Beard Construction comments on CIPS PMI construction data

04 July 2024

Following the release of the latest CIPS PMI construction data, which shows total construction output continue to rise, we have a comment from Beard Construction.

Fraser Johns, finance director at Beard, said: “Such is the UK construction sector’s continued growth, even renewed challenges in house building – which can often have a dragging effect on output as a whole – wasn’t enough to halt its expansion. And while this general election period has naturally had an impact on new order volumes - as some clients wait to see the outcome and the lay of the land - we still saw growth for a fifth consecutive month.

“With inflationary pressures having eased, and encouraging supply chain conditions are all helping to drive momentum and increase confidence for the second half of the year. It comes as no surprise to us at Beard to see the commercial sector moving the needle, with persistent demand across our five regional offices and from both national and regional frameworks. Once we have the results of today’s election and the dust settles, we can certainly expect to see more clients push ahead with plans.

“Even as conditions improve, a sensible approach to tendering and cost plans will always be needed, as will close communications with sub-contractors, clients and suppliers to ensure we all deliver the best possible outcomes.”