Player Sponsor Feature: GSS Developments

• 29 Jan 2024
• Features

Learn more about GSS Developments who have sponsored Edinburgh Rugby, Scotland and British & Irish Lions winger Duhan van der Merwe for the 2023/24 season.

From the history of the organisation to a spotlight on the company’s biggest projects in the last 12 months, we caught up with family owned and run commercial property business that has over 100 years combined experience.

Are you interested in sponsoring a player in 2023/24? Half-season player sponsorship is available HERE!

Can you tell us more about GSS Developments, the history of the organisation, and how long you’ve been based in Edinburgh?

GSS Developments (GSS) is a privately owned and operated commercial property development business with a rich family history.

Established in 2000, we’ve steadily expanded our property portfolio across Scotland, incorporating a diverse range of commercial, industrial, hospitality, and residential developments. Based in Edinburgh, our commitment to the city has been unwavering since our inception.

Can you talk us through any notable projects you’ve been involved with or a project that GSS Developments were particularly proud of in 2023?

In September 2022, GSS Developments made a significant acquisition—the former Continental Tyres Factory Site at Newbridge, near Edinburgh Airport.

This site, dormant for over two decades, underwent extensive site clearance to pave the way for transformative development.

Fast forward to November 2023, we were delighted to be granted planning permission in principle from The City of Edinburgh Council for our proposed 65,000sq.m EDI Approach logistics, business, and industrial hub.

Our aim is to establish a state-of-the-art, sustainable, light industrial space, catering to trade counter, warehouse, and logistics operators, complete with an EV charging hub.

What are the biggest challenges that GSS Developments face in the New Year as an organisation, and how are you overcoming that?

The successful delivery of a complex and technically challenging planning consent, demanding meticulous attention and strategic planning, is a challenge in itself.

Combined with breathing new life into a site that has remained derelict for two decades, it introduces a unique set of hurdles.

The project’s success relies on the effective coordination of a diverse team of professionals to seamlessly collaborate towards the shared goal. This includes ensuring cost-effectiveness, exemplar design, and adherence to the project timeline without compromise.

Overcoming these challenges calls for a strategic and collaborative effort, emphasising meticulous planning, innovative problem-solving, and effective communication among team members.

You’ve chosen to sponsor Duhan van der Merwe for the season – why have GSS Developments chosen Duhan and what will it mean to have Duhan represent you this season?

We are committed to championing sporting talent, and Duhan’s exceptional form further inspired our decision to choose him.

Witnessing his outstanding performance in home fixtures, particularly his match-winning ‘wonder try’ against Glasgow Warriors has been a pleasure.

Sponsoring Duhan VDM for the season aligns seamlessly with our strategy to gain exposure for our flagship development, EDI Approach. We believe his representation will significantly elevate the profile of our development.

Finally, what are the main targets/objectives of the organisation as we enter 2024?

Our primary focus for 2024 revolves around kickstarting our development initiatives and engaging with potential tenants. We are dedicated to offering them top-tier, energy-efficient spaces that empower their businesses to thrive and grow.

FIIND OUT MORE ABOUT GSS DEVELOPMENTS HERE!