Market Intelligence Reports

Latest Market Intelligence report: Q1 2025

While early signs suggest a more positive outlook for 2025, the market continues to face significant volatility. Tender workloads are showing signs of recovery, particularly in Groundworks and structural trades, yet project delays and extended pre-construction periods remain a concern. Building costs have risen moderately, with inflationary pressures most evident in M&E and Brickwork, while employment levels have largely stabilised, reflecting a strategic focus on workforce retention.

Material availability has remained relatively steady, though regional pressures – particularly in London and the South West – highlight ongoing supply chain sensitivities. Looking ahead, we anticipate continued cost volatility, regulatory impacts, and the influence of global trade dynamics, including tariffs and labour market changes.

Looking ahead, we anticipate continued cost volatility, influenced by rising material prices, evolving regulatory requirements, and shifting global trade dynamics.  These pressures, combined with ongoing supply chain sensitivities, underscore the need for agile planning, collaborative procurement, and proactive risk management to maintain project value and delivery certainty.

 

Report compiled by

Adrienne Turner

Framework Manager

Janara Singh

Assistant Framework Manager

Latest Market Intelligence report: Q1 2025

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To this end, SCF market intelligence analyses data across 10 key trade packages. Data is collected across four cities within the south of the UK. The analysis identifies regional market trends and forecasts for the following year by commenting on changes in tender workload, number of employees, building costs and material & labour availability. When compared with other indices, this survey provides a unique outlook for clients by identifying the perspective of those trades directly involved with construction providing a real-time representation of market trends.

We share this information with our clients to highlight key areas of risk that may impact on project delivery. Our main contractors and clients can use this information to predict pressures and opportunities in the market, to make decisions about material specification, construction methodology, off-site or automated construction techniques and project planning and programming, ensuring the best possible decision making to deliver maximum value.

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