CLARK Contracts has been shortlisted for Large Business of the Year at the 2026 British Business Awards.
The Paisley-based main contractor was founded in 1978, and has several operating divisions – construction, fit out, refurbishment, housing and maintenance, employing over 280 people with offices in the east and west of Scotland.
Clark Contractors will compete against 149 UK businesses, ranging from household names, to global giants, innovative SMEs, and family firms at the British Business Awards, which will feature special guest George Clooney at a star-studded ceremony in Edinburgh.
The shortlisted companies will also form the inaugural British Business Leaders List, recognising organisations setting the standard for modern enterprise and shaping the UK’s economic future. More than 400 companies entered the awards, with finalists assessed across five pillars: business performance, innovation, workforce and culture, customer impact, and contribution to society and the wider economy.
The winner will be announced at the awards dinner on the 30 April 2026 at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC). The awards will again be raising funds for UK homelessness charity, Social Bite, with a target of helping to raise over £1 million, alongside a fundraising dinner held by the charity the night before the awards event at Gleneagles Hotel.
Alan Jope CBE, chair of the judging panel, said, “The calibre of companies on the shortlist is extraordinary, and our job as judges is simply to maintain the highest standards and ensure that truly outstanding businesses emerge as the winners. From global innovators like AstraZeneca and Moderna to much-loved brands such as Nando’s, Warburtons, and Iceland, this year’s cohort represents companies that are truly shaping Britain’s economic future.”
Rick Haythornthwaite, NatWest group chair, added, “As Britain’s biggest bank for business, we are proud to once again sponsor the British Business Awards, recognising the outstanding achievements of businesses across all sectors and every part of the UK. Businesses like these are central to our economy, creating jobs, driving innovation, and supporting communities. We look forward to celebrating the ambition, creativity and excellence that is at the heart of so many great British businesses in Edinburgh next month, whilst also taking the opportunity to support Social Bite and its vital work tackling homelessness.”
Josh Littlejohn MBE, founder of Social Bite and event director of the British Business Awards, commented, “It’s brilliant to see so many businesses across multiple sectors and sizes listed on this year’s shortlist. We look forward to welcoming back the British business community for another night of celebration, and to help raise vital funds for Social Bite to allow it to continue making lasting impact for people who are experiencing homelessness throughout the UK.”
Gordon Cunningham, Clark Contracts MD, added, “We are delighted to be shortlisted once again for Large Business of the Year. This recognition highlights our consistent development, strong performance within the construction industry, and the dedication of our team. We’re proud to be named alongside other major businesses in this year’s shortlist.”
