The news is positive for an industry which continues to battle ongoing economic challenges.

Leading marketing data specialist for the construction industry, Insight Data, has reported a significant 72% drop in builders’ merchant insolvencies for November 2024.

With numbers falling from 21 in October to just six in November this incredible reduction shows positive news for the merchanting industry which continues to battle ongoing economic challenges.

The latest research also reveals the affected merchants were spread across Scotland, the Home Counties, North West England, the East Midlands and Northern Ireland. Accounting for 33% of all reported insolvencies, the North West actually experienced the highest regional impact.

When compared to insolvencies across the wider construction sector, builders’ merchants were the only group to see a substantial reduction in November. In fact, the overall data presents a very mixed picture in the industry, as seven main contractors with a turnover above £5 million ceased trading – an increase of 133% when compared to October – while small builder insolvencies rose from 85 in October to 115 in November.

Alex Tremlett, Commercial Director at Insight Data, said: “The sharp decline in builders’ merchant insolvencies is incredibly encouraging and refreshing to see. But unfortunately, the same can’t be said about the wider construction industry as we continue to see big rises in the number of main contractors and small builders closing their doors.

“When reviewing these insights, it’s also important to look at how the data differs based on location. With the North West accounting for a third of November builders’ merchant insolvencies, it’s clear that some areas across the country are facing greater pressures than others.”

These latest findings from Insight Data demonstrate the value of accurate market intelligence and how it can be utilised to not only identify trends but to better understand the ever-changing construction landscape.

Insight Data provides accurate and reliable marketing data to companies operating within the construction sector. Plus, by offering its customers exclusive access to powerful sales and marketing CRM software, businesses can make informed decisions and identify growth opportunities even in challenging market conditions.

To read the latest Insight Data insolvency report in full visit: https://www.insightdata.co.uk/insolvency-reports/