Author: Kirsty Donovan

This year, Pro Gases UK celebrates a significant milestone: 10 years in business. Founded in 2014, the company has grown from a small local supplier to a key player in the UK’s gas industry, providing renewable CO₂ and other essential beverage and industrial gases to various industries. We spoke with Kirsty Donovan, Operations Director, and William Donovan, Managing Director, about the journey, their family’s role in the business, and the pride they feel in reaching this milestone.

 

Q: Congratulations on your 10th anniversary! What does this milestone mean to you, especially as a family-led business?

 

Kirsty Donovan: It means a lot to us. Running this business as a family has been both a challenge and a huge source of pride. Working closely together every day has given us a strong sense of shared purpose and resilience. Knowing that we’ve built something valuable together over the past decade that started with an idea over 40 years with my dad Michael, and his dad Francis feels incredibly fulfilling.

 

William Donovan: Absolutely. Building a business with family brings a unique level of commitment, trust, and shared goals. We’ve worked hard, and we’ve been able to combine our strengths to make the business what it is today. Reaching the 10-year mark feels like a celebration of both our family and the dedicated team who have supported us along the way.

 

Q: How has being a family-run business influenced the way you operate?

 

Kirsty: It’s made us very grounded and focused on our values. We’re not just thinking about growth and profits; we’re building a legacy, something meaningful that we can be proud of. That means prioritising long-term relationships with our customers and partners and ensuring our team feels valued. We know sets us apart from our competitors, and we see this in the feedback we get from our customers and team members.

 

William: It’s also made us very adaptable. In a family business, you learn to pitch in wherever needed and work together to overcome obstacles. Whether it’s managing supply chain issues or responding to customer needs, we’re all in it together. That’s been a big part of our success.

 

Q: What challenges have you faced, and how has the family dynamic helped you overcome them?

 

Kirsty: There have been plenty of challenges, from market shifts to operational hurdles, but we always come back to supporting each other and our team. Being able to rely on family during difficult times has given us a strong foundation, and we’ve been fortunate to have a team that shares that dedication. We couldn’t have reached this milestone without their hard work and loyalty.

 

William: When you’re running a family business, there’s a level of mutual trust that allows you to tackle big decisions with confidence. We’ve faced industry challenges, especially in recent years, but knowing we’re united with a clear vision makes it easier to navigate those moments.

 

Q: Looking back, what have been some of the standout moments for Pro Gases UK over the past decade?

 

Kirsty: A major highlight for us has been our commitment to renewable CO₂ and seeing this area of the business be received so well in a challenging market. Transitioning to renewable sources was a decision that felt aligned with our family’s values and has given us a unique position in the market. Next year we will be growing even more with some exciting new customers who also share the same vision and commitment to renewable and sustainable practices. It’s an exciting time to be in the industry where you can make a positive change and difference.

 

William: Another standout has been seeing our team grow and build strong relationships with our customers and agents. We are creating new roles within the business every year which is exciting to see. Last year we onboarded industrial gas agents in different parts of the UK, and we expect to see even more next year which helps us expand our distribution of industrial gases. We’re immensely proud of the trust our customers place in us and our reputation for reliability, quality and sustainability. The relationships we’ve developed over the years, both within the family and with our partners, are what make all the hard work worth it.

 

Q: What’s next for Pro Gases UK?

 

William: Our focus is on expanding our renewable gas offerings and exploring opportunities in nitrogen, oxygen, and other industrial gases. We’re committed to bringing innovative, eco-friendly solutions to our customers and building on our achievements to become an even more trusted leader in the industry. 

 

Kirsty: And we’re looking forward to welcoming new team members as we grow. As a family, we want to foster a work environment where everyone feels like part of our extended family. Creating that positive workplace culture is a big priority for us as we look to the next 10 years.

 

Q: Finally, any words of gratitude or thanks as you reflect on these 10 years?

 

Kirsty: A big thanks to our amazing team, customers, and partners, thank you for being part of our journey. We are so grateful and are looking forward to growing and supporting more businesses.

 

William: I echo what Kirsty just said. We look forward to the next 10 years and are excited to see where we will be. 

 

With a decade of success behind them, the Pro Gases UK team is more motivated than ever to build a future rooted in sustainability, reliability, and family-driven values. Here’s to the next 10 years!

In recent years, the increasing concern over climate change and the need for sustainable energy sources has driven the exploration of alternative energy options. Biogas, a renewable energy source derived from organic waste, has gained attention due to its ability to generate electricity and heat. A by-product of biogas production is carbon dioxide (CO2), which has become an essential resource for various industries. This blog aims to shed light on the reliability of CO2 production from biogas plants and why it is worth the risk for businesses to transition from traditional CO2 sources.

Reliability of CO2 From Biogas Plants:

One significant advantage of CO2 production from biogas plants is its reliability throughout the year and its renewable energy source. Traditional CO2 sources, such as burning of fossil fuels, contribute to harmful greenhouse gas emissions and the depletion of finite resources. This outdated source of CO2 is susceptible to regular shortages and CO2 price increases. In contrast, biogas production from organic waste is continuously generated, meaning the source of biogas is practically infinite and ensures the availability of CO2 all year round. This abundant, sustainable, and uninterrupted supply is crucial for numerous industries and businesses that heavily rely on CO2 for their operations.

Essential for Businesses:

Food and Beverage Industry: The food and beverage industry heavily rely on CO2 for carbonating beverages, preserving food products, and preventing spoilage. The reliable supply of CO2 from biogas plants ensures that businesses in this sector can meet consumer demands consistently. By reducing dependence on traditional CO2 sources, companies can contribute to a more sustainable future while ensuring minimal disruption in their production processes.

Greenhouse Farming: CO2 is an essential component in greenhouse farming as it enhances the growth of plants and improves crop yields. By utilising CO2 produced from biogas plants, greenhouse farmers can enjoy a year-round, reliable supply. This reliability not only aids in maintaining consistent crop growth but also helps reduce the environmental impact associated with conventional CO2 sources.

Medical and Pharmaceutical Applications: The medical and pharmaceutical industries rely on CO2 for various applications, including anesthesia, cooling, and as a solvent. These sectors demand a reliable and pure source of CO2, making biogas plants an attractive and sustainable option. The consistency in CO2 supply ensures uninterrupted medical procedures and high-quality pharmaceutical products without the risk of shortages or production disruptions.

Environmental Benefits:

Moving away from traditional sources of CO2 is not only worthwhile due to its reliability but also because of the numerous environmental benefits. Biogas plants reduce carbon emissions by capturing and utilising methane, a potent greenhouse gas. By leveraging this renewable energy source and reducing dependence on fossil fuels, businesses can significantly contribute to mitigating climate change. Additionally, the use of biogas plants as a source of CO2 reduces the reliance on carbon-intensive industries and promotes a more sustainable approach.

In conclusion, the reliability of CO2 production from biogas plants is a convincing argument for businesses to consider the transition from traditional CO2 sources. The year-round availability of CO2, with limited shutdowns, provides a stable supply essential for industries relying on this resource. The food and beverage industry, greenhouse farming, and medical and pharmaceutical applications can benefit greatly from this consistent supply. Moreover, the environmental advantages associated with biogas plants, including reduced carbon emissions and sustainable energy generation, make it a valuable investment towards a more sustainable future. The decision to embrace biogas as a reliable CO2 source may involve some risks, but the potential benefits make it a risk worth taking.