Concord Group marks 50th anniversary

Concord Group, one of Bangladesh's leading conglomerates, has marked its 50th anniversary, reflecting on a legacy that began in 1973 and spans five decades of contributions to the country's development.

Established in the years following independence, Concord initially focused on reconstructing war-damaged infrastructure, including bridges vital for reconnecting regions. The company was officially founded in 1975 by S.M. Kamaluddin, who continues to lead the organisation.

In the 1980s, Concord played a pivotal role in transforming Dhaka's urban landscape by constructing some of the capital's earliest high-rise buildings, beginning in Motijheel. The Bangladesh Shilpa Bank Bhaban, a 20-storey structure built during this period, was among the first of its kind and contributed to shaping the modern identity of the capital.

Concord's most nationally significant contribution came in 1982 with the construction of the National Martyrs' Memorial in Savar. Designed by architect Syed Mainul Hossain and completed by Concord in 89 days, the memorial remains a key symbol of national remembrance.

Over the years, the company expanded its operations to include a wide range of large-scale public and private projects, both in Bangladesh and abroad. Its work includes office towers, residential developments, airports, stadiums, diplomatic facilities, and leisure parks.

In 1998, Concord became the first developer in the country to adopt green bricks and blocks as part of its commitment to environmentally responsible construction. At a time when traditional fire-burnt bricks dominated the market, Concord led the transition towards sustainable alternatives and continues to be a major producer and user of eco-friendly building materials.

The company has also provided housing for over 10,000 families, playing a significant role in Bangladesh's residential development. In 2002, Concord launched Fantasy Kingdom in Ashulia, Bangladesh's first modern theme park. The company also developed the Foy's Lake complex in Chattogram, integrating recreational infrastructure with environmental preservation.

On 10 July 2025, Concord held a day-long programme to commemorate its 50th anniversary. The event was inaugurated by Vice Chairperson Farida Kamal. Managing Director Shahriar Kamal and Director of Compliance Nazia Karishma Kamal were also present, along with senior management and employees from across the group. The day's activities focused on employee engagement and underscored the company's longstanding commitment to workforce well-being.

As it enters its sixth decade, Concord aims to continue investing in sustainable construction, infrastructure development, and innovation. Its leadership reaffirmed their focus on responsible growth, employee development, and long-term value creation.

From post-independence reconstruction to contemporary urban development, Concord's contributions have left a lasting mark on Bangladesh's built environment. The company remains positioned to play a significant role in the country's future progress.