Liverpool commercial fit-out specialist Aztec is reporting a 20% surge in annual revenues to £7m two year after a management buy-out. Tony McDonough reports

Just over two years after undergoing a management buyout Liverpool commercial fit-out specialist Aztec is reporting a 20% increase in annual revenues to £7m.

Founded in 1988 by Neal Maxwell, Aztec became a leading player in the North West fit-out market. Neal sold the business to its management team in May 2021. He left to set up Changing Streams, a not-for-profit environmental venture.

Managing director Iain Peacock led the MBO along with Tony Pyper and Paul Ashmore. Tragedy struck in September 2021 when father-of-two Paul died aged just 37. Today, the business is owned and run by Iain, Paul and Dave Pennington.

Aztec’s in-house skill-sets include all aspects of construction, commercial fit out and M&E serving both public and private sectors.

Now the firm has also welcomed Colin Clayton as its new contracts manager, as part of its ongoing growth and expansion plans. He joins from Centric Office Solutions and has previously worked for Planet Interiors and brings 25 years of experience.

A shift in focus operationally, strategically and culturally and seen Aztec put greater emphasis on the fit out and M&E aspects of the business, supported by the construction arm.

Iain Peacock said: “We’re incredibly pleased with the continued reach of the business and the growth within our sector across the North West. 

“Clients are looking to us more and more to deliver a full scope of works but also to advise and collaborate on what makes a modern office space, what employees want from their working environment, and what ultimately will enhance productivity.

“These are all areas in which we have extensive knowledge and expertise, and this has undoubtedly helped us in our growth.

“Colin coming on board is a real coup as he is one of the best within this particular discipline.

“He will lead the furniture team, collaborating with more suppliers and distributors, as well as delivering fit out projects, presenting ideas to clients that really do match the brief.”

Colin added: “After lockdown, there has been a huge shift in how a person wants to work, where they feel most comfortable, how much time they want to spend in the office – no one wants to sit behind a desk for eight hours each day.

“However, with more and more people keen to come back to the workplace, from an employer perspective, it’s about creating an environment that stimulates productivity.

“This is where Aztec really shine – in helping clients create a working environment that’s best for them and their team.”