In our supply chain survey conducted in July we asked building product suppliers about lead times for their products, how they had been impacted, and what they predicted for the following six months. We knew that lead times by that point had already extended markedly — the survey showed that 68% of suppliers said lead times had increased significantly from January 2021.

Our conversations with trades over the last couple of months have revealed that the trades are getting better at planning ahead — yes, some are stockpiling, but others are ensuring they have a schedule of deliveries planned months in advance (with warehousing if necessary).

However, looking forward to January 2022, suppliers predict that lead times will only continue to increase with 39% saying they will increase significantly up to January 2022. Freight is a key issue — getting freight space (let alone the increased freight cost). We are also starting to hear anecdotal evidence that getting supply is harder now that major markets in the USA and Europe are back up to speed.

This month we're asking suppliers to look at the issue of lead times in more detail. However, it is valid to say we can expect continued constrained supply over the next 6 months at least. This means that builders need to continue to plan ahead, but also take care on how the industry is handling pre-payments for materials. They'll need to ensure that funds and reputations are protected to avoid issues as the cashflow crunch hits for suppliers, merchants, and subtrades.

Participate in the Building Industry Supply Survey

We want to ensure we are raising the supplier perspective to the industry and wider media. While we are faced with such concerning times, we are conducting quarterly surveys to gauge the supply situation of the industry as a whole.

You can now complete the November 2021 survey online here

We urge you to dedicate the ten minutes it takes to complete the survey so that your voice can be heard.