The fastest rise in construction activity since 1997 risks being undermined by price increases and a shortage of building materials, warns the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), in response to today’s Construction PMI data.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB said: “The building materials shortage is disproportionately affecting small builders and threatening their recovery from the pandemic despite strong growth in the construction sector. The materials shortage is proving a serious detriment to both businesses throughout the supply chain and consumers. As the country reopens for business, it’s imperative that building firms have better access to the materials they need to build.”
Berry concluded: “It’s very encouraging that activity in the construction sector is increasing at its fastest rate in over twenty years, but given that confidence is rapidly dropping away, the lack of materials needs addressing before jobs and business continuity start to be compromised. Small firms form over 90% of the construction industry, and they are experiencing the most difficulties as a result of these shortages.”
Notes to editors
The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is the largest trade association in the UK construction industry representing thousands of firms in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Established in 1941 to protect the interests of small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms, the FMB is independent and non-profit making, lobbying for members’ interests at both the national and local level.
The FMB is a source of knowledge, professional advice and support for its members, providing a range of modern and relevant business building services to help them succeed. The FMB is committed to raising quality in the construction industry and offers a free Find a Builder service to consumers.
