At the forefront of innovation in Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC/GFRC), we are a world-leading consultancy and laboratory service dedicated to advancing performance, durability, and design excellence in architectural concrete.
For decades, we have partnered with architects, engineers, main contractors, façade specialists, and building owners across the globe to push the boundaries of what GRC/GFRC can achieve—delivering lighter, stronger, more sustainable solutions for the built environment. From iconic landmark façades to complex bespoke elements, our expertise supports projects at every stage, from concept development and material optimisation to testing and forensic investigation.
Our state-of-the-art laboratory combines rigorous scientific testing with deep industry knowledge. We provide independent material evaluation, durability assessments, mix design optimisation, compliance testing to international standards, and failure analysis. Every recommendation is grounded in data, precision, and decades of specialist experience.
What sets us apart is not only technical excellence, but independence. As a trusted authority in GRC/GFRC, we act solely in the interest of quality, performance, and long-term reliability.
We don’t just test GRC/GFRC — we define its future.
Whether you are designing a high-performance façade, developing new production techniques, or seeking expert laboratory validation, we deliver clarity, confidence, and world-class expertise in every project.
OUR BACKGROUND - PBS SYNERGIES GROUP HISTORY
The GRC Centre is a wholly owned subsidiary of Pennine Building Solutions Ltd t/a PBS Synergies – a company involved with architectural precast concrete since 1993
1993
Bob Faulding Management Services is formed to provide leadership and management services to cast stone manufacturers
1997
Bob Faulding is Managing Director of NBS Pennine when the company starts investigating GRC/GFRC to manufacture post fixed architectural dressings such as curved heads
2004
Bob Faulding takes over as Managing Director of Pennine Stone (part of Haddonstone Group) and GRC production starts
2008
Company name changes to Pennine Building Solutions Ltd t/a PBS Synergies and plans are made to establish a dedicated GRC/GFRC manufacturing facility
2009
PBS Synergies forms Glass Reinforced Concrete UK Ltd (GRCUK) and manufacture starts initially of Premix GRC expanding to Spray in late 2009
2013
PBS Synergies forms GRC Synergies separating design and testing functions from the manufacturing business
2014
Manufacturing company GRCUK sold by group to Laing O’Rourke
2017
GRC Synergies becomes first UKAS GRC accredited testing laboratory in UK
PBS Synergies forms GRC Synergies (Technical Services) t/a Syntec to fully project manage two large GRC projects for clients. Includes setting up manufacturing facility
2021
PBS Synergies disposes of both GRC Synergies and Syntec to Danish based BBF Group
2023
PBS Synergies forms The GRC Centre to provide fully encompassing consultancy, testing and repair services
2026
The GRC Centre completes its move into a state of the art purpose built testing laboratory at Century 2, Rotherham. A new company Visual Concrete Solutions t/a Viscrete is established to carry out repairs, colour harmonisation and develop facing coats
