Energy solutions group Fulcrum Utility Services has entered into a five-year alliance with McNicholas Construction to deliver an "enhanced proposition" to customers across England and Wales. The alliance is expected to boost competitiveness and to allow the company to deliver a streamlined service. Last month, the firm announced it had selected McNicholas as its sole framework contractor for gas and electricity, which is expected to shorten business processes and improve the efficiency of back office functions including pricing, estimating and design services. Chief Executive Officer Martin Donnachie said: "The alliance will allow us to be more responsive to customers, increase Fulcrum's competitiveness in key markets and deliver sales growth within our business plan."The financial effect of the agreement is anticipated to be broadly neutral in 2014/15, as savings will be matched by exceptional costs. Annualised savings are expected to be reached in later years. As of 14:32 the share price had risen 1.61% to 7.75p.WS