Category Archives: Construction
How delivery management software helps construction projects finish on time and under budget
Busy construction sites aren’t just a breeding ground for excess bricks, cement and rubble – without proper inventory audits and pinpoint delivery management, they can become host to ineffective processes which result in severe and unnecessary financial losses throughout the job.
However, with careful planning through the assistance of delivery management software and similar applications, sites everywhere can benefit from effective tool and material deliveries not just for the benefit of the site or construction company in question, but the local area too.
If your company is constantly leaking cash and you’re worried poor delivery and inventory practices are to blame, here are a few ways delivery management software could be of assistance.
The benefits of construction site delivery management software
A clear view of delivery inventory at all times
With orders being placed on construction sites regularly it can become difficult to keep track of the precise items that have been ordered and the ones that are still outstanding. This is especially true if the site is plagued with admin or technical issues that prevent previous orders from being pulled up and examined.
In this instance, duplicate orders can be made accidentally, or unnecessary orders can be placed due to a lack of access to previous orders – or due to simple poor inventory management. However, with dedicated construction site delivery management software, this problem becomes a thing of the past.
As soon as an order is placed, the full order inventory can be seen in the software, making it easier than ever to remain knowledgeable on what is expected and to flag any potential mistakes or issues before the delivery is made. Cutting unnecessary orders thanks to this process can help save construction sites significant sums of cash.
Access to past deliveries helps plan for future deliveries
As construction projects progress, it can become clearer as things move forward at what rate specific materials are being used, and in which areas of the site they’re being used in. A quick analysis of this information can help companies plan for further deliveries in the days and weeks ahead, hopefully giving them an accurate idea of what items will be needed, in what capacity, and when.
Rather than shooting in the dark, construction site delivery management software gives inventory managers access to all data concerning previous orders – including specific dates, units and items. Using this information and their knowledge of the project, they can then plan out what they will need shortly, helping reduce unnecessary expenditure and excess stock taking up space on the site. Instead, they can plan for the exact stock they’ll need, as and when they’ll need it.
Specific delivery arrival times help plan for productivity
An awkward element of the delivery process as a whole is not having a clear-cut view of when items will arrive. Whether it’s construction sites or the general public, ordering items and being unable to plan for their arrival can be a difficult business, with items sometimes being dropped off in inappropriate locations or left unattended entirely.
Not only is this inefficient, it can be unsafe if certain items are left in the wrong area – or in the wrong hands. But with a construction site delivery management system, managers never need to worry about items arriving at inopportune moments again. Because the software is accessible to both the purchasers (the construction company) and the vendors (those delivering the goods) the delivery details can be updated with expected delivery times well in advance, allowing work sites to plan for the right employees to be on hand to collect the good when they arrive. This is rather than them rushing to meet the delivery when it arrives or standing around aimlessly waiting for it to arrive over a period of hours.
With more precise delivery times, workers can plan their day more carefully to make the most of other tasks that need to be completed around the delivery, boosting overall site productivity.
Utilise construction site delivery management software on your next job
If all of the above sounds like it would work well for an upcoming construction project you’ll be working on or overseeing, consider onboarding a new delivery management system for your site, so you can give your job the best chance at finishing on time and under budget, without too many excess materials to spare.
MC Construction completes first phase of multimillion-pound Crewe scheme
A multimillion-pound scheme to transform the civic and cultural quarter of Crewe town centre is under way.
The project involves:
- Creating a cleared site for a new history centre to co-host Cheshire’s archives;
- A new pedestrian link between the Lifestyle Centre, Memorial Square and Market Hall connecting into the southern gateway link;
- A new car park with 31 spaces;
- A new, two-storey magistrates’ courts entrance;
- Public realm improvements, including new lighting, paving, seating and planting, bicycle racks, activity space and public art.
Salford-based MC Construction has completed the first phase of the scheme, which involved enabling works to strip out the former library next to Memorial Square where the history centre will be developed, clearing the structure over the existing Civic Centre car park and erecting a temporary entrance to the magistrates’ courts.
MC Construction will begin the next phase in February when it dismantles the former library building and the existing concourse. This phase is expected to be completed by summer 2024.
The works by MC Construction are being undertaken for Cheshire East Council.
Russ Forshaw, managing director of MC Construction, said: “This scheme will transform the civic and cultural quarter of Crewe town centre by providing new and greatly improved facilities for the public.
“Having successfully completed numerous other projects for Cheshire East Council, we are proud to be working with the authority once again and to further strengthen our relationship with this valued client.”
The revamp is being supported by the government’s Towns Fund and Future High Streets Fund.
The history centre, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, will co-host the regional’s written and pictorial history collections with a second history centre being built in Hoole, Chester. This scheme has been driven by Cheshire Archives and Local Studies, a shared service of Cheshire East and Cheshire West and Chester councils. The centres will replace the archive service’s current facility and open the collections to new audiences across Cheshire.
The centres will have climate-controlled environments and will feature event and gallery areas to host performances, workshops and exhibitions, more space for people to conduct research and better spaces to make the collections more accessible to the public.
Other professionals involved alongside MC Construction include Bowker Sadler Architecture, Davis Partnership and Wardell Armstrong.
Acorn by Synergie appoints Harry Lambert as Divisional Manager for Trades and Labour in the South West
Acorn by Synergie, one of the UK’s leading recruitment firms, has appointed Harry Lambert as its Divisional Manager for Trades and Labour in the South West.
An experienced Construction Recruitment Consultant, Harry is well placed to provide skilled and reliable personnel in an honest and professional manner within the Built Environment.
Previously an Associate with Kingston Barnes, Harry has spent the best part of a decade developing key relationships within the recruitment sector regionally, having also worked with Daniel Owen Ltd and Setsquare Recruitment previously too.
Now he will draw on the multiple working partnerships he has fostered within that time to spearhead Acorn by Synergie’s Labour and Trades activity across Bristol and the wider South West region.
On his appointment, Harry said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Acorn by Synergie and in doing so, progressing on to the next stage of my career. Since I was given a first-class introduction at our Newport headquarters, I’ve been doing what I love best, which is being out and about, supporting our candidates in person and generally being present to our clients’ needs.”
“I’m really excited to see what my future with the company brings, but in the short term I’m just keen to get the ball rolling and the word out that the Acorn by Synergie team is here to support businesses across the South-West with all their on site needs.”
Acorn by Synergie is a multi-specialist recruitment agency that has been named top recruiter in Wales and ranks in the top 1% of all recruitment firms in the UK.
Bernard Ward, Managing Director at Acorn by Synergie, said: “We are over the moon to have welcomed Harry to our team at Acorn by Synergie, and I can’t wait to see him put the extensive experience he brings with him into action for the sake of our loyal clients in the South West.
“Given the depth of knowledge and the relationships Harry has built up working with firms of all sizes across the region over a number of years, we’re excited to see how he will lead the Trades and Labour division and help the wider business continue to go from strength to strength in the process.”
Acorn by Synergie has received multiple awards for its outstanding services. It’s been recognised as the Best UK Recruitment Firm, and more recently won Wales Business Award for Wellbeing at Work. Since its establishment in Newport, South Wales, in 1992, Acorn by Synergie has successfully placed approximately 2.7 million individuals into jobs.
For more information visit www.acornpeople.com
How Safe Electric is Redefining Excellence in Electrical Contracting
Safe Electric, a preeminent electrical contracting firm located in Cambridgeshire, has recently soared to new heights, clinching the prestigious title of ‘Best Electrical Contracting Company’ at the SME News Southern Enterprise Awards. This accolade is a striking endorsement of Safe Electric’s relentless pursuit of superior quality in electrical design and contracting services.
Comprehensive Services Fuelled by Innovation
Central to Safe Electric’s success is an extensive array of services, tailored to meet both residential and business needs. These offerings include:
- Custom Electrical Design: Crafting unique electrical blueprints and detailed reports for a variety of projects.
- Extensive Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR): Conducting in-depth inspections and assessments for homes, businesses, and industrial environments.
- Specialised EV Installation Services: Providing expert EV setup, complete with detailed load analyses, demonstrating Safe Electric’s commitment to emerging energy demands.
This broad spectrum of services epitomises Safe Electric’s dedication to safety and innovation in every project they embark upon.
Acclaimed for Outstanding Performance
Safe Electric’s ascent to the summit of the electrical contracting industry is marked by a series of prestigious awards. SME News has played a pivotal role in highlighting exceptional SMEs across the UK since its inception in 2017. Their exhaustive evaluation process encompasses factors such as innovation, customer engagement, business growth, and client feedback. Safe Electric’s recognition in these awards underscores their remarkable performance in these areas.
Additionally, Safe Electric has earned the accolade of being a ‘Three Best Rated’ company, a distinction that underscores their outstanding business reputation, customer satisfaction, and adherence to best business practices. This honour is reserved for businesses that demonstrate superior standards in various facets including history, reviews, satisfaction, and overall excellence.
The Foundation of Safe Electric’s Success
At its heart, Safe Electric is defined by a team of skilled and certified electricians. Their commitment to timely project completion and maintaining the highest safety standards is apparent in their work. The NICEIC Platinum Promise further strengthens the trust and confidence they instil in their clients. Focused on providing local services within a 25-mile radius of their Ramsey, Cambridgeshire office, their registered electricians reflect the company’s ethos of delivering dependable and top-tier electrical services.
The Visionary Leader: Raphael Magnus
Leading the charge at Safe Electric is Raphael Magnus, a veteran with over 49 years of industry experience. From his early days in lighting design at prestigious theatres to his ongoing pursuit of advanced qualifications like the Large EV NVQ-3 and Domestic Battery NVQ-3, his journey mirrors his dedication to continuous improvement and excellence. Raphael’s vast qualifications and accreditations have been vital in steering Safe Electric towards a culture of excellence and innovation.
A Legacy of Prominent Clients and Projects
Safe Electric boasts an impressive portfolio of clients, including the UK Government, Coca-Cola headquarters in Uxbridge, and HSBC Bank. This diverse clientele showcases their ability to manage a wide range of projects, from comprehensive system installations to inspections and emergency services. Safe Electric’s expertise is recognised throughout the UK and beyond.
Pinnacle of Professional Achievement
To summarise, Safe Electric is a shining example of excellence in the electrical contracting sector. Their dedication to innovative solutions, guaranteeing customer contentment, and being guided by the expertise of Raphael Magnus distinguishes them from others. With their ongoing expansion and improvement of services, Safe Electric is well-positioned to uphold its position as a leader in the electrical contracting field.
New look for Palace Chemicals marks 45 years in the making
Construction products manufacturer Palace Chemicals is marking its 45th anniversary with a brand and packaging refresh.
The Speke-based firm, one of the UK’s largest independent manufacturers of tile adhesives, grouts, building chemicals, wood treatments and decorating sundries, will be rolling-out its brand rejuvenation over the next few months, initially with its tiling products.
The move is a celebration that reflects the company’s innovative industry-leading position in the tiling, flooring and DIY markets that has been 45 years in the making and will also unify the growing family of Palace’s acquisition over the years, including brands such as Langlow, Houseplan and, most recently, Rock-Tite, Pro Gyp-Base & NX.
Palace, a standard-bearer for British manufacturing since its foundation in 1978, is also using its 45th year to cement its reputation as a trusted leader in sustainable manufacturing and remind the market of its continued drive to supply cutting-edge product advancements.
Steve Ball, Commercial Director for Palace Chemicals, said: “We not only have a broader product range than any of our UK competitors, but we lead the way in sustainable manufacturing, thus earning our status as a highly trusted supplier and pride ourselves on providing customer service that is second-to-none. This is what 45 years of trading has achieved – yet we refuse to rest on our laurels. This anniversary, combined with our refresh, is as much a celebration of where we are heading in the future as it is about our past.
“We’re most definitely in our prime, and we have no plans to take our foot off the gas in terms of bringing continual improvements to our products and production processes.”
Key to Palace’s success and reputation is its pursuit of ever more sustainable production methods.
Palace was the first company in the sector to be awarded BS5750 (later upgraded to ISO9001). In 2004, it became an ISO 14001 manufacturer for its Environmental Management System and was accredited by the BSI for its BS OHSAS 18001 Health & Safety Management System in 2014, which was then updated to ISO 45001 in 2018.
Further investment has led to zero waste to landfill produced during Palace Chemicals’ operating processes. Production is integrated with a closed-loop dust extraction and recycling system, which ensures all airborne dust emissions are contained and collected within a network of extraction ducting around all powder manufacturing and packing processes on site.
And Palace continues in its mission to remove plastics and non-recyclable packaging from its system where possible. All of its plastic-based packaging, for example, now contains a minimum of 30% recycled and recyclable plastics.
“Sustainable production is one of our most important achievements,” said Palace’s Technical Director Jim Percival, “And our current system represents a huge step forward compared with previously available technologies.
“It is a unique example of how investment in sustainable technology can have tangible and long-lasting benefits.”
Sustainability also follows through in Palace’s impressive record of staff retention. Many employees have loyally stayed with the company for several decades, reflecting not only Palace’s stature as an exemplary employer, but highlighting the value that customers place on long-term relationships.
The over-used expression ‘one stop shop’ is probably more appropriate for Palace than for virtually any other company in the adhesives industry.
Having started originally as a manufacturer of damp proofing and timber treatment products, the company now boasts some 250 different formulations, and the packaging makeover will be extended across the product portfolio in the coming months.
RLB Wales and West issues latest Construction Market Intelligence for Q4 23
Local construction, property and management consultancy, Rider Levett Bucknall West and Wales has issued its latest construction market intelligence (CMI) for Q4 2023 that reports that Wales is currently showing signs of stable economic activity, which is evident in the number of construction projects that are continuing. The three biggest cities – Cardiff, Swansea and Newport, continue to perform well.
The report also shows that there is a drive for new houses and apartments, meaning residential sites and planning consents are still being secured at pace. But this does not necessarily translate into starts, as developers landbank sites due to the impact of interest rates on the sale of private units and the viability of build-to-rent schemes.
The government’s decision to cancel the northern leg of the HS2 high-speed rail project could be of benefit to Wales as money is to be redirected to improve existing transportation links while also creating new rail lines and stations.
Planning consents remain strong. Most areas of Wales, however, are being impacted by extensive delays as planning departments struggle with staff resourcing levels. Pre-acquisition activity is still reasonably active, but with fewer detailed consents being worked-up at pace.
Jackie Pinder, Managing Partner, RLB West and Wales, said: “The stable levels of economic activity we are seeing in Wales is providing a solid foundation for construction industry growth. However, with the backdrop of wider economic uncertainty as to re-allocation of public sector funding, the forecast trend is really towards stability rather than further change. At RLB, we have been working on a number of major schemes with clients to ensure their viability in these uncertain times, including Cowbridge Road East in the heart of Cardiff, that will provide much needed affordable and sustainable housing.”
Tender Price Forecast
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Pic attached: COWBRIDGE ROAD EAST
This landmark scheme in the heart of Cardiff will provide affordable and sustainable housing. RLB has been working closely with the client and design team to ensure the scheme’s viability and expected completion in 2024.
For the full RLB Construction Market Intelligence report, please click here.
Premier Forest Products grows presence in the north
Premier Forest Products, a leader in the UK’s timber and timber products industry, has announced another acquisition with the purchase of North-East Sheets & Panels Ltd. (NESP).
Established in 1998, North-East Sheets & Panels is a specialist manufacturer and supplier of made-to-measure doors, panels, cabinets and worktops to trade customers and retailers in the fitted kitchen, bathroom and bedroom sector. The business is based in County Durham, just a short distance away from Decorpanel, Premier Forest’s northern arm.
North-East Sheets & Panels’ capabilities in CNC machining and joinery complement Decorpanel’s specialised panel processing, and Premier Forest can further expand into the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom sector, in residential, commercial and public sector markets.
Anthony Hopps, Managing Director of Decorpanel, will be expanding his role to cover NESP as Division Director, driving the business forward within the Premier Forest framework. Richard and Lisa Williams, joint owners and directors of North-East Sheets & Panels, have taken the decision to step down from their current positions to begin their well-deserved retirement.
Richard said: “We are pleased to announce the acquisition of North-East Sheets & Panels by Premier Forest Products, marking a new chapter in the company’s story. Our 21 dedicated staff will remain in their roles, providing Premier Forest with the benefit of their considerable expertise and experience that has allowed us to grow into the business it is today.
“Whilst Lisa and I are sad to leave North-East Sheets & Panels, it is an exciting time in our lives as we embark on our retirement.”
Lisa said: “Becoming part of Premier Forest is a hugely positive step for the company. With their financial backing and support, the business will be able to grow to the next level and I’m confident that it will flourish as part of a larger group.”
Terry Edgell, Co-founder and CEO of Premier Forest Products said: “This acquisition is the perfect fit for Premier Forest Products, as the synergies between the business and Decorpanel provide exciting opportunities for growth in the north-east and nationwide. North-East Sheets & Panels’ skills and expertise fit perfectly with our strategic goal of expanding value-add product categories, whilst the business will thrive by expanding its manufacturing capacity via Decorpanel and continuing to produce quality, made-to-measure doors, panels, cabinets and worktops.
“Acquisitions are a key part of Premier Forest’s strategic growth plan and we are continually seeking new opportunities to welcome businesses like NESP to the Premier Forest family.”
The deal was structured and completed with the support of Acuity Law providing legal counsel, Gambit Corporate Finance who supported the Premier Forest team throughout the deal process, and Kilsby Williams accountants, who conducted financial due diligence.
Premier Forest Products is a vertically integrated timber operation engaged in the importation, sawmilling, processing, merchanting, and wholesale distribution of timber and timber products from its multiple sites in the UK.
Local Student Thanks Jobs Growth Wales+ For Helping Ignite His Career
A dedicated young individual, from Buckley, is encouraging more young people to enter the world of work through the Jobs Growth Wales+ programme after it gave him the confidence, support and guidance he needed to land a full-time role in his dream industry.
From an early age, Dom Jones, 18, was driven by hands-on learning, but he felt unclear about his career path. The Welsh Government’s training programme which helps young people earn money, find independence and get on the career ladder, proved instrumental in guiding Dom on his career journey.
Under the nurturing umbrella of Jobs Growth Wales+, Dom cast his net wide in search of local employment. His determination and unwavering work ethic soon led him to a full-time position as a Waste Operative with Deeside-based builders’ merchant, Thorncliffe Building Supplies Ltd, who were quick to recognise Dom’s enthusiasm and potential.
Speaking about his journey from education into work, Dom said: “Joining the Jobs Growth Wales+ programme had an instant positive impact on my approach to work and my career.
“They encouraged me to retake my English and Maths GCSE qualifications where I was able to raise my grades, which helped boost the skills on my CV when applying for jobs.
“The interview preparation with the team at college really helped me build my confidence and make me realise that I had the technical and personal skills for the Thorncliffe role. I was called for an interview almost straight away after sending in my application, and just a few days after, I was offered the post.
“I recently went back to my college with individual cards for my tutors to thank them for helping change my life around for the better – I couldn’t have done it without them.”
Part of the Welsh Government’s Young Person’s Guarantee, Jobs Growth Wales+ is a training and development programme for 16–19-year-olds that equips individuals with the skills, qualifications and experience they need to get a job or further training. It is designed to boost confidence whilst providing tailored opportunities and support to help individuals, like Dom, reach their potential.
Driven by his passion for environmental causes, Dom prides himself on his contributions to Wales’ net-zero objectives through the recycling efforts required in his role.
He continued: “My main duty includes sorting recycling into different piles including metal, plastic, and glass.
“We recycle as much material as possible and turn what is left into a valuable resource to divert waste from landfill, which is helping to reduce the impact of waste on the environment.
“I love my job and the people that I work with – I have a really great team around me which makes me want to come to work in the mornings.”
Tracy Dyment, HR Manager Associate at Thorncliffe, added: “Since joining us, Dom has been a huge asset to the team. There’s a huge skills shortage in the industry at the moment so it’s brilliant to have someone as young and enthusiastic as Dom join the company and gain hands-on experience. I’d definitely encourage other young people who are unsure about their next steps to consider Jobs Growth Wales+.”
Despite being just four months into his role, Dom is thriving in his position and has already set his sights on further growth within the company.
Dom said: “I want to keep improving and moving forward in my career, and hopefully soon become a Machine Driver Operative or a Banksman where I can help guide the lorries arriving at the depot or relocate waste around our warehouse.”
Dom has one piece of advice for those thinking about what to do after leaving school.
He continued: “If you are struggling to know what to do next, don’t give up too fast. You don’t know what future you might have ahead of you, just put the work into your passion, keep your head down, and amazing things can happen to you.”
If you’re aged 16-to-19, living in Wales and have just left school or are looking for work, you may be eligible for the Jobs Growth Wales+ programme.
To find out more about Jobs Growth Wales+ visit www.workingwales.gov.wales/jobs-growth-wales-plus or call Working Wales on 0800 028 4844.
Mon Timber kicks off sponsorship with Blaina RFC
Mon Timber, a branch of Premier Forest Products, one of the UK’s leading timber groups, is sponsoring Blaina RFC for their 2023/24 season.
Blaina RFC has one senior men’s team and a senior women’s team across the club and are looking to launch a mini and junior section soon. The club relies on sponsorships and grants to fund their work in the local community.
The Premier Forest logo features on the club’s kit and signage at their grounds, and their donation will support the club as they continue to grow grass roots rugby across the region.
Dilwyn Howells, co-founder of Premier Forest, has been involved with the club for over 40 years and is now club president at Blaina RFC, after playing there in his youth.
He said: “We’re so pleased to be able to support a club that is so close to my heart and plays such a pivotal role in the local community. As a company, we are always looking to give back and support the communities in which we operate, especially across Newport and Gwent, as that is where we first started. When we founded the business, I was playing for Blaina RFC in Heineken league one, so it’s great to see these two important things in my life support one another years later.”
Andrew Pugh, Chairman at Blaina RFC, said: “We’re very grateful for Mon Timber and Premier Forest’s support this season, as it is thanks to our sponsors that we can continually develop local talent at a grassroots level and see it thrive. We hope to see them cheering us on along the sideline this season, alongside Dilwyn of course.”
Premier Forest Products is a vertically integrated timber operation engaged in the importation, sawmilling, processing, merchanting, and wholesale distribution of timber and timber products from its multiple sites in the UK.