Experience is Not the Only Measure of a Great General Contractor

In the world of commercial construction, developers and construction directors often face a common challenge: finding a general contractor they can trust. One of the most frequent concerns we hear is, “Have you done this exact type of project before?” While experience is undoubtedly valuable, it is not the sole indicator of success. The reality is that construction fundamentals remain consistent across sectors—what matters most is a contractor’s ability to execute, manage complexity, and ensure quality from start to finish.

Understanding the Common Misconception About Experience

It is understandable why clients want a general contractor with prior experience in their specific sector. Whether it’s a high-end retailer, a flagship restaurant, or a fuel station, developers often believe their projects are so unique that only those with direct experience can handle them. In fact, these are many of the reasons our flagship clients like American Girls, Vasa Fitness, and Eddie V’s keep coming back to us. However, this overlooks a crucial fact: the underlying construction elements—drywall, mechanical systems, electrical, plumbing—are the same across all projects.

A general contractor’s job is to manage the process, coordinate with subcontractors, and ensure the project aligns with the client’s vision. The belief that a contractor must have previously built the exact same store, restaurant, or automotive center to be successful is a fallacy. A truly skilled general contractor brings adaptability, a strong subcontractor network, and the ability to meet brand standards regardless of prior experience with that specific brand.

The problem with assuming a contractor needs sector-specific experience is that it disregards the foundational skills of a seasoned builder. A well-run construction company will always have the capability to adapt to a project’s specifications, regardless of brand. When companies limit their contractor pool to only those with past experience in their specific niche, they may be missing out on highly competent builders who have delivered projects of equal or greater complexity in other areas.

Mitigating Risks: What Truly Matters in Selecting a Contractor

Every construction project comes with risks—whether it’s budget overruns, scheduling conflicts, or unforeseen site conditions. Developers and construction directors mitigate these risks by selecting contractors who have demonstrated their ability to execute consistently. The best way to ensure success is not by limiting yourself to those who have built the exact same project before but by selecting a contractor who has:

A proven process for project management
Strong relationships with quality subcontractors
National experience working across multiple sectors
A commitment to communication and transparency

For example, a general contractor who has built high-end restaurants may not have built a specific luxury brand’s location before, but they have likely worked with high-end finishes, specialized mechanical systems, and precise scheduling demands. The ability to execute is not necessarily tied to past projects within the same brand but rather to the processes and discipline the contractor brings to every project.

Englewood Construction has a track record of successfully delivering projects in retail, hospitality, automotive, and restaurant sectors, among others. Our experience shows that while brand aesthetics and design intent may vary, the core construction process remains the same. What differentiates us is our ability to replicate standards while tailoring each project to its unique requirements.

The Value of a Strong Subcontractor Network

One of the most significant advantages a contractor can bring to a project is a deep, reliable network of subcontractors. Many of the most critical risks in construction stem from subcontractor performance—delays, budget issues, or poor workmanship. At Englewood Construction, we have spent decades vetting our 20,000+ subcontractors across the country to ensure consistent quality no matter the location.

This approach is especially valuable for national brands looking to expand into new markets. Instead of relying on a contractor with experience in only one region, developers should work with a team that understands how to scale and maintain quality across multiple locations. Our ability to match the right subcontractors to each project ensures seamless execution, whether building in New York, Miami, or Los Angeles.

Another critical factor is risk management at the subcontractor level. When a project fails, it’s often due to issues with subcontractor execution rather than the general contractor’s ability. A skilled GC with an established subcontractor network mitigates these risks by ensuring they are working with reliable partners who have a track record of success. Developers should look for a GC that has a clear and defined subcontractor vetting process, ensuring that only top-tier trade partners are brought onto a project. In many locations nationally, it is even more important to know through your years of experience which subcontractors NOT to use.

Process and Execution: The Real Indicators of a Contractor’s Capability

Beyond subcontractor management, the real key to a successful project is process. At Englewood Construction, we have developed a seamless project management system that ensures projects stay on track from preconstruction through completion.

Our process includes:

Early collaboration with architects and stakeholders to prevent costly revisions
Comprehensive scheduling that anticipates permitting and inspection timelines
Value engineering to optimize costs without sacrificing quality
Technology-driven project tracking for real-time updates and transparency

A developer’s primary concern should not be whether a contractor has built a particular brand before, but whether they have a track record of delivering high-quality results in a controlled, efficient manner. Our ability to apply the same rigorous processes across multiple project types is what makes us a trusted partner.

Technology also plays a major role in ensuring a project stays on track. Modern construction management tools allow for real-time tracking of costs, scheduling updates, and communication between all stakeholders. Developers should work with a contractor who embraces technology to enhance transparency and streamline project execution.

Overcoming the Hesitation to Work with a New Contractor

Many developers and tenants hesitate to work with a contractor who hasn’t previously built their specific brand because they fear the unknown. However, this reluctance can often result in missed opportunities. We understand the risks involved in construction, which is why we emphasize partnership, communication, and transparency. The right contractor understands how to learn brand standards quickly, implement them efficiently, and execute projects at a high level—every time.

Englewood Construction takes pride in integrating with new brands and seamlessly executing their vision. Whether it’s a boutique retail store, a high-end restaurant, or a large-scale fuel station, we have the experience, network, and process to deliver a successful project.

The best developers and construction directors understand that a great contractor is defined not just by past projects but by their ability to manage risk, coordinate teams, and maintain high-quality standards. When evaluating a contractor, the real question should not be, “Have you built this exact project before?” but rather, “Do you have the expertise, network, and process to deliver the best possible outcome?” That’s what truly matters in construction.

For those willing to look beyond the surface and evaluate general contractors based on capability rather than sector-specific experience, the rewards are clear: greater flexibility, expanded options, and, ultimately, a more decisive, more successful project outcome. Trust in a contractor’s ability to execute; the results will speak for themselves.