Mon, 08 Dec 2025 | BUSINESS SALE
Emanuel Whittaker, a Greater Manchester-based construction firm that was founded nearly 190 years ago, has transitioned to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). The EOT move, which was supported by Xeinadin, secures the company’s future as an independent business.
Founded in 1837, the company played a key role in developing Greater Manchester’s local infrastructure, including restoring social housing and delivering major regeneration projects across the region.
Managing Director Clive Newton, who joined the firm in 1966, and co-director John Gallagher, who joined in 1975, acquired the business from the great-grandson of the founder in 2004. The EOT move sees Newton and Gallagher pass the company on to staff in an effort to ensure continuity, staff wellbeing and local employment.
Clive Newton stated that the company had been built around its values, which include investing in local talent, providing training and apprenticeships, supporting sub-contractors and suppliers and building strong community relationships.
He continued: "Moving to employee ownership means those values don’t get lost. It’s about giving something back and making sure the legacy lives on in the right hands. After nearly 60 years with Emanuel Whittaker, I couldn’t face seeing the company sold off to someone who might close the doors, absorb it into something unrecognisable or redevelop the site."
The transition to full employee ownership was overseen by Xeinadin, with the deal structured to provide long-term financial stability, while giving employees a greater stake in the firm’s future. The EOT will be overseen by an independent chair, with employee trustees playing a part in the decision making process.
Michael Butt, partner at Xeinadin, commented: "Supporting Emanuel Whittaker through this transition was about more than financial structuring. We helped the business stay true to its values while securing long-term stability.”
"For many SME owners, the challenge is finding a succession route that protects both people and purpose. Employee ownership can offer a practical, sustainable path forward, and with the right advice, it’s more accessible than many assume."
In accounts for the year to November 30 2024, Emanuel Whittaker Limited reported turnover of around £21.3 million, down from approximately £26.9 million a year earlier, while operating profits fell from £1.4 million to around £518,000.
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