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October 08.2025
3 Minutes Read

Gilbert-Ash Profits Surge Amid Turnover Decline: What It Means for Homeowners

Confident businessman in front of corporate ad, showcasing success

Gilbert-Ash: A Resilient Journey to Profitability

In a remarkable turnaround that speaks volumes about resilience in the construction industry, Gilbert-Ash Limited reported a significant increase in profits despite a notable decrease in turnover. The Belfast-headquartered contractor, known for its impressive portfolio across various sectors, achieved pre-tax profits of £4.6 million for the year ending December 31, 2024, more than doubling its previous year’s figures. However, the company's turnover fell by 10%, descending from £262.8 million to £235.7 million. This paints a complex picture of a company navigating tough market conditions while emerging stronger.

Understanding the Dynamics Behind the Numbers

Managing Director Ray Hutchinson noted that this growth in profits aligns with expectations and reflects the hard work and resilience of Gilbert-Ash's dedicated staff. The stark contrast between profits and turnover figures suggests that the company has optimized its project selection and management, focusing on quality over quantity. This strategy not only stabilizes finances but prepares the groundwork for sustainable growth in years to come.

Transformative Projects Shaping Communities

This resurgence is bolstered by a roster of high-profile construction projects that have made waves in London and beyond. Among the most noteworthy is the completion of the £24 million Loveday Dementia Care Facility in Belgravia, a testament to Gilbert-Ash's commitment to improving community healthcare facilities. Additionally, their work on the £38 million Premier Inn Paddington and a £29 million office refurbishment in Manchester showcases the company’s diverse capabilities.

Empowering Staff Through Employee Ownership

A unique twist in Gilbert-Ash’s narrative is its recent transition to an employee ownership trust, representing its 187 staff members. This move not only emboldens the workforce, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose, but also aligns their interests with the company's long-term performance. This new ownership model could serve as a blueprint for other firms in the industry looking to create more engaged and motivated workplaces.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Gilbert-Ash

As Gilbert-Ash charts its future, the company is poised to build on its current success. An exciting development is their commitment to undertake phase one works at Epic’s new campus in North Somerset. Additionally, they are set to refurbish the Royal Institute of British Architects' Grade II listed headquarters in London, reinforcing their reputation as a contractor of choice for prestigious projects.

Why This Matters to London Homeowners

For young homeowners in London, the implications of Gilbert-Ash's success resonate beyond the company's balance sheet. Their focus on high-quality construction and refurbishment not only enhances the aesthetic and functional aspects of living spaces but also contributes to the local economy. Ground-breaking projects by reputable firms like Gilbert-Ash can elevate property values and make neighborhoods more desirable. Homeowners and prospective buyers alike would benefit from staying informed about such developments.

Embracing Sustainable Living: A Construction Perspective

In addition to delivering architectural innovation, Gilbert-Ash’s commitment to sustainability is noteworthy. As the demand for eco-friendly living grows among discerning homeowners, companies that prioritize green building practices are likely to thrive. Gilbert-Ash’s excellence in quality construction aligns seamlessly with the aspirations of tech-savvy, environmentally-oriented property owners, making it a company to watch for anyone interested in sustainable property investment.

Your Opportunity to Engage with Local Development

For those invested in the idea of improving their surroundings, there’s never been a better time to participate in community-driven initiatives. Understanding how companies like Gilbert-Ash operate can provide valuable insights into effective homeowner strategies. By staying informed about construction trends and reputable contractors, you can make empowered choices for your home, ensuring your living space reflects both modern comforts and environmental sustainability.

Learn more about how the construction industry impacts your property value and community by following your local news sources or subscribing to construction updates. Staying connected can help you anticipate upcoming home improvement projects and innovations right in your neighborhood.

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Millennial Landlords Redefining the Buy-to-Let Market: How Younger Investors are Shaping the Future

Update Millennial Landlords Take the Reins in Buy-to-Let Market In an age marked by economic challenges and rapid changes in the housing market, millennials are making their mark as a formidable force in the buy-to-let arena. A recent report by estate agents Hamptons reveals that millennials, individuals born between 1981 and 1996, now constitute half of all new shareholders in buy-to-let companies in England and Wales. This generational shift signals not just a change in demographics, but a transformation in how property investment is perceived and executed. Investor Enthusiasm: A Rising Tide By 2025, it is estimated that millennials will establish 33,395 new buy-to-let companies, more than doubling the figures from 2020. This surge showcases their increased participation in property investment, especially in a climate where many may still struggle with home ownership. The exciting fact is that three-quarters of shareholders forming new buy-to-let companies are under 50, highlighting a vibrant shift toward younger investors. This is a significant increase from 68% a decade ago, indicating that the traditional barriers to property investment are being challenged head-on. Changing Geographical Trends in Investment The geographical landscape of the rental market is also shifting. The traditional hotspots of London and the South East are experiencing a decline in investor purchases, which accounted for only 34% of the total in the recent quarter, down from a substantial 50% in 2016. Meanwhile, regions like the North East are becoming increasingly attractive due to lower property prices and better rental yields. Here, landlords accounted for 28.4% of home purchases, contrasting sharply with the meager 8% seen in London. This shift suggests that smart investors are looking for predictable returns outside of the saturated markets of southern England. Current Market: Navigating Rental Changes As these investment principles evolve, landlords are navigating a changing rental climate, with average rent for newly let homes falling 0.3% over the last year. This decline is largely driven by a 2.7% drop in London rents, showcasing the market's volatility. In stark contrast, rents for existing tenancies remain robust, demonstrating that the rental landscape is complex and multidimensional. For the savvy millennial investor, understanding these dynamics can lead to lucrative opportunities. Capitalizing on Buy-to-Let Investments In light of these changes, millennials have the unique advantage of leveraging technology to enhance property management and investment strategies. Smart home technologies and sustainable living practices can attract quality tenants and improve efficiency. As younger investors increasingly embrace modern tech, they are able to generate better returns through innovative property solutions. Future of Millennial Landlords in Property Investment So what does the future hold for millennials in the buy-to-let market? As they continue to rise in numbers, their impact will be felt deeply within the property investment community. Tighter regulations and higher taxes may have dissuaded some older investors, but millennials are resilient, finding ways to adapt and even thrive. For those seeking opportunities today, investing in buoyant markets, such as those in the North, while embracing modern practices offers a promising path forward. Conclusion: Join the Revolution For young homeowners and aspiring property investors in London, understanding the evolving landscape of buy-to-let investments is essential. As millennials reshape this market, there’s a vibrant opportunity ahead. Are you ready to explore? Connect with local real estate experts who can guide you in leveraging these market shifts to your advantage.

Construction Industry Urges PM to Rethink Apprenticeships Reform Amid Crises

Update Industry Unites Against Proposed Apprenticeships Reform In a influential open letter, over 20 organizations from the construction industry have come together to voice their opposition to the Prime Minister's plan to cut apprenticeship durations to just eight months. Led by the British Woodworking Federation (BWF), this coalition warns that such changes, set forth by Skills England, could significantly weaken the training pathways essential for the construction sector. The message is clear: these reforms could spell disaster for an industry already facing a severe skills shortage. Shortening Apprenticeship Duration: A Recipe for Disaster? The proposed reforms include reducing apprenticeship programs to a mere eight months and implementing “sampling” assessments instead of thorough competency checks. Critics argue that this fast-track approach prioritizes cost-saving over quality training. As the industry grapples with a need for an estimated 250,000 new workers to meet government house-building targets, these accelerated training programs could erode the trust in apprenticeships essential for workforce growth and safety. Calls for the Government to Rethink The sentiment from the coalition, represented by figures like Helen Hewitt of the BWF, highlights the potential dangers of such a course of action. Cutting corners on training at a time when the UK desperately needs skilled labor to meet housing and infrastructure demands is viewed as a dangerous gamble with long-term consequences. The construction sector, known for its rigorous standards, cannot afford to see these foundational competencies diluted. Apprenticeship Standards at Stake The concerns extend beyond immediate training effects. The letter emphasizes that the proposed changes could conflict with the Building Safety Act, underlining the importance of competency in fostering a safe working environment. If the focus shifts to expedient assessments, the integrity of vital credentials, such as CSCS cards, might be compromised. This could lead to a 'race to the bottom' in standards across the sector, as assessment providers compete for market share instead of maintaining quality. The Bigger Picture: Skills Gaps and Economic Challenges The need for skilled workers in the construction industry is becoming increasingly urgent. The latest figures reveal more than 39,000 construction vacancies in the UK, many of which arise from skills shortages. Traditional pathways for filling these gaps have been disrupted due to post-Brexit restrictions on labor mobility. Hence, resolving this challenge through reinforcing quality apprenticeships is not simply beneficial—it's imperative for economic sustainability. Reforming the Reform - The Road Ahead With a call for transparency and involvement from actual stakeholders in training, the coalition urges Skills England and the government to reconsider these proposals. The ongoing discussions around a potential new apprenticeship funding model also need to place greater emphasis on long-term skills development rather than merely aiming for short-term cost efficiency. Community Perspectives: Why This Matters For young homeowners and those interested in sustainable living, any reduction in apprenticeship quality can directly affect the standards and safety of home improvement projects. After all, the men and women trained through these programs are those who’ll be working on our homes, infrastructure, and communities. The longevity of this profession, as much as the next homeowner's renovations, depends on meaningful training and learning pathways. Time to Lead Together for Impactful Change As the construction industry rallies against these reforms, there lies an opportunity for young homeowners and citizens alike to engage in conversations around skills training in our communities. Advocating for effective apprenticeships ensures a skilled workforce that can meet the demands of today's construction challenges. The overarching theme remains: It’s time for a community-led dialogue on how to build a skilled workforce capable of shaping our homes and cities sustainably.

The Impact of the Renters' Rights Bill: Are Landlords at Risk?

Update The Renters' Rights Bill: A Double-Edged Sword for LandlordsThe Renters' Rights Bill, now just days away from Royal Assent, aims to reform how tenancy agreements are managed in the UK, giving tenants significantly more rights. However, this legislation, while well-intentioned, risks alienating responsible landlords who are essential to the rental market and who often take the brunt of issues caused by rogue tenants.Labour's Minister for Housing, Matthew Pennycook, has emphasized a narrative that focuses on eliminating rogue landlords, yet this approach overlooks the practical realities faced by ethical landlords. As he touted, "let us leave no loopholes for rogue landlords," one can't help but notice the stark absence of similar discussions surrounding troublesome tenants. Landlords frequently lament the challenges posed by tenants who fail to uphold their agreements, leaving landlords to manage property damage or unpaid rent.Landlords' Perspectives: A New RealityThe proposed bill extends landlords' responsibilities significantly, requiring them to document and present evidence for tenant issues, a shift from previous, more simplified procedures. The abolition of Section 21 evictions means landlords can no longer terminate tenancies without valid reasons. Consequently, landlords will have to navigate a more complex route involving Section 8 evictions, which necessitates court intervention—a process some anticipate will become delayed due to an influx of cases.Landlords express genuine concern about the likely adverse effects this bill will have on their ability and willingness to invest in rental properties. With increased administrative burdens and fears of tenant abuse regarding their rights, many landlords may reconsider their commitment to the rental market altogether.The Need for Balanced ProtectionsAs highlighted by industry observers, while providing greater protections for tenants is commendable, the government must not overlook the importance of safeguarding responsible landlords from the impact of rogue tenants. Just as we seek to protect tenants from unethical landlords, we must equally address the challenges that arise from tenants who may behave irresponsibly.The extensive nature of the Renters' Rights Bill suggests a move toward balancing the scales, but there is an urgent need for additional provisions that also advocate for landlords' rights. The introduction of landlord ombudsman schemes may help, but not without the proper enforcement to ensure compliance by tenants as well. Additionally, a full roll-out of Awaab's Law—which aims to address serious health hazards—should ensure both parties can live within safe and well-maintained properties.Future Trends: Navigating a Changing LandscapeLooking forward, the potential for further reformation in the rental market remains. The current landscape is evolving, driven by rising rental costs, increased demand, and a general need for more robust regulations. As young homeowners in bustling London particularly, it becomes imperative to stay informed about these changes, as they directly impact housing availability and quality—a concern echoed across local communities.For the average homeowner, it's essential to remain engaged and proactive. Familiarizing oneself with these legislative changes not only helps protect one’s investments but also educates about tenants' rights, fostering a more cooperative environment between renters and landlords.Final Thoughts: Get Involved and Stay InformedThe Renters' Rights Bill undoubtedly signals significant shifts in the UK's housing landscape, making it crucial for landlords to adapt. Responsible landlords are urged to review their property management practices, update tenancy agreements, and explore suitable tools for property oversight, such as tracking manifestations of tenant behavior or rent payments.For young homeowners invested in property improvement and sustainable living, understanding this balance can pave the way for smoother renter-landlord relationships. Stay informed about such developments, participate in community discussions, and advocate for approaches that support responsible management of rental properties while protecting the rights of both parties. As the debate continues, your voice can help shape the future landscape of rental housing in London and beyond.

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