McLaren Construction: A Year of Triumph and Future Horizons

McLaren Construction has once again proven its mettle as a tier one contractor, with their 2023/2024 full year results showcasing a blend of strong customer relationships, in-house technical expertise, and strategic diversification. These elements have laid a robust foundation for further growth as we head into 2025.

For the year ending 31 July 2024, McLaren reported a turnover of £924 million, maintaining a steady course to surpass the £1 billion mark. Impressively, their pre-tax profit almost doubled to £11.9 million. These figures reflect the company’s efficient management of inflation and consistent leadership, bolstered by enduring customer relationships.

Key projects highlighted this year include the prestigious award of the Sizewell project, leading to the establishment of a new construction management division. The Regeneration division took on the £200m refurbishment at Thirty High for Landsec, and the London & South division commenced significant works, including the £132m refurbishment of 318 Oxford Street for Publica Properties Limited and the £200m ExCeL London expansion for ADNEC.

Repeat business has been a cornerstone of McLaren’s success, accounting for 74% of the firm’s turnover. Esteemed clients such as British Land, Landsec, Stoford, GLP, and others have continually entrusted McLaren with their projects, underscoring the company's reputation for reliability and excellence.

In the education sector, McLaren completed the new High Leigh Primary School for Hertfordshire County Council and handed over the Sport and Wellness Centre for Chigwell School. These projects pave the way for the renewal of the DFE framework in 2025, facilitating further nationwide work.

McLaren’s strategic focus on the health sector saw the completion of the Moorgate Outpatient Centre for Cleveland Clinic and continued upgrades to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital for Lewisham & Greenwich NHS Trust. These accomplishments position McLaren favorably as the Government confirms funding for the New Hospital Programme.

Public sector engagements remain a vital part of McLaren’s portfolio, with the firm securing a place on the LHC Procurement Group Fire Safety Framework, bringing their total frameworks to 22, with aspirations to join the CCS framework in 2025.

Internationally, McLaren’s UAE division continues to thrive, focusing on core markets like industrial, data, technology, retail, and commercial sectors. The Midlands and North division strengthens its foothold through repeat business and diversification into new projects and frameworks.

Under Andrew Beaumont's leadership, the Yorkshire & North East division aims to build long-term relationships with both public and private sector clients. Investments in systems and digital resources have enhanced McLaren's ability to deliver projects in line with the Building Safety Act and meet evolving customer expectations.
 
Reflecting on a stable year filled with successes, Kevin Taylor, McLaren’s Chairman, stated, “A stable year, full of successes for our customers and teams, has given us the foundations for further growth and diversification from the second half of 2024. New divisions offer new construction management capability and bring all the benefits of McLaren’s skills and track record to projects in Yorkshire and the Northeast.”

Looking ahead, Taylor added, “2025 will be the year we exceed turnover of £1 billion and that is a major achievement for a privately owned contractor. My colleagues should be very proud of what they have achieved together, and the board commends them wholeheartedly.”
 
Paul Heather, Group Chief Executive Officer, further emphasised the company’s strategic prowess, stating, “McLaren’s management of supply chain inflation is typical of an increasingly disciplined and technically adept business that has helped us to continue to grow the business. The systems are in place to channel the firm’s considerable in-house expertise into every project and to monitor performance in real time, whether that’s environmental impact or quality control. The results are seen in the successful delivery of an increasing number of projects worth over £150 million.”

In summary, McLaren Construction’s stable year, filled with significant achievements, has set the stage for continued growth and diversification. As the firm heads into 2025, the commitment to innovation, technical expertise, and customer satisfaction remains steadfast. The company’s vision for the future is clear: to exceed the £1 billion turnover mark and to continue delivering exceptional projects that shape the landscape of modern construction.

McLaren Construction’s journey is a testament to the power of strategic planning, technical prowess, and enduring customer relationships. As we look forward to the coming year, the company’s trajectory promises further success and expansion, solidifying its position as a leader in the construction industry.

This editorial reflects McLaren’s commitment to excellence and their unwavering dedication to building a brighter future through innovative and sustainable construction practices.