For more than 30 years, the FMB's State of Trade Survey has monitored key indicators and predicted future short-term developments in the UK construction industry. It is the only survey of its kind to focus exclusively on micro, small and medium-sized (SME) firms throughout the construction sector. The survey is dispatched to the entire membership every quarter. The survey for Q2 2022 received 296 responses and they are weighted according to the number of employees.
Impact on net profits
- 49% of small, local builders have seen a negative impact on profit margins owing to the current economic climate.
Market conditions
- 71% of small builders have delayed jobs because of a lack of materials.
- 61% of FMB members have delayed jobs due to a shortage of skilled tradespeople.
- Significantly fewer FMB members report a rise in enquiries, across all areas of work, compared to the last quarter.
- Housebuilding enquiries are down sharply, tracking in negative territory for the first time since the pandemic.
Skills
- 42% of FMB members are finding it difficult to hire bricklayers, up 2% on last quarter.
- 42% of builders are struggling to hire carpenters/joiners, down 3% on last quarter.
Prices
- 98% reported an increase in material costs in Q2 2022.
- 95% of respondents expect material costs to increase in Q3 2022.
- 81% of builders have put up their prices for work.
Download the latest State of Trade survey below. Previous reports are also available for download.
Previous reports
