About Gerrard's of Swinton
Gerrard’s of Swinton – Excellence in Building Since 1864
Gerrard’s of Swinton, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the construction industry, was founded in 1864 by Jonathan Gerrard, trading as J. Gerrard & Sons. Based in Swinton, Manchester, this storied family-run business has grown into one of the largest and most respected construction firms in the United Kingdom, delivering landmark projects to communities nationwide.
With its roots firmly planted in the Victorian era, Gerrard’s boasts a legacy of crafting diverse and iconic buildings. Its remarkable portfolio spans army barracks, RAF bases, expansive residential developments, commercial properties, public service establishments such as fire and police stations, and academic institutions like colleges. The company has also constructed thirty-seven churches, leaving a profound architectural and cultural imprint. This rich history of innovation and craftsmanship is celebrated in three books, The History and Buildings of J. Gerrard & Sons Ltd, which are available for enthusiasts and historians alike on Amazon. Local history tours in Swinton continue to honor and showcase this extraordinary heritage.
Diversification and Innovation
Over the decades, Gerrard’s has evolved far beyond traditional construction, diversifying into multiple industries to strengthen its expertise and offerings. The company is an industry leader in motorway and highway construction, known for delivering efficient and cost-effective infrastructure solutions ranging from ‘A’ roads to full-scale motorways. Its haulage division, comprising a fleet of fifty modern tipper trucks, walking floor vehicles, and low loaders, ensures seamless logistics and plant hire services.
Additionally, Gerrard’s operates training schools to elevate industry standards, has undertaken significant land reclamation projects to restore and repurpose the environment, engages in commercial property letting, and even collaborates with the film industry to bring creative visions to life. Each of these divisions reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence, sustainable growth, and community-centric operations.
A Timeless Family Legacy
Today, Gerrard’s is helmed by Sebastian Gerrard Esq., the great-great-great-grandson of founder Jonathan Gerrard. As a sixth-generation family-owned business, Gerrard’s continues to embody the traditions, values, and ethos upon which it was built. Guided by a deep connection to the local community, the company actively supports local causes, charities, and initiatives, details of which can be found on the Community Engagement page.
Ex-Forces Special Projects and Rugby League Sponsorships
A proud advocate for the ex-forces community, managing director Sebastian Gerrard—himself an ex-forces veteran—is deeply committed to supporting former service members. Under Sebastian’s leadership, Gerrard’s has become closely involved in a wide array of projects aimed at giving back to the ex-military community. These efforts include fundraising initiatives, the restoration of military vehicles, and even organizing ambitious world record attempts that celebrate the strength and resilience of veterans.
The company's dedication to armed forces causes extends to its sponsorship of the Army Rugby League. As an official sponsor, Gerrard’s proudly supports this esteemed organization, which exemplifies comradery, discipline, and excellence within the armed forces.
In addition to its support for Army Rugby League, Gerrard’s also sponsors the local Rugby League team Swinton Lions RLFC. Known as "The Lions," the club has strong ties to the local community and a rich heritage spanning over 150 years. Gerrard’s sponsorship reinforces its connection to Swinton’s traditions and its commitment to supporting local sports initiatives.
Beyond these partnerships, Gerrard’s provides free training courses for ex-forces personnel, helping them transition to civilian careers while leveraging the unique skills cultivated during military service. This ongoing commitment not only honors the sacrifices of service members but also ensures they have opportunities to thrive beyond their military careers.
Commitment to Community and Giving Back
Sebastian Gerrard believes that businesses have a responsibility to act as a force for good. This ethos is embedded in the core of Gerrard’s operations, with over £1,000,000 contributed to community projects over the past ten years. These contributions include sponsorships for local children’s football and rugby teams, donations of playground equipment, defibrillators for community centers, and much more.
Gerrard’s culture of giving extends beyond financial support. Employees frequently volunteer their time to raise money for good causes and assist in local schools’ business studies projects, fostering a strong sense of local cooperation and community building. Such initiatives illustrate Gerrard’s values and commitment to being a trusted partner in the local community.
Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
Looking ahead, Gerrard’s is firmly committed to playing a leading role in the construction industry’s shift to sustainability. The company has invested heavily in research and development to adopt next-generation building materials and explore alternative fuels, all while driving forward its ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality. These efforts reflect the company’s dedication to adapting to modern challenges while preserving its long-standing focus on quality.
Leading in Health, Safety, and Equality
At the heart of Gerrard’s operations is its commitment to people—employees, partners, and the local community alike. Proud supporters of the Living Wage initiative, Gerrard’s ensures fair pay for all employees. The company is a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant and the Disability Covenant, showcasing its inclusive ethos and dedication to offering equal opportunities.
Gerrard’s has also made transformative contributions to health and safety practices across the construction sector, particularly in high-speed networks and large-scale infrastructure. The company continually innovates training techniques and safety protocols, striving towards an uncompromised vision: ensuring that every individual working on its projects, regardless of role or affiliation, returns home safely at the end of each day.
Building the Future While Honoring the Past
Through its unwavering focus on craftsmanship, sustainability, and community, Gerrard’s of Swinton remains a cornerstone of the construction industry. Guided by its proud history and an innovative approach to modern challenges, the company is poised to continue making a lasting impact—building for the future while honoring the past.
