Market Intelligence Reports

Latest Market Intelligence report: Q2 2026

Despite ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainty, market conditions across the construction sector remain relatively stable, with businesses continuing to report healthy levels of activity and a strong underlying
pipeline of opportunities. Long-term investment programmes and committed project portfolios continue to support demand. However, confidence remains sensitive to inflationary pressures, international trade developments and changing economic conditions, all of which are increasing scrutiny around project affordability, funding certainty and future investment decisions.

This quarter, discussions with our SCF contractors and supply chain partners indicate that while workloads remain strong, concerns regarding future cost escalation and supply chain resilience are becoming increasingly prominent. The potential impact of international tariffs and trade restrictions continues to be closely monitored, particularly in relation to steel and aluminium markets. Contractors have also highlighted ongoing challenges around the availability of certain low-carbon construction products, noting that domestic manufacturing capacity has yet to fully align with project requirements and sustainability ambitions.

Report compiled by

Janara Singh

Assistant Framework Manager

Latest Market Intelligence report: Q2 2026

Report mockup

To this end, SCF market intelligence analyses data across 10 key trade packages. Data is collected across four cities within the south of the UK. The analysis identifies regional market trends and forecasts for the following year by commenting on changes in tender workload, number of employees, building costs and material & labour availability. When compared with other indices, this survey provides a unique outlook for clients by identifying the perspective of those trades directly involved with construction providing a real-time representation of market trends.

We share this information with our clients to highlight key areas of risk that may impact on project delivery. Our main contractors and clients can use this information to predict pressures and opportunities in the market, to make decisions about material specification, construction methodology, off-site or automated construction techniques and project planning and programming, ensuring the best possible decision making to deliver maximum value.

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