UK Construction Industry Reports Record Breaking Rise In Labour Costs

Construction contractors have recently come under increasing pressure due to soaring vacancies and increasing labour costs.

The ONS recently reported a record breaking 20 year high in the number of construction sector vacancies, which reached 38,000 between May and June 2021.

This strong demand for skilled workers has seen labour costs jump. Average weekly earnings within the construction industry are up 14% YOY compared to June 2020 according to the ONS. The Construction Index also recently reported skilled workers were taking home a record average of £904 a week during July 2021.

This increase in demand has been widely attributed to big infrastructure projects around the country as part of the government “levelling up” agenda, along with strong demand from the housing sector.

These market forces have put increasing pressure on construction contractors who are trying to deliver projects on time and within budget. This challenge has been further compounded for many contactors due to the continuing building materials shortage affecting the industry.

With no improvement to the situation predicted for the near future, many contractors and installers are searching for innovative ways to maintain and increase production levels on site.

One solution many contractors are turning to is to identify time and labour-saving products. These products can decrease time on site by making installation times quicker, as well as removing the need for as many skilled workers. However, accessibility of products is also key to keep projects on track. So choosing readily available products from reputable suppliers is key.

The Fast Trak range from Gripple, which is up to six times faster to install than traditional suspension systems is a great example. The Fast Trak pre-fabricated, trapeze bracket solution is widely used for the installation of electrical containment, pipework, rectangular ductwork and other mechanical services.

Manufactured in the UK by suspension systems specialist Gripple, the Fast Trak range is fully certified and available for supply. Keeping the costs to the budget can also be achieved thanks to Fast Track prices being fixed for 2021 to help contractors manage the challenging landscape.

Fast Trak also helps mitigate health and safety issues on site, thanks to “hot works” permits not being required and time spent “working at height” being reduced dramatically. Overall project environmental impact is also decreased thanks to the reduced materials and faster installation work.

Fast Trak can help contractors meet deadlines and mitigate some of the market pressures from labour and materials shortages.

Click here to discover more about Gripple Fast Trak