Our History

Wates is one of the leading family-owned construction, development and property services businesses in the UK. Here's our story...

• Wates is founded 1897

  Founded by Edward Wates, starting out as a house builder.
• Pioneering house building 1920s-1930s

  
  Edward’s sons, Norman, Sir Ronald and Allan, expanded the company by pioneering speculative house building. Using the expertise gained in managing large projects, the company then extended into general contracting.
• Mulberry Harbours 1940

  
  During the war the focus shifted to civil engineering works and infrastructure which saw the company build aerodromes, army camps, factories etc. both at home and overseas. Having developed a speciality in pre-cast concrete structures, Wates supplied major parts for the Mulberry Harbours which supported the D-Day invasions.
• Post World War 1950

  
  Following the war the innovation and skills learned were applied to developing an efficient and cost effective “system build” model for high-rise and low-rise housing, which saw over 60,000 homes built using this methodology.
• A change of focus 1960

  
  As the demands for new housing started to slacken, the company again shifted its focus, more towards general contracting and construction services. Opportunities were also sought abroad in USA and Canada, where recovery from the war was happening quicker. The family’s continued 100% ownership and their long term perspective underpinned the adaptability to significantly change the focus of the company as opportunities changed.
• Maintenance Acquisitions 2011

  
  Acquisitions of Linbrook (2011) and the Purchase Group (2014) in our maintenance business represented a significant move to be able to provide long term support for new and existing clients.
• Shepherd Acquisition 2015

  Wates acquired Shepherd Group's Built Environment businesses in 2015, strengthening our regional coverage and expanding the services offered to clients.
• The next generation 2018

  
  The current owners, who are the third and fourth generations of the family, continue to support the adaptability and long term perspective that has helped the Wates Group grow and develop over its first 120 years. The fifth generation of the family are fully expected to continue to support the growth and development of the Wates Group even further.