Construction BUSINESS

In a recent interview with Sharon Lynch, Business Development Manager for BAM, one of the key sponsors of the upcoming National Construction Summit on April 18th, she shed some light on the company’s innovative approach to construction and its significant role in shaping the Irish construction industry. From addressing housing demands to tackling industry challenges, Sharon provides insights into the current trends, strengths, weaknesses, and the outlook for the construction sector in 2024.

Question: What products and services does your company offer and its role in the Irish construction industry?

Answer: MHI offers steel frame volumetric modular homes, up to 95% complete from a safe, quality-controlled, factory environment. As we can build a typical 3-bed semi in 22 days and install in 2 days, we believe we can offer minimum A2-rated, high-specification homes up to 40% faster than other construction methods. We also offer 1/2 bed modules for temporary or permanent use, apartments/duplexes or bathroom pods.

Question: What are the key trends in the market sectors in which the company operates and how is it responding?

Answer: We see increased enquiries about our systems and request4s to review designs to determine their capability with modular which we see as a key indicator that Modern Methods of Construction is now seen as an important part of achieving housing targets in this country. While we are happy to consult on existing designs/projects, our USP is speed of construction and that is most effective if housing developments are designed with modular in mind from the outset (units can always be built via other building methods if that is the strategy) or MHI are involved from the beginning of a project to consult on design.

Question: What do you identify as the key strengths of the Irish construction industry?

Answer: The industry continues to grow with so much demand in different sectors that, are not reliant on one. We have a relatively proactive Government that has made commitments to significant investment in housing, education and infrastructure.

Question: What are the chief weaknesses of the Irish construction industry?

Answer: Demand far outweighs supply in some sectors. Our workforce is ageing and fewer and fewer young people are choosing trades as a profession. Less profit for all due to rising costs, interest rates and levies.

Question: What do you regard as the main challenges facing the industry at present?

Answer: Unpredictable material costs, shortage of skilled labour and challenges with access to finance are what we see as the main challenges that directly impact our business.

Question: What are the solutions to these problems and what role will new
technology play?

Answer: Modern Methods of Construction specifically off-site can offer a solution in the form of predictable costs from the outset, sustainability, and reduced programme of work. Software such as BIM360 and QR codes have greatly helped our efficiency, Quality Control, collaboration and data collation we have reduced our incidents, and defects and generally offer a more transparent service where Design Teams can work smarter together and Clients get more instant information remotely.

Question: What do you see as the outlook for the Irish construction industry in 2024?

Answer: Even more focus on housing supply. We know Local Governments are investing heavily in Accelerated delivery of housing units that must be on site in 2024. Social Housing Bodies are also engaging with MMC suppliers to see how units can be completed faster and smarter. We also hope there will be more access to funding for private projects.

As the National Construction Summit draws near, Sharon’s insights serve as a prelude to the overarching themes that will undoubtedly resonate throughout the event. The company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability aligns seamlessly with the Summit’s objective of fostering dialogue on the future of construction in Ireland. We invite industry professionals, stakeholders, and enthusiasts to join us on April 18th at the Sport Ireland Campus in Blanchardstown, Dublin, to be part of this transformative conversation. Experience firsthand the cutting-edge solutions, visionary discussions, and unparalleled networking opportunities that will shape the trajectory of the Irish construction sector in the years to come. Together, let’s build the future.

Register Now: https://www.nationalconstructionsummit.ie/register/