Mantis Cranes and McMenamin Engineering have been named finalists in four categories at the 2026 Plant & Civil Engineer Awards, which mark the event’s 20th anniversary. The awards, organised by Plant & Civil Engineer Magazine, will be presented on Thursday 19 November 2026 at the Crowne Plaza, Belfast.

Jointly, the companies are shortlisted for Industry Legacy – Family Business, a new accolade celebrating family-owned firms that have made a sustained contribution to the plant, construction, quarry and recycling industries. Assessment for the award highlights longevity, industry impact and the continuing influence of the business within its sector and local communities, underpinned by trust, integrity and values passed through generations.

McMenamin Engineering is also a finalist for Construction Project of the Year. Its entry features the transformation of a 1980s factory unit at the Údarás na Gaeltachta Industrial Estate in Falcarragh, Co Donegal. The once dark, flat-roofed warehouse has been upgraded into a contemporary workspace, with new offices, a new roofing system, air-to-water heating and daylight harvesting via raised roof lights, delivering a durable, future-ready facility.

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Mantis Cranes has secured two further shortlistings: Plant Hire Company of the Year and Specialist Contractor of the Year. The Plant Hire award recognises high operational standards, effective fleet management, strong safety performance and dependable customer service. The Specialist Contractor category rewards technical excellence and a proven track record of quality delivery in a defined discipline.

For the Specialist Contractor submission, Mantis Cranes showcased the Little Island Bio Gas Plant, an €80 million biomethane facility in Cork. The team overcame the challenge of installing a Potain HUP 40-30 self-erecting crane within a tightly constrained bio tank area by deploying the Gapo – a compact, remote-controlled, self-propelled crane mover – allowing a single operator to position the crane safely, swiftly and with precision.

Operating for more than 25 years, Mantis Cranes is recognised as a leading provider of self-erecting tower cranes, tower cranes, luffing tower cranes and construction hoists, complemented by a comprehensive range of crane accessories. The company serves projects across the UK and Ireland, supported by a nationwide service network and bases in both markets.

Both teams said that reaching four finals reflects their collective hard work, depth of experience and strong client partnerships. They look forward to an evening of awards, entertainment and networking, and to reconnecting with fellow finalists from across the sector.