Ben Kettell, Author at MVIS Ltd

2023 Review: Takeovers, Trails, Treecycles & TRUST – all to a tee (Part 1)

Posted on 2nd January 2024 at 4:10 pm.

As we bid farewell to 2023, it’s time to reflect on a landmark year for MVIS.

From sustainability initiatives to community engagement and technological advancements, not to mention a major acquisition, we have had a very significant year.

Looking back on the last 12 months, here we delve into some of the key highlights that defined our year:

January – Ashgate Treecycle

Ashgate Hospice, a charity we have supported for many years found an innovative way to raise money for the hospice, as well as recycling used Christmas Trees to help, rather than hinder the environment. Enter ‘Treecycling’ where trees are collected by volunteers and given to local farmers so they can be chipped and recycled.

In January, our team members Jon Larkins and Ben Ashman took the MVIS service van for Treecycling collections in Matlock. Together, they collected 29 trees helping to raise over £400 for Ashgate in tree collections.

February – Employee Wellness Takes Centre Stage

On the mission for improved mental health and wellbeing across the sector, National Highways introduced the ‘Journey to Wellbeing’. An initiative devised to get operatives in the sector to be more open and comfortable in discussing their mental health.

Following that lead, we implemented the Mind charity’s ‘Time to Talk’ initiative, with MVIS’ mental health first aiders delivering to the rest of the team on the importance of talking if life is taking its toll for the worse.

we strive to ensure that our teams is happy and healthy, so implementing initiatives that align with National Highways Journey to Wellbeing is something we were proud to undertake.

March -Ashgate High Peak Trail

March saw MVIS sponsor the Ashgate Hospice High Peak trail for the 3^rd successive year. Taking place on March 12^th, the event sees a choice of three trails through the Derbyshire countryside – all to raise money for Ashgate Hospice.

David Storer, Ashgate Hospice Events Organiser commented:

“MVIS are a pleasure to work with. They are always on hand to provide support across all of our fundraising events.

“Anne (Ashman, Group Commercial & Operations Director) and the team have provided VMS units to us for multiple events now, and their appeals have really helped to raise awareness of Ashgate Hospice and the vital end of life care that we provide across North Derbyshire”

April – #TRUSTINMVIS Launch

In April, we launched our #TRUSTINMVIS campaign, with the TRUST acronym symbolising the values the company holds dear: Teamwork, Reliability, Understanding Flexibility, Solutions, and Technology.

Anne Ashman, Group Commercial & Operations Director spoke to us about the initiative earlier in the year. Anne told us:

“MVIS is committed to providing the best possible service and support to our customers. With #TRUSTMVIS firmly in place as a publicly available statement of intent, MVIS is confident that we can deliver the most innovative, sustainable, and dependable portable VMS solutions on the market.”

May – Under New Ownership!

In what was perhaps 2023’s most significant landmark, MVIS underwent a change in ownership in May when Quadrant Management, a US-based private equity investor added us to their portfolio of businesses.

The acquisition provides opportunities for collaboration and innovation across a range of industries as well as increase capability in Research & Development to further bring innovation.

After over a decade of driving innovation including being the first to introduce colour VMS signs, the acquisition marks an exciting new chapter and provides the perfect platform to further propel the company.

June – Renewed Constructionline Platinum

As we hit the mid-year mark, we achieved the renewal of our Constructionline Platinum certification. This accolade underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining the highest of standards, providing clients with the assurance of quality and reliability in its products and services.

It ensures that our customers know extensive checks into quality, health & safety, environmental impact, social responsibility and adherence to legislations and regulations have all been carried out and rubber-stamped.

The Ideal Air Quality Monitoring Network

Posted on 20th December 2023 at 3:26 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

Last Summer we teamed up with Catplant Quarry in Doncaster to provide them with a bespoke traffic management and safety solution for vehicles coming in and out of their one-way track at the waste disposal area of the quarry. Catplant had multiple lorries driving into the area, which had limited space, causing a backup of vehicles with no area to turn around, leading to congestion and safety issues in all areas of the quarry.

A solution was required that allowed only one vehicle into the unloading area at a time, allowing the lorry to unload, turn around safely, and exit before the next vehicle drove into the area. MVIS supplied a Variable Message Sign (VMS) which allowed the driver to remotely activate a message on the VMS, instructing a “NEXT VEHICLE” message and a further “WAIT HERE” instruction. However, due to poor connectivity within the quarry, the standard mobile app could not be used to operate the VMS. As a result, we implemented an alternative solution – a remote fob with a direct connection to the sign, allowing the driver to control it simply, at the press of a button.

Alongside this, we also provided Catplant with a trial of our Environmental Sensor. This clever little addition to our VMS is able to measure dust pollution, air quality and decibel readings.

The Environmental Sensor can even measure levels of hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide causes irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. With moderate levels causing headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, as well as coughing and difficulty in breathing.

Higher levels can cause shock, convulsions, coma, and in the worst cases, death. This solution is a low-cost system that offers the ability to build a high-density ambient air quality monitoring network that records data in real-time.

To speak to our dedicated and knowledgeable team about buying or hiring a VMS with Environmental Sensor, you can call 01629 580570 or email: sales@m-vis.co.uk.

Come and find us at Road Expo Scotland on Stand C25.

Posted on 10th November 2023 at 3:22 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

On 28th & 29th November, Road Expo Scotland welcomes MVIS Ltd as we take our place at Scotland’s only dedicated Roads & Mobility Event. Road Expo is Scotland’s largest dedicated road, transport and mobility event for Scottish Local Authorities, Government and it’s commercial suppliers.

The event takes place in Glasgow and sees the industries fellow industry big hitters get together including Kier, Markon & Transport Scotland. This will provide us with a great chance to further raise awareness of our products & presence North of the Border on the back of our involvement in the Glasgow World Cycling Championships which took place back in August.

The event provides the platform for debate and discussion around the areas of:

Adaptation to Climate Change
Future Mobility
Decarbonisation
Asset Management & Resilience
Road Safety
Delivering safer roads
Roadworks

Visitors to Road Expo Scotland are invited to pick up a brochure and head over to stand C25 to discuss MVIS’ capabilities, with our strategically placed hub in the North East of England which facilitates the ability to build and deliver more units for our sales & hire fleet.

Our Sales Director based at our North Hub, Graeme Lee commented:

“We’re looking forward to heading to Road Expo Scotland and seeing both our existing customers, and potentially, some new ones too. With our North hub just South of Scotland, we’re set up to support contracts better than ever before in terms of both geographical locations, as well as the number of units in our fleet”.

The Great MVIS Bake Off Final 2023

Posted on 8th November 2023 at 2:40 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

We have had so much fun raising funds for Ashgate Hospice through various events and activities in 2023. Between September – November we held our in-house baking competition, The Great MVIS Bake Off, Inspired by the popular channel 4 show. This year the competition stepped up a level, with more fierce competition, more star bakers and a different theme each week.

Throughout the weeks, we saw delicious bakes including cupcakes, brownies, cookies & fudge cakes. Throughout the competition, the best bakers rose to the top and progressed to the knock-out stages, until there were just 2.

On Monday (6th Nov) we held our grand final between Purchasing Supervisor – Rebecca Prince & Technical Apprentice – Jacob Spencer. Jacob (Chucky) was going in to his second final in two years after being crowned the Great MVIS Bake Off Winner in 2022. Both bakers were required to bake a Red Velvet cake and neither finalist disappointed.

As the Bake Off is held in order to raise funds for our charity partner Ashgate Hospice, we felt it was only right to get our own guest judges involved. David Storer & Natalie Bell took up the rolls of Paul Hollywood & Prue Leith. After a lot of tasting, deliberation and consulting, not only on flavour but on appearance and texture, David & Natalie crowned Jacob the 2023 Great MVIS Bake Off winner.

We also felt that with our guest judges in attendance, this was the perfect chance to announce our grand total raised for Ashgate Hospice throughout 2023.

We provide support & funds for Ashgate Hospice throughout the year and try to get involved with as many events as we can. These include:

The Great MVIS Bake Off
Christmas Tree Cycle
Matlock Town Football Shirt Auction
Tote Bag Donation
Christmas Movie Event
Sponsorship of the High Peak Trail Walk

MVIS, also provides the hospice with VMS to promote events throughout the year, including The High Peak Trail & Sparkle Walk.

When. we combined everything we have contributed to Ashgate throughout the year and our grand total is……..£14,982! An incredible effort by all members or our amazing team.

David Storer from Ashgate Hospice said:

“MVIS are a fantastic supporter of Ashgate Hospice and always go above and beyond to help us out wherever they can. Whether that’s supplying their digital signs to help with the promotion and safety of our events, helping at our events or even hosting a Bake Off challenge with all proceeds kindly being donated to the Hospice.

The money that MVIS save and raise for the Hospice each year is phenomenal, this year alone the total is just shy of £15k! Amazing! This can do so much at the Hospice and goes towards ensuring that Ashgate Hospice will be here for the future when people need us the most. Thank you to Anne and all the team at MVIS. It’s such a warm and friendly place and we’re always made to feel welcome. We’re really looking forward to working with MVIS again in 2024.”

Investing in Our Most Valuable Assets

Posted on 1st November 2023 at 9:58 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

Here at MVIS we pride ourselves on investing in one of our most valuable assets… our staff.

Many of our staff members have had time and effort put into them to ensure they have the best qualifications. This is both to benefit our customers, MVIS as a company and to benefit the team member in their future endeavours. We always showcase our own certifications such as our ISO, FORS and Constructionline Platinum.

But our staff also have their own certifications to ensure customers that all onsite staff are qualified to the required standard. This is no different for our newest member of staff, Connor Dickson. Our Northern Hub Supervisor. Connor joined us from another company within ITS TM, but only had in-house training. We have fast- tracked him through external training for:

First Aid 3-day course
Fire Marshall
Manual Handling
Working at Height
Handheld Tools
Abrasive Wheels
IOSH Managing Safely
CSCS & 1 days Health & Safety

Giving him the skills and qualifications to work on the High-Speed network, using his HE Passport, and allowing him to deliver an excellent service to our TM lower speed schemes in the North region. Delivering nothing less than the Platinum Level Service that our customers have come to expect from MVIS.

Well done Connor on this great achievement!

MVIS returns to Highways UK

Posted on 13th October 2023 at 3:00 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

We are exhibiting at Highways UK and we’re now only one week away. Highways UK is the sector’s must-attend event, it offers companies the opportunity to showcase their latest products or solutions, as well as explore other innovations in the market, and network with others in the industry.

If you are attending, make sure that you stop by Stand 312 in Hall 3 & 3A to say. Our dedicated Management and Sales team will be at the event to field any questions that you will need answering.

We will also be debuting our newest solution for people visiting our stand. Our brand-new Solar Barrier with a built-in ANPR Camera, perfect for programming. Also being showcased is our amazing HD Compact, Compact CCTV, and our Environmental Sensor.

Celebrating 10 years of Pat Musgrave

Posted on 18th September 2023 at 8:00 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

Our CEO, Pat Musgrave, is celebrating a decade since he first became MD of MVIS. We were able to find time in Pat’s schedule to sit down and talk to him about his time in the highways industry and working at MVIS and the team that runs it.

Here is what Pat had to say:

Where does your passion for ITS come from?

“I guess it stems from when I was a kid. I’ve always liked electronics and messing around with technology. I started off my career as a qualified electrician. Involved in highways, street lighting and that kind of stuff. Rapidly becoming more involved with CCTV and ITS products.

It’s always been more interesting than domestic, industrial and commercial wiring. So, it kind of progressed into that. “

Tell us about your past experience in ITS?

“I mean, obviously, back in the day, I first got involved with MVIS and help set up the company back in 2012 when we became a limited company with ambition, but I guess it was meeting up with Tony Price.

We used to install ANPR cameras something we still do today, and Tony price was working for a company called NDI technologies. I was at a trade show in London, went onto his stand, got chatting and realised that he owned a property at the mill just below our offices in Tansley. I won a few jobs For NDI technology installing ANPR cameras. That was my first sort of involvement in this side of the RTS side of things.”

He continued: “Tony reappeared a couple of years later with his VMS product that he was bringing in from Australia and was struggling with the product. He set up the company Colour Mobile VMS. He was struggling to do anything with it because the competition had already got supply chains in place from America and Canada and amber signs only, and they couldn’t see the value in a colour sign.

Tony, who was in the early stages of marketing the sign, contacted me to say he was displaying it at Traffex and asked if I would like to go along. I jumped in the car, drove to Darley Dale, had a cup of tea with him and it went from there.”

What has been your greatest challenge in the last 10 years?

Pat told us: “It has always been funding. It’s always been my role within the business, pre MVIS and post Colour Mobile to raise the relevant funding to do the projects.

That’s always a challenge, having the money to execute projects from start to finish. So yes, that’s the greatest challenge.”

Do you have a favourite product?

“I guess the Solar IP trailer is my favourite product because we worked really hard to get that developed back in 2011. It’s a very versatile product and the first of its kind to market.”

When asked about MVIS VMS, Pat told us: “The VMS are good and obviously the mainstay of the business. But I take a lot of pride in the solar IP because that was one of the things, we developed on the back of a cigarette packet in the early days.”

Which scheme has given you the most satisfaction?

“I think the first ROTTM scheme that we won along the M6 Junction 10 to 13. Apart from the Olympics, the Olympics is the main one, going back to 2012, but since then, I guess the ROTTM Scheme 10 to 13, because we were basically only really known as a portable supplier. We managed to break into the fixed market against the big boys which was a massive achievement.”

How has the industry changed over the last decade?

“More and more people have come on board and the competition has grown. We were very premature in things that we did in the early days. We had vehicle mounted VMS with CCTV cameras on, 6, 7, 8 years ago, we couldn’t get people engaged in those products back then.

More and more people have come into the market and these things are now coming to the forefront. The biggest thing is the amount of people involved in the industry. The number of competitors is the biggest change.”

What is your greatest achievement since you started MVIS?

“I think it’s having the key people in place and obviously the biggest challenge is having the right management in the right places.”

Pat reiterates: “So, it’s not necessarily my achievements. It’s the team’s achievements. Then there’s achievements of running the business on a day-to-day basis for the last 10 years. So, it’s not about my greatest achievements.

It’s the team’s greatest achievements. Having the right people doing the right roles. Having a pride and passion in that role.”

How many years have you worked in the Highways Industry?

“I guess I’m coming up now for my 40th year having just turned 58. When I left school, doing electrical work and progressed into the streetlighting arena, which had got me first into the highways industry, subcontracting to various streetlighting companies.

So, yeah, you could say I’m in my 40th year of being involved in the highways industry and the ITS arena.”

How has your role changed since promotion from UK MD earlier this year to Group CEO?

“I stayed on, was moved up to Group CEO and continued with the shareholding. I guess, it gives me more of an oversight role. I’ve got more involvement at a higher level. It’s very difficult to have an involvement in the business when it’s being run day-to-day.

Some clarity on my role and that role is basically overseeing strategic decisions, bringing the team together across the world and making us one company. So that’s my role now. I’ve got more involvement at a higher level. Anne runs the UK day to day with assistance from Graeme and Anthony runs Australia day to day.”

What does the future look like for MVIS?

“I suppose previously MVIS had got its own limited opportunities. Now that we are working more as a team between here and Australia, the Research and Development department is working together much more.

We can take MVIS and Bartco Australia together into new markets, new countries with new products. So, it’s an exciting time. If we can keep pace with recruiting the correct people to bring into the business to support the team we’ve got and keep on top of the R&D. Making sure that we are constantly bringing new products to market, that we’ve proved and tested and are fit for purpose.

We have the Solar Barrier coming through and also the new solar IP version 6, which will integrate more equipment and be more powerful. It’s exciting times for the group.”

What makes MVIS different? In our own words…

Posted on 1st September 2023 at 9:59 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

In the realm of Portable VMS & ITS, one name stands out as a tried & trusted leader in both fields – MVIS.

Renowned for pioneering solutions & a customer centric approach, we have consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation and service to become the company we are today, with a glowing reputation earned over the last decade.

In this exclusive interview, we delve into what sets us apart, as revealed by the very individuals who power our success.

Tom Hooton, R&D Manager told us: “The company’s commitment to innovation via its Research & Development.” Tom continued: “Our commitment to innovation is unwavering, and our Research and Development is the backbone of our success. We constantly explore cutting-edge technologies and methodologies to enhance our products.”

Juliette Wright, Sales and Business Development Manager gave her take on what makes MVIS unique and told us “For me, it’s our Platinum Service Promise.” Juliette shone a spotlight on this for us as she elaborated: “Our commitment doesn’t end with the sale or hire of VMS units. It begins there. It guarantees unparalleled pre & post-sales support and focuses around finding the right solution for our clients’ needs. We understand that our clients rely on our products for critical traffic management. We provide 24/7 support, ensuring that our solutions operate seamlessly. This level of service isn’t just a promise; it’s our ethos.”

Next, Graeme Lee, MVIS’ Sales Director spoke to us and added his thoughts on MVIS’ unique quality by telling us: “The dual sales & hire solution that we provide.” Graeme emphasises the unique approach we take. “Unlike others, we don’t focus solely on the sales or hire of portable VMS units – MVIS is an all-around solution providing both options to our customers. “We understand that different clients have different needs.” Graeme continued. “Some prefer to invest permanently in their ITS equipment, while others benefit from flexible hiring options. Our dual approach ensures that we can cater to a diverse range of clients.”

Ben Kettell was next to share his thoughts with us, and the company’s Marketing Manager added: “I believe truly innovative solutions & product integrations set us apart.” “Take our Queue Detect system and Environmental Sensor, for instance. These are game changers. “Queue detect anticipates congestion and adjusts traffic flow, minimising bottlenecks and, as a result, gives the road user a smoother journey. Our environmental sensor gathers real-time data on air quality, enabling full data profiling of an area and highlights the need for adaptive responses. These innovations showcase our dedication to making roads smarter and safer, but the bigger picture is that we’re developing products and systems that can help to address major industry issues such as roadworker abuse and meeting key environmental targets.”

Our final conversation was with Anne Ashman, MVIS’ Group Commercial & Operations Director who told us: “Our long-term track record of success – as we’ve been delivering for our customers for over 10 years.” Anne then went on to say: “In a rapidly changing industry, consistency is key. We’ve been delivering exceptional VMS & ITS solutions for over a decade now, and our longevity speaks volumes about our expertise and adaptability.

“We’ve sparked technological shifts – bringing many firsts to the marketplace, as well as navigating some regulatory changes, and ever-evolving client needs. Our track record isn’t just a history of the company; it’s a platinum promise of continued excellence.” MVIS stands as a pillar of innovation, customer service, sustainability & safety, and continues to shape the future of portable VMS & ITS solutions across the highways sector. As these dedicated employees have shared, MVIS’s uniqueness is rooted in its relentless pursuit of excellence, making a lasting impact on our ever-changing industry.

MVIS renews its Achilles

Posted on 29th August 2023 at 8:23 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

We have a wide array of certifications in our business. These certificates alert customers of our dedication to Health and Safety, Corporate Social Responsibility and Legislation and

Regulations compliance, as well as being a badge of honour for the team at MVIS.

The Achilles Audit serves to independently verify that our management systems comply with the standards that have been agreed by buying organisations within the Chemicals & Allied Industries Community.

This means that we have hit the standard of buying organisations and our certification is a showcase of our operational excellence, our expertise, and our competency.

90% of suppliers state that the Achilles audit has added value to their organisation.

This also means that our certification ensures that our customers are assured we are compliant with Health and Safety Standards and that people can #TRUSTINMVIS.

MVIS’ National Coverage

Posted on 18th August 2023 at 10:00 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

We cover the entire UK, providing clients with products from strategically located hubs. This nationwide coverage is not just about reaching every corner of the country; it represents MVIS’s commitment to providing exceptional support and service to our customers, backed by our renowned Platinum Service promise.

Having the ability to cover the entire UK is a significant advantage, and we have achieved this through a network of strategically located hubs. This allows us to efficiently deliver products to any location. This comprehensive reach ensures that we can meet the diverse needs of our clients no matter where they are based.

In the world of VMS & ITS, where efficiency and safety are paramount, a fantastic support service is crucial. Clients need a reliable partner who can swiftly respond to their needs and provide expert assistance when required. We understand this need and have made it a top priority to deliver outstanding customer support.

The Platinum Service Promise

We are renowned for our Platinum Service, driven by a promise to our client base. This sets us apart from our competitors. This commitment to excellence means that we go above and beyond to ensure customers’ success.

National coverage isn’t just about delivering to various parts of the country – it’s an extension of our ethos. A message. That we can deliver on our service promise wherever the location, providing fast response times, on-time deliveries, and unparalleled technical expertise. This level of support instills confidence in clients, knowing they have a reliable partner to rely on.

With nationwide coverage, we can deliver our Platinum Service promise to customers in all regions of the UK. Whether it’s supplying portable Variable Message Signs for a construction project in Scotland or integrating environmental sensors for an event in Wales, we ensure that every customer receives the same platinum level of service.

Our nationwide coverage also means that we can actively support local communities, events and projects. Likewise, with our presence across the UK, we can better understand the unique challenges faced by different areas, tailor solutions accordingly, and provide targeted support for specific projects.

MVIS’ Group Commercial and Operations Director Anne Ashman told us:

“MVIS can efficiently reach every corner of the country, providing our VMS and other Intelligent Transport Solutions – and all with our exceptional support. The Platinum Service promise ensures that customers receive nothing less than the best, no matter where they are based.

“This is all utilising a more sustainable, multi-unit delivery model as we keep a close eye on our carbon footprint. Whilst we want to provide our service across the country – we want to deliver in the cleanest, greenest way possible.”