Expanding Toshiba distributor, Cool Designs Ltd, has launched a comprehensive programme of training and technical support to enable air conditioning installers to achieve national accreditation and grow their businesses.

The programme includes theoretical and hands-on training, as well as on site commissioning and trouble-shooting support. It equips installers to receive qualified status under the Toshiba scheme, opening up significant benefits and new business opportunities.

CDL managing director, Darrel Birkett, said: “We don’t see the role of supplier as simply box shifting. Our installer customers are business partners, and we want to work with them over the long term to help develop their design and installation skills.

We can also assist with end user negotiations to help them win tender contracts, as appropriate. It requires time and investment, but we see it as a win-win for all concerned.”

Ahead of legal requirements, CDL was one of the first air conditioning distributors in the UK to require evidence of F-Gas registration before supplying equipment, a procedure now followed by all suppliers in the country.

The company’s emphasis on the highest standards of professionalism has resulted in the development of a complete range of training courses to ensure installers are up-to-speed with best practice. This includes a growing online library of training videos, which can be accessed 24/7.

One company to benefit from CDL’s partnership approach is Nantwich Refrigeration. Following a detailed course of training and technical support by the distributor, the company recently achieved Qualified Toshiba status, entitling it to significant benefits and opening up new business opportunities.

The company, which was established 40 years ago with £200 and a Bedford van, is now looking to expand and build on this success.

Darrel Birkett said: “It is an example of what can be achieved through collaboration, and on a proactive approach. Looking ahead, we see tremendous opportunities for growth in the UK air conditioning market in the future, however one of the main limitations on realising the potential is availability of high quality installation skills.

“Our installer support programme is designed to address this, and over time raise standards and grow the pool of qualified engineers, so that we in turn can grow our own business.”