Biggest challenges
The industry faced a range of challenges in 2024, including the ongoing construction skills shortage, a lack of coordinated strategies across the sector, cash flow and debt concerns, persistent health and safety risks, and more.
So, we asked UK tradespeople whether they believed the construction industry had successfully addressed its biggest challenges in 2024. Only 1 in 5 (20%) felt that progress had been made, while an overwhelming 80% reported that the industry had not advanced in tackling its most pressing issues.
Upskilling
The annual loss of 5,000 to 10,000 individuals from the building materials workforce highlights the urgent need for sustainable solutions- and upskilling is one of them.
So, we asked UK tradespeople whether they had invested in upskilling or learning new techniques in 2024, and an average of 2 in 5 UK tradespeople (40%) said they had. Unfortunately, a majority of 3 in 5 (60%) said they had not invested in upskilling or learning new techniques in 2024.
Who’s optimistic?
Understanding tradespeople’s outlook on their careers tells us about the health of the construction industry and its ability to attract and retain talent. When UK tradespeople were asked whether they felt more optimistic about their career now than at the same time last year, only 37% said they did, while 63% reported feeling less optimistic. This imbalance highlights a pressing issue: the industry is not doing enough to provide its workforce with the security and confidence they need.
TradeBrain Monthly Insights
Every month, a selection of brands and businesses – The TradeBrain Membership – receive a small but mighty report in their inboxes.
The topic changes each month, but each edition paints a different story about what it means to be a tradesperson in the UK in 2025.
Why? It means TradeBrain members can align their strategy and offerings with the real needs of the boots on the ground. Meanwhile, tradespeople can use the reports to amplify their voices. It’s a way to share frustrations and needs knowing that companies and merchants are listening.
The December Report
To herald the beginning of 2025, this month’s edition covered UK tradespeople’s resolutions and goals for the upcoming year, as well as their reflections on 2024.
We looked at upskilling, their professional goals, their optimism (or lack thereof) for the new year, their opinions about how the industry dealt with its biggest challenges last year, and how the industry can improve itself in 2025.
The January report
Next month, in anticipation of Trades United’s London tool theft rally, the TradeBrain membership monthly insight report will look at how supported UK tradespeople feel in 2025: by the government, industry stakeholders, the police, and more.
Want access to the TradeBrain monthly insights report? Enquire here.
Research supported by the TradeBrain Membership:
Bostik, CEF, Crown Trade, CT1, Howdens, HSE, The IPG, Jewson, Paintwell, SIG Roofing, Trade Direct Insurance, Toolstation
