Growth returned in the Construction Products Association’s (CPA) State of Trade Survey for the second quarter of 2025, with 53% of heavyside product manufacturers and one-third of those on the lightside reporting an increase in sales, on balance.
This follows the fall in heavyside sales that was reported in Q1. The results also echo trading statements from housebuilders that indicate a tentative pick-up in new starts (reliant on heavyside products), alongside a continuation of offices and commercial refurbishment and work under various government-funded energy-efficiency improvement schemes (that are dominated by lightside products).
Demand for heavyside products has remained weak for longer than expected over the last 12-18 months, as project starts have been held back by subdued homebuyer, consumer and investor confidence, slow economic growth and lingering uncertainty over geopolitical developments regarding tariffs, the Middle East and oil prices.
Key survey findings include:
- 53% of heavy side firms reported that sales rose in 2025 Q2, on balance
- On balance, one-third of light side firms also reported an increase in sales during the quarter
- 62% of heavy side manufacturers and 53% of those on the light side expect sales to increase over the next 12 months
- Input price inflation was led by wages & salaries and taxes after a rise in the National Living Wage and employers’ NICs
- There were still signs of spare capacity, particularly on the heavy side.
TDUK members can download the full State of Trade Survey here.
