Shropshire-based construction company McPhillips (Wellington) Ltd is celebrating its 60th anniversary milestone by launching new multi-million-pound projects while continuing its focus on workforce development and community support.
The award-winning constructor marked its diamond anniversary in 2024 with various celebrations, including the ‘60 for 60’ food bank initiative and the establishment of the McPhillips Community Fund. The fund, created in partnership with the Shropshire Community Foundation, supports projects aimed at improving mental health, reducing social isolation, and promoting wellbeing across Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin.
Managing Director Paul Inions reflected on the significance of the past year. “2024 was a chance for us to celebrate everything McPhillips has achieved over six decades. It was also an opportunity to thank our staff, partners, and supply chain, who have played such an important role in our success,” he said.
Over the summer, the company hosted a celebration for 400 staff members and their partners at Telford International Centre. Later in November, McPhillips honoured its supply chain with a special event held at RAF Cosford.
One of the company’s major achievements in 2024 was completing Chester Zoo’s Heart of Africa development, which included the creation of new wildlife habitats. Building on this success, McPhillips has been contracted to deliver a £20m safari-style accommodation project for the zoo. The scheme, set to be completed by summer 2025, will feature 51 luxury lodges and a two-storey welcome building with restaurant and bar facilities.
In January 2025, McPhillips will commence new projects in Telford & Wrekin and Stafford while progressing a £20m development in Newport for retirement living specialist Untold Living. The company will also continue to deliver a variety of schemes across the Midlands and North West.
Company Secretary Val Hardy highlighted McPhillips’ unique approach to workforce development, noting its long-standing commitment to directly employing its staff rather than relying on subcontractors. “Our industry faces a skills crisis, and we believe the solution lies in training and directly employing our workforce,” she said.
McPhillips operates an apprenticeship scheme designed to equip new talent with essential skills. “While this approach involves higher overheads, it ensures high-quality delivery for all our clients. It’s about doing the right thing to secure the future of our sector,” Hardy added.
The company’s direct employment policy and focus on skill-building stand out in an industry often reliant on subcontracted labour. This commitment has helped McPhillips maintain a reputation for consistently delivering complex projects to high standards.
Looking ahead, McPhillips aims to build on the momentum of its 60th year, maintaining a diverse project portfolio and making a positive impact on local communities through its construction expertise and community initiatives.
For more information on McPhillips and its projects, visit www.mcphillips.co.uk.