Navigating the evolving landscape of the UK roofing industry in 2023

By Cotney Consulting Group.

After the growth, challenges and changing dynamics that the UK roofing industry has experienced in 2023, strategic planning, effective advocacy and adaptation to the evolving market landscape will be key to its continued success and resilience.

The 2023 State of the UK Roofing Industry report, a collaborative effort by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) and Glenigan offers an insightful snapshot of the current landscape of the roofing sector in the United Kingdom. As of the second quarter of 2023, the report reveals a complex mixture of growth, challenges and evolving dynamics that are shaping the industry.

One of the report's most notable findings is the general increase in workloads within the roofing industry, with 38% of firms reporting a rise. However, this positive trend is tempered by a concerning decline in inquiries, suggesting a potential softening of future workloads. This decline in inquiries is particularly pronounced in the residential sector despite the increased workloads in new builds. Conversely, the commercial repair, maintenance and improvement (RM&I) sector is experiencing a more robust pipeline, marked by rising inquiries, indicating a more robust outlook in this area.

The report also highlights significant employment challenges facing the industry. Employment levels have remained steady, but recruitment difficulties are prominent, especially in hiring skilled roof slaters and tilers. An alarming 32% of firms reported issues in hiring these professionals, underlining a critical skills shortage that could hinder the industry's capacity to meet demand and maintain quality standards.

Another crucial aspect discussed in the report is the cost pressure. The roofing industry is grappling with increasing labor costs and material price inflation. While the rate of these increases has somewhat eased, they continue to exert significant pressure on the profitability and sustainability of roofing businesses. This ongoing cost pressure necessitates strategic pricing and cost management approaches to balance profitability with competitive market positioning.

Looking ahead, the future outlook for the roofing industry is mixed. While some firms anticipate increased workloads in the short term, a considerable portion (39%) expect a decrease in workloads over the next twelve months. This expectation split reflects the prevailing uncertainty, particularly in the housebuilding sector and suggests a need for cautious optimism and strategic planning.

The report also sheds light on regional variations within the UK roofing industry. These variations are significant, with certain regions like Wales experiencing a strong rise in workloads but a steep decline in inquiries. Such disparities point to different growth potentials and challenges across regions, emphasizing the importance of region-specific strategies and market analyses.

Payment terms and cash retention are additional concerns highlighted in the report. The persistent issue of late payments, with many firms not receiving payments within standard 30-day terms, continues to impact the financial stability of roofing businesses. Moreover, the prevalent practice of cash retention in contracts further exacerbates cash flow challenges, underscoring the need for robust cash flow management and advocacy for fairer payment practices.

The implications of these findings for the UK roofing industry are multifaceted. The short-term growth observed in certain industry sectors is promising, but the decline in inquiries and mixed future expectations highlights the need for vigilance and adaptability. The skills shortage, particularly in specialized roofing roles, poses a significant challenge, potentially limiting the industry's capacity to meet burgeoning demands and maintain high-quality standards.

The cost pressures faced by the industry, resulting from rising labor and material costs, are squeezing margins and necessitating careful consideration in pricing strategies. Companies must balance the need to remain profitable with the imperative to stay competitive in a challenging market.

Moreover, the regional disparities in workload and inquiries indicate that a one-size-fits-all approach may not be effective. Tailored strategies that consider the unique dynamics of each regional market could be crucial for businesses looking to capitalize on opportunities and mitigate risks.

The issues of late payments and cash retention are not just financial challenges but also reflect deeper systemic issues within the industry. These practices affect businesses' liquidity and financial health, particularly smaller firms and highlight the need for industry-wide efforts to advocate for fairer practices and improved payment terms.

In conclusion, the 2023 State of the UK Roofing Industry report offers a comprehensive overview of the current situation, marked by growth, challenges and changing dynamics. As the industry navigates these complexities, strategic planning, effective advocacy and adaptation to the evolving market landscape will be key to its continued success and resilience. The role of organizations like the NFRC in supporting and advocating for the industry's needs is more critical than ever, especially in addressing recruitment challenges payment issues and ensuring equitable and sustainable market practices. While facing uncertainties and challenges, the roofing industry also possesses opportunities for growth and innovation, making it a dynamic and vital part of the UK's economic landscape.