How BEX helped a small, family-run business to scale
Case Study
Setting the Scene
Aircold Panel Solutions is a family-run business based in Dublin, with over 40 years’ experience in the controlled environments industry. Managed by Andy Coyne and a small team, the company initially operated with minimal structure, relying on informal processes. Upon partnering with the Institute, Aircold was at a turning point – evolving from a small, informally run company into a growing organization facing the challenges of scaling up. As Aircold expanded, it became clear that its informal ways of operating could no longer support the growing scale of the business.
The Challenge
The company faced a lack of internal structure to sustain its growth, informal operational processes that limited efficiency, and an overreliance on leadership for day-to-day decisions. With key information still managed through handwritten notes and whiteboard schedules, the approach had become unsustainable.
Recognizing the need for structured support and professional guidance, Aircold partnered with the Institute to support this important transition.
“Overall, the tools and practices BEX introduced weren’t just theoretical; they were practical, implementable, and tailored to our needs, and that made a real difference.”
~ Andy Coyne, Managing Director
The Approach
BEX worked with Andy Coyne, Managing Director, and the team at Aircold in a collaborative, dialogue-driven way. Regular bi-weekly meetings created a space for honest conversation, constructive feedback, and tailored guidance – not only on business strategy, but also on leadership development. Key elements of the approach included:
- Conducting annual Business Excellence BaselineTM audits to identify operational gaps and design structured pathways for growth
- Using the Business Excellence Alignment ModelTM to challenge the organization and elevate performance maturity
- Introducing a structured recruitment process, replacing informal hiring with professional interviews
- Facilitating regular team meetings and daily huddles to build a culture of communication and accountability
- Supporting digital transformation, including the transition to ERP systems for better planning and coordination
Beyond operational support, BEX played a pivotal role in empowering leadership. “One memorable moment,” Andy recalls, “was when they encouraged me to speak to the whole team – something I’d never done before. Their coaching helped me grow the confidence to lead.”
“Looking back, it was transformational – the best decision we’ve made for the business.”
~ Andy Coyne, Managing Director
The Impact
Partnering with BEX has enabled Aircold to evolve into a more resilient and future-ready organization. Today, Aircold stands as a leading provider of panel solutions in Ireland, having expanded significantly in both turnover and team size, and operating with strengthened internal structures to support sustainable growth.
Key outcomes include:
- An increase in turnover from €1.5 to €5 million
- Number of employees has grown from 11 to 20
- A change in strategic focus to facilitate strong entry into the industrial market
- A stronger internal structure that enables sustainable scaling
- Improved leadership through tailored mentoring and growth opportunities
- A culture of openness and collective decision-making
- Professional hiring practices
- Ongoing digital transformation and operational modernization
BEX continues to support Aircold on an ongoing basis with regular strategy meetings, continued mentorship, and annual Business Excellence Baseline audits.
