What To Consider In The Trade Industry This Year

Buckle up your tool belts because we're about to embark on a journey into the future of the trade industry. As we're into 2024, it's essential for all you hardworking tradesmen and women to know what lies ahead. From technological advances to industry trends, we've got the lowdown on everything you need to stay ahead in the game.

Sustainability: Green is the New Black

In 2024, the trade industry is putting on its green hat. Sustainability is no longer just a trend but a driving force shaping the future of construction and maintenance. Clients are increasingly demanding eco-friendly solutions, and tradespeople need to adapt to this shift.

From energy-efficient appliances to sustainable building materials, the demand for environmentally conscious practices is on the rise. Being well-versed in green technologies not only positions you as a forward-thinking tradesperson but also opens up new avenues for business.

Get certified in sustainable practices. Look into courses that teach you about eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and waste-reduction techniques. Not only will it benefit the planet, but it'll also make your services more attractive to eco-conscious clients.

What About The Skills Shortage?

Let's tackle the million-pound question – will the skilled worker shortage finally ease up in the UK? Well, the good news is there's a glimmer of hope on the horizon. With increasing awareness and initiatives to promote skilled trades, there's a shift in perception. Young talents are starting to realise that a career in the trades isn't just about getting your hands dirty – it's about securing a solid future. In the UK, the most sought-after trades include electricians, joiners, plumbers, carpenters and heating engineers.

The industry is adapting, with more apprenticeship programs and enticing opportunities popping up. But hey, let's not kid ourselves; it's not a snap-your-fingers-and-it's-fixed scenario. We still have some ground to cover, but the wheels of change are definitely turning. One final note is the government has relaxed their points-based system on hiring global workers - for more information, read about the skilled worker visa here. 

Watch for the Next General Election

It's been five years since the last general election, and in that time, we've all had to manage our businesses through COVID-19 - it already feels like a lifetime ago! In 2024, there is expected to be a general election anywhere between May and December - this could spell major changes to the trade and construction industries. 

With plenty of schemes and targets already set, the government and the opposition will be jostling for the upper hand with certain policy announcements in their campaigns - one such area is home building, boiler upgrades, insulation and much more. 

It's worth keeping one eye on the news just to see what is and isn't stated. However, with the housing shortage and home efficiency high on the agenda, we could see more schemes rolled out - especially with a change in government. Tradespeople will be key to any future housing developments, so keep your eyes peeled!

Tech Takeover

Gone are the days of solely relying on a trusty hammer and a set of screwdrivers. The trade industry is undergoing a revolution, and 2024 is the year where tech takes centre stage. Smart tools and gadgets are becoming commonplace, making jobs more efficient and precise.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are no longer just buzzwords but tools that can revolutionise the way you work. Imagine having a virtual blueprint overlay while working on a project, ensuring every cut and measurement is spot on. It's not science fiction - it's the future of your trade.

Moreover, the rise of IoT (Internet of Things) is transforming the way tradespeople manage and maintain equipment. Connected devices can now communicate real-time data, helping you preemptively address issues before they become full-blown problems.

So, stay tech-savvy! Familiarise yourself with the latest smart tools and software applications relevant to your trade and attend local or online workshops and seminars to keep up with the latest advancements.

Will The Price of Your Building Materials Drop?

Ah, predicting the price movements of building materials is a bit like trying to forecast the weather in the UK - it can be unpredictable, to say the least! While we don't have a crystal ball, several factors contribute to the pricing of building materials, including supply chain dynamics, global economic conditions, and market demand.

If global supply chain issues ease and demand stabilises, there might be a chance that prices will see some relief. However, it's essential to keep an eye on various factors like inflation rates, geopolitical events, and trade policies that can sway prices in either direction.

As a savvy tradesperson, staying informed about the market, exploring alternative suppliers, and keeping an open line of communication with your suppliers can help you navigate potential price fluctuations. While we can't guarantee a dip in prices, let's stay optimistic and hope for favourable market conditions that will benefit the trade and construction industries in 2024!

More Remote Collaboration In 2024

The work landscape is evolving, and the trade industry is no exception. Remote work is becoming more prevalent, with tradespeople leveraging technology to collaborate on projects without being physically present. Whether it's consulting with clients through video calls or coordinating with other trades remotely, the ability to work from anywhere is a game-changer.

This shift towards remote collaboration requires tradespeople to enhance their digital communication skills. From project management apps to virtual meeting platforms, being tech-savvy is not just about the tools you use on the job site but also the ones you use to connect with clients and colleagues.

Familiarise yourself with collaboration tools like Slack, Trello, and Zoom (or even just FaceTime). Embrace cloud-based project management systems to stay organised and connected, even when miles away from the job site.

Get Covered With Rhino

The trade industry in the UK is on the brink of a transformative year, and as tradespeople, it's crucial to stay ahead of the curve. With all that said, let's not forget to get the right trade insurance. 

The team at Rhino Trade Insurance can accommodate all sorts of business requests. We can help set up your public liability cover, tool insurance, personal injury protection and much more. At an exceptionally low-cost, what more could you need? Give our five star team a call today - 0116 243 7904.