Bosses at mechanical and electrical contractor John N Dunn Group are forecasting further profit growth, despite challenges in their sector.
New accounts for the North Tyneside-based firm, which also has offices in Scotland and Yorkshire, show growth in turnover and profits in the year to the end of March. The building services operator was said to have traded well throughout the year, with turnover rising from £31.6m to nearly £35m and operating profit up from £343,746 to £639,553.
Investment went into the Wallsend group's efforts in the renewables sector, where it has upskilled its workforce to take advantage of growing opportunities across the installation of solar panels, electric vehicle charging points and air source heat pumps. Within the accounts, group chairman, Stephen Bilclough, said his team had delivered a number of significant renewables contracts with the promise of more on the way.
Average headcount numbers fell during the year from 237 in 2024 to 228. But Mr Bilclough said the business had already secured a significant orderbook for the year ahead, and that despite sector-based and wider economic challenges, trading was buoyant.
This summer, the business told of its significant commitment to training staff - equipping a third of its workforce, including contract managers, with industry recognised BTEC qualifications. It pointed to efforts to respond to fast growing demand in low-carbon heating solutions, having made 150 installations over one year.
Mr Bilclough added: "John N Dunn Group has been operating in the region for more than 130 years, with offices across Scotland and Yorkshire, and this year reflects our continued steady and sustainable approach. This year also marked my 40th year with the company and throughout that time, one thing has remained constant – our belief that people are at the heart of everything we do.
"As we continue to future-proof the organisation, our focus remains on our workforce, innovation, the communities we serve and the skills that will sustain our sector for decades ahead.
"Our heritage gives us strength and our future is shaped by the way we invest responsibly and purposefully in the generations to come. Last year, we proudly celebrated our 500th apprentice, a milestone that demonstrates our enduring commitment to nurturing talent and supporting the wider industry."
John N Dunn was established in 1893 and has grown from a small family business into construction name with national reach. The Bilclough family’s involvement with the company started in 1951, when G.M. Bilclough, acquired the firm. Stephen Bilclough is joined on the board of directors by his cousin, Jane Bilclough, with brothers Chris and James Bilclough holding senior management positions.
The group also has three managing directors, Lee Haddock in the North East, Colin Langley in Scotland and James Harris in Yorkshire.
