Finalist Spotlight 2025: SME of the Year Award - Russell Construction Moray Ltd

A DECADE OF GROWTH AND INNOVATION

Elgin-based Russell Construction (Moray) Ltd has been named a finalist for the SME of the Year Award at the 2025 Moray Chamber of Commerce Annual Business Awards, recognising its remarkable growth, diversification, and impact on the local economy.

Originally founded as Ivan Russell (Joiners) in 1987, the company rebranded in 2008 as Russell Construction (Moray) Ltd and steadily expanded from a small joinery business into a full-scale construction firm capable of delivering large commercial contracts for distilleries, as well as new homes and extensions. In 2020, ownership transferred to the next generation: Grant Russell, Nicola Fraser, and Tony Fraser, ensuring the business remains family-run while embracing a new era of growth and innovation.

Russell Construction is part of a wider group that includes two sister companies, Wood Kraft and Speyside Stoves. Wood Kraft produces high-performance windows, doors, and stairs, while Speyside Stoves specialises in wood-burning stoves with showrooms in Inverurie and Elgin. Managing Director Grant Russell oversees construction and Wood Kraft, Tony Fraser manages Speyside Stoves, and Nicola Fraser manages the administrative and financial operations across the group.

Driven by continued growth, the group acquired 4,500m² of land at Elgin Business Park, investing £1.5m in the construction of a new headquarters. This centralised site now houses all group businesses, providing showroom space, continuity, and opportunities to increase productivity and staffing levels.

In February 2025, the company acquired Cathedral Windows, enabling the group to supply and fit UPVC and aluminium windows and doors alongside the timber products manufactured by Wood Kraft. Dionne Russell joined as Director to oversee operations, while Cathedral invested in new proprietary software, a refreshed website, digital marketing, and an expanded product range. Speyside Stoves relocated to the new site in August 2025, reopening a large showroom with a wide selection of modern and traditional stoves.

Despite the complexities of constructing new premises while maintaining a high volume of construction projects, Russell Construction continues to trade profitably and strengthen its balance sheet, demonstrating resilience and strategic planning. The group now employs 36 staff, with plans to expand further in each business unit and create “green jobs” in Wood Kraft to meet growing timber product demand.

Through innovation, family leadership, and careful investment in people and infrastructure, Russell Construction (Moray) Ltd has built a strong platform for future growth while supporting the local economy and workforce - a model of SME excellence in Moray.

Find out more about Russell Construction Moray Ltd at Russell Construction Moray Ltd – Builder & Joinery Company in Elgin, Morayshire