Conlon Construction Transitions to Employee Ownership
Conlon Holdings, a prominent Preston-based construction company established in 1961 by five brothers, has transitioned to an employee-ownership trust (EOT) model, reflecting a growing trend among businesses aiming to preserve company culture and ensure long-term stability.
Despite the change in ownership structure, Conlon Holdings, which includes Conlon Construction, will see no immediate alterations to its day-to-day operations. The current leadership team remains intact, with Michael Conlon continuing as chairman, alongside managing director Guy Parker, finance director Nadine Ng, commercial director Darren Lee, projects director Andrew Makinson, quantity surveying director Lee Parry, and HR and business development director Maureen Boland.
Michael Conlon emphasized that the shift to employee ownership aligns closely with the company's longstanding values. “From the outset, our founders, those five young Conlon brothers, put people at the heart of the company. By implementing this transition now, the family believes it is the best outcome for the business and, most importantly, for all of our colleagues,” Conlon remarked.
Under the new EOT structure, the current board of directors will continue to oversee the company’s operations but will now be accountable to a trustee board that includes two elected employee trustees. This move aims to ensure that the interests of all employees are represented at the highest level of decision-making within the company.
Conlon expressed gratitude to the company’s staff, clients, and supply chain partners, acknowledging their contributions to the firm’s success. “We would like to sincerely thank all our colleagues, clients, and supply chain members for their contribution towards making Conlon the success story it has become. We look forward to their continued efforts, trust, and support,” he added.
The transition to an EOT was advised by Kevin Steven of Pierce Corporate Finance and Stephen Hadlow of Brabners Law, who played key roles in guiding Conlon through the process.
Conlon Construction employs 72 full-time staff and has recently been recognized for its commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, winning the ESG Award at the North West Regional Construction Awards. The firm also secured the SME of the Year award, further cementing its reputation in the industry.
Recent projects completed by Conlon include the second phase of Lancaster University’s £16 million management complex refurbishment, the construction of Star Academies’ Olive School in Cheetham Hill, and the development of GVS Filter Technology’s £14 million manufacturing facility in Quernmore.
As Conlon Construction embarks on this new chapter of employee ownership, the company remains committed to its core values of people-centric leadership and high-quality service, ensuring its legacy continues under the stewardship of those who contribute to its daily success.