History
A strong foundation
70+ Years of Building Excellence – A Timeline
Andrew Mari founded Stamford Contracts in 1951 based on the core values of teamwork, integrity and commitment.
. . . A Legacy Built on Trust . . .
Raffaele Mari, father of the Mari brothers, in 1945. Three years after this photo was taken,
Stamfords was founded, and six years later, it was officially registered.
1947
After the Blitz
Andrew Mari, aged 17, is pictured in the centre, with Fred Whiting on the right, working on Oxford Street in the aftermath of the London bombings during World War II. The bombings, which began with the Blitz in 1940, left much of the city in ruins, and reconstruction efforts were still underway in the 1950s. The “JXM 406” written on the back refers to the number of the Asphalt Machine used during the rebuilding of London’s damaged streets.
1948
Stamford Asphalte Co.
With the encouragement and support of their father, Raffaele Mari, brothers Andrew and Vincent Mari began their journey in the Mastic Asphalt Roofing industry. Raffaele, a peace worker for major roofing companies, helped them get started by providing opportunities. Through his connections, they secured small jobs as subcontractors for the companies he worked with.
1948
Home sweet headquarters
The brothers decided to title the company Stamford Asphalte, named after the location of their small office in their house at 6 Linthorpe Road, Stamford Hill, London N16.
1949
Due to the demand of work Andrew and Vincent are joined by brothers Carmine, Raffaele to work on site and sister Assunta as a part-time then eventually full-time secretary.
1953
The Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II
The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II on June 2, 1953, marked the beginning of a transformative era in the UK, paralleling the growth and evolution of Stamford Contracts. Just as the Queen’s reign brought significant changes in society and politics, Stamford Contracts has adapted to the dynamic construction landscape over the decades.
1956
Stamford Asphalte Established
The company registers as Stamford Asphalte Co., on the 12 June 1956.
1956
The Suez Crisis
A major diplomatic and military conflict over control of the Suez Canal in Egypt. The UK, along with France and Israel, invaded Egypt after Egyptian President Nasser nationalized the canal. The crisis ended with political humiliation for the UK and its retreat from its former imperial dominance. The disruption of oil supplies and energy resources during this time had a direct impact on industries, including construction. At that time, for Stamford Contracts, , this created challenges in sourcing materials.
1960-1967
Expansion in Hackney
Due to the expansion of the company, the brothers rented a yard in Hackney Railway Goods Yard in Mare Street, E9, primarily for the storage of lorries and goods. During this period, they also launched a Built-Up Felt Roofing Division, Slating & Tiling Division, and Tarmacadam Team, increasing their payroll from five to fourteen.
1960s
Workforce Grows, Family Joins
Photo from the 60s during a Stamfords staff Christmas party.
As the workforce expanded to twenty-eight, Stamfords also welcomed another family member onto the team: Kathleen Mari, Vincent’s wife, who joined as the company bookkeeper. During this time, the Suez Crisis, which saw the UK, France, and Israel invade Egypt over control of the Suez Canal, disrupted oil supplies and energy resources, affecting industries like construction. Despite these challenges, Stamfords adapted, continuing to play a key role in London’s post-war reconstruction.
1968
Andrew Mari Joins MAC
Andrew Mari becomes a Founder member of the Mastic Asphalt Council and Employers Federation (MAC).
1970s
The Oil Crisis
The oil crisis triggered by the Yom Kippur War led to skyrocketing oil prices, causing economic turmoil in the UK. It resulted in fuel shortages, increased inflation, and highlighted the vulnerabilities of the British economy, contributing to a period of stagnation.
1973
The United Kingdom's Membership in the European Union
The UK joined the European Economic Community (EEC), which later became the European Union (EU), in 1973. This opened up new avenues for trading and importing materials, allowing Stamford to expand its reach and enhance its supply chain, further supporting its growth and the development of its diverse range of services.
1978
John Mari Starts
John Mari, Andrew’s son, commences an apprenticeship on the company on the 30th of May 1978.
25th of March 1979
Northumberland Park Development
On the 25th of March 1979, the company moved from the 6 Linthorpe Road, Stamford Hill, N16 to Leeside Industrial Estate, 61 Garman Road, Tottenham, N17 0UN.
The company purchased a plot of ground on the Leeside Marshes at Northumberland Park and develop the site to accommodate a combined yard/depot and offices. The brothers, headed by Andrew, worked evenings and weekends to develop the Northumberland site into their offices as well as working during the week on contracts.
1981
John at National Mastic Competition
John delivers presentation in the Mastic Asphalt at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, sharing his expertise in the field.
He actively contributes to the Flat Roofing Advisory Board, shaping apprenticeship standards, securing job placements for young people in the industry, obtaining sponsorships, and driving decisions on innovative roofing techniques.
His role on the committee advanced opportunities for aspiring professionals and strengthens the future of roofing craftsmanship.
1985
Flat Roofing Contractors Advisory Board
Stamford Asphalte Co. Ltd become members of the Flat Roofing Contractors Advisory Board.
1988
DAN Scaffolding Acquisition
The local construction company, DAN Construction, was acquired in 1988.
1992
Roofing Division Director
James Batten
James Batten appointed Director of the Roofing Division
1997
Corporate Identity Shift
The company changes it name, under the same registration, from Stamford Asphalte Co. Limited to Stamford Contracts Limited in 1997.
1997
ISO 9002 Certification
Stamford Asphalte Co. Ltd achieve registration of National Quality Assurance BS EN ISO 9002:1994
2000s
Stamford's Management Revamp
Stamfords restructure internally and change in management strategies, by introducing new construction software, including a change in traditional ways of filing and storing info.
2016
Brexit Referendum
The Brexit referendum on June 23, 2016, marked a pivotal moment in British history, influencing trade, regulations. For Stamford Contracts, Brexit necessitated a reevaluation of business strategies in a changing market landscape. The company has since adapted to new trade regulations and opportunities, focusing on enhancing local supply chains and emphasizing sustainable practices in construction.
Caring for Community
At Stamford Contracts, we are dedicated to the welfare of others and have significantly increased our ‘give back’ activities over the past 30 years. We actively support social causes and charities, demonstrating our commitment to making a positive impact in the communities we serve.
2020
COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic was undoubtedly one of the most challenging times for the construction industry. However, at Stamford Contracts, we rose to the occasion and successfully completed the London Business School North Building refurbishment project, valued at over £4+ million. Despite the difficulties of the period, we achieved 100% client satisfaction, showcasing our commitment to delivering excellence even in the toughest of times.
2022
Queen Elizabeth II’s Passing and King Charles III’s Accession
Queen Elizabeth II passed away on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96, making her the longest-reigning monarch in British history. Her son, Charles, ascended the throne as King Charles III, marking a significant transition in the British monarchy.
2023
Growth Through Expertise
Stamfords continues to grow and now is one of the UK’s leading construction companies, which focuses on complete refurbishment service for clients across the UK. Our vast experience has enabled us to successfully work with Government and Education Institutions from concept, to roofing, building and full construction service and management.
2024
VR, AR & AI
In 2024, Stamford Contracts launched a new design department, incorporating Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Ali Baran Dilegelen, our Design Manager, introduced VR & AR systems for design and construction planning, allowing clients to walk through their proposed spaces before construction begins. VR helped successfully deliver the London Business School’s multi-functional Dining Room refurbishment, while AI speeds up design processes, ensuring quick decision-making and improved project efficiency.
2025
Sustainability with
In-House Expertise
