Baillieston-based GMG Contractors Ltd was presented with its plaque last week by representatives from Investors in People Scotland.

IIYP is a national framework that awards, promotes and supports businesses who recruit young people. Four companies in Scotland have already received the IIYP accolade, which is supported by £1 million funding from the Scottish Government.

Chief executive of Investors in People Scotland, Peter Russian, commended GMG Contractors Ltd for its commitment to young people and its strong focus on creating employment and training opportunities. The company has also been heavily involved in the development of the new Scottish Specialised Modern Apprenticeship SVQ Level 2, due to launch shortly.

GMG Contractors managing director, Gerry McGinn, said: “We are delighted to become the first Construction business in Scotland to achieve this IIYP award and we are glad to be able to demonstrate the benefits young people add to the modern workforce.

“Having recently gained our sixth annual consecutive Gold ROSPA award in Health & Safety, this further award reflects our longstanding commitment to training and developing our own workforce, as we recognise it’s the quality of our workforce that determines our success.

“We are particularly proud that over 50 per cent of our staff are aged between 16 and 24 years and many more were in that age profile when they joined the business. As a successful construction company we recognise the need to have a dual focus: delivering excellent services in the present as well as positioning the business to adapt to future change and challenges of the highlight skill shortages in construction.

“This is where our young people are key, as they add value in the here and now and can also ensure a bright and successful future developing their own careers.”

IIYP originated through a key recommendation from the Commission for Developing Scotland’s Young Workforce, led by Sir Ian Wood. The programme is offered to all businesses across Scotland and exists to recognise and support organisations across Scotland in the employment of young people.

Peter Russian added: “We are delighted to present GMG Contractors with their award.

“Still benefiting from the success of the Commonwealth Games, now is an exciting time for the East End of Glasgow. This company has recognised the plethora of benefits of recruiting and developing young people, even through the recession, and I look forward to working with them in future.”

Since its launch, IIYP has seen interest from over 100 companies across Scotland.