Across-the-board rises in profit and turnover meant that superb client and staff satisfaction rates were crucial for the winner of this Construction Manager-sponsored category
Winner
Roberts Construction
2000 was the latest in a succession of excellent years for Roberts. Its turnover rose 41%, from £14.4m to £20.3m and operating profit has more than trebled in three years. It has an excellent record of retaining both staff and clients. The "client for life" programme motivates staff to deliver defect-free projects, an initiative that has attracted big spenders such as Lloyds TSB. The objectives of partnering were applied to expand the accident and emergency department at Bradford Royal Infirmary, the largest health project Roberts has ever undertaken. The department was completed for less than the cost of similar projects and free of disputes. Roberts' record in training, investment, teamwork and client satisfaction is second to none in its field.

Second
Pearce (Retail Services)
Working in the retail sector, Pearce has set itself the target of moving over entirely to partnering with clients, and has achieved good results with Asda and Debenhams. In line with current thinking on best value and partnering, its design-and-build project to fit out a food store for Marks & Spencer was a glowing success: it was completed a week earlier and 16% cheaper than a previous project with all key performance indicators achieved or exceeded.

Third
Russell Construction
For a small firm, Russell has had a big year. Profit increased 122% on a turnover increase of 30%. A potent combination of sustainable development, subcontractor management and partnering has achieved great gains, securing an 80% repeat business rate. Subcontractors, suppliers and clients are surveyed on completion of each project, and all projects are monitored and assessed against the DETR's key performance indicators.

Fourth
Crispin & Borst
On its way to achieving Investors in People accreditation, Crispin & Borst has achieved the remarkable result of a 828% rise in operating profit over three years. A firm that is positive about partnering, enthusiastic about environmental issues and supportive of suppliers, C&B last year worked on the restoration of Somerset House in London. The start of work was delayed, but C&B still managed to complete the contract on time and to budget.

Building Awards 2001