UK construction is in a holding pattern. The fundamentals remain positive to the upside, but in Q2 that’s been tempered by the changeable broader economic climate and the threat of trade disruption.

All change in the economy, but there’s a major change to come a little closer to home too, in the form of Future Homes Standard. The flagship home energy policy that will shape insulation demand for years to come.

Though not published at the time of writing (check our website for the latest analysis when it is), we can confidently draw some conclusions on the impact today. British homes will need more insulation, installed to a higher standard.

That should create opportunities for merchants.

Firstly, to sell more insulation. Whether in thicker walls or deeper lofts, customers will need more to achieve lower U-values.

Secondly, to sell more higher-value insulation. Whether it’s lower-lambda products, or solutions engineered for ‘buildability’ to stand up to increased scrutiny of real-world performance.

Finally, to cement their critical role as trusted advisors to their customers. We all know the familiar pattern when regulation changes; there’s a period of uncertainty before the industry gradually settles into its approach to compliance. Merchants can deliver value by helping customers to navigate the change with practical product and technical advice.

What do merchants need from manufacturers to capitalise on these opportunities? Again, three things. Robust supply chains, resilient to global trade shocks, to deliver the right products at scale to meet higher demand. Product and service innovation, to create the higher-value solutions that will increasingly be required. And timely and accurate product information, geared towards compliance with the new standards, to enable merchants to give their customers the advice they need.

Three things the mineral wool industry is well-placed to deliver, with UK-made products, ongoing investment in manufacturing technology, and a commitment to technical services.