Cumnor-based Beard Construction is poised to expand its influence within the construction industry, building on a record turnover of £198 million in 2023. This marks a significant achievement for the company, which has consistently demonstrated growth and adaptability over the years. Employing approximately 350 personnel across five regional offices—Oxford, Southampton, Bristol, Guildford, and Swindon—Beard is now actively seeking to enhance its supply chain by inviting suppliers and subcontractors from numerous specialisms, including electrical, mechanical, groundworks, roofing, and brickwork.
The company’s commitment to regional partnerships is evident, as it stresses the importance of collaboration with local businesses. Beard has established a strategic target aiming for at least 30 per cent of its spending to be allocated to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as part of its social value framework. This approach reflects an understanding of the vital role that smaller firms play within the broader construction sector, particularly as the industry faces challenges in sourcing skilled labour.
Mike Hedges, operations director at Beard Construction, emphasised the centrality of collaboration in maintaining the company’s reputation for quality and excellence. “The strength and collaboration in our supply chain partnerships is key to maintaining our reputation for quality and excellence,” he remarked. Beard’s ongoing commitment to these partnerships has resulted in positive supplier feedback, demonstrated by a net promoter score of 80, significantly above the industry average of 64. Survey respondents particularly praised Beard’s health and safety protocols and quality standards, with scores of 88.33 and 87.5 respectively.
In support of its operational integrity, Beard Construction has also been recognised for its safety practices, having reported significant reductions in workplace accidents, including slips, trips, and falls. Finance director Fraser Johns pointed out that improved safety results are indicative of Beard’s rigorous focus on both safety and carbon reduction efforts. This dual focus is especially relevant in a post-pandemic environment, where health safeguards are paramount.
Furthermore, the firm has recently reaffirmed its commitment to its workforce by retaining its Investors in People Gold accreditation for the fourth consecutive term. This recognition is awarded to organisations that excel in fostering employee engagement, investment, and development. Such accolades underline Beard’s longstanding culture of prioritising employee welfare and inclusivity, which has been a cornerstone of its operations since 2003.
In parallel with expanding its operations, Beard Construction has also been awarded the contract for Gloucestershire College’s £5 million sustainable construction centre, a project highlighting the firm’s dedication to low-carbon initiatives and education in the construction trade. The centre is expected to provide training to 164 learners weekly, directly addressing the projected shortage of skilled construction workers in the region, with demands set to rise to 6,400 annually by 2025.
Despite this robust growth, Beard Construction acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead. The company has implemented feedback mechanisms to continuously improve its operations, underscoring a proactive approach to development. Hedges noted, “Our survey results were positive across the board, but that doesn’t mean we can become complacent,” signalling the company’s commitment to an enduring process of improvement as it seeks to nurture trusted partnerships to facilitate ongoing success and stability in the construction landscape.
As Beard Construction embarks on this new chapter, the emphasis on regional collaboration and supplier engagement positions the company well for the future, enabling it not only to withstand economic fluctuations but also to foster a culture of quality and safety within the construction industry.
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Source: Noah Wire Services
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