THE Inverkeithing-based construction and property firm, Muir Group, has celebrated half a century in business.

The family-owned operation still has founder John Muir serving as chairman.

The former joiner set up the company in 1973 after managing another homebuilding business and has seen it grow to the point where it now employs around 250 people.

Its diverse portfolio comprises of six subsidiaries including construction, homes, timber systems, property development, and property investment arms, as well as owning and operating Deer Park Golf and Country Club in Livingston.

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Last year, Muir had turnover of £85m with net assets of £87m.

Two of John’s sons. Ronnie and Alan, have also worked in the business for over 40 years and currently serve as Group Directors.

Since its inception, Muir Group has developed dozens of commercial buildings across Scotland and the UK, worth £1.5 billion.

Muir has also built over 4000 homes across Scotland, with several housing developments underway and for sale currently in Perthshire, Aberdeenshire and Lanarkshire. This construction and development of homes have supported the creation of hundreds of jobs, as well as contributing millions of pounds to the Scottish economy.

Dunfermline Press: Attendees watching Rt Hon Gordon Brown address the celebration.Attendees watching Rt Hon Gordon Brown address the celebration. (Image: Contributed)

Muir Group recently celebrated its 50th anniversary at an event in Edinburgh, with speeches from John Muir and former Prime Minister, Gordon Brown.

Commenting on the achievement, John Muir said: “This business has been such a huge part of my life, and that of my family, for more than five decades.

“I am incredibly grateful for everyone who has helped build Muir Group into what it is today and helped strive for the highest standards of quality across all our companies. In the early years I was very reliant on my wife Christina who did a sterling job on bookkeeping, records and importantly wages! Christina is still involved in the business to this day, encouraging and supporting new ideas.

“Some people are surprised when they hear that the founder of a 50 year old company still works in the business every day and serves as chairman. The truth is that I still have the same enthusiasm for growing the business as I have ever had, and I know that 50 years on Muir Group’s best days still lie ahead.”

Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown added: “I want to congratulate the Muir Group on their success across the decades and particularly congratulate founder and chair, John Muir, on his dedicated service to his community and his country.”

Jennifer Kennedy, Director of Public Affairs at Homes for Scotland, said it was a privilege to help Muir Group celebrate the tremendous milestone.

"A family-owned business involved across the development spectrum, founder John Muir is clearly passionate and very proud of the Group's many achievements," she said.

"It was great to see the high regard in which the Inverkeithing-based business is held locally reflected in a special video message from former Prime Minister Gordon Brown.”