UNIC Cranes Europe is proud to announce that Gill Riley, our Managing Director and Co-Founder, has been awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2025 King’s New Year’s Honours List. This prestigious accolade recognises Gill’s outstanding contributions to the lifting industry, her pioneering approach to innovative equipment, and her relentless efforts to set new standards in safety and training.
This honour comes a decade after Gill’s OBE for services to construction, reflecting her continued dedication to revolutionising the lifting sector. The official investiture ceremony will take place later this year.
Since co-founding GGR Group in 1995, Gill has fronted a transformation in lifting solutions. What began as a family-run business with just £5,000 has grown into a £37 million market leader. GGR Group is now the UK’s market leader in the UK for compact mini cranes and specialist lifting equipment, with over 150 employees and depots in Oldham, Haddenham, and Glasgow.
Gill’s vision has always been clear: to provide groundbreaking lifting solutions that prioritise safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Her determination has led GGR Group to introduce revolutionary equipment, including UNIC mini spider cranes, vacuum lifting equipment, and compact pick-and-carry cranes to name a few. These innovations have redefined the construction and engineering industries, making it possible to handle complex lifting challenges on some of the UK’s largest infrastructure projects.
Gill’s contributions don’t stop at equipment. She has been instrumental in establishing accredited training programs that ensure industry professionals are equipped to use cutting-edge machinery safely and effectively. Under her leadership, GGR Group has set benchmarks for excellence in both product development and workforce training, shaping the lifting industry’s future.
Speaking about her award, Gill Riley said: “I am truly humbled and honoured to receive the King’s CBE. This recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the dedication and hard work of everyone at GGR Group. Together, we’ve built something special, and I look forward to continuing our journey of innovation, excellence, and growth together”.
Gill’s influence extends beyond the business. She has tirelessly championed the importance of safety, efficiency, and innovation across the lifting community. Her work has not only improved industry standards but also inspired a new generation of leaders, helping to break down barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
With her brother and business partner, Graeme, Gill has consistently pushed the boundaries of what lifting equipment can achieve. Together, they have explored global markets to bring the most advanced technology to the UK, transforming how lifting challenges are solved across construction, glazing, and beyond.
This CBE is a recognition of Gill’s lifelong commitment to advancing the lifting industry—through groundbreaking equipment, world-class training, and a solid focus on safety and sustainability.
The full 2025 King’s New Year’s Honours List can be viewed on the London Gazette website.
