For sole traders, students and anyone interested in concrete.
History of the Concrete Society
1965
Founding of the Concrete Society Trust
The Concrete Society Trust was established with the broad remit of promoting and encouraging the use of concrete. It later became known for supporting student initiatives in the field.
1966
Formation and Incorporation
The Concrete Society was established in 1966 to meet the growing need for a unified organisation representing all those involved in concrete, including designers, contractors, researchers, and suppliers. It was incorporated as a non-profit company limited by guarantee on 28 July, following an agreement between four founding bodies: the Reinforced Concrete Association, Prestressed Concrete Development Group, Paving Development Group, and Formwork Development Group.
1966
Formal Inauguration and first Honorary Member
The Society was formally inaugurated on 13 October, at which point it assumed the responsibilities of the founding organisations and expanded its remit to encompass the entire field of concrete manufacture, application, and use. At the inaugural General Meeting, held at the Dorchester Hotel London, HRH Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh was elected as the first Honorary Member of the Concrete Society.
1967
Coat of Arms Granted
On 5 September, the Society was officially granted its Coat of Arms. The design symbolised the core components of concrete and the union of the founding organisations. The snowflake in the crest paid tribute to the Society’s first President, Sir Frederick Snow. The motto ‘Concreti Corroboramur’—’Having come together, we are strengthened’—emphasised unity and collaboration.
1969
Establishment of the Joe Peirce Trust
The Joe Peirce Trust was founded to support excellence in concrete technology through student prizes and travel bursaries, complementing the work of the Concrete Society Trust.
2007
Merger with ICT
The Institute of Concrete Technology (ICT) merged with the Concrete Society, strengthening its technical reach and professional influence.
2009
Merger of Trusts
The Concrete Society Trust and the Joe Peirce Trust were merged into a single registered charity: the Concrete Society Trust. It continues to be managed by independent trustees, supported by the Society.
2014
Re-establishment of ICT Independence
The merger with the ICT was reversed, establishing ICT once again as an independently governed body, though supported by a collaboration and service agreement with the Society.
2020s
Ongoing Growth and Partnerships
The Society has evolved to include the activities of Concrete Information Limited, Concrete Advisory Service Limited, Concrete On-line Limited, and Concrete Training Limited. It maintains strong partnerships with groups such as the Concrete Bridge Development Group and the Irish Concrete Society. The Concrete Society remains committed to its founding principles to develop and impart knowledge, and support our Concrete Community.