Legrand UK & Ireland has announced the launch of Incara, a new product range of multi-functional, economic power devices for the modern workspace. With places of work continuing to evolve, the launch of Incara further emphasises Legrand’s dedication to making workspaces meet the needs of all users. Providing easy and
Leading flexible workspace prepares to launch its 5th London flex space. Orega, the flexible workspace provider, has completed a new Management Agreement with Thames Estates Limited to create a high spec flexible workspace at Holborn Gate, 330 High Holborn EC1 in the heart of Midtown. The new space will open
The Construction Industry Collective Voice (CICV) has welcomed another major organisation to its ranks, as the successful collective continues to offer a wealth of practical support and guidance to Scotland’s building sector. The National Association of Shopfitters (NAS) becomes the first new full CICV member of 2023 and the 29th overall,
Urban Group (York) Ltd has begun Phase Three of seven figure contract to fit out the new UK headquarters of NSF International. In 2022, Urban Group’s Interior Division took on a 15,000 sq. ft. office complex in the Hanborough Business Park, Long Hanborough, Oxford, before moving on to a second
Leading construction and fit-out company, Gilbert-Ash has underlined its commitment to its supply chain by organising a Meet the Buyer event where sub-contractors can learn how to build lasting partnerships with the award-winning company. The event, which is open to both new and existing suppliers, will take place on Wednesday
Deanestor, one of the UK’s leading furniture and fitout specialists, has announced a record order intake of around £24m in the last six months. The business is now anticipating its highest ever turnover in 2023, which is projected to rise to £22m. This will be an increase of £2.8m compared
Design, build, fit-out and refurbishment specialist Paramount has strengthened its Bristol team with the appointment of Matt Prouse as Senior Project Manager. Matt will play a key role in overseeing the delivery of refurbishment and fit-out sector projects across the Paramount portfolio, acting as the client’s point of contact throughout the process. He has
The design of commercial buildings and interiors is constantly evolving as business owners focus on increasing resilience, productivity and efficiency in 2023. With the rise in building material costs, disruption in supply chains and strain on cash flow from the pandemic and cost-of-living crisis, alongside increased interest in sustainability, many
Plans have been submitted for the second phase to restore Oldham’s Old Library. Digital modelling from the architect shows a modern interior that opens the building back up to the public, makes use of the space and preserves many of its original features. “This building has been special to many
The University of Reading, Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) and AMA Research (part of Barbour ABI) have today launched a new report Procurement in the Finishes, Fit-Out and Interiors Sector, aiming to better understand how procurement practices are affecting the £10 billion fit-out industry and most importantly, how they can
Legrand UK & Ireland has announced the launch of Incara, a new product range of multi-functional, economic power devices for the modern workspace. With places of work continuing to evolve, the launch of Incara further emphasises Legrand’s dedication to making workspaces meet the needs of all users. Providing easy and flexible access to power or data sockets, style is at the heart of Incara which presents a vast range of functions and style to suit any interior. Easy to install, Incara is Legrand’s most flexible range of power solutions to date. From flush, in-desk disk-shaped contemporary sockets through to on-desk power and data connections, Incara has been designed to fit within any workplace furniture requirement. The range offers wireless charging, USB Type-A and C inputs and multiple colour schemes, while it can be designed with a mix of international power sockets if required. Additionally, Incara allows companies the possibility to take control on the presentation of the product, with bespoke branding options available. Manufactured from high-quality materials, Incara can fit in with the latest trends to meet the most challenging workplace requirements. This is achieved thanks to its configuration with a vast range of Legrand’s Arteor™ modules, which ensures a stylish, reliable and versatile solution is supplied. Paul Martin, Lead Marketing Manager for Legrand UK & Ireland’s power distribution ranges, said: “We are always searching for ways to manufacture solutions that meet the modern day needs of post-pandemic ways of working. With Incara, we have created a unique proposition for spaces that have desires for a high-end and flexible power solution. Whether being designed for a modern office, library, university or an airport lounge, Incara provides our most stylish and flexible solution to date.” As with all Legrand products, Incara boasts robust and durable qualities, helping to contribute to a more sustainable world. All packaging is made from recycled materials wherever possible, while Product Environmental Profiles (PEP) are available, providing a reference tool to measure the environmental impact of the product. Incara is also CE and UKCA marked, ensuring quality and compliance with legislation. Paul Martin added: “We are confident that Incara not only meets the needs of today’s workers, but it is also futureproofed for ever-evolving technology changes. Our R&D team remain dedicated to manufacturing solutions as sustainably as possible, and with Incara, we have delivered. When you add our renowned customer service commitment to the mix, we are in a unique position to deliver an unrivalled solution to meet the needs of all – whether installers, designers or end users.” The full range boasts eight products, with multiple variations includes: For more information, visit https://www.legrand.co.uk/products/power-distribution/incara/.
Leading flexible workspace prepares to launch its 5th London flex space. Orega, the flexible workspace provider, has completed a new Management Agreement with Thames Estates Limited to create a high spec flexible workspace at Holborn Gate, 330 High Holborn EC1 in the heart of Midtown. The new space will open in early Summer 2023. The 33,500 sq. ft flexible workspace will be newly refurbished to provide around 550 workstations on the 1st and 5th floors of the building. In addition, there will be substantial collaboration and meeting spaces. Holborn Gate is a highly prominent office and retail building comprising approximately 175,000 sq. ft and was recently acquired by Thames Estates Limited in November 2022. The building is less than a minutes’ walk from Chancery Lane station, giving access to the Central Line, and is less than a ten-minute walk to Farringdon Station which gives access to the Circle, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines and is a key interchange on the Elizabeth Line. It is close to many local amenities including restaurants, coffee bars, gyms and hotels within a short walk. The area appeals to a wide tenant mix: it is home to many large corporate and legal and other professional firms including Sainsburys, Deloitte UK, Hogan Lovells, Mishcon de Reya and Irwin Mitchell. The Fleet Street Quarter bid is set to transform the area which will only enhance its desirability. The new workspace is designed to be a modern, flexible base for the area’s professional and financial businesses, and will offer brand new: It is the fifth flexible workspace that Orega has launched in London and the fourth in the Midtown. The company now offers flex space from 23 locations across the UK and is the UK’s leading provider of flexible workspace under Management Agreements (as opposed to leases). Ben Hutchen, Real Estate Director at Orega, commented: “We have seen great opportunities for flex space in both Midtown and the City of London, and we now have five flexible workspace centres in London as a whole. This acquisition certainly bolsters our Midtown presence.” We believe we are successfully catering for the demand from businesses who are increasingly looking for a flexible way to occupy property but also require high quality “state of the art” space. We believe this trend will continue with the current economic uncertainty and reluctance of businesses to be tied into long leases.” BH2 advised Thames Estates Limited. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Construction Industry Collective Voice (CICV) has welcomed another major organisation to its ranks, as the successful collective continues to offer a wealth of practical support and guidance to Scotland’s building sector. The National Association of Shopfitters (NAS) becomes the first new full CICV member of 2023 and the 29th overall, adding its weight to the collective’s existing wealth of experience and influence. Alan Wilson, CICV Chair and Managing Director of electrical trade association SELECT, said: “We are delighted to welcome the NAS, which is a trusted professional representative body with a membership spanning the length and breadth of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. “It is very gratifying that the CICV is still being sought out by organisations within the sector who want to play their part in creating a greener, fairer and more inclusive industry. “The NAS’s decision to join follows our latest initiatives including an open source Best Practice Guide and well-attended webinar, in which our experts provided information and real-life examples of how to enhance the workings of the entire contractual chain.” The NAS was established 104 years ago and, from humble beginnings, now represents a group of tried and tested contractors who work with and for each other. James Filus, Director of the NAS, said: “We are pleased to become part of an organisation which shares our ethos of working collectively in the common interest and we hope to be able to make a significant contribution to the CICV’s activities. “We are keen to bring our ideas to the table and to continue to foster the spirit of co-operation and collaboration which has proved to beneficial to the industry since the CICV was founded in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.” As well as its recent Best Practice Guide, the CICV is once again organising this year’s Green Home Festival, a five-day hybrid event as part of the official Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which will focus on topics of interest to both the industry and the general public. The CICV, which changed its name from the Construction Industry Coronavirus (CICV) Forum last year, is now made up of 29 trade associations, professional services bodies and companies. It has maintained a steady supply of information and practical advice to the sector as well as carrying out surveys, producing animations and posters, hosting webinars and maintaining close dialogue with Scottish Government ministers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Urban Group (York) Ltd has begun Phase Three of seven figure contract to fit out the new UK headquarters of NSF International. In 2022, Urban Group’s Interior Division took on a 15,000 sq. ft. office complex in the Hanborough Business Park, Long Hanborough, Oxford, before moving on to a second phase of circa 20,000 sq. ft in the autumn, with work completing last month. The final phase is due to commence next month (April). The two office schemes have enjoyed a full internal revamp including new office reconfigurations and partitioning, heating and ventilation systems, flooring and full decoration, with a high-quality finish throughout. Urban Interiors’ Commercial Director, Jimmy Crowe, said: “We have successfully combined three offices across Hanborough Business Park into two, in order to accommodate NSF’s growing UK team and provide a contemporary and more efficient working environment. “It is a challenging project which we are delivering in phases as this is a live site occupied by a busy team. We’re delighted with the progress so far and the interior specification is of a particularly high standard.” Public health specialist, NSF helps protect manufacturers, regulators and consumers through its development of public health standards and certification programmes that cover the world’s food, water, consumer products and environment. Roger Mann, Managing Director (Europe & Africa) at NSF, added: “Urban Interiors has turned this dated space office into a superb UK headquarters for NSF that has all the facilities and technologies we need for our growing team. It has been a pleasure to work with the Urban team on this project and the results speak for themselves. ” Agents and Quantity Surveyors for the refurbishment were Smart Jones, with mechanical and electrical support offered by Martin Design Associates Ltd. The architects were NW Architects. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading construction and fit-out company, Gilbert-Ash has underlined its commitment to its supply chain by organising a Meet the Buyer event where sub-contractors can learn how to build lasting partnerships with the award-winning company. The event, which is open to both new and existing suppliers, will take place on Wednesday March 22 at the Royal College of Pathologists in Alie Street, London. The location is well-known to Gilbert-Ash as they constructed the multi-award winning new seven-storey headquarters in 2019. Against a challenging backdrop for the construction industry, the Gilbert-Ash team, including Managing Director Ray Hutchinson OBE, will update on plans for 2023, including policy issues and provide insights into upcoming workload. In the afternoon there will be an opportunity for Gilbert-Ash to introduce themselves to new supply chain partners and share valuable insights into the qualities they seek from suppliers. The event will also provide an opportunity for the company to outline its strategy to reach net zero by 2040 as well as revealing what will be expected of supply chain partners to help meet this target. Gilbert-Ash Managing Director Ray Hutchinson said: “The construction industry has been dealt a number of challenges over the last few years. “We are working in a landscape where the project delivery time and cost given two years ago to the client must now contend with unforeseen fluctuations in price and longer lead in times brought on by Brexit. “It is a challenging environment, but engagement and collaboration with suppliers throughout all stages of our projects has mitigated the impact of the market. “The last two years has seen significant growth for Gilbert-Ash. We want to build on this momentum and bring supply chain in early on plans for the future so we can work as one every step of the way. “The Meet the Buyer event will provide an opportunity to update new and existing partners on exciting plans for the future including our net zero strategy and how they will decarbonize their operations. Gilbert-Ash has committed to engaging with 80% of its suppliers within the next 48 months on net zero, increasing to 100% by 2030. By 2040, the company aims for its supply chain to also be committed to implementing net zero strategies. The award-winning company has already implemented a number of sustainable practices, including the introduction of its Green Fleet Policy in 2021 to reduce carbon emissions and established an Environmental Sustainability Team. Looking ahead to 2023, Gilbert-Ash will align with the Science Based Targets initiative and introduce a Green Electric Policy at all of its sites and at its headquarters. Also in 2023, all Gilbert-Ash projects will have eco cabins installed while supplier and sub-contractor carbon footprints will be vetted. Existing supply chain members can reserve a spot here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/gilbert-ash-meet-the-buyer-event-tickets-547712000337 New supply chain members can reserve a spot here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/meet-the-buyer-event-tickets-560431855767 Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Deanestor, one of the UK’s leading furniture and fitout specialists, has announced a record order intake of around £24m in the last six months. The business is now anticipating its highest ever turnover in 2023, which is projected to rise to £22m. This will be an increase of £2.8m compared to last year. Since the start of 2022, production volumes have continued to rise steadily as Deanestor’s factories returned to pre-pandemic levels of turnover and profit. Turnover in 2022 increased sharply by 35 per cent to £19.2m in comparison with 2021. The record intake is for fitout projects for both new and long-standing repeat clients and contractors and are across a diverse range of markets from build-to-rent and student living in the private sector, to healthcare and education. The latest orders include: William Tonkinson, Managing Director of Deanestor, said, “Towards the end of 2022 and at the start of this year, we have seen our highest ever order intake. Confidence has definitely returned. Build-to-rent is extremely buoyant, and the student living and education sectors remain strong. We are also seeing an increase in the size of our projects for residential schemes as well as a trend for taller buildings to deliver more homes for rent.” “Enquiries remain at healthy levels, and we now have a record quote book which is another very positive economic indicator.” “The acute challenges in labour and materials costs after the pandemic have now stabilised and with such a strong order pipeline, we expect our growth to continue for the next 24 months and beyond. We are creating around 12 new jobs this year to support our growth.” Deanestor’s Scottish business is based in Fife and continues to perform well. It has recently been awarded its largest education contract to date – a £5m project for BAM to manufacture furniture and fitout two high schools on the Dunfermline Learning Campus. Established in 1948, Deanestor provides furniture solutions to construction clients and contractors for healthcare, education, student accommodation, build-to-rent and laboratory projects – both new build and refurbishment. Its manufacturing and distribution facilities in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire now span 220,000 sqft across five sites and it employs around 150 staff. For further information, visit www.deanestor.co.uk, call 01623 420041 or email enquiries@deanestor.com . Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Design, build, fit-out and refurbishment specialist Paramount has strengthened its Bristol team with the appointment of Matt Prouse as Senior Project Manager. Matt will play a key role in overseeing the delivery of refurbishment and fit-out sector projects across the Paramount portfolio, acting as the client’s point of contact throughout the process. He has joined Paramount from Bath-based firm Interaction where he has spent the last nine years as a senior project manager. Commenting on his new role, Matt said: “I’m really looking forward to working with Paramount and helping my extremely talented and dedicated new colleagues maintain the momentum the company is building here in the South West of England. “These are exciting times for Paramount and I’m relishing the opportunity to play a key role in making sure we go from strength to strength by using my experience to ensure we continue to achieve exceptionally high standards of quality for our growing portfolio of clients.” Matt’s appointment underlines Paramount’s growth in the South West of England property sector and comes just six months after the formal opening of its new Bristol city centre office. Since then, the expanding Paramount team in Bristol has secured £12-million worth of new business with a strong pipeline for the next six months. Paul Jones, Paramount Projects Director, added: “We are all extremely excited to have Matt on board in Bristol and his appointment is a real statement of intent that signals our bold ambitions for the future. “Matt will bring infectious enthusiasm, in-depth expertise and a wealth of property industry experience to Paramount. We know he will prove to be a fantastic asset as we continue to expand our offering throughout the South of England marketplace.” Paramount, which is headquartered in Cardiff with a regional office located at Welsh Back in Bristol, is already well known across South West England where it has created high-quality inspirational space for a number of leading companies. These include former Wales and Real Madrid football star Gareth Bale’s Par 59 bar in Bristol, transformation of the landmark 360 Bristol office complex and acclaimed office revamps in Bath for American software company SmartBear and financial services consultancy Altus Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The design of commercial buildings and interiors is constantly evolving as business owners focus on increasing resilience, productivity and efficiency in 2023. With the rise in building material costs, disruption in supply chains and strain on cash flow from the pandemic and cost-of-living crisis, alongside increased interest in sustainability, many architects and designers will be looking for new trends in building design. With this in mind, UK’s leading structural glass manufacturer, Specialist Glass Products, has worked with reputable experts to predict the most popular commercial design trends for 2023 and beyond. 1. Break-out areas Over the past several years, commercial spaces have moved away from segmented and boxy layouts in favour of more open and inclusive spaces, especially following social distancing and restrictions during the pandemic. Open-plan spaces also allow more natural light to flow, which is known to boost productivity and well-being alone. Sarah Rose Haigh, Head of Design at Opus 4, said, “We expect to see more requests for dedicated breakout spaces throughout workplaces where employees can engage and interact with each other more freely. More areas will focus on rejuvenation and provide a safe space that allows people to relax and recharge in line with well-being objectives. “Employees are the best asset for any business, and a happy and positive work environment will encourage productivity and staff retention.” 2. Sustainability and minimising waste Sustainability and reducing carbon emissions are at the forefront of many business objectives and are essential when considering future commercial redesigns. When thinking about designing commercial spaces, it is important to consider the types of products used and minimise waste levels. Federica Pisacane, Junior Project Manager at Agilite Solutions, says, “It’s all about reusing materials and avoiding ‘useless’ waste. Ask subcontractors not to throw away materials that can still be used, particularly small items such as screws and bolts, which are often deemed ‘waste’ even when in perfect condition.” Following the inflation of energy prices, businesses are also looking for ways to reduce their use of gas and electricity. As a result, eco-friendly features such as recycled materials, energy-efficient windows, daylighting and solar energy are showing up more and more in commercial buildings. 3. Structural glass features More architects and designers are using glass partitioning to create adaptable, multifunctional spaces that can enhance a building’s natural light. Frameless glass systems are also becoming a popular request which can extend working areas on fine days but remains closed when needed allowing extra ventilation to enter the space while preserving privacy on bad weather days. Managing director of Specialist Glass Products, Andrew Taylor, explained, “Many businesses and organisations are opting to install structural glass not only for its sleek look and versatility but also for many physical and environmental benefits. Not only is glass environmentally friendly and recyclable, but it also uses less energy than other materials. Glass products are made from abundant raw materials, so the production process requires lower temperatures which saves on energy usage.” “Many architects and designers are opting for energy-efficient glass that can help reduce annual energy costs and reduce carbon footprint too. Energy-efficient glass can be very effective at keeping the heat in winter, and it can do quite the opposite in the hot summer months, which can help businesses keep energy costs down.” 4. Technology integration The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the benefits of technology when it comes to working from home – many organisations have turned to its use for more flexible and remote work. However, this experience also revealed some issues surrounding productivity, work-life balance, workforce engagement and well-being, which must be considered when introducing new technology into the workplace. Mara Rypacek Miller, Managing Director at Industville Ltd, advised, “In 2023 and beyond, we will see office spaces adapt to support the emerging needs of flexible working, and as such, modern office spaces need to consider areas for video conference meetings with excellent audio and visual access to ensure staff stay connected whether they are at working remotely, in the office or even meeting with clients on another continent. “Smart tech is constantly evolving and moving at a fast pace. Not so long-ago technology was used for simply switching lights on and off in a meeting room, but now offices are accustomed to smart tech devices that know the occupancy of the room and adapt accordingly. With the rate of how quickly new technologies come into play, I think it’s safe to say that Artificial Intelligence Tech will be the next big thing.” 5. More outdoor space Over the years, employee well-being has expanded beyond physical well-being to focus on building a culture of holistic well-being, including physical, emotional, financial, social, career, community, and purpose. The growing need for flexibility in where, when, and how employees work is at the heart of this. Moving forward, we expect to see more workplaces creating outdoor space to reduce stress, attract great talent, be more sustainable, and, most importantly, create happy and engaged employees. Consultant Psychologist Dr Sarah Bishop says, “Pods, pavilions and outdoor amphitheatres make excellent outdoor areas for meetings, presentations, and team-building activities. Break times could be optimised with outdoor seating areas using picnic tables, food trucks or outdoor kitchens. Incorporating green spaces by adding landscaped areas, gardens, and green roofs to the workplace would also provide a connection to nature and improve the environment.” Andrew summarises, “The pandemic had already made people realise that mediocre is not enough anymore. Employees do not want to turn up to work in boring buildings and organisations that don’t care about the people within them. “Instead, commercial architecture and design need to prioritise the connection and shared values between people, whether that’s simply incorporating open spaces, focusing on employee wellbeing or sharing sustainable beliefs.” For more information, please visit: https://www.specialistglass.co.uk/commercial-design-trends-for-2023/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Plans have been submitted for the second phase to restore Oldham’s Old Library. Digital modelling from the architect shows a modern interior that opens the building back up to the public, makes use of the space and preserves many of its original features. “This building has been special to many hundreds and possibly thousands of Oldhamers and it is yet another exciting milestone in its restoration to see the architects’ drawings as part of the planning submission. The visuals show a building that retains features of a hugely important part of our history along with providing a modern, useful and sustainable place for everyone in the town to make good use of,” said Council Leader Cllr Amanda Chadderton. “This restoration goes way beyond the fondness many of us have for the Old Library and it’s a vital part of our Oldham Town Centre regeneration – we’re creating a town centre for the future where people will want to live, work, visit and socialise. The way in which the project has been done is key too – local young people have increased access to training and employment, around 80 per cent of the spend on the project has been with local businesses, and volunteering and other initiatives have been a feature.” The grade II listed building will be home to meetings rooms, a gallery, and a theatre, as well the Council chamber – all while sensitively incorporating many of the building’s historic features and being equipped with state-of-the-art technology and energy efficient systems. “We are delighted to be working on this fabulous restoration project for Oldham Council. We recognise the importance of the Old Library building to the local community and understand that it has a special place in the hearts of many local residents,” commented Dominic Williams, Director at Ellis Williams Architects. “With that in mind, the newly refurbished building will celebrate Oldham’s cultural heritage whilst providing a range of exciting new community facilities including theatre workshops, meeting rooms, gallery and democratic function spaces arranged around the original Victorian atrium space with historic displays. “As well as celebrating the building’s Victorian past, the scheme also looks positively to the future with new digital infrastructure and low energy systems providing long-term sustainability for this important community asset.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The University of Reading, Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) and AMA Research (part of Barbour ABI) have today launched a new report Procurement in the Finishes, Fit-Out and Interiors Sector, aiming to better understand how procurement practices are affecting the £10 billion fit-out industry and most importantly, how they can be improved. FIS last year raised concerns that the push for modern methods of construction was being undermined by lack of focus on modern methods of procurement. To better understand the evolution of procurement practices, the organisation commissioned Professor Stuart Green of the University of Reading to explore procurement practices in the UK fit-out sector. FIS has a close working relationship with AMA Research, who were also keen to explore this topic and support this work and were able to offer assistance in developing the survey and extending the reach for participation. This result is a fascinating new report that benchmarks current practices from those contractors directly involved and explores how procurement impacts effective delivery. Through better understanding of the challenges facing the industry, the sector can deliver better value and improve supply chain relationships.The nature of the procurement process is often identified as a barrier to change. Dame Judith Hackitt’s statement from the 2018 ‘Building a Safer Future’ Report, confirmed that ‘Improving the procurement process will play a large part in setting the tone for any construction project. This is where the drive for quality and good outcomes, rather than lowest costs must start.’ FIS Chief Executive Iain Mcllwee stated: “The key to unlocking the potential of construction and unleashing the culture change that we need in the finishes and interiors sector sits squarely in procurement. That isn’t a revelation. Virtually every report written about the construction process has raised concerns about procurement practices that facilitate a race to the bottom and create adversarial relationships and it crops up in almost every conversation I have about improving the sector. This is felt most acutely in our sector which absolutely sits at the whip end of construction when programmes and budgets are stretched or there is huge pressure to get the work done to leverage the value of a building.”This new report furnishes the ongoing debate with concrete data and provides a voice to those who work in the fit-out sector. It is based on both a questionnaire conducted online during July and August 2022 that returned 269 responses with 100% quality rating on results and then supplemented with 20 in-depth interviews with selected practitioners representing contractors operating at all tiers of the supply chain. The research raised serious questions about time allocation in procurement and tendering processes, and worryingly how risks are routinely pushed down the supply chain. Professor Stuart Green, School of Construction Management and Engineering at the University of Reading said: “I have been hugely impressed with the leading-edge firms in the fit-out and interiors sector. They are crucially focused on delivering high-quality work to demanding deadlines. Such firms act as exemplars for collaborative working at its very best. “But many firms within the sector don’t get the chance to work collaboratively. This is especially true of the smaller firms who act as subcontractors. Procurement practices are too often focused on low-cost tendering with little consideration of other factors. Subcontractors are further obliged to accept highly onerous conditions of contract which undermine trust from the outset. The smaller firms are frequently pressurised to reduce their tender price retrospectively and to offer discounts in return for prompt payment. It seems that old-fashioned subbie bashing is alive and well in the fit-out sector. This cannot be the basis upon which to sustain a modern industry.” Laura Pardoe, Director at AMA Research said ‘Connecting with people working directly in the field helps understand the real issues they are dealing with daily. This is critical to being able to decipher what needs improving. It has been a pleasure to support FIS in reaching out to people across their sector to canvass views and gather thoughts and experiences. The objective perspective we can bring as an expert researcher provides robustness to our understanding across the array of issues uncovered.’ In conclusion, Iain Mcllwee said: “The regulatory, environmental, commercial and moral drivers for change have never been stronger and this research-based report has given a voice to all in the supply chain and is the start of a practical call to action for positive change.” To download a copy of the report click here Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
