A POSITIVE FORECAST AHEAD FOR

LINIAR TEAM THE LATEST TO VOLUNTEER

According to Glenigen, the construction industry ‘monitor’, the sector should see an 8% growth in 2023.

Whilst there are somewhat unsettled conditions economically at the moment, according to Glenigan there looks like a 2% contraction in 2022, followed by a return to growth in 2023.

As global supply chain challenges continue, together with other contributing factors including growing inflation and the Ukranian war, have all hindered the sector’s recovery.

There appears to be positive moves within the build-to-rent sector, with commercial projects also continuing to be developed in urban regeneration.

There may still be challenges to face this year but things are starting to even out as companies adapt to alternative supply chain options.

Earlier this year, the Construction Skills Network forecast that 216,800 new recruits would be needed to meet the construction industry demands by 2025. Almost 10% of the UK workforce is employed in construction, which creates approximately £90bn annually - that is nearly 7% of the GDP. There is still a struggle across fenestration to engage younger workers for construction and renovation jobs therefore tackling this continues to be frustrating.

Commercial and housebuilding activity has remained strong this year, with many SMEs reporting full order books. There is a big demand for domestic renovation projects and home improvements, with energy efficiency now high on the list of ‘must haves’ for homeowners looking to reduce energy bills.

Hopefully this will continue throughout 2022 despite the incessant material shortages, at least now it seems much more manageable.

Inflation, political uncertainty and pricing, particularly regarding glass will undoubtedly still affect projects. Covid could once again raise its ugly head with spikes in winter cases that could affect product availability.

Forecast Lies For 2023

From Helen Duval 2022

Also, with the introduction of the new UK CA Mark and the UK Registrations, Evaluation, Authorisation & Restriction of Chemicals regulations, could well affect efficient delivery of materials.

The skills shortage remains one of the most urgent and continuous problems in the sector. The ageing workforce is not being replaced as rapidly as we need with around a 1/4 of construction workers currently over the age of 50.

It is great that jobs and apprenticeships are being created, this market has really floundered when it comes to attracting a younger workforce. Clearly, the sector needs to adapt by offering new ways to engage the 20 - 35 year olds.