From Two Vans to a Trusted Multi-Service Provider
On 2nd April 2001, FPM Facility Services opened its doors for the very first time. Twenty-five years later, the business has grown into a trusted provider of facility services, supporting commercial and industrial clients across multiple sectors.
This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on where it all began, and how a combination of experience, timing, and determination helped shape the business FPM is today.
How FPM Facility Services Began
FPM Facility Services was founded by cousins Frank and Peter McIntyre, who both started their careers as electrical apprentices in the late 1980s. Over the following years, they built up valuable experience across the industry, progressing into management roles in their early 30s.
Peter developed his career with P O’Neill Electrical, while Frank worked at Vauxhall Motors in Luton, gaining extensive experience in maintenance and manufacturing environments.
Like many in the industry, they had often discussed the idea of starting their own business. At the time, however, it felt more like a long-term ambition than an immediate reality.
That changed in December 2000.
A Defining Moment
The announcement by General Motors that the Luton Vauxhall plant would close in 2002 was a pivotal moment. For Frank and Peter, it created both uncertainty and opportunity and ultimately became the catalyst for taking the leap into business ownership.
Around the same time, Frank had begun studying for a Business Studies degree at Luton University. This provided a strong foundation for developing a business plan, carrying out feasibility studies, and understanding what would be required to succeed in a competitive market.
One key insight quickly became clear: offering electrical services alone would not be enough to stand out.
Building a Multi-Service Facility Business
Market research with potential clients highlighted a growing demand for a reliable, multi-service provider, a company that could deliver a range of building maintenance and facility services under one roof.
This shaped the direction of the business from the outset.
With Peter’s contracting background and Frank’s experience in maintenance and manufacturing, the foundations were in place to support commercial and industrial buildings with a broader, more integrated service offering.
By mid-January 2001, the decision had been made. The business would move forward.
Launching FPM in 2001
By 2nd April 2001, the start of a new financial year, everything was in place.
The business plan had been approved, premises had been secured in Portland Court, Luton, and the first steps had been taken to build the team. Two second-hand vans were purchased, alongside the recruitment of two permanent employees, part-time administrative support, and a network of subcontractors.
Like any new venture, it was a nervous start.
However, it wasn’t long before the phone started ringing. As word spread about FPM’s service offering, the business began to build momentum.
Early Growth and Investment in People
The first six months of trading saw rapid progress. As demand increased, the team began to grow, and the business quickly established itself within the local market.
A key milestone came in September 2001, when FPM took on its first apprentice. This early investment in people set the tone for the company’s long-term approach – building a skilled, reliable team capable of delivering consistent, high-quality work.
Supporting Clients Across Multiple Sectors
Over the past 25 years, FPM Facility Services has supported a wide range of clients across multiple sectors, building long-standing relationships based on trust, reliability, and consistent delivery.
From leisure facilities and zoos to vehicle manufacturers, commercial premises, and industrial sites, the team has developed a strong understanding of the different challenges each environment presents.
This breadth of experience has been key to FPM’s approach, providing practical, flexible facility services that are tailored to the needs of each client, whether that’s ongoing planned maintenance, compliance support, or reactive works.
Many of these relationships span several years, reflecting the importance placed on service quality, responsiveness, and doing the job properly.
Today, FPM continues to support a wide range of recognised organisations, as reflected across the clients featured on our website.
25 Years On
Today, FPM Facility Services continues to support clients with a wide range of services, from electrical works and planned preventative maintenance to reactive repairs and full facility management solutions.
We are also proud to be a major provider of building maintenance services to schools and education providers across the South East and South Midlands, supporting sites with everything from compliance and servicing to day-to-day repairs.
While the business has grown significantly since those early days, the core principles remain the same: reliability, responsiveness, and delivering work to a high standard.
Reaching 25 years in business is a significant achievement, made possible by the clients, partners, and team members who have been part of the journey.
As FPM looks ahead, the focus remains on continuing to deliver practical, dependable facility services — and building on the strong foundations established back in 2001.
If you’re looking for a reliable partner for your building maintenance or facility service requirements, feel free to get in touch with the team to discuss your needs.
