Inaugural construction awards announced at UKCW

New industry awards to recognise the 10 'best businesses in construction' were announced on the first day of UK Construction Week (UKCW), 8 October.

The UKCW Construction Awards sought to celebrate innovation and excellence among a range of large and small contractors, architects, clients, suppliers and manufacturers. The winners were announced by architect George Clark at the show, now in its 5th year.

"We have wanted to host these awards for some time, but this year it was made possible by our industry Role Models who gave us their very honest and forthright views on who should receive these accolades," said event director Nathan Garnett. "The businesses chosen as winners from a shortlist of more than 60 companies have convinced the toughest of judges - the people who are part of their delivery partners or supply chains, and the people who are inspiring others to join the construction industry.

"So it is great to be able to recognise the excellence we see all around us in this sector, and the businesses who are forging ahead on innovation despite the climate of uncertainty that is affecting construction so badly. They are beacons of light for the whole sector."

The winners

Contractor of 2019 - Sir Robert McAlpine

Construction Client of 2019 - Scape Group

Architectural Practice of 2019 - Grimshaw Architects

House Builder of 2019 - Swan Housing

Construction Supplier of 2019 - Ward

Construction Project of 2019 - Royal Opera House

Construction Employer of 2019 - Aylaa Exclusive

Digital Pioneer 2019 - Atkins

Modern Methods of Construction Pioneer 2019 - Mace

Product Innovation Award 2019 - Laing O'Rourke for its D-Frame demountable building system