Labour shortages across the construction industry could limit progress in high-tech and ‘mission critical’ sectors, according to Linesight’s latest Construction Market Insights report.
The report, which looks at key trends across the construction industry in Europe, found there is a significant shortage of bricklayers, carpenters and joiners, plumbers, pipefitters and building electricians.
The report also predicts that construction inflation in Europe will decelerate in 2024, due to falling energy and commodity prices as well as easing inflationary pressures.
Linesight found that net zero and innovation agendas are key drivers for construction industry growth, especially for the commercial sector, with demand for facilities that use less energy or support innovation aimed at reducing resource consumption.
Michael Riordan, managing director of Linesight UK, said: “Amid cautious recovery, the UK construction industry can look forward to the possibility of a rebound in the latter half of 2024. While the governments’ commitment to net-zero initiatives is helping to fuel this transformation, challenges persist in the form of skilled labour shortages and ongoing supply chain challenges.
“On a positive note inflation and material commodity prices have seen welcome decreases. Linesight will continue to monitor industry and sector trends to provide timely updates and key project considerations to ensure certainty of delivery budgets and timelines.”
