The unseen force

Before growth can be visible

Our work is often behind the scenes - invisible. But our impact is felt everywhere – every day. Helping to build, restore and power the foundations of modern Britain. For more than three decades, our talented people across our group of companies have been solving complex challenges to progress how we live and work. Nothing can take shape – new communities, critical rail links, green spaces, solar fields – until the ground is ready, the infrastructure is in place, and the risks are solved.

Who we are

One group. Every capability

We transform vast landscapes supporting the UK’s most important projects with environmental and industrial services, bulk logistics, major earthworks, land regeneration and much more. Complexity at this scale needs specialists with deep sector expertise and a hands-on approach. Hargreaves has the how. Each individual company is an expert in what they do. Together, our group brings experience and diverse capabilities to growing and progressing the full scope of the nation’s infrastructure. We keep critical projects moving and create long-term value for both the industries and communities we serve.

Our companies

Behind every project is the expertise that makes it possible. Find out more about the important work we do and the people who know how.

From unusable land to buildable land, we do the work that must happen first. Discover how Hargreaves is helping shape a more sustainable future for the UK.

Our story so far

From where we started to what we make possible today.

1917

Founded by Brigadier Hargreaves

Established as a Yorkshire-based business with interests in coal mining, quarrying, waste management and transport.

Early 90’s

Acquisition by Coal Products Limited (CPL)

Following a period under Anglo United ownership, Hargreaves was acquired by CPL, paving the way for its next phase of development.

1994

Hargreaves acquired by Robert Young OBE

North-East entrepreneur Robert Young acquired the business, initiating a period of investment and growth.

2004

Management Buyout

A management buyout, led by Gordon Banham and Peter Dillon backed by Barings English Growth Fund, established Hargreaves as an independent growth business.

Two smiling men in hardhats and hi-vis in front of factory chimney

2005

Acquisition of Monckton Coke & Chemicals

A major strategic acquisition that broadened the Group's industrial operations ahead of flotation.

Cooling of hot coal at Monckton Coke Works

2005

London Stock Exchange Listing

Hargreaves became a publicly listed company, providing a platform for future expansion and acquisitions.

2006

Acquisition of Norec

The acquisition of Norec laid the foundations for today's Hargreaves Industrial Services business.

2006

Establishment of HRMS Germany

The Group expanded into Europe with the creation of its German operation, HRMS.

2007

Acquisition of Simon's Distribution

Strengthened the Group's logistics and materials handling capabilities, including operations at Immingham.

2013

Acquisitions of ATH Resources and Scottish Coal

These acquisitions added significant land assets and ultimately became the foundation of Hargreaves Land.

2016

Acquisition of Blackwell Earthmoving

Significantly expanded Hargreaves' civil engineering, earthmoving and infrastructure capabilities, creating one of the UK's leading specialist earthworks

Blackwell earthmoving plant machinery operating in quarry

2018

Brockwell Energy Spin-Out

Demonstrated Hargreaves' ability to create and realise value through new energy and infrastructure ventures.

2019

Acquisition of DK Recycling (via HRMS)

A significant step in expanding the Group's international industrial and environmental services footprint.

Our standards

Working safely and responsibly across everything we do

We work to the highest standards to safeguard our people, the communities we serve and the environment around us. Doing things the right way lies at the core of our group. Find out more about our ESG goals, our health and safety procedures and our sustainable working practices.

ESG
At Hargreaves, ESG is more than a responsibility. It's a driver of growth, innovation, and long-term success. We continue to evolve our ESG approach across our operations, culture, and governance, ensuring sustainability remains at the heart of our decision-making. This enables us to build stronger client partnerships, manage risk effectively, and create meaningful value for our stakeholders, communities, and the environment.
Safety
Net Zero