A Scottish family-founded civil engineering firm is celebrating 60 years in business.
The firm that has seen a hostile takeover and two management buyouts has played a pivotal part in building landmark projects across Scotland including bridges, roads and ports.
The firm has told how George Leslie, now a leading name in civil engineering, grew “from its modest beginnings on McCulloch Street in Glasgow in 1964, where the business generated £1,000 per week, to its current headquarters since 1973 in Barrhead”.
It now has an annual turnover exceeding £100 million, and “George Leslie has grown into a major player in the industry, contributing to some of the most significant civil engineering projects across the country”.
Notable projects include the Ullapool rail bridge, A96 upgrade, Black Isle water scheme, Albert Quay Docks, Aberdeen, Brodick Ferry Terminal and the Montgarrie Bridge over the River Don.
The company was founded in 1964 by George and Jean Leslie, operating from a back bedroom with only five people on the payroll. Over the past six decades, George Leslie Ltd has expanded to employ over 400 staff, while “preserving the core values of resourcefulness, togetherness, and passion that were instilled from the very beginning”.
George Leslie was honoured with the Scottish Civil Engineering Award 2024 for the best marine project.
The firm said: “These principles continue to serve as the foundation of the company's enduring success and commitment to future growth.
David Ross, managing director, George Leslie said: “From humble beginnings in a Newlands back bedroom to our current home in Barrhead, George Leslie has evolved into a renowned name in the industry. We stand on the shoulders of giants like George Leslie, his son George Leslie OBE and John McNaught, whose dedication and vision paved the way for our success.”
The award celebrated the company's “exceptional work” on the Lochmaddy Pier upgrade contract.
Mr Ross added: “As we celebrate this milestone, we acknowledge the countless individuals who have contributed to our journey over the years. Their passion, resourcefulness and togetherness have been instrumental in shaping the company we are today.
“While this marks a significant achievement, it's important to remember that our story is far from over. We remain committed to upholding the legacy of George Leslie and continuing to provide exceptional engineering for generations to come."
In 1982, the firm was subject to a hostile takeover by Anglo Nordic but two years later George Leslie, Jr, led a management buyout.
Mr Leslie stayed with the firm until retirement in 2020 and a further management buyout took place.
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