Building Awards 2024 shortlists: Specialist 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 Specialist Contractor of the Year.

DGP   

DGP provides fully managed construction logistics and security services, supporting clients to deliver complex, highly regulated projects across the UK. The company has grown in the past year despite economic challenges, reinvesting this growth back into the business.

DGP fosters strong partnerships with clients and supply chains, engaging in regular conversations to stay updated on evolving requirements. The firm’s dedicated pre-construction team offers critical early-stage support, including site assessments and 2D/3D design development.

Committed to sustainability, DGP aims to be a net-zero company by 2026 and has achieved certification under the Achilles Carbon Reduce scheme.

The company promotes a culture of learning and development, providing training opportunities both within the organisation and to wider communities. DGP’s diverse workforce comprises 25 nationalities and 22 ethnicities, with a significant increase in female workers. Its approach to health and safety involves comprehensive standards and a focus on creating work environments that nurture the wellbeing and fulfilment of all workers. 

Kilnbridge 

Kilnbridge is a specialist construction and engineering firm, operating as a trusted tier-two contractor in reinforced concrete, structural steelwork and complex structural alterations.

The company’s expertise and diverse capabilities have enabled it to successfully deliver a wide range of projects, from major transport hubs and national infrastructure to heritage buildings and commercial developments.

Kilnbridge’s in-house design and engineering services, combined with its plant and fabrication capabilities, allow it to provide comprehensive, value-driven solutions to its clients.

Committed to social responsibility, Kilnbridge supports local communities through charitable donations, volunteer work and employment opportunities, including apprenticeships and graduate programmes. Key new appointments within the business in the past calendar year include a head of sustainability to develop and implement even more aggressive plans to reduce its carbon footprint, and a head of talent to bolster a recruitment drive for upcoming projects.  

McGee 

McGee is a specialist construction and engineering firm committed to innovation, sustainability and excellence. Responding to market conditions, the company has adopted collaborative and flexible approaches, emphasising early engagement to deliver optimal solutions for clients.

This early involvement allows seamless integration and collaboration with the project team, leading to more informed decision-making and streamlined workflows.

Sustainability has also been a priority, with McGee’s strategic investments in reusable temporary works and pioneering facade retention systems significantly reducing carbon emissions on its projects.

The firm’s comprehensive training and development programmes, including apprenticeships, graduate schemes and leadership initiatives, demonstrate its dedication to nurturing a highly skilled and diverse workforce. McGee’s reputation for exceptional safety and corporate social responsibility is reflected in its industry accolades and strong client relationships, with over 60% of projects coming from repeat customers. 

Mivan 

Established in 1971, Mivan is a leading specialist contractor renowned for delivering exceptional results on high-quality, complex construction projects. The company’s unwavering commitment to client satisfaction is reflected in its strong relationships and track record of success, with customers consistently praising Mivan’s collaborative approach and attention to detail.

Sustainability is a core focus for the firm, which has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including investing in renewable energy sources and maintaining more than 100 acres of forestry.

The company also places great emphasis on training and development, operating an in-house specialist academy that provides industry-renowned apprenticeship programmes. Mivan’s sense of social responsibility extends beyond its construction work, as the company actively engages with local communities, supporting charitable initiatives and promoting awareness of construction and the built environment as viable career paths.  

Specialist Group 

Specialist Group, a 35-year-old specialist fit-out contractor, has enjoyed another year of healthy growth. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its renewable energy initiatives, including a biomass burner, heat recovery systems and solar power, which have contributed to a significant reduction in carbon emissions.

Specialist Group’s focus on customer satisfaction is underpinned by its collaborative project management approach, material workshops, and tailored ERP and CRM systems, which provide clients with real-time project visibility.

The company’s investment in training, development and employee wellbeing has fostered a loyal and experienced workforce, with an average length of service of 15 years and a 90% retention rate.

Specialist Group’s dedication to social responsibility is exemplified by its charitable initiatives and engagement with local communities and educational institutions. The company’s recent innovations also include product developments and the introduction of its Q Team to focus on quality.