Trade Trends 2024

Welcome to our second Jewson Trade Trends report, which explores the experiences and views of the UK’s professional tradespeople on the issues that impact them most, every day.

Jewson spoke with more than 500 builders and tradespeople in the UK construction industry about:

Day-to-day business; the economic landscape, workload and tool theft

The industry’s skills shortage

Sustainability in the built environment

The lifestyle and wellbeing of builders and tradespeople

Two construction workers with tools inside the back of an open work van

Key findings include:

Rising fuel and petrol prices is the number one economic concern for builders and tradespeople.
Rising material prices is the number one concern about the construction industry for builders and tradespeople.
Businesses are reporting fewer enquiries from customers.
Almost half (48%) believe the industry’s skills shortage will get worse in the next 12 months.
Insulation and air source heat pumps are the two sustainability products homeowners are asking UK builders and tradespeople about.
More than two fifths of the industry will start or continue upskilling in green construction practices.
Only one third of builders and tradespeople say they’re confident in understanding the changes to Part L of the Building Regulations.
Less than a quarter of the industry are aware of how the upcoming Future Homes Standard will affect their day-to-day role.
More than half of the industry say the quality of their work is impacted if they don’t take care of their physical health.

The Jewson Trade Trends Report brings to life these and many more insights from across the industry, along with advice and guidance on how to tackle some of the daily business challenges builders and tradespeople face.

Download the Trade Trends report

Jewson is proud to partner the trades and is committed to having a positive and active role in the communities we serve. Our aim is to be the most trusted builders’ merchant for the UK’s general builders and specialist tradespeople. That’s why we’re transforming to provide the broad and expanding product range, availability, expertise and friendly, reliable service you need to grow your own business.

We hope this latest Trade Trends report is helpful for you and your business and look forward to welcoming you at one of our Jewson branches very soon.