Beard Construction comments on CIPS PMI data

06 June 2024

Following the release of the latest CIPS PMI construction data, which shows construction output rise at its fastest pace in two years, we have a comment from Beard Construction.

Fraser Johns, finance director at Beard, said: “A two-year high in activity in the commercial sector certainly makes for fantastic reading – as does positive performances across construction more broadly. In particular, a return to growth in housing will be most welcome for those firms reliant on the sector, who have endured considerable challenges as supply has waned.

“From our viewpoint, clients certainly haven’t been shy in committing to new projects, and both regional and national frameworks continue to provide us with a healthy pipeline of new work. We are really encouraged by the prospects for the remainder of the year, particularly given the momentum we are seeing in the commercial space.

“Of course, with a date now set for the general election, some clients may well take a wait and see approach before making any big commitments. It will also be interesting to see what impact this has on infrastructure new work with potential changes to public sector spending. Nonetheless, it’s still positive to see firms across the sector gearing up for growth and expecting a positive second half of the year. We are certainly in this camp at Beard with strong order books across our five regional offices.”