The association will join a network of like-minded organisations, working together to foster collaboration and share knowledge and resources across the industry with co-created solutions that will make a difference.

The BMA has announced it’s joined the Construction Inclusion Coalition (CIC), an initiative launched by leading organisations in the sector to tackle a lack of diversity.

Launched in September 2023, the CIC was established by CEOs at leading organisations, including Bristan Group, Highbourne Group, Knauf, Travis Perkins, Ibstock PLC, the Builders Merchants Federation, and the Construction Leadership Council, to raise sector standards on equity, diversity, and inclusion.

As an Associate Member, the BMA will join a network of like-minded organisations, working together to foster collaboration and share knowledge and resources across the industry with co-created solutions that will make a difference.

The construction sector has one of the most rapidly ageing workforces in the UK, with research showing that close to a million construction workers – around a third of the UK’s total workforce, are set to retire in the next ten years. Despite this, the industry is currently only made up of 15% women and 6% from ethnic minority backgrounds and faces challenges attracting and recruiting from a diverse pool of talent.

Tom Reynolds, the BMA’s Chief Executive, said: “We know that the bathroom manufacturing sector will see an increase in demand with the reduction in inflation and the expectation of interest rate cuts allowing consumers greater discretionary spending. However, we also know that the sector has struggled to attract and retain its talent. Encouraging and highlighting our sector’s huge opportunities in line with EDI principles will ensure we have the diverse talent required for exponential growth.  

“We are committed to the CIC’s Build on Better Pledge and will collaborate within the sector, highlighting EDI for our mutual benefit.”

CIC Chairperson and Toolstation Managing Director Angela Rushforth added: “There is no doubt that the future of our industry is at risk if we don’t create an environment where all our colleagues feel safe, empowered and confident. I want all young women to see the construction sector as I do – full of opportunity.

“We aren’t attracting and retaining from a diverse pool of talent because many think the construction sector is not for them. There are industry-wide challenges that require industry-wide solutions, which is why the Construction Inclusion Coalition has been set up to improve equity, diversity and inclusion. We are calling on businesses across the sector – no matter how big or small – to join our Coalition and commit to taking action in their organisations.”

Alongside Coalition Partners, the BMA is urging businesses across the industry to join the initiative and take the Built on Better Pledge, covering seven areas members commit to working on.