17 August 2026

Hercules plc

("Hercules" or the "Company")

Hercules Academy Growth Update

Hercules plc (AIM: HERC), a leading UK power and infrastructure services group, is pleased to provide an update on the continued progress of the Hercules Academy, which supports the recruitment and upskilling of skilled workers for the UK's infrastructure sector, helping address critical labour shortages across power, energy, rail, highways, utilities and construction.

Since May 2026, the Academy has secured new funded training awards, expanded its national delivery footprint and strengthened relationships with major public sector organisations, positioning the business well for further growth. In particular:

·   Approximately £310,000 of new funded training awards secured through Warwickshire County Council, which will see Hercules deliver programmes supporting new entrants into the construction sector and Level 3 qualifications to upskill existing workers.

·     Successfully appointed to the West Midlands Combined Authority Preferred Provider List, providing access to future funded training opportunities across one of the UK's largest combined authorities.

·     Now working with seven HM Prison establishments to deliver prison education and employment programmes, up from three in 2025 with engagement underway at a further seven sites.

·    Commercial pilot programmes underway with major infrastructure clients, with further contract opportunities currently under evaluation.

Since the Hercules Academy was established over two years ago, the Company has trained more than 2,500 individuals. As well as providing long-term revenue opportunities to Hercules, the Academy is also aligned with Hercules' commitment to deliver meaningful social value.

Brusk Korkmaz, Chief Executive Officer of Hercules plc, commented:

"The continued progress of our Academy reflects our long-term commitment to solving one of the UK's biggest infrastructure challenges - the shortage of skilled people.

"Securing more than £300,000 of new training awards in recent months, expanding our partnerships with government bodies and major employers, and increasing our national delivery capability further strengthens our position as a leading workforce solutions provider to the infrastructure sector.

"The Academy is becoming an increasingly important strategic asset for Hercules. It not only develops the skilled workforce our clients require but also creates additional commercial opportunities while delivering genuine social value through education, employment and rehabilitation.

"With further funding decisions expected in the coming months, we remain excited about the Academy's growth prospects and its contribution to the Group's long-term strategy."

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