The construction is warned to expect more shortages, longer lead times and higher prices.
While the temporary blockage of the Suez Canal last month interrupted global trade, the supply chain problems run deeper, with demand outstripping supply.
The Construction Leadership Council has a ‘product availability work group’, which is co-chaired by Builders Merchants Federation chief executive John Newcomb and Construction Products Association chief executive Peter Caplehorn. Together they represent manufacturers, distributors and retailers of building products across the UK.
In a joint statement, they have set out this warning to the trade:
“Demand for construction products remains high both in the UK and globally and is set to continue throughout 2021 in every sector. Unfortunately, this means the availability issues we are currently experiencing are likely to worsen before they improve.
“While supplies of plaster and plasterboard are much improved on last year, almost every other product group is experiencing longer lead times and, as a consequence, higher prices.
“Plastics (PE and PP), cement and aggregates have joined existing lists of products in short supply, including timber, steel, roof tiles, bricks and imported products such as screws, fixing, plumbing items, sanitaryware, shower enclosures, electrical products and appliances.
“Prior to the temporary blockage of the Suez Canal, we were seeing a slight lowering of both container costs and delivery times of these imported goods. We anticipate that this will continue once the effect of the temporary closure works through.
“Imports of timber will be an issue for the foreseeable future. Not enough timber is being produced to meet world demand. Added to this, other countries are prepared to pay more to secure their supply, pushing the UK lower down the pecking order.
“Steel is also experiencing strong global demand. While supply and demand are likely rebalance within the next few months, global dynamics will continue to drive prices up.
“Raw material shortages constraining polymer supplies are causing production problems for plastics (lower ground drainage etc). Coatings manufacturers are also experiencing raw material shortages beyond their control, at a time when demand is particularly high. These issues will continue for at least 2-3 months.
“All users should plan for increased demand and longer delays, keep open lines of communication with their suppliers and order early for future projects.”
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