Glasgow business acquired by 500 employees

Tough Construction recently transferred its entire shareholding to an Employee Ownership Trust. 

The firm employs more than 500 staff and directly employed on-site personnel and was founded in 1974.

The shareholders, Bob Leishman, George Duncan and Kenny MacKenzie, took over the business in a management buyout in 2007. 

They will retire following the completion of the transaction.

Alistair Lauder and Bob Leishman (Image: Supplied)

Bob Leishman said: “Our success is largely due to the loyal team we have at Tough Construction.

"We are fortunate that we have a low turnover relative to the sector, and that’s largely because we like to think we look after our people well, offering opportunities for training and development.

"A sale to a third party may have disrupted that. This move to employee ownership allows the company to continue to offer excellent service to our clients, and secure employment for our people.

“A sale to an employee ownership trust lets us have our exit, knowing that the company is in safe hands. We have a talented leadership team ready to take over and it’s time for the old guard to step aside. So far, the news has been well received by staff and clients. It remains business as usual and that’s good news for everyone.”

Some of the employees (Image: Supplied)

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Gary Hassan will become commercial director and Mhari Greer is promoted to finance director. 

They join Craig Lavery (construction director) and Gillian Beaton (procurement director) on the board, alongside Alistair Lauder who has been promoted to the position of managing director.

Alistair Lauder said: “The shareholders are demonstrating tremendous vision in transferring their shareholding to the trust. I believe it is good for the company and for the employees. 

"The company will celebrate its 50th year in business next year, it will be good to do that as an employee-owned business."