As a tradesman, you’re likely well aware of the ongoing skills shortage in the UK construction industry. Despite the challenges, the sector continues to thrive, with revenue projected to reach an impressive £404bn in 2024 [1].  However, the demand for skilled tradespeople remains high, and certain trades are feeling the pinch more than others. We explore the most in-demand trades and what this means for you as a professional in the field. Builders, Electricians, and Gas Engineers lead the way Recent research conducted has shed light on the trades experiencing the most significant skill sh ..read more

As the summer months approach, it’s crucial for tradesmen to prepare their businesses for the unique challenges and opportunities that this season brings. Whether you’re a sole trader or manage a team, taking proactive steps to optimise your operations can help you make the most of the summer rush.  Here at Tradesman Saver, we explore below key strategies to get your trade business summer-ready. Nurture your customer relationships The pre-summer period is an ideal time to reconnect with your best clients. Reach out to them through phone calls, emails, or social media to keep them informed ..read more

As a tradesman, you’ve likely heard about the rapid technological advancements taking place in the Middle East’s construction industry. From drones to AI and virtual reality, the region is embracing digital transformation at an unprecedented pace. But is the rest of the world falling behind?  We explore how the Middle East is leveraging technology to drive innovation and efficiency in construction, and what lessons we can learn from their approach. The need for digital adoption Historically, the construction industry has been slow to embrace digital change. However, the Middle East’s pres ..read more

Mental health is a critical issue that affects individuals across all industries, but it is particularly prevalent in the construction sector. The demanding nature of the work, coupled with a male-dominated workforce and a culture that often discourages vulnerability, has led to a mental health crisis that can no longer be ignored.  Here at Tradesman Saver, we explore the challenges faced by tradesmen and discuss strategies for promoting better mental health in the construction industry. The alarming statistics The statistics surrounding mental health in the construction industry are sobe ..read more

As the UK gears up for the next general election, the construction industry finds itself at a critical juncture. With both the Labour and Conservative parties making significant pledges related to housing and infrastructure, tradesmen and construction professionals are keenly observing the potential impact of these promises on their sector. Here at Tradesman Saver, we cover the key issues at stake and what the election could mean for the future of the construction industry: Labour’s housing pledge One of the most notable commitments comes from the Labour Party, with leader Keir Starmer pledgin ..read more

As a tradesman, your livelihood depends on your ability to work. But what happens when an unexpected illness or injury strikes, leaving you unable to earn a living? It’s a scenario that many in the trade industry face, and it’s one that can have devastating financial consequences.  This is where short-term income protection comes in – a safety net that can help you weather the storm and get back on your feet. What is short-term income protection? Short-term income protection is a type of insurance designed to provide you with a temporary financial buffer if you’re unable to work due to il ..read more

As a tradesman, your tools are your livelihood. But with tool theft on the rise across the UK, protecting your valuable equipment has never been more important. In this article, we’ll explore the alarming statistics behind this growing problem, the reasons for the surge in thefts, and most importantly, what you can do to protect  your tools and your business. The sobering statistics The numbers paint a troubling picture. Over 40,000 cases of tool theft are reported to UK police forces annually, with London tradespeople being particularly at risk. In fact, a staggering 47% of tradesmen in ..read more

The construction sector’s current plight, characterised by a critical shortage of skilled tradespeople, is more than a temporary hiccup; it’s a looming crisis. With Britain facing a significant deficit of electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and other skilled workers, the ramifications for the economy could be profound.  Below, we delve deeper into how this shortage might reshape the economic landscape. The Immediate Impact on Building Projects The lack of skilled tradespeople is not just a statistic—it’s a reality biting into the UK’s construction projects. With around 70% of builders rep ..read more

As a trade professional, you probably already appreciate the value of insurance against property damage, personal injury and other physical risks posed while working on client sites.  However, another major yet often overlooked exposure threatens your enterprise’s financial stability even when no harm or accidents occur:  financial loss claims. What is Financial Loss Insurance? Financial loss insurance policies provide special protection by covering compensation demands even in situations where you haven’t directly caused any property destruction or bodily injuries. For example, if d ..read more

With Global Recycling Day arriving on March 18th, it feels fitting to cast a critical eye at the sheer volumes of materials frequently discarded on building sites and reassess our duty of care towards the planet. From buckets of plaster and off cut timber to cans of leftover paint and tangled electrical cables, tons of valuable resources get written off per project as waste when alternative routes boost sustainability and even earn you cash! The Benefits of Tradesman Recycling Regenerating those mounds of unwanted construction debris makes perfect commercial and environmental sense. Just some ..read more