The pledge, run by Social Enterprise Scotland, brings together corporate businesses, SMEs, academic institutions, and public sector bodies in a shared commitment to integrating social enterprises into their supply chains. It allows businesses and institutions to harness their purchasing power and contribute to positive social change in the communities in which they work.

Organisations who sign up to the Buy Social Pledge commit to promoting inclusive economic growth. The pledge signifies a transformative approach, where businesses become the key drivers for positive, measurable change in the communities.

Across its projects, McLaughlin & Harvey look for ways to cultivate meaningful engagement with local social enterprises. As part of its sustainable procurement strategy, it uses initiatives such as Meet the Buyer events and the Social Partnership Portal to connect with local social enterprise organisations. By prioritising collaboration with SMEs and supporting voluntary, community, and social enterprises, McLaughlin & Harvey maximises its purchasing power to promote a more equitable and sustainable economy. This approach strengthens the company’s commitment to driving positive social and economic impact through its responsible business practices.

Amy Dougan, responsible business manager at McLaughlin & Harvey, said: “Our goal is to ensure that every project we undertake leaves a positive and lasting legacy within the community. Working with social enterprises allows us to create opportunities that align with our core values of We Collaborate, We Commit and We Care.”

Paul Griffen, managing director at McLaughlin & Harvey, added: “McLaughlin & Harvey uses its role within the built environment to create real social impact. We aim to improve people’s lives for the better by addressing the challenges they experience and contributing to local communities’ social, economic, and environmental success. Creating relationships with social enterprises helps us to deliver on our commitments.”

Speaking at a visit to McLaughlin & Harvey’s Glasgow offices, Jamie Lawson, strategic partnerships & engagement manager at Social Enterprise Scotland, said: “We are thrilled to welcome McLaughlin & Harvey to the Buy Social Pledge. Their commitment demonstrates the powerful role the construction industry can play in supporting social enterprises and the communities in which they work. We look forward to working closely with McLaughlin & Harvey to maximise the social and environmental impact of their projects.”