AO Business has announced a new lead for their housebuilder team. John Farnham, previously National Account Manager for the B2B division of AO.com, has been promoted to the leading position, after a successful first year for AO Business in the competitive housebuilders market. After recently growing the housebuilder team, AO
West Country new homes creator bunnyhomes has re-opened its Georgian inspired Fremington site, Foxglove Lane, for appointments only. North Devon home hunters are invited to take a seat inside the plush marketing suite – the ‘bunnylounge’ – where they can find out more about the exclusive collection of new homes
Winvic Construction Ltd is delighted to announce the appointment of Rob Cook as Civils and Infrastructure Director. Rob will head up the Civils and Infrastructure team where Winvic already has an established track record in both standalone schemes and projects which complement and enable future industrial, commercial and multi-room developments
The Covid-19 crisis offers the opportunity to rethink the way we design our cities, said speakers at Planning and Development to Enhance Health and Wellbeing, the third of Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation’s e-Roadshow events on Realising Resilience. Focused on Birmingham, the first UK city to join the global Biophilic Cities network, the
While all businesses should focus on methods of saving, those in the construction sector need to be exceptionally vigilant in this regard. There are so many resources that need to go into projects to render even a low-profit margin. Therefore, while other types of businesses may opt for money-saving tactics
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is looking to gather insights into how the Facilities Management sector is reacting during this challenging situation and would be very grateful to receive your input if you could find the time. Given the current environment, some extra questions related to the impact
When it comes to designing the bathroom it’s all in the detail. Having your very own spa-like oasis is a luxury that many people dream of and with the right decorative touches and features, you can achieve this in just a few key steps. From the materials through to the
Project Management Institute (PMI) launches UK National Project Awards 2020 including recognition of the UK’s most influential Covid-19 response project PMI UK, in association with PwC, is delighted to announce the 2020 National Project Awards. In addition to eight award categories including; ‘Project of the Year’, ‘PMO of the Year’
Digitalisation and autonomous processes are propelling the manufacturing industry into a Fourth Industrial Revolution. With technology providing connectivity and data-driven insights to the manufacturing sector, can it also solve challenges facing the construction industry? Here, Nick Cowley, managing director at window and door supplier to the offsite construction industry, Euramax,
FirstPort, the UK’s largest residential property manager, has today announced a transaction which will see it combining with leading property and asset manager, Mainstay Group. For FirstPort and Mainstay customers, clients, employees, management, and supply partners day-to-day operations will remain unchanged. Completion of the transaction only remains subject to approval
AO Business has announced a new lead for their housebuilder team. John Farnham, previously National Account Manager for the B2B division of AO.com, has been promoted to the leading position, after a successful first year for AO Business in the competitive housebuilders market. After recently growing the housebuilder team, AO Business are transforming the way appliances are purchased for new housing developments. Remaining open for business during the crisis, they are now the supplier of choice for many housebuilders. Being part of a large retail group with its own logistics network has meant that they can continue to deliver to business customers and offer a fantastic next day delivery and installation proposition. Prior to joining AO Business, John Farnham was the National B2B Account Manager for Samsung UK, and previously Contracts Account Manager at Electrolux. Talking about his new role, John said: “I’m excited by the opportunity to really make my own mark on the sector and to drive through some positive changes in the way appliances are delivered and installed on site. AO have a unique vision for the housebuilder industry, and they have made fantastic progress by offering business clients a powerful alternative. I’m determined to make AO Business the best appliance distributor on offer.” Anthony Sant, MD of AO Business, said: “We’re excited for John to start leading our Housebuilder team here at AO Business. Housebuilders are really waking up to the benefits of our proposition to the industry, and with John at the helm, we can continue to move full steam ahead during these unprecedented times.” With next day delivery and installation, renowned customer service and over 20 years’ experience of selling electricals to the public, AO Business offer a unique proposition for time-pressed housebuilders. ABOUT AO.COM Online electricals retailer, AO.com was founded in 2000 by John Roberts following a £1 bet in a Bolton pub. Formerly known as Appliances Online, the company rebranded in 2013 to become AO.com and the current logo was born. In the same year they aired their first TV advert and reached 1 million Facebook likes. In February 2014 the company floated on the London Stock Exchange as AO World. AO.de was launched in Germany in 2014 and 2016 saw the opening of an 84,000 square metre, purpose-built HQ located in Bergheim. AO.com stocks over 9,000 products and delivers millions of electricals every year from its 740,000 sq. ft. logistics warehouse in Crewe. AO.com’s user-friendly website aims to provide helpful and impartial information on all of its products and is able to price match retailers stocking the same products. AO.com also offers customers free and next day delivery on thousands of products, as well as installation and recycling services.
West Country new homes creator bunnyhomes has re-opened its Georgian inspired Fremington site, Foxglove Lane, for appointments only. North Devon home hunters are invited to take a seat inside the plush marketing suite – the ‘bunnylounge’ – where they can find out more about the exclusive collection of new homes coming to Fremington, all of which have been carefully selected from bunnyhomes’ Craft Collection. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore and discover bunnyhomes’ high-quality build inside The Granary show home. All appointments must be booked in advance before visiting the bunnylounge by calling Sales Executive Millie on 01271 411014 or emailing foxglovelane@bunnyhomes.com. Social distancing measures will be followed during each appointment with hand sanitiser available throughout the bunnylounge and show home. Amongst the first homes to be released at this desirable development of new homes located off Yelland Road, is the beautiful Carriage House. Lovingly built to impress, this two-bedroom detached apartment would suit a first-time buyer who is looking for a home with added flair or perhaps a retiree looking for a downsize solution. Inspired by a popular period of British architecture, Carriage House boasts its own elegant entrance which sits beside a garage, providing ample storage space, and parking. Through the front door, the stairs lead up to the bright and airy open plan kitchen / living / dining area. The home features large windows, including skylights in the kitchen area, which flood the space with natural light. As home hunters walk across the tasteful oak wooden floor, they can really appreciate just how much space the Carriage House has to offer. The well-proportioned living /dining area has been designed to comfortably fit a good-sized table and chairs as well as comfy sofas. The trend-leading bespoke kitchen has been thoughtfully designed with both style and ‘liveability’ in mind, with handy soft-close features and under-cabinet lighting, a practical pull-out larder and smart Smeg appliances. Two good-sized bedrooms sit at the rear of the property with the master bedroom featuring a fitted wardrobe and the bathroom is just next door. Also available to reserve is the delightful Rose Cottage. Proving to be just as romantic as it sounds, Rose Cottage is a three-bedroom semi-detached home with a well-considered layout. Stepping through the front door, with its hand-made ironwork porch and scalloped canopy, potential homeowners will walk through to the open plan kitchen / dining area to reach the spacious living room. Here, patio doors flood the room with light and give access to a quintessential English garden. Viewers of Rose Cottage can just imagine sitting here on a warm summer’s day, letting the gentle breeze and the floral fragrance flow into the home. The powder room leads off the hallway and clever storage space provides a home for muddy boots, raincoats and the dog lead. Upstairs, a large landing is waiting to invite home hunters to discover what is behind each of the four doors. Three bedrooms await including a tranquil master bedroom complete with a fitted wardrobe and luxury en-suite shower room with Villeroy & Boch ceramic ware. Bedroom two would make a welcoming guest room and bedroom three is ideal as a single bedroom, a peaceful study or relaxing snug room. The family bathroom and even more storage space complete this floor. Barry Stiles, Managing Director, noted: “We are delighted to be able to open our Fremington site again following the temporary closure due to the Coronavirus pandemic. We have opened for appointments only and look forward to once again welcoming home hunters to the site, helping them find their forever home that they can make memories in for years to come. “Our friendly Sales Executive Millie can tell you all about the new releases, including Carriage House and Rose Cottage which are now available to reserve. Built to last, each of our house styles in our Craft Collection is future-proofed, allowing you to grow into your new home. We are operating a strict social distancing policy within our bunnylounge and show home so please be aware that you will be required to stay two metres apart and use hand sanitiser during your visit. By booking an appointment, you will have the opportunity to receive 1-1 attention as you consider your next move to Foxglove Lane. We look forward to welcoming you soon!” Foxglove Lane is a collection of 37 new homes, some of which come under bunnyhomes’ affordable homes contribution. The site will offer a collection of two, three and four bedroom generously proportioned properties with a magic mix of seclusion and accessibility. Foxglove Lane is close to all of the local amenities Fremington has to offer, including independent shops, restaurants and leisure facilities. The thriving market town of Barnstaple is close by, or if it’s peace and quiet you’re after, wander down the winding lane until you reach the beautiful woodland that surrounds Foxglove Lane, or meander up the Tarka Trail. Carriage House is currently available from £220,000 with Rose Cottage available from £285,000. The Government’s Help to Buy Equity Loan scheme is available to use on these Georgian-style new homes. To book your appointment with a Foxglove Lane Sales Executive, visit www.bunnyhomes.com, email foxglovelane@bunnyhomes.com or call 01271 411014. Foxglove Lane is located off Yelland Road, Fremington, Nr. Barnstaple, EX31 3FF. The show home and bunnylounge are open for appointments only.
Winvic Construction Ltd is delighted to announce the appointment of Rob Cook as Civils and Infrastructure Director. Rob will head up the Civils and Infrastructure team where Winvic already has an established track record in both standalone schemes and projects which complement and enable future industrial, commercial and multi-room developments for their blue-chip client base. Winvic Managing Director David Ward commented “Rob is a great addition to our team where we have an ever-growing reputation for delivering complex multi-phase and multi stakeholder civils and infrastructure projects. With Rob on the team it will help amplify our focus on civils and infrastructure and will continue to strengthen our current standing in the sector.” Existing projects include numerous town and city ‘Gateway’ sites such as the recently completed 700-acre SEGRO Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway (SLPEMG). As a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), it comprised new carriageways and motorway slip roads, a rail freight terminal, numerous structures, major utility works and diversions as well as in excess of 5 million m3 of earthworks. The three-year SLPEMG project was managed by Project Manager Mark Skelton, who is now promoted to Contracts Director, a pivotal role where he will give operational support to Rob and will be responsible for all of Winvic’s civils and infrastructure project teams. Joining from Graham Construction, Rob has over 20 years construction experience with a number of leading firms, comprising operational, framework-led and strategic work across highways, utilities, marine, underground cabling and tunnelling, drainage and major roads managed by Highways England. His knowledge extends across the public and private sectors, is skilful at implementing processes and programmes, and is accomplished at taking a commercially prudent, client-first approach to schemes. Furthermore, Rob has been a health and safety champion throughout his career, focusing on driving down site incidents and inspiring a behavioural safety culture which is he has already praised Winvic’s recently launched health and safety behavioural change programme – the ‘Doing It Right’ initiative – and is looking forward to being proactive in this area. Rob Cook commented “I am excited about the challenge the role at Winvic presents me, working with my new team and the existing senior leadership, we have a great opportunity to not only deliver project excellence but to further grow our wider offering to the sector. I believe I have the right skillset to complement and develop the existing Winvic team and already feel at home with the Winvic culture.” Throughout the challenging Covid-19 response, Winvic has been appointed to deliver and started four new civils and infrastructure schemes with a number of further great new opportunities in the pipeline. These additions to Winvic’s civils and infrastructure team highlight the firm’s commitment to growing its reputation for delivering complex, multi-phase civils and infrastructure projects. For more information on Winvic, the company’s latest project news and job vacancies please visit www.winvic.co.uk. Join Winvic on social media – visit Twitter @WinvicLtd – and LinkedIn.
The Covid-19 crisis offers the opportunity to rethink the way we design our cities, said speakers at Planning and Development to Enhance Health and Wellbeing, the third of Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation’s e-Roadshow events on Realising Resilience. Focused on Birmingham, the first UK city to join the global Biophilic Cities network, the event showcased how England’s largest unitary authority has set itself challenging targets linked to increasing green assets, reducing carbon emissions, and improving the health and wellbeing of its residents. In her introduction, Vikki Woodhouse – National Specification Sales Manager at Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation – outlined the importance of multi-functional green assets and the need for a circular approach that reuses rainwater, rather than a linear one. “We need a combined approach, with early engagement from the project management and design teams,” she said. “Covid 19 has brought to the fore the inequality of access to green spaces,” said Simon Needle, Principal Ecologist and Arbologist at Birmingham City Council, showing the city’s Multi Challenge Map which reveals how deprived communities have fewer green assets nearby. He also explained some of the city’s targets including net zero carbon by 2030 and a 25% canopy cover for every ward in the city. Jane Findlay, Director of Fira Landscape and president-elect of the Landscape Institute, talked about the importance of evidence-based design, an approach pioneered in the health sector, where views of nature have been shown to increase healing and boost mental health. She highlighted research by Natural England and Nottingham University which shows that living within 300m of a green space promotes physical activity, improves mental health and increases life expectancy. Lastly, Peter Wharton, former tree protection officer and Director of Wharton Natural Infrastructure Consultants, asked the question: “ Is it easier to sell houses in a well-planned and delivered environment, where buildings, green infrastructure and people coexist to deliver sustained benefits?” Of course the answer is ‘yes’ but that doesn’t mean it is happening, he revealed. Lack of early collaboration, especially with the right people i.e. arborculturalists or ecologists, meant developers were missing out on the ‘value’ of green assets. He cited one development where 86% of the new trees planted had died within five years. He recommended measures such as Capital Asset Valuation of Amenity Trees (CAVAT), a method for managing trees as public assets rather than liabilities, be adhered to. London is the virtual venue for the next Polypipe e-roadshow on 7th July and will explore the theme of Shaping City Policy to Support Biodiversity and Green Urbanisation. The final event of the series concentrates on Scotland and the challenge of Delivering Active Travel through Integrated Green Infrastructure. All of the guest speaker presentations for the Birmingham e-Roadshow event can be viewed at https://www.polypipe.com/news For information on the full programme and details of how to register visit: – https://www.polypipe.com/roadshow-2020 Pic caption: Research shows that living within 300m of a green space promotes physical activity, improves mental health and increases life expectancy. Image shows Five Ways, Central Birmingham.
While all businesses should focus on methods of saving, those in the construction sector need to be exceptionally vigilant in this regard. There are so many resources that need to go into projects to render even a low-profit margin. Therefore, while other types of businesses may opt for money-saving tactics to boost profits, construction businesses need to implement cost savings to survive in a competitive market. If you are wondering how you can kickstart your construction business while saving as much as possible, you should consider the following. Renting Equipment And Specialty Vehicles It’s no secret that specialist vehicles and construction equipment come with extremely high price tags, which often leaves entrepreneurs feeling as though they will not be able to see profits within the near future. Rather than spending a fortune to purchase new or even used items, it would be best if you considered the option of renting. There are options available to finance a dump truck and several other types of speciality vehicles. The solution means you will be able to spread your capital more carefully while starting your business. Renting speciality equipment will also remove the costly issue of maintenance and potential repair costs on the vehicles as this is usually included in the rental price. Invest In Quality Tools Once you have your speciality vehicles and equipment, you will also need a few tools to get projects done. While many consider cheap tools a saving, quite the opposite couldn’t be more accurate as cheap tools won’t last. Therefore, you will end up having to replace tools quite often, which will end up costing you a fortune in expenses. In addition to opting for quality tools, you should also create an inventory of all tools and equipment to ensure these essential items are not being misplaced. You can have your employees sign tools in and out to keep track of the whereabouts of every item. Reduce Waste Enhancing measuring systems to reduce waste will benefit your business as well as the environment. Rather than buying extra materials that will merely end up filling landfills, even more, you should prioritize accuracy when it comes to measuring to ensure you are saving on materials instead of allowing excess waste. It is also a great idea to evaluate your total waste after each project and determine methods of reducing the overall total. You can revisit your waste after each project to streamline the effort of reducing waste materials. Outsource Departments Many aspiring entrepreneurs make the common mistake of employing entire departments that do not assist core business functions. These departments include sales, marketing, human resources, and several others. Instead of attempting to fit massive employee costs into your businesses expense budget, you may find that outsourcing these departments will implement incredible savings. What’s more, you will also be able to access industry experts when outsourcing, which you may not otherwise be able to afford. Therefore, your business can function with core employees and enjoy massive cost savings.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is looking to gather insights into how the Facilities Management sector is reacting during this challenging situation and would be very grateful to receive your input if you could find the time. Given the current environment, some extra questions related to the impact of Covid-19 have been added at the end of the questionnaire and feedback here would be especially useful. The aim of the survey is to capture sentiment towards key issues across the FM sector such as: changes in demand, business confidence, skills shortages, expected areas of growth, attitudes towards sustainability, investment in technology and resources allocated to training/apprenticeships. Complete the questionnaire online.
When it comes to designing the bathroom it’s all in the detail. Having your very own spa-like oasis is a luxury that many people dream of and with the right decorative touches and features, you can achieve this in just a few key steps. From the materials through to the finishing touches, you can create the bathroom of your dreams with luxurious aesthetics that make it one of your favourite rooms in the home. Unique Features Just like the kitchen, living room and bedroom you want your bathroom to have unique features that make it such a dreamy space. One of the main features that transforms a simple bathroom into a place of luxury is a smart shower. This modern addition turns showering into a relaxing experience, giving you control over everything from temperature through to ease of use. This unique addition is also ideal for making life a little easier too, from being able to control the shower from your mobile giving you much more freedom when it comes to heating the water, turning the shower on and much more. Another must-have feature within a luxurious bathroom is music. Introducing a quality set of speakers to your bathroom will give you the ultimate calm, relaxing experience when bathing or simply getting ready. There’s nothing quite like having your favourite artists playing out loud whilst you go through your own home-spa rituals, turning your bathroom into your very own relaxation spot. Image Source: Aqualisa Quality Materials From the tiling in the shower to the flooring choices, the materials you choose to use within your bathroom will have a huge impact on how luxurious the space feels. You want to introduce quality materials that look the part, as well as adding durability and longevity at the same time. Do some research into the materials that catch your eye, from tiles and stone to marble and granite and find out which really work for the space you have. Quality Materials From the tiling in the shower to the flooring choices, the materials you choose to use within your bathroom will have a huge impact on how luxurious the space feels. You want to introduce quality materials that look the part, as well as adding durability and longevity at the same time. For instance, shower wall panels can work with the tiling and flooring to create a rich and magnificent bathroom. Choosing panels that blend nicely with the other features is important. An eye-catching pattern or subtle marble effect can help the shower panel feel an integral part of any luxurious bathroom. But just as crucial, is ensuring the panels are made of long lasting materials. It is worthwhile getting panels professionally installed to ensure they are sealed properly. Do some research into the materials that catch your eye, from tiles and stone to marble and granite and find out which really work for the space you have. From the tiling in the shower to the flooring choices, the materials you choose to use within your bathroom will have a huge impact on how luxurious the space feels. You want to introduce quality materials that look the part, as well as adding durability and longevity at the same time. Do some research into the materials that catch your eye, from tiles and stone to marble and granite and find out which really work for the space you have. Image Source: Crown Tiles Stylish Furniture Introducing the right furniture pieces to your bathroom will ensure your space works for you. In order to have luxury you need a space that you can get the most out of, resulting in somewhere you can go and spend quality time relaxing, winding down and recharging. It’s important to have a stylish sink, toilet, shower and bath for those with the option, to draw the space together and ensure it’s comfortable as well as attractive. With so many beautiful bathroom furniture pieces available, you can find some stunning pieces to enhance your bathroom and bring that touch of luxury to your home. The Right Atmosphere Creating a space that you can use to escape in your own home is a huge benefit, especially after a long hard day. You want to capture a warm, relaxing atmosphere that enables you to wind down and relax, properly. Whilst the design of your bathroom will help to achieve this, it’s also really useful to introduce some additional features such as scented candles, diffusers and mood lighting to really help capture the right atmosphere. Once you’ve mastered the calming feel, you’ll feel blissfully relaxed and content in your bathroom, making it the perfect zen zone.
Project Management Institute (PMI) launches UK National Project Awards 2020 including recognition of the UK’s most influential Covid-19 response project PMI UK, in association with PwC, is delighted to announce the 2020 National Project Awards. In addition to eight award categories including; ‘Project of the Year’, ‘PMO of the Year’ and ‘Project Management for Social Good’, PMI is seeking nominations for the UK’s most influential Covid-19 response project. “We are launching the awards at a particularly challenging time for business and recognise the importance of highlighting the outstanding work that the project profession has undertaken this year, particularly around Covid-19” explains Chris Field, President of PMI UK part of the world’s leading project management professional body “We recognise that working life is changing; our recent Covid-19 survey of the profession in the UK indicates that up to 85% of project managers are working from home during the lockdown period with just under 45% saying that productivity has increased as a result of homeworking”. Jessica Parthezius, Partner at PwC: “We are thrilled to support the PMI UK National Project Awards 2020 providing the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the projects, individuals and teams that have excelled within the project management profession. These awards and recognition will be a platform to emphasise the value of project management and its contribution to our economy and wider society.” Peter Glynne, PMI UK Project Awards lead, explains: “We had an amazing reaction to our inaugural awards last year, with entries across all categories highlighting fantastic projects up and down the country. It’s a great opportunity to recognise excellence”. “This year we want to recognise the contribution of project management to responding to the Covid-19 pandemic. Our recent Covid-19 survey of the profession highlights that just under 60% of respondents believe that large scale project management to be absolutely critical to responding to and addressing Covid-19”. The PMI UK National Project Awards are open to any organisation, team or individual, without the need to be a PMI member. Projects can be of any size, type and from any industry. The judges are looking for superior performance through the application of project management; organisational results and/or positive impacts on the community. To apply to one (or more) of the award categories, please find the eligibility criteria, judging process and key dates here: https://pmi.org.uk/awards2020 Project of the Year [Large Private Enterprise] Project of the Year [Public Sector] Project of the Year [Small & Medium Enterprise] PMO of the Year Project Management for Social Good Early in Career Project Professional of the Year Project Professional of the Year PMI UK Volunteer of the Year Special Project Award: Best UK Covid-19 Response Project (public vote) The deadline date for entries is 25th September 2020 with winners announced at a black-tie gala award ceremony in March 2021. PMI is the world’s leading professional body for those who consider project, program or portfolio management their profession. Through global advocacy, collaboration, education and research, PMI work to prepare more than three million professionals around the world for the Project Economy: the economy in which work, and individuals, are organised around projects. PMI UK has a thriving, ever-growing community of over 3,000 members welcoming project management practitioners from across industry sectors. PMI UK provide professional development and networking opportunities through events (live and virtual), mentoring and volunteering. For more information or become a member visit www.pmi.org.uk
Digitalisation and autonomous processes are propelling the manufacturing industry into a Fourth Industrial Revolution. With technology providing connectivity and data-driven insights to the manufacturing sector, can it also solve challenges facing the construction industry? Here, Nick Cowley, managing director at window and door supplier to the offsite construction industry, Euramax, explains how offsite construction allows building project managers to use the infrastructure of the manufacturing industry to overcome industry challenges. Offsite construction involves fabricating the elements of a building under controlled factory conditions, in a location away from the installation site. This approach takes advantage of the modular building method, where separate units are manufactured individually then brought to site and joined together. The modules of the building include walls, roofs, windows and doors and even entire rooms, such as bathroom pods or contained accommodation units. Offsite construction is increasing in popularity, with the Lloyds Bank annual housebuilding report finding that 68 per cent of housebuilders are investing in modular housing. With its ability to significantly shorten construction time, without compromising building quality, offsite construction has the potential to solve many of the challenges facing the building industry. Boost Productivity The main reasons for productivity difficulties in the building industry can be pinpointed to a lack of technological advancement and inefficient use of time. This has been overcome in the manufacturing industry through digitalised processes and paperless manufacturing. Many manufacturers have discarded their paper trail of information and adopted a seamless digital system, which connects all equipment and processes together. These systems can display real time data for easy monitoring and can synchronise processes to maximise productivity and efficiency. Factory workers now have a stream of data at their fingertips, cutting wasted time searching for information. In contrast, ask someone to describe the equipment of a construction project manager and common answers are likely to include a clipboard, pen and paper. In fact, around 40 per cent of construction companies still use manual recording methods rather than a digital system. This outdated process encourages mistakes and misinterpretation on construction sites, and falls far behind the advanced digital recording and monitoring systems used in the manufacturing industry. Updates to daily reports, punch lists and blueprints can get buried and lost when recorded on paper, meaning keeping track of information is a challenging task. During offsite construction, automated production techniques use advanced robotics that are connected by the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) in order to manufacture building parts. This allows superior monitoring of production lines, which can be used to streamline processes and keep a clear and comprehensive record, minimising mistakes and reducing production time. The Buildoffsite report found that offsite building can reduce onsite construction time by up to 30 per cent for large buildings, such as office blocks and supermarkets, and 60 per cent for smaller projects, such as schools. Increase profit margins A large number of construction companies operate on the low margin, high volume business model, with margins as low as 1.5 per cent considered a normality. This is largely driven by the fact that low offers win business, so low margins are necessary to survive in the competitive industry. With margins being so low, construction projects are commonly focused on getting the job done as quickly and as cheaply as possible. Setting unreasonably short time frames inevitably has negative repercussions. Pressurised workers can become stressed, which is not only damaging to their mental health, but also increases the chances of disrupting and potentially dangerous mistakes. Unrealistic project deadlines can cause corners to be cut, so work is of a lower quality and health and safety concerns become an afterthought. Building components of the construction project offsite can save money and in turn increase profit margins. Manufacturing facilities can use automated equipment to produce materials faster and require less manual labour. The resourceful manufacturing techniques also mean less supplies are wasted. By only transporting the constructed components to the building site when needed, the probability of damage from weather conditions or onsite equipment is also reduced. It’s important to work with a trusted supplier that can deliver high quality products to ensure a successful modular build project. Euramax is experienced in supplying quality PVCu windows and doors for modular buildings. Offering a range of products that can be transported from the factory and installed in pre-fabricated construction sites across the country, Euramax’s PVCu windows are easy to install, providing a cost effective solution that meets security and energy efficiency requirements. The construction industry is key to UK infrastructure, yet its productivity and profit margins can risk falling behind the fast pace of the manufacturing industry. However, it’s possible to merge the two. Offsite construction allows housebuilders to benefit from industry’s advancements by bringing construction to the manufacturing plant. The use of automated equipment connected to the IIoT enables faster production with a comprehensive digital record — helping boost project productivity and increase profit margins.
FirstPort, the UK’s largest residential property manager, has today announced a transaction which will see it combining with leading property and asset manager, Mainstay Group. For FirstPort and Mainstay customers, clients, employees, management, and supply partners day-to-day operations will remain unchanged. Completion of the transaction only remains subject to approval by the Financial Conduct Authority. Last year FirstPort welcomed Equistone Partners Europe as its new majority investors to support its continued growth, investment in a comprehensive digital transformation programme and make further enhancements to its customer service offering. To date, FirstPort has completed two previous transactions, strengthening its team and service offerings with the acquisitions of Barratt London’s property management company, BRAM, in 2019 and Linden Homes’ property management provider, Pentland Estate Management, in 2017. For Mainstay Group, 2019 was a significant year with the business achieving record growth, winning appointments on a number of high-profile developments and securing a national, multi-million-pound portfolio. Nigel Howell, CEO of FirstPort, commented: “We are delighted to be joining forces with Mainstay to deliver the very best property and asset management services for our customers and clients. Mainstay’s achievements and track record are impressive, and we are proud to be welcoming them into the FirstPort group. This is a great milestone for both businesses, which will see us learning from each other and working together to continue to drive the highest industry standards and realise new market opportunities.” Luke Sanders, Group Managing Director of Mainstay, commented: “This is an exciting opportunity for the Mainstay Group to continue to deliver a market-leading service, while benefitting from the skills, expertise and efficiencies available by being part of a larger group. I am very much looking forward to working with FirstPort, as the right partner for our next phase of growth and to help build on Mainstay’s achievements and successes to date.” About FirstPort FirstPort is the UK’s leading full-service residential property manager, caring for more than 196,000 homes in England, Wales and Scotland across 3,900 developments. With over four decades of experience and 3,200 employees, FirstPort works with developers, investors, freeholders and over 300 Resident Management Companies. FirstPort is a member of the Association of Residential Managing Agents (ARMA), the Association of Retirement Housing Managers (ARHM), and Property Managers Association Scotland (PMAS). It holds a Five Star Rating from the British Safety Council, has been awarded the British Safety Council’s prestigious Sword of Honour, is an accredited Safe Agent and belongs to The Property Ombudsman. FirstPort holds a Silver Investors in People accreditation and has been named as one of the UK’s Top Employers by the Top Employers’ Institute for the last two consecutive years. www.firstport.co.uk About Mainstay Mainstay Group is an independent residential property and asset management company providing leading services to over 80,000 homes and award-winning commercial facilities management across the UK. Established in 2000, Mainstay works with many of the top 20 homebuilders, institutional investment funds, landed estates, resident management companies and private investors to maximise value and drive better returns by pioneering a community and people centric, empowered approach to service and innovation. Mainstay is accredited to ISO9001 and OHSAS18001, is a member of the Association of Residential Managing Agents (ARMA) and is a proud Investor in People. www.mainstaygroup.co.uk