is something that’s been on many of our minds as the nights have drawn in and the
frost has crept along with winter. Heating engineers M & J Abbs know a thing or two about efficiently warming one’s home – and with Christmas on the way, you’ll want to capture that snugness which is part and parcel of the festive spirit. Founded in 2010, M & J Abbs has 12 years in the trade, though the knowledge needed to run the business was cemented long before then. Martin Abbs, earning his place as a familiar face around the county, has worked as an engineer for 40 years. The company itself is very much a family affair. “My dad, Martin, left school at 15 and started an apprenticeship. He’s had around 50 years in the trade in one way or another,” says Hayley, Martin’s daughter and co-founder of the business. “My brother, Jonny (the ‘J’ of M & J), began his apprenticeship with Dad at 16 – he’s now 34. Along the way, all my brothers and my mum have worked in the business at some point. My brother, Ben, had a career change a few years ago and came back as an apprentice.” The business came into being when Hayley saw potential for lift-off. “I’d taken a week off my work to help out and realised it would take more than that!” she laughs. “I really wanted to put my energy into something where I could directly see the benefits. The idea at the time was to get the office in order, work on a business plan and for Dad to have a golf day a week. We’re still working on the golf day!” M & J Abbs focuses on quality above all else. As it has grown, the team grapples with larger renovation projects – homing in on renewable alternatives. The Rayburn boiler cooker range is still the trademark product, though its servicing system has been built from the ground up – enabling
© AGA RANGEMASTER
© AGA RANGEMASTER
currently exploring hydrogen boilers and HVO-ready products – such as the new Rayburn Heatranger – as an environmental alternative. “It’s about being honest about what can be achieved in the circumstances – and for the budget. For new builds and renovations, underfloor heating with air- source heat pumps are popular. However, the reality for many customers in existing homes, particularly with older properties, is that renewables involve investment in other areas such as insulation, glazing and larger radiators.” Loving local is crucial, with M & J Abbs working closely alongside nearby suppliers – and urging customers to do the same. After a tough two years, it’s more important than ever. “Our relationship with other trades and suppliers helps us minimise disruption on install and provide a reliable warranty service,” confirms Hayley. “We’ve learnt through the years that the relationship with our customers is built on trust and recommendation. If we quote, we’ll discuss all possible options – not just the easiest – and listen to what our customers want, talking honestly about the pros and cons. We pride ourselves on the standards of our installations and quality of products, which means great support on the rare occasion warranty issues arise. We’re not just there for the initial install, but for the life of the installation.” TRUST THE EXPERTS For long-term heating efficiency and more eco-friendly means of warming your home, M & J Abbs has a wealth of experience – plus strong relationships with local suppliers
© TIM JAMES
the firm to care for customers throughout the lifetime of their cooker. In response to demand, the company also established an electric-powered and controllable Aga showroom. Both models, locking in flavour, are truly the heart of the home. “We’re finding, in the current climate, customers are switching to more than one option for fuel, so are often trading in old oil or gas Aga and Rayburn ranges and replacing them with an electric – plus a separate gas, oil or renewable boiler,” explains Hayley. M & J Abbs is
The relationship with our customers is built on trust and recommendation
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK DECEMBER 2022 95
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