Material shortages challenging industry productivity
Feb 02, 2021
With the COVID-19 pandemic, (and Brexit) it comes as no surprise that we are seeing significant material shortages across the sector. Merchants have reported a sharp upturn in demand since March 2020 when the first UK lockdown was imposed, and whilst it is promising to see recovery in the industry, the challenges associated with lead times and price hikes will no doubt impede productivity.
Around 20% of manufacturers anticipate challenges for the year ahead owing to material shortages – suggesting that the impacts could have considerable effects on activity for the foreseeable. Imports such as steel and timber presented some of the biggest challenges reinforcing the ongoing global supply chain issues that so many industries are facing. With timber and other roofing products seeing average increases of up to 20%, and steel as much as 40%, it will present unavoidable hurdles for construction businesses of all sizes.
There is no one attributing factor, with the sharp rise in demand, delays at UK ports and rising shipping costs all having an impact. With lead times “months” rather than “weeks” for many items, it is more important than ever that we plan effectively for upcoming projects, factoring anticipated delays into our timelines.
“Our teams are working hard to ensure our supply chains are able to successfully support our demands, liaising with suppliers on a regular basis to ascertain delivery timeframes and possible roadblocks. Where possible, we are also putting together forward orders to help avoid delays for our customers”
Kevin Diffey, Supply Chain Director, strukta Group.
“Whilst currently we have good stocks of our core product range, and plans in place to ensure continuity of supply, we’re recommending that our customers do what they can to place orders well in advance to ensure minimal site and project disruption.”
Myles Moggach, Sales Director, strukta Group.
“Whilst currently we have good stocks of our core product range, and plans in place to ensure continuity of supply, we’re recommending that our customers do what they can to place orders well in advance to ensure minimal site and project disruption.”At strukta we assist with managing our customer call-off orders, so sites get the goods required, when required, and keep projects on track.
For support with your important construction projects, contact our teams on 033 33 21 00 13 to find out how we can help or why not read more from some of our current customers here.