GAP Group has announced the passing of joint MD Douglas Anderson.
Douglas Anderson, who was 70, was a giant of the Scottish plant industry. A former president of trade body the SPOA, Douglas joined Glasgow-headquartered GAP, which was founded by his late father Gordon, in the 1970s. He and his brother Iain have been at the helm for several decades.
Under their leadership, GAP has celebrated many impressive milestones. Last year, the business revealed its charitable foundation, GAP Giving, had surpassed £1 million in donations across the UK.
In 2021, GAP launched what the firm described as the industry’s first mental health and wellbeing platform. Speaking at the time, Douglas said the mental wellbeing of the firm’s workforce is ‘just as much a priority for us as their physical safety and wellbeing’.
That same year, GAP announced plans to move into a new HQ after completing the acquisition of Citypoint 2 on Tyndrum Street in Glasgow. A proud family business, back in 2019 Project Plant reported that GAP had won the ‘Property & Construction Family Business of the Year’ category at the Family Business of the Year Awards.
A statement from GAP said, “It is with profound sadness that the Anderson family and GAP Group share the news of the sudden passing of Douglas Anderson. Joining GAP in 1978, Douglas was a true visionary in the world of hire, and he dedicated his life to growing the business.
“His leadership and passion have enabled GAP to be the success it is today. GAP Group will continue to build on Douglas’ legacy with the continued support and dedication of our workforce.”
Since the news of his passing, social media has been awash with poignant and heartfelt tributes paid by many of the individuals Douglas has helped over the years. He will be sadly missed by many in the Scottish plant sector and beyond.
