This move secures the company’s independence, protects its strong culture, and ensures that its people remain at the heart of its success.
Founded in 1989 in Stevenston, Booth Welsh has grown to a workforce of more than 300 people, serving clients across the UK and internationally. The company’s decision to transfer the majority of its shares to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in its journey of growth and innovation.
Putting People at the Centre
For CEO Martin Welsh, the move is the natural next step for a company that has always placed its people first.
“Employee ownership is something we’ve been planning for some time. Our people have always been at the centre of Booth Welsh’s success,” said Martin.
“Today’s announcement not only safeguards the long-term future of the company but also ensures that every individual within the business has a stake in our growth. This is about protecting our strong culture, building resilience, and creating a positive future together.”
Under the new structure, Martin and the leadership team will remain in their existing roles, continuing to drive Booth Welsh’s strategy and ambition while ensuring that every employee benefits from the company’s continued success.
A Strong Voice for Employees
As part of the transition, Mark Lee, Quantity Surveyor, has been appointed as a Trustee Director of the Employee Ownership Trust. The Trust’s role is to ensure that the company continues to be run in the best interests of its employees — the new beneficial owners of the business.
“The move of Booth Welsh into an Employee Ownership Trust model is an exciting time for both current and future employees,” said Mark.
“The EOT model ensures that our values will be recognised, and that we will have a shared purpose in shaping the company’s future from which we will all benefit. Importantly, this move secures a commitment to the long-term future of Booth Welsh within Ayrshire, whilst continuing to have a positive impact on the wider community.”
A Model for Long-Term Growth
For clients, partners, and suppliers, it’s very much business as usual. The leadership team, operations, and commitment to excellence remain unchanged — but with the added assurance that Booth Welsh’s independence and employee-driven approach will help strengthen relationships, encourage innovation, and deliver long-term value.
Booth Welsh’s move to employee ownership highlights the growing appeal of the EOT model across Scotland. More and more founders are recognising employee ownership as a way to secure the legacy of their business, protect local employment, and reward the people who contribute to its success every day.
About Booth Welsh
Booth Welsh provides multi-discipline engineering technology services, to clients across multiple sectors in the UK and globally. With more than 300 people and a reputation for technical excellence and innovation, the company continues to be a major contributor to the Ayrshire economy.
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