A reader argues there is cause for optimism in the construction industry

Source:

I read your article on the CITB鈥檚 ConstructionSkills Network report with interest (Construction facing 鈥溾��). It cites a 9% fall in output during 2012 and 60,000 job losses as the culmination of five bad years for the construction industry. These figures, which have been cited as indicative of a 鈥渄ecade of pain鈥�, are disappointing to say the least and make for discouraging reading.

There鈥檚 no denying the industry has been hit hard by the UK鈥檚 slump into recession in 2008 and will take time to recover. Yet reading between the gloomy headlines there is still call for some optimism. In my experience, our customers are not all struggling in the way these figures suggest. We鈥檝e seen many of them recruiting and increasing their headcount for the year, indicating that there are employment prospects among many construction firms.

It鈥檚 a tough environment, we know that for certain. But until the government provides the boost the industry is calling out for, businesses need to make sure they are in a position to capitalise on any opportunities that do come their way. It鈥檚 those firms that continue to invest in their infrastructure to ensure they are fit for purpose in the current climate that will reap the benefits when the industry returns to growth.

The outlook may be gloomy, but inevitably this will brighten. My advice to firms is to be ready to capitalise when it does.

Wes Simmons, general manager of Sage Construction

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