The founders of Glasgow-based energy services firm, Union Technical, are flying the flag for Scotland after being named Scottish regional winners at this year’s EY Entrepreneur of the Year UK Awards.

This prestigious recognition highlights exceptional leadership from Michael Sweeney and Owen Coyle, as well as acknowledging the company’s rapid growth in the energy efficiency sector.

The EY Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, now in its 40th year, honours outstanding entrepreneurs who demonstrate excellence in areas such as innovation, financial performance, social responsibility, and personal commitment to their businesses and communities.

Michael Sweeney, Founding Director of Union Technical, said:

“Being named a finalist - and now a Scottish regional winner - in the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Awards is a tremendous personal and professional milestone for both Owen and me."

“It reflects the entrepreneurial spirit and ambition that have driven us from the very beginning, and our passion for building a business that grows sustainably while delivering the highest quality energy services to our clients."

“Beyond business growth, our focus has always been on creating a culture where our team can thrive, develop their skills, and find personal fulfilment in the work they do. These awards are a recognition of that commitment, and they inspire us to continue leading with purpose, innovation, and the drive to make a meaningful difference in the homes, communities, and people we serve across the UK.”

In addition to this accolade, Union Technical has achieved significant business milestones over the past year including being named as the ‘Fastest Growing Construction Firm in Scotland 2025’ by the UK’s Fastest Growing 50 Index (FG50) reflecting its rapid expansion and entrepreneurial success.

Following their regional win, Owen Coyle and Michael Sweeney have been invited to No. 10 Downing Street on 8 December, where they will join other leading UK entrepreneurs at a reception attended by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Owen Coyle, Director of Union Technical, added:

“This recognition by EY, alongside our continued growth and other industry awards, is a testament to the incredible people we have at Union Technical. Our focus has always been on delivering high quality, sustainable energy solutions, and to see that commitment acknowledged on a national stage is hugely rewarding."

“We are motivated to continue expanding our services, supporting local communities, and helping shape the future of energy efficiency in the UK.”

Union Technical has doubled its turnover from £21 million in 2023 to £39.8 million in 2024, driven by major contract wins and continued geographical expansion of the business into new areas.

Owen continued:

“Throughout the EY Entrepreneur of the Year process, the regional and national judging panels were surprised to hear that we had built the business to this level without any external financing or investment – this is something we’re incredibly proud of. And, by the end of 2025 we expect to closeout another year of impressive growth, continuing the trend of sustainable, considered growth as we have done in previous years.”

The company continues to expand its workforce, with plans to recruit 30 additional staff in heating, joinery, and engineering roles, supporting the next phase of growth in renewable and energy-efficiency projects across the UK.

The 11 finalists selected from across the country were picked from 84 businesses across five regions – who, together generate £3.6 bn in revenue – and were awarded the prestigious titles at the UK final held on 20 November 2025, at a celebration dinner in London.