The challenges facing the construction industry in 2024

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Discover the challenges facing the construction industry in 2024 and how you can rise to the occasion and overcome these obstacles. While some will require a radical revolution of your practices, others can be met with nothing more than better management.

1. Labour and supply shortages

In the UK, USA and beyond, there are labour and supply shortages in the construction industry.

The supply shortages are a legacy of the beginning of the decade when the pandemic halted manufacture and put a pause on trade. While the industry is beginning to recover, demand is still far outstripping supply which is driving up the price of essential materials. This means it’s harder to source and buy supplies, and challenging to commit to costs and timelines on projects.

A lack of supplies is not the only thing that’s causing delays. With labour shortages across the construction industry, there’s a waiting list for qualified builders, electricians, and plumbers.

2. Improving building sustainability

Another challenge for the industry on an international scale is the drive to make buildings – and the construction process – more sustainable. The creation and use of our living spaces lead to a significant amount of carbon emissions which have been shown to speed up global warming.

Across the globe, governments are putting in place policies to ensure houses are more environmentally friendly. For example, durable and sustainably manufactured materials like CLS timber must replace traditional skeleton frames, and a greater level of insulation is required in external walls and the roof.

Companies that build houses and commercial buildings will have to bring in specialists to meet some of these new eco-guidelines. For example, the fitting of renewable energy heating systems like air source heat pumps requires expert engineering knowledge.

3. Minimising industry waste

From the gas and electricity used to power machinery to the old building materials that end up in landfills, construction is one of the most wasteful industries. As countries continue to extend their environmental pledges, there’s an increasing focus on minimising industry waste.

Nations such as the UK are turning to modular construction as the answer to this issue. This concept embraces the idea of using pre-fabricated pieces to create buildings. Mass-producing elements in a factory setting optimises energy use, reduces noise pollution, and speeds up the construction process. Modular buildings are also widely recyclable which makes them an eco-friendly solution for temporary structures.

Digital design systems such as CAD software are also being used to help minimise industry waste. This allows building designers to test out materials and layouts in a virtual setting to find the most sustainable solutions.

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Andy Jacob, Founder and CEO of The Jacob Group, brings over three decades of executive sales experience, having founded and led startups and high-growth companies. Recognized as an award-winning business innovator and sales visionary, Andy's distinctive business strategy approach has significantly influenced numerous enterprises. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in the creation of thousands of jobs, positively impacting countless lives, and generating hundreds of millions in revenue. What sets Jacob apart is his unwavering commitment to delivering tangible results. Distinguished as the only business strategist globally who guarantees outcomes, his straightforward, no-nonsense approach has earned accolades from esteemed CEOs and Founders across America. Andy's expertise in the customer business cycle has positioned him as one of the foremost authorities in the field. Devoted to aiding companies in achieving remarkable business success, he has been featured as a guest expert on reputable media platforms such as CBS, ABC, NBC, Time Warner, and Bloomberg. Additionally, his companies have garnered attention from The Wall Street Journal. An Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of The Year Award Winner and Inc500 Award Winner, Andy's leadership in corporate strategy and transformative business practices has led to groundbreaking advancements in B2B and B2C sales, consumer finance, online customer acquisition, and consumer monetization. Demonstrating an astute ability to swiftly address complex business challenges, Andy Jacob is dedicated to providing business owners with prompt, effective solutions. He is the author of the online "Beautiful Start-Up Quiz" and actively engages as an investor, business owner, and entrepreneur. Beyond his business acumen, Andy's most cherished achievement lies in his role as a founding supporter and executive board member of The Friendship Circle-an organization dedicated to providing support, friendship, and inclusion for individuals with special needs. Alongside his wife, Kristin, Andy passionately supports various animal charities, underscoring his commitment to making a positive impact in both the business world and the community.