Historic contractor Emanuel Whittaker Ltd has transitioned to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).

The Oldham-based firm has been in business since 1837 and operates across the North West with a focus on public sector housing, public buildings and private sector renewal and refurbishment.

Managing Director Clive Newton joined the company in 1966 as an office boy, and co-director John Gallagher joined the firm from school nine years later. Newton and Gallagher have worked together for over 50 years. In 2004, they bought the business from Thomas Whittaker, the founder’s great-grandson.

Now, two decades later, the two of them have chosen to pass on the business through employee ownership supported by accountancy firm Xeinadin.

Newton said: “This firm has always been about people and place. We’ve trained generations, supported subcontractors and suppliers and built real trust in our communities. Moving to employee ownership means those values don’t get lost. It’s about giving something back and making sure the legacy lives on in the right hands.

“After nearly 60 years with Emanuel Whittaker, I couldn’t face seeing the company sold off to someone who might close the doors, absorb it into something unrecognisable or redevelop the site.”

Michael Butt, Partner at Xeinadin added: “Supporting Emanuel Whittaker through this transition was about more than financial structuring. We helped the business stay true to its values while securing long-term stability.

“For many SME owners, the challenge is finding a succession route that protects both people and purpose. Employee ownership can offer a practical, sustainable path forward, and with the right advice, it’s more accessible than many assume.”