Building Awards 2024 shortlists: Major Contractor of the Year

Earlier this year Building announced all the firms who made it on to the shortlists for our prestigious annual Building Awards.

Now we are shining the spotlight on each category in turn and publishing a selection of the images that impressed the judges.

Today’s shortlist is for Major Contractor of the Year, sponsored by Fenwick Elliott.

Mace Group 

Mace Group achieved a record-breaking year in 2023, delivering 45 pioneering projects including Landsec’s n2 in London’s Victoria and AstraZeneca’s Discovery Centre in Cambridge, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and sustainability. The team implemented cutting-edge techniques, such as low carbon cassettes at Palmerston Court in London’s Battersea, reducing carbon and increasing efficiency. A dedication to health, safety and wellbeing resulted in a RIDDOR accident frequency rate of 0.036, surpassing industry standards. Significant investment in R&D reinforced Mace’s leadership in the construction industry, with advances in digital technology, net zero carbon and modern construction methods. The company also excelled in fostering strong client relationships, achieving 79% repeat orders and maintaining a positive impact on local communities through social value initiatives, sustainability efforts and community engagement programmes. Its focus on creating inclusive environments and supporting future leaders has further solidified a reputation as an industry leader committed to excellence and social responsibility. 

McLaren Construction 

McLaren Construction has achieved significant milestones, marked by exemplary project management and high-quality delivery. The company successfully undertook 37 projects, including the £132m refurbishment of the House of Fraser on Oxford Street and the £125m office refurbishment at Thirty High in Victoria, London. McLaren has continued to excel in key sectors such as industrial, logistics, residential and education, while managing inflation risks and securing early manufacturing slots. Its sustainability initiatives target net zero carbon emissions by 2025 for scope 1 and 2, and by 2045 for scope 3, with R&D focused on alternative energy sources. McLaren’s digital capabilities have earned ISO19650 accreditation, and its health and safety record boasts a 46% reduction in reportable incidents. The company fosters a culture of learning and diversity, enhancing staff benefits and promoting construction careers. 

Multiplex 

Multiplex has had an exceptional 12 months, completing major projects and securing several new contracts, leading to a significant increase in operating profit. Noteworthy schemes included the University of Glasgow’s infrastructure project and 65 Davies Street in London’s West End. Multiplex is focused on financial discipline, selective tendering and maintaining strong client and subcontractor relationships. Its sustainability initiatives have led to practical completion of the first diesel-free site and signing up to the WGBC Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment. Health and safety improvements include a reduction in incidents and an industry-leading mental health programme. Multiplex has also prioritised gender equality, flexible working and extensive training programmes, including scenario-based safety leadership training. The firm’s engagement with future talent through various educational initiatives highlights a dedication to the construction industry’s future. 

VINCI Building 

VINCI Building has excelled over the past year, completing 27 projects, including the £120m Paterson Building in Manchester and a University of West England student accommodation scheme that is the largest Passivhaus-certified university development in the UK. The firm also has more than £1bn projects under construction. Projects also included New Victoria, Manchester, and the regeneration of Chester’s Northgate, which has enhanced community and economic growth. In addressing industry challenges, VINCI implemented proactive supply chain engagement and direct delivery strategies. Its commitment to sustainability is evident in initiatives like reducing carbon emissions through offsite construction and minimising water and energy consumption. The Work Safe, Live Well initiative underscores a dedication to health and safety, while the firm’s investment in social value, including community skills centres, has positively impacted local communities by providing training and employment opportunities to marginalised individuals. 

Wates Group 

Wates Group completed several significant projects in 2023, including transforming the Sandwell Aquatic Centre into a community leisure facility, while it is constructing the UK’s first electric battery gigafactory in Sunderland. Wates is addressing housing demands, with 5,000 homes under construction, and managing 500,000 social homes. Notably, the company is building London’s first new town centre in 50 years at Canada Water. Wates has enhanced its resilience through innovative partnerships, such as a programme with Havering Council to regenerate council estates. Wates is deeply committed to social responsibility, generating substantial social value and investing in local communities. It focuses on mental health includes partnerships with organisations like Papyrus, aiming to eliminate work-related stress absence by 2025. Additionally, Wates has invested over £1.5m annually in training programmes, supporting 80,000 young people in considering construction careers. The company’s innovative joint venture partnerships model has enabled it to share risks and expertise, fostering growth and development in challenging markets.