A new report assessing industry views on the year ahead found that UK builders believe the rising cost of materials will be their biggest challenge in 2023
UK builders say the rising cost of materials will be their most significant challenge in 2023, according to a new report assessing the industry’s confidence.
The study, conducted by ElectricalDirect, surveyed tradespeople about their views on the year ahead and found that while there is a general acceptance that the landscape is difficult, some are cautiously optimistic.
Key concerns included the impact of supply chain issues and the cost of living crisis
The top five challenges for UK builders predicted in 2023 are:
- 46% – the rising cost of materials
- 29% – rising fuel costs
- 25% – getting hold of materials
- 25% – the lack of skilled workers
- 22% – becoming more sustainable
Despite concerns about the rising cost of materials, optimism persevered
20% of UK builders responded to say they thought their companies will have a good year in 2023, and 8% believe the industry will grow stronger over the coming months, even despite concerns about the rising cost of materials.
Furthermore, 20% of builders think they’ll be better off financially in 2023, and 23% are looking to expand and hire new staff.
The trades most likely to feel that 2023 will be a good year for their companies are:
| # | Trade | % |
| 1 | Roofer | 38% |
| 2 | Electrician | 26% |
| 3 | Landscaper | 25% |
| 4 | Scaffolder | 25% |
| 5 | Building surveyor | 25% |
| 6 | Carpenter | 22% |
| 7 | Bricklayer | 21% |
| 8 | Builder | 20% |
| 9 | Painter Decorator | 16% |
| 10 | Window Fabricator | 11% |
| 11 | Plasterer | 10% |
| 12 | Joiner | 8% |
| 13 | Plumber | 7% |
Dominick Sandford, managing director at ElectricalDirect, said: “It’s been a really tough couple of years, both nationally and for the industry, but while many challenges remain, it’s encouraging to see that some tradespeople are feeling positive about the future as we approach 2023.”
