Winter in the UK presents unique challenges for businesses and property managers. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures not only disrupt daily operations but also create safety hazards, compliance risks, and costly downtime. For facilities managers, small business owners, and estate managers alike, the pressure is on to keep sites accessible, safe, and compliant all while managing tight budgets and limited resources.
At OUTCO, we understand that no two sites are the same. That’s why our winter services are built around a site-specific approach, a tailored way of working that recognises the unique risks, layouts, and operational needs of every property we maintain. This is what sets us apart.
The Pain Points Businesses Face Each Winter
Before we explain our approach, let’s consider the common challenges faced by our clients:
- Lost productivity: Snow and ice cost UK businesses an estimated £1 billion annually in lost workdays and disrupted operations
- Safety risks: Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common workplace injuries, often resulting in expensive claims and reputational damage
- Compliance concerns: Property managers must ensure sites remain safe and accessible in line with health and safety regulations
- Unpredictability: Severe weather varies greatly by region and site type, what affects a retail park in Leeds may look very different to a healthcare facility in London
- Budget pressures: Facilities managers and small business owners alike are expected to “do more with less,” balancing cost-effective solutions with reliable results
These pain points highlight why a one-size-fits-all winter service simply doesn’t work.
OUTCO’s Site-Specific Solutions
Our approach begins with comprehensive surveys of each site, where we carefully assess risks such as surface types, traffic flows, exposure levels, and access points. From there, we design a bespoke winter plan that will deliver the right service at the right time.
Key Differentiators:
- Location-Specific Forecasting
Using advanced temperature and site condition data, our teams act with precision. Instead of generic schedules, services are triggered only when each site needs them keeping people safe, reducing disruption, and avoiding unnecessary costs.
- Tailored Service Packages
From fixed-cost contracts to pay-per-visit models, clients have the flexibility to choose what works best for their site and budget.
- Technology-Enabled Transparency
Through the OUTCO Service Portal, clients can track every visit with GPS logs, photographic evidence, and breadcrumb tracking for proof of service. This gives full visibility and reassurance, particularly valuable during insurance or compliance audits.
- End-to-End Management
With 24/7 helpdesk support, dedicated account managers, and nationwide operatives with local expertise, clients receive consistent quality across all sites.
- Sustainability Built-In
OUTCO primarily uses white marine salt, an eco-friendly alternative to standard rock salt. It’s effective, minimises staining, and supports corporate sustainability goals.
Why This Matters to You
For the single-site facility manager, site-specific services mean reliable coverage without wasted spend. For the small business owner, it ensures safe, welcoming premises for staff and customers, protecting revenue and reputation. For the multi-site estate manager, it means consistency across a portfolio, with the flexibility to account for regional weather differences.
OUTCO’s winter services aren’t just about clearing snow and spreading grit. They’re about safeguarding people, protecting assets, ensuring compliance, and keeping operations moving, all delivered with precision and peace of mind.
The OUTCO Difference
- Over 20 years’ heritage in winter maintenance with a 99.8% service success rate
- Nationwide coverage with local expertise, resulting in fast, tailored response times
- Award-winning technology providing real-time transparency and a fully evidenced audit trail
- Customer-first service, shaped by the needs of facilities managers, property managers, and business owners across every sector
Winter doesn’t have to mean disruption. With OUTCO’s site-specific, fully managed solutions, businesses can face the season with confidence, knowing their sites will remain safe, compliant, and operational no matter what the weather brings.
