IT has not exactly been a memorable year for the Scottish construction industry.
Successive surveys and statistical bulletins from the Office for National Statistics have pointed to the sector being one of the weakest-performing parts of the UK economy. A host of firms in Scotland have failed in recent weeks. Softening demand, public sector contracts drying up, and payment delays have all been cited as pressure points, alongside the supply chain fall-out from the collapse of contracting giant Carillion at the start of the year.
Throughout it all, though, Clark Contracts has been trading robustly. Accounts due to be filed at Companies House this week reveal an encouraging leap in profits and turnover, with enquiries and workload showing no signs of being hampered by the challenging backdrop.
As managing director Gordon Cunningham notes, it remains as tough as it ever was to win contracts. But there can be little doubt that Clark is benefiting from the strategic decisions taken by its leaders. It has purposefully diversified into different sectors to spread its risk, with a move into housing next on the agenda, bolstering its work in retail, higher education and hotel development.
And it is reaping the rewards of investing in its own people. The investment in its own academy is helping to ensure it has access to the people it needs today and tomorrow, which is especially pertinent amid the continuing skills shortage. “We’re taking control of our own future, rather than relying on anybody else,” Mr Cunningham said.
It is an approach which is bringing dividends.
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