Employee-owned Kilnbridge delivers record year | Construction Enquirer News
Summary
Kilnbridge reports a 50% increase in turnover to £129m, driven by HS2 and other projects, with a £300m order book supporting future growth.
Why It Matters
This article highlights the significant growth of Kilnbridge, an employee-owned construction firm, which reflects broader trends in the construction industry. The company's success and expansion into diverse markets, such as data centers and nuclear, underscore the importance of employee ownership in driving performance and profitability. This case can serve as a model for other firms considering similar ownership structures.
Key Takeaways
- Kilnbridge's turnover rose by 50% to £129m, indicating strong business performance.
- The company has a £300m order book, enhancing its growth prospects.
- Employee ownership has resulted in significant profit-sharing for staff, promoting engagement.
- Kilnbridge is expanding into new markets, including data centers and nuclear projects.
- A strengthened management structure supports the delivery of larger, complex projects.
The group posted a 50% rise in turnover to £129m in the year to June 2025 on the back of HS2 work, commercial and energy schemes. A £300m order book (2024: £200m) now underpins the next phase of growth, giving the business strong visibility over the coming year as it pushes further into data centres, transport and nuclear markets. The uplift in performance saw £349,000 distributed to all eligible employees in the fourth and highest profit‑share payment since transitioning to an employee‑owned group in March 2021. Kilnbridge’s recent completions include the Colne Valley Viaduct for HS2, Beaulieu Park Station and cultural schemes at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park including Sadler’s Wells East and BBC Music. Current live jobs feature Project Aleph in Mayfair, One North Quay in Canary Wharf and The Hub in Aldermaston, alongside further packages on HS2. Founder and chairman Dermot McDermott said the group had strengthened its management structure and expanded operational capacity over the year. It has now been positioned into four divisions – structures, design and engineering, structural services and fire protection – to deliver larger and more complex integrated packages as Kilnbridge enters its next expansion phase. He said: “2025 has been a strong year for Kilnbridge, with all projects delivered successfully and profitably.” “Our £300m order book positions us strongly for the next 12 months. Over the past year we have strengthened our team structure, expanded our operational ...
