News
Construction recovery sustained in fourth quarter
The upturn in construction activity that began in the second quarter of 2013
continued into the fourth quarter, according to the latest Construction Trade Survey from the Construction Products Association (CPA) – the first time in more than five years that the sector recorded three consecutive quarters of growth. The CPA survey reported increased output
from across the construction industry, including building contractors, SMEs, specialist contractors, civil engineers and product manufacturers, with growth driven primarily by the housing sector. Dr Noble Francis, economics director at the
CPA, said: ‘The recovery, which started in 2013 Q2, continued, though risks remain. The rises in activity were slower than in previous quarters, and orders for new work similarly decelerated, potentially highlighting uncertainty among contractors as to whether the recovery would be sustained. ‘Growth was driven by the housing sector,
though this was partially offset by a drop in repair and maintenance work. Building contractors, SMEs and civil engineers reported rises in output, although Q4 levels were not as strong as Q3. Indeed, only product manufacturers saw activity levels higher in Q4 than Q3.’ Stephen Ratcliffe, director of the UK
Contractors Group (UKCG), said: ‘While contractors reported a slowdown in output growth this quarter, the trend over the last year remains one of modest recovery. Unlike housing, the broader construction sector remains a lagging indicator and we would expect the main growth to come later than the wider economy. ‘Rising labour costs highlight the need to
tackle skills shortages as we move towards recovery, and for a clear pipeline of future work so firms have the certainty to invest in apprenticeships and other long-term training programmes.’ For more details of the survey visit
www.constructionproducts.org.uk
SWITCHING ON TO THE ELECTRIC EVENT
The Electric Event – the second annual electrical industry
conference and exhibition organised by the ECA – is taking place at the ICC, Birmingham, from 28-30 May, promising fresh ideas and a unique experience for electrical contractors. Sponsored by leading
manufacturers, wholesalers and industry bodies, the event combines a high-level conference, exhibition, technical and business workshops,
and a gala awards dinner. This year’s conference finale will be a motivational closing session led by sports presenter, writer and broadcaster Clare Balding OBE. Around 1,000 visitors and 40
exhibitors attended the inaugural event last year and organisers are anticipating a similar high level of participation this year. Steve Bratt, ECA CEO, said: ‘The Electric Event is quickly establishing
itself as an industry essential. Following feedback from last year’s attendees, we are even more confident of providing invaluable support and advice to electrical contractors, as well as a great forum to do business, during these difficult economic times.’ Delegate rates start from £25+VAT
for Day 2. More information and registration details can be found at
www.electricevent.co.uk
Imtech G&H won three awards last year
ECA Award nominations
ECA member businesses have until 21 March to get their
entries in for the second ECA Annual Awards, celebrating the very best in electrical contracting. Winners in seven categories – including Innovation in Contracting, Best Client/Contractor Partnership and Best Electrical Safety Initiative – will be announced at the gala dinner on the closing night of The Electric Event on 30 May. Businesses must be ECA registered members to be in with a chance of winning one of the coveted trophies. You can read more about the Awards and the Electric Event on pages 38-41 of this issue. Entry forms can be downloaded
from The Electric Event website at
www.electricevent.co.uk/ galadinner
6 ECA Today March 2014
SHUTTERSTOCK / GORDON BALL LRPS
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