Since those early days, the FMB has grown to become the UK’s largest construction trade association. We’re the biggest advocate for SMEs in the sector and, because our membership criteria is incredibly rigorous, one of the most trusted consumer sources for finding high quality building businesses. Only the best firms can join, meaning that FMB membership is a real badge of quality.

The industry has changed a lot in 75 years (we still have a few members who remember starting their apprenticeships on the backs of horse and carriages) and we’ve changed as well. We support our members every step of the way as they look to grow their business, providing a wide range of services specifically tailored to help 21st century construction firms.

We also believe that it’s critical for SMEs to be heard in Government, which is why we lobby on their behalf at all levels. Whether it means meeting with prominent policy makers in Holyrood about skills shortages or working with local authorities to make sure local firms are getting the opportunities to bid for work, the way the FMB is structured means that we represent our members on both a national and local level.

In Scotland, you’ll find no stronger voice for local construction firms; and when it comes to demonstrating quality to potential clients there is no better way than becoming a Master Builder. As we mark our 75th anniversary in 2016, we look forward to applauding the best of the best in 2017 as our members enter their projects into the Master Builder Awards.

Gordon Nelson

Director, FMB Scotland