The UK construction market presents a mixed and challenging picture in Q2. Housebuilding is under considerable pressure, from affordability constraints, planning delays and subdued consumer and investor confidence. Although the underlying need for new homes is clear, a sustained recovery is required to translate demand into stronger volumes.

However, RMI is resilient and an important source of stability for builders’ merchants and the supply chain. Britain has a large and ageing building stock that requires continual repair and maintenance, and much of this work cannot be postponed indefinitely. Essential projects—including roofing, drainage, plumbing and general weatherproofing—contribute to demand, even where households and businesses take longer to commit to discretionary improvements.

RMI is supported by the need to improve the quality, energy efficiency and long-term performance of existing properties. With the replacement rate of UK housing stock relatively low, upgrading homes and commercial buildings will continue to be a significant requirement. Spending fluctuates, but the breadth and depth of RMI make it less exposed than new housebuilding to any single market influence.

Professional contractors and experienced homeowners are responding pragmatically to the economy. Projects may be phased, specifications carefully considered and decisions made closer to the point of need, but activity persists. This creates a market in which product availability, dependable service and trusted technical support are especially valuable. Builders’ merchants remain central to meeting demand, offering local stock, practical expertise and the flexibility required to serve projects of every size.

Raw material costs remain high and it’s not clear when meaningful reductions might emerge. Although crude oil prices have fallen from previous peaks, this has not translated into lower prices for many polymer-based raw materials. Energy, labour, transport, packaging and regulatory costs are also elevated, despite what oil price movements might suggest.

We are cautious about the outlook, but the responsiveness and resilience of the supply chain provide grounds for confidence.

Brett Martin is committed to supporting merchant partners through reliable product availability, strong manufacturing capability and responsive customer service. Our focus is on maintaining a robust and dependable supply chain, helping merchants carry the right products and ensuring that customers can obtain them when projects require them.

Through close collaboration between manufacturers, merchants and contractors, the industry is well placed to respond when confidence and activity in construction gains momentum.