About Us

Family Founded. Family Run Since 1972!

From a single JCB 3C excavator to a fleet of over 7,900 machines and attachments, Flannery has grown into the UK’s leading provider of operated and self-drive plant hire. It’s a story built on hard work, resilience, and relentless determination.

What started with a single machine and an unwavering vision quickly became a story of grit and ambition. Together with his wife, Mary, they did whatever it took to succeed, taking on every role from owner to fitter, driver to operator. Those early years of hands-on dedication laid the foundations of a business built on passion, resilience, and an uncompromising commitment to growth.

Today, under the leadership of his sons, Martin and Patrick Jr., Flannery has become a powerhouse name across the UK. From critical infrastructure to landmark developments, there are few major projects without a Flannery machine, driving progress, shaping landscapes, and keeping the nation moving forward.

Our History

For more than fifty years, Flannery has grown from a small family operation built on hard work and determination into one of the most respected names in the industry. These vintage moments capture the spirit of those early dayshands on graft, modest beginnings and the passion that shaped our identity. From the first machines to the people who helped build the business, this history celebrates the foundations of the Flannery story.

Flannery Origins Series

"Flannery Origins" offers a rare, personal look into the early life of Mary and Paddy Flannery, our founders and the heart of what the business stands for today.

The film traces the true beginnings of the Flannery story, shaped not by machinery or depots, but by two people whose resilience, values and belief in a better future laid the foundations for the business. 

Through intimate memories, it reflects on their sacrifices, partnership and commitment to family and community- principles that continue to guide Flannery more than five decades on. "Flannery Origins" celebrates that legacy and marks the start of sharing more of the journey with everyone who has helped shape the company’s success.

Our Values

  • Safety
  • People
  • Innovation
  • Sustainability
  • Value

We are committed to a strong and continuously improving safety culture, supported by our exceptional people whose skills and dedication drive everything we do. Innovation sits at the core of our approach, helping us adapt to industry needs and deliver smarter, more effective solutions. We’re equally focused on sustainability, investing in greener technologies and practices that reduce our environmental impact. Together, these values enable us to provide reliable, highquality, and costeffective solutions for our customers. 

Evolving With the Industry

As construction demands changed, Flannery continued to evolve. Early adoption of new technologies, investment in skilled people and a commitment to safe, modern working practices positioned the business at the forefront of industry development long before this became standard.

A Legacy That Shapes the Future

More than five decades on, Flannery’s heritage continues to influence everything the business does. The blend of tradition and forwardthinking guides our approach to major infrastructure, innovation and customer partnerships, ensuring the spirit of the past remains a driving force for the future.

Discover how this evolves into cutting edge digital capability on our Digital Solutions page. 

Next steps

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