Four fifths of tradespeople fear for the future of the industry

A study by BestHeating has found that almost half of tradespeople are worried about the rising cost of materials and a third are considering getting a second job to survive.

A new nationwide study of tradespeople has revealed that more than four fifths are worried about the future of the industry (85%) and 29% are considering getting a second job so that they can get by.

The research by designer radiator specialist BestHeating highlights the pressures that currently face trades and their predictions for the 12 months ahead.

Price rises

Following a year of rising costs across the UK which has seen inflation hit 11.1%, more than two fifths (43%) of tradespeople have been forced to put their prices up substantially. This comes despite them also seeing increased demand for their services.

Many customers have asked for discounted work and more than a third of tradespeople have agreed to this (35%), with less experienced workers under 34 years old, much likelier to make concessions (47%) compared to those that are older (27%).

Price rises won’t be going away in 2023 and 85% are pessimistic about the thought of the next 12 months. Almost half are worried about the rising cost of materials (45%) and a further 41% think that the majority of customers won’t be able to afford to use tradespeople. Somewhat worryingly, over a fifth think they will lose customers due to the increases (22%).

Second jobs

To get through the expected shortfalls and lower profits, 29% think they will have to get a second job, either by training in another discipline to expand their services (16%), or by moving industry altogether (13%). Some of the jobs mentioned include delivering parcels or working in a factory in their spare time.

Marek Kokocki, Buying Director of BestHeating, said: “Tradespeople are integral to society, whether it’s plumbers fixing heating issues or electricians rewiring a house, so it is upsetting to see so many fearing for their future.

“Despite being in extremely high demand last year, the majority have massive worries due to the costs which they are generally eating up themselves to keep customers happy. It's important that we continue to utilise the services of tradespeople and use their knowledge to keep our homes safe, in working order and heated.”