Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ambition Magazine

FEATURE

A s one of Northern Ireland’s leading manufacturing success stories, the Keystone Group has built a reputation for innovation, growth, and community impact. From its headquarters in Cookstown, the company has expanded across the UK and Ireland, becoming a key player in the construction products sector. Now, the Group has taken another important step by publishing its first Social Value Report, setting out how it is delivering positive change not only through its products, but also for its people, partners, and local communities. For Sean Óg Coyle, chief commercial officer at the Group, the report marks more than a milestone: “This is not about doing what’s expected – it’s about making a meaningful and lasting difference for our people and the communities we’re proud to support.” The report highlights Keystone’s investment in employee development, community partnerships and building a stronger future for the construction industry through education and skills. From Innovation to Social Value Founded in 1989 as a specialist manufacturer of steel lintels, Keystone Group has grown into one of the UK and Ireland’s leading manufacturers of construction products. Over the past 35 years, the Group has built its reputation on innovation, quality and a people-first ethos, consistently delivering solutions that move the industry forward. Now, Keystone is broadening its focus – placing emphasis on the positive impact it creates beyond its products. The new Social Value Report demonstrates how the Group is embedding social value at the heart of its operations, ensuring its growth directly benefits employees, partners, and communities. “Our focus on social value, employee well-being, community partnerships and sustainability reflects who we are as a business,” Coyle continues. “It’s about making a lasting difference, not just ticking boxes.” Four Pillars of Impact The report is structured around four key pillars: Education, Community, Charity, and Skills – each reflecting an area where Keystone is committed to driving real change. 1. Education Keystone is passionate about inspiring the next generation of construction professionals. Its Keyskills programme, for example, provides training and development opportunities that help bridge the industry’s skills gap. Through partnerships with further education colleges, Keystone supports apprenticeships, traineeships, and welding programmes – giving young people hands-on experience and a pathway to rewarding careers. Owen Coyle, divisional CEO, emphasises the importance of this approach: “The shortage of skilled tradespeople is a longstanding issue across the sector. By collaborating with education providers, we can relieve financial pressures and redirect resources into developing and recruiting for these essential programmes. It’s a fantastic opportunity to ‘skill up’ a generation of bricklayers and ensure our industry’s future workforce.” 2. Community Keystone takes pride in being a force for good within the communities where it operates. The Group actively supports initiatives that bring people together and strengthen local spirit. This includes strategic sponsorships, employee volunteering hours, and direct resource support that help build sustainable, long-term benefits.

One example is Keystone’s renewed partnership with Ulster Rugby, which goes beyond sponsorship to reflect shared values of teamwork and development. “It’s clear that Ulster Rugby is building towards a winning future and we’re proud to be part of that journey,” says Sean Óg Coyle, chairman of Keystone Group. 3. Charity Charitable giving and fundraising have long been central to Keystone’s culture, and the report captures the scale of its impact. Employees and customers regularly come together to raise funds, donate resources, and champion causes where support is most needed – both locally and nationally. Lisa McCann, marketing director, highlights the pride felt across the Group: “We’re incredibly proud of the generosity shown by our employees, customers and supporters. The success of our recent charity initiatives demonstrates the power of coming together as a company to make a real difference.” 4. Skills Keystone’s commitment to professional development runs through every level of the business. The Group invests heavily in creating opportunities for employees to grow, ensuring a skilled, multi-disciplined workforce capable of setting new benchmarks for the industry. One recent example is support for engineers achieving CABE Chartered Accreditation, underlining Keystone’s commitment to technical excellence. “This reflects our dedication to professional growth and sends a clear signal about the high standards we set across the business,” says Hayley Smith, HR director at Keystone Group. Looking Ahead The launch of the Social Value Report is both a reflection of Keystone’s progress and a commitment to the future. By embedding social value into its strategy, the Group aims to continue strengthening communities, empowering employees, and creating lasting benefits that extend well beyond its product range. As Sean Óg Coyle concludes: “This report isn’t an endpoint – it’s a step in our journey to build stronger communities and support people in meaningful, long term ways.” For Northern Ireland’s business community, Keystone’s example shows how manufacturers can grow internationally while still staying true to local roots – creating value that benefits people, places, and industries for generations to come.

“This is not about doing what’s expected — it’s about making a meaningful and lasting difference for our people and the communities we’re proud to support.”

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