In an industry where consistency, innovation, and exceptional service are critical, Guardsman is proud to have once again been awarded Best Warranty/Product Provider Award for the second consecutive year.
This achievement is not just a reflection of product excellence, it’s a clear testament to the dedication, passion, and resilience of every individual across the Guardsman business.
This award symbolises far more than quality alone. It represents the strength of collaboration between head office teams, nationwide field representatives, service delivery professionals, and restoration networks. Together, they uphold the highest standards to support retail partners and their customers, ensuring a seamless and trustworthy experience across every stage of the customer journey.
At Guardsman, teamwork is not just a core value, it’s a way of working. Whether it’s shaping new solutions alongside retail partners, resolving claims with care, or supporting customers in their homes, the team approaches every task with pride and commitment. To have retained this prestigious recognition for almost a decade demonstrates the integrity behind every decision and every service interaction.
A year of significant change and growth
The past 12 months have brought exciting developments and considerable transformation for Guardsman. Despite the wider challenges in the industry, the business has not only remained resilient, it has also taken bold steps forward.
From relocating to a new, modern head office designed to encourage collaboration and innovation, to launching a strategic partnership with a new logistics provider that enhances warehousing capabilities and tracking performance, it has been a year of action. These changes were made with one goal in mind: to improve service, strengthen infrastructure, and future-proof the business.
Key enhancements to the business
As Guardsman continues to evolve, several strategic changes have been introduced to align with the evolving needs of retail partners and to ensure that product and service excellence remains at the heart of the company. These include:
- Expanded Coverage: Insurance plans have been enhanced to include a broader range of products. Coverage now extends to beds, including ottomans and tech-integrated designs, along with expanded protection for dining furniture such as table leaves and motion mechanisms. Carpet plans have also been improved to now include underlay.
- Sustainable Product Innovation: From more environmentally friendly packaging to OEKO-TEX certified mattress protectors, Guardsman is investing in greener, smarter solutions that benefit both retailers and customers.
- Smarter Logistics: Significantly improving the performance and tracking of orders and providing additional resource to ensure reliable and efficient delivery.
- Next-Level Training: The business has rolled out a fully compliant online training platform, aligned with regulatory standards. This platform can be tailored to suit retail partners’ teams and ensures consistency in knowledge and delivery.
- Flexible Relationship Management: Recognising that one size doesn’t fit all, Guardsman now offers a more tailored approach to partner engagement, whether face-to-face, virtually, or regionally, designed around the preferences of each partner.
A stronger, sharper leadership team
These developments are underpinned by a refreshed and strengthened leadership team, combining new perspectives with deep industry experience across insurance, compliance, operations, and marketing. Together, they are driving forward a clear, customer-focused strategy and ensuring Guardsman remains adaptable and agile in an evolving market.
- Russell Philpott, Managing Director – Brings over 20 years of experience in governance and regulatory environments, with a strong focus on customer-centric service delivery.
- Andy Leech, Head of Strategic Partnerships (joining September) – With extensive insurer-side experience, Andy will focus on strategic relationships and driving the commercial proposition forward.
- Ryan White, Head of Sales for the UK & Ireland – Combining industry knowledge across both the furniture and insurance sectors, Ryan provides a well-rounded commercial lens to sales and partner development.
- Michelle Buckland, Head of Operations – With more than 30 years in the business, Michelle’s end-to-end operational knowledge ensures service delivery remains robust and effective.
- William Taylor, Head of Network Services – Oversees technical consistency and ensures the service network continues to evolve alongside trends and repair innovations.
Together, the leadership team is supported by over 60 dedicated head office staff, technicians, field teams, and franchised repair professionals who make up the heart of Guardsman’s success.
Looking Ahead
As the company continues to invest in its future, its commitment to excellence remains unwavering. Guardsman is poised to deliver even greater value to its retail partners, backed by strong leadership, smart innovation, and a genuine passion for service.
Russell Philpott concludes: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who voted for us. Your continued support means the world to us. Thank you for being part of our journey, we look forward to continuing to grow, innovate, and deliver for you in the years ahead.”
