One Big Idea shortlist revealed as sector’s boldest thinkers spotlighted ahead of UKREIIF 2026
The three shortlisted ideas include focuses on the reduction of carbon, supporting the next generation and solving viability gaps for projects WORKING together to uncover the sector’s brightest and boldest ideas, UKREiiF and strategic marketing agency Cartwright have revealed the shortlist for the ‘One Big Idea’ initiative. Nearly 100 entries were received from across the built environment, with submissions showcasing exciting new ideas, concepts and ways of thinking. The ‘One Big Idea’ initiative aims to give property and construction specialists the opportunity to make their mark and push the sector forward. It was open to entries from any level of seniority or experience. Making the final shortlist are ideas from Kuram Gwakyaa, head of sustainability for Home Office and MOJ accounts at Mitie; Sally Grindrod-Smith, director of planning regeneration and communities at West Lindsey District Council and Matt Drewitt, architect at the Government Property Agency. The three shortlisted ideas include focuses on the reduction of carbon, supporting the next generation and solving viability gaps for projects. Further insight into the ideas will be shared at the Big Idea Breakfast at UKREiiF on Wednesday 20 May Liz Cartwright, managing director at Cartwright and shortlist judge, said: “Our One Big Idea initiative was created to champion new and purposeful thinking from those in the industry. Across all submissions received there is no doubt that this kind of thinking was showcased in abundance. “Our shortlisted ideas demonstrate not only originality but a true potential to move the industry forward. Each one is not a concept for its own sake but is grounded in real challenges and real opportunities. Offering space for these ideas to flourish is exactly what we here at Cartwright, in partnership with UKREiiF, have set out to do.” The wider judging panel that took on the task of reviewing the ideas submitted and creating a shortlist, included James Bywood, marketing director at UKREiiF; Renee Preston, chief executive officer at Gallaway Construction; Shahi Islam, director of affordable housing at Homes England; and Rory Bates, built environment sector lead at SLR Consulting. The judging criteria was chosen to help highlight the most powerful submissions. This included marking ideas on their creativity and originality, impact and value, and clarity of the idea. Following the Big Idea Breakfast event, Cartwright will also be releasing a ‘One Big Idea’ report for the wider market, telling the stories of the winning entrants and sharing a wider selection of One Big Idea suggestions – including additional insights gathered from its on-site presence at the event. James Bywood, marketing director at UKREiiF said: “UKREiiF has always been a place where ideas on how to grow and better the industry have the space to flourish. One Big Idea is allowing us to take this to the next level and there is no doubt that the results so far have been incredible. All the ideas submitted showcase vital thinking from different levels and experience on how the industry can grow to new heights and it’s safe to say that shortlisting to just three was no easy job. “As the countdown to UKREiiF ticks down, seeing the three shortlisted ideas come to life at the One Big Idea breakfast is one of many parts of those three days in Leeds that our team here are looking forward to most – alongside generating those important conversations that will foster even more ideas for what’s next for the industry.” The initiative forms the newest era of the partnership, as Cartwright takes on the role of official storytelling partner for UKREiiF 2026, as part of a year-round agreement. For more information about Cartwright visit www.cartwrightagency.com or to register for UKREiiF 2026 go to www.ukreiif.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Muse announces senior promotion to operations director
Muse, the nationwide placemaker, has announced the promotion of Stuart Rogers to the position of Operations Director, a national role within the business Rogers first joined the North West team in April 2022, with nearly 20 years’ project management experience across the built environment sector. Since his appointment, he played an integral role leading on the delivery of major projects across the region, including the ongoing plans for St Helens, Prestwich, Wythenshawe and Oldham town centres. Stuart has also been part of Muse’s nationwide ESG and sustainability team, and has driven Muse’s strategic approach with the Building Safety Regulator Following his contribution, Rogers was promoted to the position of Director of Project Management for the North West region. After two successful years in post supporting significant growth in the regional business, he will now move into the newly created national senior leadership role. Within his position he will be responsible for driving high-quality standards for delivery across the whole business – with a focus on overseeing and optimising the day-to-day operational activities of the company. This includes a strengthening of Muse’s partnership approach, with robust national strategic relationships with supply chain, contractors and consultants integral to the business as it looks to convert its strong pipeline to delivery. Over the last 12 months Muse has been preparing sites across the country as part of a strategic expansion of its development pipeline to £6.3 billion (including preferred bidder positions). In the last year this has increased by 29%, from £4.9billion. As regional teams in London, the Midlands, North West and Yorkshire & the North East work with local partners to translate visions into great places, Stuart will be focused on ensuring that robust delivery systems and structures are in place to ensure Muse retains and enhances its high standards. Phil Mayall, Managing Director at Muse, said: “We’re delighted to announce Stuart’s promotion to the newly created position of Operations Director.Since joining us he has brought insight, strategic vision, and drive to Muse – helping play a leading role in driving forward transformative placemaking projects with our partners in the North West region. “As we look to deliver against our significant pipeline nationwide and drive forward positive, meaningful, growth, we want to ensure that we are not only maintaining our high standards but enhancing our reputation for excellence and innovation. In his new role, Stuart will allow us to achieve this, ensuring we have aligned, streamlined, delivery structures in place that will enable us to create high-quality, sustainable, places where people can live, work and thrive.” Stuart Rogers, Operations Director at Muse, said: “Since joining Muse I have had the privilege to work with a fantastic team and committed partners to deliver impactful regeneration projects in the North West. What we do at Muse is not easy, but our determination to deliver and resilience is something I’m deeply proud of “As our significant development pipeline continues to grow nationally, I am delighted to be promoted to the position of Operations Director. Our business priority has always been about delivery, and I am looking forward to not only continuing to support the excellent team in the North West, but those across the country, who have been working hard with our national and local partners to progress visions. “It is important that as we look to deliver against these ambitions, and that we are genuinely meeting the needs of the communities and enabling long-term social and economic growth.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Development Director Ulrike Maccariello to retire from Hastoe after 20-year career at the rural housing specialist
Regional Development Manager Chris Meadows to take reins as new Development Director Ulrike Maccariello will be retiring from Hastoe Housing Association at the end of July, following a distinguished 20-year career at the rural housing specialist that has included serving as Development Director for the last seven years. Chris Meadows, Hastoe’s Regional Development Manager for the West and Sales Manager, will become Development Director at the start of May, to ensure a smooth transition. In other changes to the team, Mike Cramp, currently Regional Development Manager for the East, will become Head of Development, with responsibility for development across all regions; Emily Moss will become Sales Manager; Neil Salisbury, Technical Manager, will now head up Hastoe’s technical quality control team; and a new Development Manager post is being created to cover the South-East, including Hampshire and Sussex. Andrew Potter, Hastoe CEO, says: “Ulrike has been an integral part of our development team for over 20 years, and for the past seven, she has led as director with unwavering dedication. During her time here, Ulrike has spearheaded our move to high-quality and sustainable rural developments, creating homes for those who need them most and championing rural affordable housing across the sector. Her leadership has left an indelible mark on Hastoe and the communities we serve. “We are fortunate Ulrike has created a skilled and talented development team, and I wish Chris and the rest of his team all the very best as they step into their new challenges.” Ulrike says: “The network of fantastic people I have had the privilege to work with are part of the reason I have stayed at Hastoe for so long. I am enormously grateful for all the opportunities I have had and the partnerships and friendships I have made. Rural housing is a topic that will always remain close to my heart, and I am delighted to see Chris become Development Director, as he has a real passion and enthusiasm for Hastoe and our values. I wish him and the rest of the team lots of success in their new roles.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Jewson launches petition to help industry in crisis
Jewson has today launched a petition calling on government to get Britain’s building and construction sector out of crisis and into positive economic growth. Jewson is championing the petition, #LetsGetBritainBuildingNOW, which calls on government to build certainty and confidence in the market, focusing on the three biggest things general builders and specialist tradespeople are crying out to be resolved. As a business committed to supporting small and medium builders and tradespeople, Jewson forms part of STARK Building Materials UK Ltd, one of the UK’s leading network of builders’ merchants and materials distributors. John Carter, CEO of STARK Building Materials UK Ltd, who is proudly championing the petition, said: “Despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Britain still needs to get building again. The conflict continues to bring price inflationary pressures that we’re pushing back very hard on to protect our customers as best we can, and as we maintain a reliable flow of material supply into the market. However, this latest challenge only strengthens the headwinds our sector continues to lean into, with building and construction being in the longest period of significant downturn that I’ve seen in my near 50-year career. Enough is enough. Sometimes you just can’t wait, and saving our industry is too important to be left on the brink. “Britain’s hardworking professional trades are at the heart of building our local communities. It’s unthinkable that slow, costly and contradictory planning processes, chronic skills shortages, and a collapse in public confidence are pushing one of our most vital industries to the brink. I really hope that people will get behind this petition, so that we can bring the collective voice of building and construction to Number 10 and turn debate into decisive positive action that kickstarts the sector’s recovery and also much needed broader economic growth.” Commenting on the initiative, Helene Bradley, Communications Director for STARK UK said: “The industry’s in crisis. It’s really important that the broader business community and general public start to understand what’s keeping our hardworking builders and tradespeople awake at night and to consider the unintended consequences if action isn’t taken. “We believe this petition will help amplify the collective voice of builders and tradespeople across the land, so that we can together get Britain building again – and now.” To learn more about the issues underpinning the petition and to join Jewson’s efforts, visit www.jewson.co.uk/lets-get-britain-building-now. You can sign the petition here: https://www.change.org/LetsGetBritainBuildingNOW. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Need Top-Rated Aftermarket Parts for Heavy Equipment? These Are the 4 Best Providers
For building design and construction professionals, reliable aftermarket parts suppliers, such as Custom Truck, H&R Construction Parts and Equipment, DMC Wear Parts, and FAB Heavy Parts, are crucial for minimizing downtime. Keeping your machines running involves routine maintenance and sourcing the right components from these reliable suppliers as quickly as possible. Investing in top-rated aftermarket parts for heavy equipment offers a practical way to keep costs low without compromising performance. The key is knowing which providers deliver consistent quality, dependable support and the inventory depth needed to keep your operations moving seamlessly. 1. Custom Truck: Best for Whole-Fleet Support Custom Truck stands out for its full-service approach. Instead of operating as a simple parts distributor, it supports your machinery life cycle from acquisition to maintenance and beyond. Its model works well if you manage multiple machines or locations and need consistent support across your fleet. Instead of juggling multiple vendors, you can consolidate sourcing, service and long-term planning in one place. Key Features 2. H&R Construction Parts and Equipment: Best for Brand-Specific Component Rebuilds H&R Construction Parts and Equipment has built a reputation on specialization. It focuses on new aftermarket, rebuilt and used units for major manufacturer brands, making it a strong option when you need components for specific machines. The company is a reliable choice for items designed for well-known equipment brands and refurbished components. It’s especially useful for maintaining older machines where OEM components may be harder to source. Key Features 3. DMC Wear Parts: Best for Earthmoving Equipment Spares DMC Wear Parts specializes in high-wear components, particularly ground-engaging tools (GET), such as bucket teeth, blades and cutting edges. These units face continuous stress, making durability a top priority. For operations involving large-scale digging, grading or material handling, having a reliable source for high-wear parts can make a noticeable difference in maintenance cycles and operating costs. Key Features 4. FAB Heavy Parts: Best for E-Commerce Convenience FAB Heavy Parts takes a more modern approach, offering an e-commerce-driven platform built for speed and convenience. If your priority is fast sourcing and straightforward ordering, this option can save time. It’s best to order components well in advance for standard maintenance, but for emergencies, it may mean longer downtime to replace a broken part. It has excellent sales and shipping support. Key Features Compare Heavy Machinery Aftermarket Parts Suppliers Deciding on the right partner depends on how you operate. If you need ongoing support across multiple machines, a full-service entity makes sense. If you’re sourcing individual items for planned maintenance, an e-commerce platform may be enough. Provider Best For Part Focus Service Model Custom Truck Full fleet support and long-term partnerships Broad equipment and truck components Integrated units, service and support H&R Construction Parts and Equipment Brand-specific and rebuilt components Major OEM brands Parts-focused with rebuild services DMC Wear Parts High-wear components GET and wear parts Specialized product expertise FAB Heavy Parts Fast online ordering, though import taxes apply General non-OEM items Transactional e-commerce How to Buy Top-Rated Aftermarket Parts for Heavy Equipment Several considerations matter when identifying reliable sources for fabricated non-OEM items. Criteria Why It Matters Product breadth and availability Finding components for multiple machine types or brands in one place makes working with distributed suppliers or a single core entity easier. Quality and reliability Consistency in performance and adherence to industry standards determine longevity. Customer support and service Access to knowledgeable teams who can help you identify and source the right components reduces downtime. Industry reputation A track record of serving construction and industrial machinery professionals guarantees professionalism. Frequently Asked Questions About Aftermarket Parts Prepare for repairs before they become failures with knowledge and the right partners. Asking questions ensures you get the best service and components. Q: Are aftermarket parts as good as OEM components? A: They can be, depending on the manufacturer and supplier. High-quality fabricated units are designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications. The difference comes down to materials, engineering and quality control, which vary between fabricators. Q: How do I ensure I’m buying the right part for my machine? A: Start with your machine’s make, model and serial number. From there, work with a supplier that offers technical support. A knowledgeable team can confirm compatibility and help prevent costly mistakes. Q: What is the biggest benefit of using a supplier with service and support? A: Access to service support helps you go beyond part replacement. You can diagnose issues faster, reduce repeat failures and keep equipment running longer. This approach supports uptime and reduces disruptions across your jobsite. Where Can You Buy Top-Rated Aftermarket Parts for Your Heavy Equipment? Sourcing aftermarket parts is essential to daily operations, but the supplier you choose shapes your team’s efficiency. Reliable inventory, strong support and consistent quality all contribute to keeping your machines in service and your deadlines on track. When your provider understands how your machinery operates in the field, you spend less time troubleshooting and more time getting work done.
Polyurea Floor Coating: The Ultimate Solution for Durable and High-Performance Surfaces
A Modern Solution for High-Performance Flooring As industries, businesses, and homeowners demand more from their built environments, flooring systems must deliver not just aesthetics, but resilience, speed of installation, and long-term performance. Traditional coatings like epoxy have served well, but they often fall short in extreme conditions or fast-turnaround projects. Enter a new generation of protective surfaces designed for today’s high-stress demands. Among the most advanced solutions available today, polyurea floor coating stands out for its exceptional durability, rapid curing time, and superior resistance to wear and environmental factors. Originally developed for military and infrastructure use, polyurea has now become a go-to choice for garages, warehouses, retail spaces, and even residential patios. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes polyurea unique, where it performs best, how it compares to alternatives like epoxy, and what to consider when selecting a system for your project. What Is Polyurea Floor Coating? Polyurea is a seamless, spray-applied elastomeric coating formed by the reaction between an isocyanate component and an amine-based resin blend. Unlike traditional coatings, it cures through a chemical reaction, not evaporation, making it extremely fast and insensitive to humidity. Compared to epoxy (which is rigid and prone to yellowing in UV light) and polyurethane (which offers flexibility but slower cure times), polyurea combines the best of both: flexibility, toughness, and speed. It emerged in the 1980s for pipeline and tank linings but has since evolved into a premier flooring solution due to its adaptability and performance under stress. Key traits include: These properties make it ideal for environments where downtime is costly and failure is not an option. Key Benefits of Polyurea Floor Coatings Exceptional Durability Polyurea withstands heavy foot traffic, forklifts, dropped tools, and constant impact without chipping or delaminating, unlike brittle epoxies that crack under pressure. Rapid Curing Time With full cure in hours (not days), facilities can resume operations quickly. A garage floor can be coated in the morning and driven on by evening, minimizing disruption. Superior Chemical and Moisture Resistance Resistant to oils, acids, solvents, and salt, polyurea is perfect for auto shops, food processing plants, and labs. Its moisture tolerance also allows application on damp substrates, critical in humid climates. Seamless and Aesthetic Finish Available in matte, satin, or glossy finishes, and customizable with color flakes or quartz broadcast, polyurea enhances visual appeal while eliminating grout lines where bacteria thrive. UV and Temperature Resistance Unlike epoxy, polyurea won’t yellow or degrade in sunlight, making it suitable for driveways, patios, and outdoor loading docks. It performs reliably from -40°F to over 300°F. Applications of Polyurea Floor Coatings Residential Spaces Garages, basements, pool decks, and driveways benefit from polyurea’s stain resistance, easy cleaning, and slip-resistant options. Homeowners appreciate the “new concrete” look that lasts decades. Commercial Environments Retail stores, showrooms, restaurants, and offices use polyurea for its sleek appearance, low maintenance, and quick return-to-service, ideal during renovations or tenant build-outs. Industrial Facilities Warehouses, manufacturing plants, and distribution centers rely on polyurea for its ability to endure constant forklift traffic, chemical spills, and thermal cycling without degradation. Institutional and Public Spaces Hospitals, schools, parking structures, and airports choose polyurea for hygiene (seamless = fewer pathogens), durability, and compliance with safety standards. Polyurea vs. Epoxy: Understanding the Differences Feature Polyurea Epoxy Curing Time Very fast (minutes to hours) Slow (24–72 hours) Flexibility High (elastic) Moderate (rigid) UV Resistance Excellent (no yellowing) Poor (discolors in sun) Durability Superior (impact-resistant) High (but prone to cracking) Temperature Range Wide (-40°F to 300°F+) Limited Downtime Minimal Longer For projects requiring speed, resilience, or outdoor exposure, polyurea is increasingly the smarter choice. The Installation Process Explained Professional installation is critical for optimal results: Because polyurea cures so quickly, timing and expertise matter. DIY kits rarely match professional-grade formulations or equipment. Maintenance and Longevity One of polyurea’s standout advantages is its low-maintenance nature. Routine care typically involves sweeping and occasional mopping with mild, pH-neutral cleaners—no harsh chemicals or special equipment needed. Its seamless surface resists staining from oil, grease, wine, and industrial solvents, while its impermeability blocks moisture penetration that can cause mold or concrete degradation. Annual visual inspections are usually sufficient to catch minor wear early. Thanks to its exceptional resistance to abrasion, UV exposure, and thermal cycling, a professionally installed polyurea floor can last 15–25 years or more, delivering significant long-term cost efficiency compared to coatings that require frequent recoating or repairs. Environmental and Economic Advantages Polyurea delivers both ecological and financial benefits. Its rapid curing time minimizes facility downtime, critical for businesses where every hour of closure means lost revenue, and reduces labor costs associated with extended installation periods. The application process is energy-efficient, often requiring no ovens or high-heat curing. With a service life exceeding two decades, polyurea drastically cuts the need for replacement materials, reducing construction waste and resource consumption. This longevity, combined with its durability and low maintenance, aligns with principles of sustainable construction by promoting lifecycle efficiency and minimizing environmental impact over time, making it a responsible choice for eco-conscious developers and facility managers alike. How to Choose the Right Polyurea Floor Coating Selecting the ideal polyurea system starts with understanding your intended use: Is it a residential garage, a food processing plant, or a retail showroom? Match the coating to expected traffic levels, light foot traffic versus heavy forklift use demand different formulations. Consider environmental exposure: Will the floor face UV sunlight, chemical spills, or freeze-thaw cycles? Prioritize safety by choosing appropriate slip resistance (e.g., quartz or aluminum oxide broadcast). Aesthetic preferences, gloss level, color, decorative flakes, should complement your space. Crucially, verify installer credentials; polyurea requires precise temperature, humidity, and mixing ratios best handled by certified professionals. Finally, review warranty terms and performance data sheets to ensure the product meets industry standards for your specific application. Conclusion: A Future-Ready Flooring Solution Polyurea floor coating stands out as a high-performance solution built for the demands of modern construction. Its unmatched durability, rapid installation, and resistance to chemicals, moisture, and wear make it ideal across residential, commercial, and industrial