The UK is home to some of the most prominent civil engineering companies, each with a rich history and specialization. Here's an overview of the top ten firms, their founding details, turnover, and areas of expertise
The Top 10 Largest Civil Engineering Companies by Revenue
Founded: 1909
Founders: George Balfour and Andrew Beatty
Specialization: Infrastructure development, including roads, railways, power, and water systems.
Turnover:
2021: £8.3 billion
2022: £8.5 billion
2023: £8.7 billion
Employees: Approximately 26,000
2. Kier Group
Founded: 1928
Founders: J.L. Kier and J. Lotz
Specialization: Construction, infrastructure services, and property development, focusing on education, health, and housing sectors.
Turnover:
2021: £3.3 billion
2022: £3.5 billion
2023: £3.6 billion
Employees: Approximately 10,218
Founded: 1977
Founder: John Morgan
Specialization: Construction and regeneration, including affordable housing, urban regeneration, and infrastructure services.
Turnover:
2021: £3.2 billion
2022: £3.4 billion
2023: £3.5 billion
Employees: Approximately 6,600
4. Skanska UK
Founded: 1887
Founder: Rudolf Fredrik Berg
Specialization: Construction and development, focusing on building, civil infrastructure, and utilities.
Turnover:
2021: £1.8 billion
2022: £1.9 billion
2023: £2.0 billion
Employees: Approximately 3,300
Founded: 1865
Founder: Richard Costain
Specialization: Smart infrastructure solutions, integrating technology with engineering in transportation, energy, and water sectors.
Turnover:
2021: £1.1 billion
2022: £1.2 billion
2023: £1.3 billion
Employees: Approximately 3,400
Founded: 1978
Founder: Ray O'Rourke
Specialization: Engineering, construction, and asset management, with projects in healthcare, education, and commercial sectors.
Turnover:
2021: £2.5 billion
2022: £2.6 billion
2023: £2.7 billion
Employees: Approximately 12,000
Founded: 1869
Founder: Sir Robert McAlpine
Specialization: Building and civil engineering, focusing on commercial, residential, and infrastructure projects.
Turnover:
2021: £1.0 billion
2022: £1.1 billion
2023: £1.2 billion
Employees: Approximately 2,000
8. Amey UK
Founded: 1921
Founder: William Charles Amey
Specialization: Infrastructure support services, including highways, rail, utilities, and facilities management.
Turnover:
2021: £2.2 billion
2022: £2.3 billion
2023: £2.4 billion
Employees: Approximately 16,000
9. Mace Group
Founded: 1990
Founder: Ian Macpherson
Specialization: Consultancy and construction services, with expertise in project management, cost consultancy, and facilities management.
Turnover:
2021: £1.9 billion
2022: £2.0 billion
2023: £2.1 billion
Employees: Approximately 6,000
10. Interserve
Founded: 1884
Founder: Edmund Nuttall
Specialization: Construction and support services, including facilities management and
equipment services.
Turnover:
2021: £1.5 billion
2022: £1.6 billion
2023: £1.7 billion
Employees: Approximately 45,000
Conclusion
These companies are at the forefront of civil engineering in the UK, combining a legacy of innovation with modern solutions. From smart infrastructure to large-scale construction projects, their contributions are pivotal in shaping the country’s landscape.
Each firm demonstrates a strong commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability, with extensive workforces driving their success.