A.L.L. Construction CEO Luis Puig Jr. to receive Business of the Year Award

Negocios Now Staff-

Chicago, IL — Negocios Now is proud to recognize Luis Puig Jr., CEO of A.L.L. Construction, with the Business of the Year Award, for his visionary leadership in continuing—and elevating—a legacy that began almost 50 years ago.

“We are thrilled to recognize an exceptional entrepreneur who determinedly took the reins of a company founded by his father five decades ago and placed it on the cusp of success,” said Clemente Nicado, Publisher of Negocios Now.

  Negocios Now’s Gala will be held on July 25 at 6:00 p.m. at Old Post Office, 433 W Van Buren St, Chicago, with Wintrust as the main sponsor. Peoples Gas, ComEd, and UIC will also sponsor the event.

  Founded by Luis Puig Sr., A.L.L. Construction established itself early on as a trusted name in the construction industry—rooted in integrity, quality, and hard work. When Luis Jr. stepped in to lead the company, he did more than preserve its legacy—he reimagined it for a new era.

  With a sharp eye for innovation and deep respect for his father’s vision, Luis Puig Jr. has grown A.L.L. Construction into a modern, diversified firm that stands as a model for Hispanic-owned businesses across the region. From expanding service offerings to investing in new technologies and workforce development, he has guided the company through changing times while maintaining the strong family values that built its foundation.

His leadership honors his father’s entrepreneurial spirit and sets a bold example for future generations. Luis Jr.’s journey reflects the strength of Latino entrepreneurship—driven by legacy, empowered by vision, and fueled by determination.

“Luis Puig Jr. embodies what it means to lead with purpose and pride,” said Nicado. “He’s not just building structures—he’s building a future for his family, community, and the industry.”

Luis Puig Sr. came to this country in 1956, emigrating from Cuba in search of the American Dream. After arriving in Chicago, he met his wife, Nidia, and the couple settled in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. Unlike many of his peers who took factory jobs typically reserved for immigrants, Luis Sr.. sought a different path. Despite being teased by friends who called him “lazy” for not joining them, he worked multiple jobs for various contractors, knowing his true dream was to start his own company.

In 1959, he founded Crawford Construction, beginning with the construction of detached residential garages. He chose an “American” name for the company, believing it would help him secure work, as he knew one of the biggest challenges for any immigrant entrepreneur was “getting that first contact.” Over time, his skills and client base grew, and he expanded into masonry and general contracting.

With the arrival of his three sons, he renamed the company A.L.L. Masonry, incorporating the initials of their first names—Alex, Lenny, and Luis Jr.

As the eldest, Luis Puig Jr. began working for his father early, learning every aspect of the construction business. Born and raised in Chicago, he saw firsthand how construction could transform neighborhoods and improve lives. Inspired by his father’s example, Luis set out to leave his own mark on the family business by expanding its capabilities and driving innovation across the industry.

After graduating from Bradley University in 1986 with a B.S. in Construction Engineering, Luis Jr. returned to the family business, taking on roles as an estimator and project manager and eventually rising through the ranks. His dedication and expertise culminated in his appointment as President in 2015.

Under his leadership, A.L.L. Construction has grown into one of the leading masonry contractors in Illinois, generating over $80 million in annual revenue. Today, the firm operates as a full-service general contractor with expertise in construction management and design-build services. 

  The company’s portfolio features large-scale projects in affordable housing and real estate development. A.L.L. Construction has been selected as one of the general contractors for the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park—a $1 billion investment led by megadeveloper Related Midwest.

  Luis Jr.’s commitment to community impact remains central to his leadership. He continues to prioritize working in neighborhoods where his employees live and ensures that the company not only builds structures—but also builds stronger, more sustainable communities.