Building Success from the Ground Up

Author: Peter Haddock

When Matt Lugg decided to step away from his family's plant rental business and start his own groundworks venture, little did he know he was laying the foundation for a construction empire. Fast-forward 25 years, and MJL Group stands tall with around 500 employees and a fleet of nearly 200 excavators. But what sets this company apart isn't just its size—it's the tech-savvy approach that has propelled it into the future.

The Secret Sauce: Listening to Operators

Matt's philosophy is simple yet profound: "We buy kits our operators want to drive.” It's not just about getting the job done; it's about making sure the people doing the job love their work. And let's face it, who wouldn't want to work with top-notch equipment?

"Working from the ground upwards is really important when you want to grow a contracting business, as you understand the challenges your colleagues have to overcome," Matt explains. By prioritising the needs and preferences of operators, MJL Group ensures that their team is not just skilled but also happy—a crucial factor in an industry where skilled staff are becoming increasingly hard to find.

Embracing Technology with a Smile

In the world of heavy construction, technology is no longer just a luxury—it's a necessity. MJL Group's fleet is equipped with Leica Geosystems 3D Machine Control, making their work more precise and efficient. "Getting the right machine for the operator and adding the other toys like tiltrotators and specialist attachments is ultimately about making the machine more efficient," Matt says with a grin.

With the ability to update 3D site models through the GPS network using Leica ConX, MJL Group has revolutionised its workflow. "That was transformational, as our engineers didn't have to travel to the site each time there was a change," Matt shares. And now, when we are on sites today with over 750 houses, working for multiple clients, we will be updating plans daily."

Tips for Success in the Construction Industry

1. Listen to Your Team: Operators know what they need to do their job well. By involving them in equipment decisions, you not only improve efficiency but also boost morale.

2. Embrace Technology: From 3D machine control to going paperless, embracing digital tools can save time and money while improving accuracy.

3. Invest in People: With a focus on apprenticeships, MJL Group is nurturing the next generation of skilled workers. "Through our expanding apprenticeship scheme, we are looking to home-grow the talented people we need to continue expanding the business," Matt notes.

4. Adapt and Evolve: The construction industry is changing rapidly. Staying ahead means being open to new technologies and methods. "It's certainly an exciting time in our industry, and the pace of change just keeps accelerating," Matt says.

The Road Ahead

MJL Group's journey is a testament to the power of innovation and adaptability in the construction industry. By valuing their operators, embracing cutting-edge technology, and investing in future talent, they've built a company that not only stands strong today but is also ready for the challenges of tomorrow.

As Matt puts it, "We will continue to dig in and evolve the business." With their track record, there's no doubt that MJL Group will continue building success from the ground up.

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