Conlon Construction has reported strong financial performance for the year ending 31 October 2025, marking its first full year operating as an employee ownership trust (EOT) and reinforcing its position as a trusted delivery partner across public sector frameworks.
The Preston-based contractor achieved a turnover of £55m, up from £46m the previous year, alongside a pre-tax profit of £2m (£1.72m in 2024). Group Net assets remained robust at £11m, underpinned by strong cash reserves and a continued disciplined approach to delivery.
The results reflect one of the strongest trading periods in the company’s history, driven by a focus on operational control and a “getting it right first time” approach. Performance has been supported through a combination of carefully selected framework opportunities and direct award wins, enabling sustainable growth.
Over the past 12 months, the business has delivered a series of high-profile schemes across its core sectors spanning defence, offices, industrial, leisure, heritage and conservation, with education continuing to lead its portfolio. Notable completions include the regeneration of Preston’s iconic Harris Museum, a new 24,000 sqm facility in Lancaster for GVS Filter Technology UK Ltd, and the delivery of one of the UK’s first schools to achieve Net Zero Carbon in Operation.
Looking ahead, the business has built a strong forward pipeline. Current live schemes include Firwood Primary School in Bolton, a new SEND sixth form facility, alongside recently awarded Department for Education (DfE) projects. This forward order book provides a clear platform for continued revenue and profit growth through FY26, FY27 and beyond.
Conlon was recently appointed to the DfE’s Construction Framework 2025 – a £15bn, eight-year programme set to deliver new and refurbished education facilities across England. The business secured positions across multiple regional lots up to £12m in value, spanning the North West, North East, Yorkshire, East Midlands and West Midlands, placing it alongside Tier 1 contractors delivering the programme nationally.
Additional framework success includes appointments to the Procure Partnerships Framework in the North West and the South West Wales Regional Contractors Framework, further strengthening Conlon’s position across key public sector delivery routes.
Guy Parker, Managing Director and Chairman at Conlon Construction, said: “We’re incredibly proud of how the business has transitioned into an employee-owned model while maintaining a clear focus on operational excellence and disciplined growth.
“This has been a year of strong project delivery and continued progress, with year-on-year growth achieved through a sustainable and controlled approach. Our strong cash position and balance sheet give confidence to our clients, supply chain and partners, and underpin the stability of the business.
“Looking ahead, our focus remains on growing sustainably – managing risk, selecting the right projects and continuing to strengthen our team and delivery capability. This is reflected in the strength of our forward pipeline, giving us clear visibility over the coming years.
“As an employee-owned business, our people remain at the heart of everything we do. That shared responsibility and long-term mindset continues to drive performance and deliver value for our clients and partners.”
Founded in 1961, Conlon transitioned to employee ownership in 2024. The move ensures the continuation of a family values-led culture built over more than six decades, while embedding a long-term, people-first model for future growth.
Since transitioning, Conlon has seen increased employee engagement through regular forums, business improvement initiatives and wider involvement in decision-making. The model has also supported the attraction of new talent, with recruitment reflecting the appeal of a people-first culture where employees have a meaningful stake in the business.
Alongside its financial performance, Conlon continues to deliver meaningful social value across its projects. The business maintains a strong regional focus, with 82% of its workforce employed within 30 miles of its sites and more than 1,600 apprentice weeks delivered over the past year.
Conlon also continues its long-standing commitment to supporting local schools and colleges, delivering careers engagement, site visits, STEM activity and training opportunities to help develop the next generation of construction talent. The business actively supports T Level delivery and provides hands-on learning experiences that create clear pathways into employment.
Community-led initiatives remain a key part of this approach. At the Lancashire SAFE Centre in Preston, Conlon worked collaboratively with local contractors and suppliers to transform an outdoor space into a dedicated wellbeing garden for patients, visitors and staff.
At Kingsbourne Academy, the business supported the delivery of a new community wellbeing programme in partnership with Cheshire East Council, helping to strengthen local support networks and create meaningful opportunities for residents.
With a strengthened balance sheet, growing pipeline and continued investment in its people, Conlon is focused on delivering sustainable growth across its core sectors, while maintaining its reputation for quality, reliability and long-term value.
