Dallas Market Center’s ArchLIGHT Summit is spotlighting a lineup of sessions and receptions from its 2026 show, returning September 15-16 with headline keynotes, panels, and receptions for the lighting, architecture, specification, and design communities.

This year’s show also runs alongside Dallas Design Week (September 15-17), the DALI Alliance’s North America Summit (September 16-17), and, for the first time, the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)’s national GATHER: Catalyst conference (September 16-18), widening the pool of design and lighting professionals on campus that week.

“ArchLIGHT Summit continues to grow because of the incredible support of our exhibitors, rep agencies, sponsors, partners, and industry advocates,” said show director Lea Tranakos. “Together, they help us build an event that truly serves the lighting and design communities through practical education, product innovation, and collaboration so participants can see where our industry is headed.”

ArchLIGHT Summit’s educational programming opens with keynote speaker Leni Schwendinger, the internationally recognized urban lighting authority behind the NightSeeing™ nighttime design initiative, whose lighting work for landmarks includes New York’s Port Authority Bus Terminal and Times Square. Schwendinger will deliver a keynote blending data, humor, and dazzling visuals to offer a bold new perspective on city life from dusk to dawn.

ArchLIGHT Summit’s recurring networking series, Sip n’ Connect, pairs cocktails and connections on Tuesday afternoon with coffee on Wednesday morning, giving attendees two relaxed chances to unwind and network between sessions.

Closing the educational programming will be Andrea Hartranft, FIALD, principal of Hartranft Lighting Studios and past president of the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD). A recipient of the 2026 EdisonReport Lifetime Achievement Award and previously named Lighting Designer of the Year, Hartranft will pose the question “What If?” in a closing keynote exploring what the future of lighting might look like.

“ArchLIGHT Summit has always been about bringing people together, and Dallas Market Center is such a natural place to do that,” said C. Webster Marsh, director of education and programming for ArchLIGHT Summit. “We’re excited about the conversations that will happen in the sessions, on the show floor, and at the networking events throughout the two days. With DALI Summit and Dallas Design Week happening at the same time, there’s an added energy around the Market Center that makes this year’s event feel especially exciting.”

The 2026 educational program includes seven HSW-accredited sessions addressing topics ranging from recommended lighting levels and color rendering to historic preservation, outdoor controls, selectable lighting, and human health and wellbeing.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

A sampling of the sessions and receptions on this year’s calendar is below:

• WILD’s Welcome Party
  Monday, September 14 | 5 p.m. | WAC Showroom – TM 3101

Women in Lighting + Design (WILD) welcomes everyone to Dallas with a pre-show reception featuring food, drinks, networking, and entertainment that’s open to all attendees, exhibitors, agents, and sponsors.

• Humanizing the Night: A Practical Vision for Safer, More Vibrant, Illuminated Cities — 1.0 LU
  Tuesday, September 15 | 10 a.m. | TM 1 – Education Station

Speaker: Leni Schwendinger, urban lighting authority and founder of the NightSeeing™ nighttime design initiative

ArchLIGHT Summit’s opening keynote makes the case for nighttime lighting as a tool for urban safety and vibrancy, drawing on Schwendinger’s work on landmark projects including New York’s Port Authority Bus Terminal and Times Square.

• AI as a Lighting Designer’s Assistant: Practical Tools for Analysis, Comparison, and Clarity — 1.0 LU
  Tuesday, September 15 | 11 a.m. | Education Station – TM 1

Speaker: Ardra Zinkon, CLD, IALD, president and director of lighting design, Zinkon Creative Studio

A practical look at how designers can put AI to work for analysis, comparison, and documentation while keeping creative control in human hands, including where the technology adds value and where it falls short.

• A Proposed Two-Parameter Approach to Recommended Lighting Levels — 1.0 LU|HSW
  Tuesday, September 15 | 12 p.m. | Education Station – TM 1 

Speaker: Craig Bernecker, Ph.D., FIES, LC

A challenge to conventional thinking on recommended light levels, proposing a two-parameter framework that designers can use to make more informed decisions about illuminance.

• LP-30: A Phase-by-Phase Approach to TM-30 — 1.5 LU|HSW
  Tuesday, September 15 | 1 p.m. | Hudson Valley Lighting Group Showroom – TM 3902

Speaker: Jason Livingston, IES, IALD, LC, principal, Studio T+L, LLC

An introduction to ANSI/IES LP-30 and its phase-by-phase implementation of TM-30, showing how the standard’s Preference, Vividness, and Fidelity design intents can broaden color rendering goals across a project, followed by a live demonstration of light sources illustrating each intent.

• The Museum Multiverse — 1.0 LU
  Tuesday, September 15 | 1 p.m. | Avenue Lighting Showroom – TM 3606

Panelists: Anita Jorgensen, IESNA, IALD, LEED, LC; Chuck Cameron; John Delfino, associate principal, Available Light, Inc.; Amy Nelson, manager of lighting design, The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Designers share insights from world-class museum projects spanning historic houses to immersive environments, exploring the tension between compelling visitor experience and responsible stewardship of objects.

• Lighting to Support Human Health and Wellbeing — 1.0 LU|HSW
  Wednesday, September 16 | 1 p.m. | Education Station – TM 1

Speaker: Mariana Figueiro, professor and director, Light and Health Research Center at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

This evidence-based session examines how the spectrum, timing, and duration of light affect the visual, perceptual, and circadian systems, offering practical strategies for designing spaces that support “bright days, dim evenings, dark nights.”

• Equitable by Design: Dynamic Lighting Systems for Neurodivergent Accessibility — 1.0 LU
  Wednesday, September 16 | 2 p.m. | Education Station – TM 1

Speaker: John Delfino, associate principal, Available Light, Inc.

Using La Nubé STEAM Discovery Center, the first U.S. children’s museum with exhibit lighting that dynamically adjusts to the sensory needs of neurodivergent visitors, as a case study, this session explores how dynamic lighting and controls can advance accessible, equitable design.

• What Happens When the Race to the Bottom Is Over? The Evolution of Value — 1.0 LU
  Wednesday, September 16 | 3 p.m. | Eurofase – TM 4002

Speaker: Andrea Hartranft, FIALD, principal, Hartranft Lighting Studios

Hosted in partnership with IALD Texas, ArchLIGHT Summit’s closing keynote invites attendees to consider what will differentiate lighting products once cost and efficiency are no longer the deciding factor.

• DALI Control the Night
  Tuesday, September 15 | 6 p.m. | ArchLIGHT Summit Show Floor

Sponsored by the DALI Alliance, this evening of dinner, drinks, networking, entertainment, and lighting trivia is open to attendees of all Dallas Market Center events and kicks off the DALI Alliance’s North America Summit taking place onsite September 16-17.

• IALD Presents The Second Annual Last Call Y’all
  Wednesday, September 16 | 4 p.m. | Eurofase Showroom – TM 4002

IALD Texas, in partnership with Eurofase, closes out ArchLIGHT Summit with a celebratory reception following the closing keynote.

SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

ArchLIGHT Summit 2026 partners include the DALI Alliance, Women in Lighting + Design (WILD), Oxygen Lighting, and the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), joining participating Dallas Market Center showrooms in offering CEU sessions, receptions, hospitality events, and additional opportunities for connection throughout the show.

Returning sponsors and lighting rep agencies Architectural Lighting Alliance, Hossley Lighting & Power Solutions, Preferred Lighting Group, Texas Lighting Solutions, and SESCO connect attendees with manufacturers through dedicated pavilions and lounge spaces throughout the show.

Association partners for ArchLIGHT Summit include AIA Dallas, American Lighting Association, Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals (AOLP), International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), IALD Education Trust, IALD Texas, IES, IES Dallas, IIDA Texas Oklahoma chapter, International Landscape Lighting Institute, Light Justice, NACLIQ, NAILD, NAWIC, NEMRA Lighting, SARA, Texas Society of Architects, The Lighting Exchange, and Women in Lighting + Design (WILD).

ArchLIGHT Summit is proud to partner with leading industry media, including Inside Lighting, Bisnow, Designing Lighting, Edison Report, Light Directory, Commercial Construction & Renovation, Building Design + Construction, LightNOW, US Lighting Trends, National Lighting Bureau, Lighting Controls Academy, and Lighting Controls Podcast.

ArchLIGHT Summit supports the growth of the design/build industry and encourages student participation with complimentary admission to the event and its educational sessions for students pursuing careers in commercial lighting and design.

ALSO AT DALLAS MARKET CENTER

ArchLIGHT Summit’s September dates coincide with Dallas Market Center’s Gift & Home Market and KidsWorld, running September 15-17, giving attendees the opportunity to explore gift, home décor, and children’s product sourcing alongside the lighting and design programming.

Following the strong international growth highlighted in the official post-show results – with overseas visitors increasing by 33.4% – CBD Guangzhou 2026 further demonstrated that its evolution is driven not only by the scale of the exhibition, but also by an increasingly rich ecosystem of content, ideas and international collaboration.
Today, CBD Guangzhou is far more than a sourcing platform. It is becoming a year-round international hub where manufacturers, architects, designers, buyers, institutions and industry experts come together to explore emerging trends, exchange knowledge and create new business opportunities.

This vision was reflected in more than 70 conferences, forums, exhibitions and curated initiatives, transforming the exhibition into a platform where products, innovation and professional dialogue converge. Among the most representative initiatives of the 2026 edition were the following.

International Knowledge and Global Dialogue

One of the highlights of CBD Guangzhou’s international strategy was the debut of The World Connect Lounge and the World Connect Forum, hosted and organised by CBD Guangzhou and conceived and developed by Edimotion.
Created as an international hub for knowledge sharing, networking and business exchange, the initiative welcomed architects, designers, buyers, media representatives, exhibitors and market experts from around the world. Its programme explored global design trends, international market developments and export opportunities, reinforcing CBD Guangzhou’s ambition to become not only a sourcing platform, but also a place where international dialogue generates new business opportunities and long-term partnerships.

Material Innovation and Design Inspiration

Now in its third edition, Archi Box confirmed its role as one of CBD Guangzhou’s most innovative design-oriented initiatives.
Combining a curated exhibition, a material library and dedicated forums, the project created a direct connection between designers, manufacturers and suppliers, showcasing innovative materials and promoting more efficient sourcing processes. Through its modular and sustainable exhibition concept, Archi Box demonstrated how material innovation continues to shape the future of architecture and interior design.

New Business Models for Design Brands

The “All In IP” exhibition explored new ways for design brands to create long-term value beyond the exhibition itself.
By combining immersive installations, branded experiences and reusable intellectual-property content, the initiative demonstrated how exhibitions can become platforms for continuous communication, brand building and community engagement rather than temporary showcases.

Designing for an Ageing Society

Among the most forward-looking initiatives was “Nuan Lili · Smart Age-Friendly Living Space”, China’s first immersive exhibition dedicated to age-friendly living.
Moving beyond the traditional medical approach, the project demonstrated how architecture, interior design and smart technologies can improve everyday life through discreet, human-centred solutions that promote independence, comfort and wellbeing for an ageing population.

Redefining the Future of Living

With the second edition of THE PLACE, CBD Guangzhou explored a broader vision of contemporary living.
Bringing together designers, brands, urban planners and community organisations, the initiative examined how residential spaces, commercial environments and neighbourhoods are evolving to create more sustainable, inclusive and meaningful lifestyles. Through exhibitions and forums, THE PLACE highlighted the growing role of design in shaping communities rather than simply creating buildings.

Together, these initiatives demonstrate how CBD Guangzhou is evolving beyond a trade fair into a global platform for knowledge, innovation and international business. More than a place to showcase products, it is becoming a catalyst for collaboration, market development and long-term international growth.

The journey continues at the 29th CBD Guangzhou, taking place from 8–11 July 2027 at the Canton Fair Complex, Guangzhou. Industry professionals from around the world are invited to discover the latest innovations, connect with leading manufacturers and help shape the future of the global building decoration industry.

LiGHT 26, the UK’s only trade show dedicated to high-end lighting specification, returns to the Business Design Centre in Islington, London, on the 18th and 19th of November 2026, bringing together the lighting and design community for two days of product discovery, expert insight and valuable industry connection.

Whether specifying an upcoming project, searching for new suppliers, discovering the latest technologies or simply looking to stay ahead of emerging trends, LiGHT 26 provides a unique opportunity to explore the very best of the lighting industry – all under one roof.

Since launching in 2022, LiGHT has quickly established itself as a key date in the calendar for architects, interior designers, lighting designers, engineers, consultants and specifiers, offering a dedicated platform to discover new products, meet leading manufacturers and connect with the people behind some of the most innovative lighting projects.

For two days, the Business Design Centre will become a hub of creativity, collaboration and conversation, with hundreds of leading architectural and decorative lighting brands showcasing the latest products, technologies and solutions. From cutting-edge lighting systems and controls to decorative fittings, technical innovations and smart building technologies, visitors will have the chance to experience new ideas first-hand and discover products before they are specified on future projects.

Returning for LiGHT 26, the Technical Zone will provide a dedicated area for brands specialising in lighting controls, emergency lighting, OEM components, lamps, gear, connected technologies and more. Reflecting the growing importance of intelligent and integrated lighting solutions, the zone offers visitors the chance to explore the technologies driving the future of sustainable and efficient design.

Beyond the exhibition floor, LiGHT 26 will deliver an inspiring programme of talks and discussions, bringing together influential voices from across the lighting, architecture and design communities. Curated by [d]arc media, the [d]arc thoughts talk programme will explore the latest challenges, opportunities and ideas shaping the future of lighting, with speaker announcements for this and the splinter talks programme in the Associations Lounge to follow.

Adding another creative dimension to the show, planning is already well underway for the LiGHT 26 Art Installation, which will once again bring together lighting, creativity and design to create a memorable centrepiece for visitors to experience during the exhibition. Further details will be revealed in the coming months, with visitors invited to experience this unique feature during the show.

Networking remains at the heart of the LiGHT experience. From conversations with exhibitors and industry experts to informal catch-ups with peers, the event provides the perfect environment to build relationships, exchange ideas and discover new opportunities. The popular late-night drinks reception will also return, offering visitors and exhibitors the chance to continue conversations in a more relaxed social setting after the first day of the show.

Simon Albert, CEO of Messe Frankfurt UK, said: “LiGHT has become one of the most important meeting places for the UK lighting specification community, and we’re delighted to welcome the industry back this November. As the first edition under Messe Frankfurt UK, LiGHT 26 will continue to deliver what visitors and exhibitors value most – exceptional brands, inspiring content and meaningful connections – while benefiting from the international reach and expertise of the wider Light + Building portfolio.”

With thousands of professionals expected to attend, LiGHT 26 is set to once again bring together the brands, ideas and individuals shaping the future of lighting. Completely free to attend, it offers an unmissable opportunity to discover new products, gain fresh inspiration and connect with the wider lighting community.

If lighting plays a role in your projects, LiGHT 26 should be in your diary.

Register now for free and be part of the UK’s leading event dedicated to lighting specification.

It is one of the most dynamic sectors of the Italian economy, characterized by high productivity, a strong export orientation, significant technological intensity, and an increasingly central role in the development of modern infrastructure and construction sites. This is the snapshot of the construction machinery sector emerging from the new study conducted by CER (Centro Europa Ricerche) on behalf of Unacea (the Italian Construction Machinery Association), presented yesterday at Veronafiere during the opening day of the 32nd edition of SaMoTer, the triennial International Construction Machinery Exhibition, running until Saturday, 9 May (www.samoter.it).

The study was presented at the conference titled “Construction machinery and Italian production supply chains: the overall economic dimension” by Stefano Fantacone, Research Director at CER. He emphasized that the sector represents a highly specialized industrial segment, closely linked to the transformation of production processes in construction and to the modernization of the infrastructure system.

In 2025, the Italian construction machinery market reached 26,000 units sold almost double the 13,500 units recorded in 2017 confirming sustained long-term structural growth. After peaking in 2022 (29,700 units), the sector is now entering a phase of normalization. A slight contraction to 25,500 units (-1.9%) is forecast for 2026, against a macroeconomic backdrop of moderate GDP growth (+0.3%), a slowdown in construction investments (-0.3%), and inflationary pressures linked to energy costs exceeding 20%.

The total production value of the sector is estimated at €4 billion, with 6,000 direct employees rising to 85,000 when the entire supply chain is considered. These figures highlight not only the sector’s economic scale but also its capacity to generate skilled and geographically widespread employment.

Its competitive positioning is further strengthened by a marked international orientation. In 2025, the sector recorded €3.2 billion in exports compared to €2.3 billion in imports, resulting in a positive trade balance of €900 million. Nearly two-thirds of domestic production is destined for foreign markets, confirming the technological strength and global competitiveness of Italian companies.

Within the European context, the research clearly highlights Italy’s strengthened role in the construction machinery market. In 2025, Italy ranked as the third-largest European market by units sold, after Germany and the United Kingdom, overtaking France and securing a European market share of approximately 15%, up significantly from 9.6% in 2019.

This reflects growth dynamics running counter to other major countries. Between 2019 and 2025, the Italian market expanded by +38.8%, compared to an average European contraction of -9.4%, with significant declines in France (-28.3%), Germany (-22.7%), and the UK (-5.8%). Italy is thus the only major European market to have surpassed pre-Covid levels, reinforcing its competitive position and assuming an increasingly central role within the continental sector.

The sector is also distinguished by its strong integration with the construction supply chain, directly supporting worksites, infrastructure, civil engineering projects, and specialized activities. The three connected production branches civil engineering; demolition and site preparation; and installation of electrical, plumbing and other construction systems generate a combined production value of €135 billion and employ approximately 694,000 workers.

Between 2019 and 2023 (latest available Istat data), the production value of these three branches increased by 69%, compared to overall Italian production growth of 32%. The fastest-growing activity was demolition and site preparation (+73%), followed by installation activities (+70%). Civil engineering grew by 65%.

Another distinguishing feature of the sector is its high level of technological innovation. More than 35% of companies make medium-to-high investments in research and development, while between 35% and 44% invest in technology and digitalization to support the ongoing mechanization and transformation of worksites. Construction machinery thus acts as an enabling factor for productivity, workplace safety, and reduced project timelines, contributing significantly to the modernization of the entire supply chain.

Several representatives of leading brands exhibiting at SaMoTer 2026 also spoke during the presentation.

Gianluca Calì, Marketing Director of CGT Spa: “The performance of our market is directly proportional to that of the construction sector. The National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) has certainly boosted infrastructure projects and, consequently, the market has shown positive trends recently. However, contingent factors continue to influence customers’ purchasing decisions, as do various incentive schemes. Looking ahead, the sector has significant room for improvement in productivity recovery: all operators must invest so that customers understand that new technology translates into greater efficiency and productivity.”

Luca Evangelista, Sales Director of Volvo CE: “The Italian market is showing positive signs compared to other European markets. The encouraging results we see today are the outcome of work started several years ago. Slight declines should not be interpreted as negative signals or crises but rather as a phase of adjustment linked to broader economic trends. In the earthmoving segment, we are placing many machines on the market, while Germany, France and the UK have seen significant declines. This shows that Italy is delivering strong numbers thanks to groundwork done previously. Incentives have certainly played a role, but machines are purchased only when there are real projects. The PNRR has provided strong momentum, encouraging investments in connectivity, digitalization and sustainability areas where returns are consistently positive. The real challenge now is maintaining this level”.

Maurizio Tosi, Territory Manager Plants Italy at Ammann Group: “Despite the economic crisis linked to rising fuel prices, energy costs and raw materials, companies still show strong willingness to improve, invest and grow. The Italian market continues to deliver positive results, while Europe is experiencing significant declines. Incentives such as Industry 4.0 and 5.0 measures have been driving forces, but much also depends on companies’ capacity to continue investing. However, regulatory issues particularly in the road machinery segment remain problematic. Installing an asphalt plant requires numerous authorizations from different authorities that often fail to coordinate. This creates serious difficulties: approvals may take six months or more than three years depending on interpretation. Such uncertainty inevitably discourages investment”.

Filippo Venieri, Sales and Marketing Manager at VF Venieri: “Forecasts for 2026–2027 are difficult to interpret, although I see strong willingness to invest among companies in the sector, which gives hope for the future. One message I would like to convey from SaMoTer is the need to invest in young people to attract top talent and train the operators of tomorrow”.

Marco Ferroni, Business Director at Kobelco Construction Machinery Europe: “Since 2026 did not start particularly well, it may prove challenging for the sector. However, if corrective measures are taken quickly, 2027 could move against the trend seen in other European countries”.

David Bazzi, CEO of Komatsu Italia: “The incentives granted in Italy have certainly provided significant advantages to construction machinery manufacturers. However, in the current context of geopolitical crises, rising component costs and, above all, logistical challenges are creating serious difficulties for the entire sector.”

Segment Performance Driving Market Value

Across equipment categories, earthmoving machinery accounts for the largest share, supported by its extensive use in excavation, grading, and material loading operations. These machines—ranging from excavators and loaders to motor graders—are widely deployed at mining sites and construction zones, where hydraulic-driven systems ensure operational precision and durability.

• Earthmoving equipment dominates due to versatility in excavation and grading

• Diesel-powered machinery leads due to torque efficiency and fuel performance

• 5–10 L capacity equipment gains traction in compact applications

• Asia Pacific remains the largest regional market by value

The diesel segment continues to hold a significant portion of the market, largely due to its reliability and higher torque output, which is essential for handling heavy loads. Compared to alternative fuels, diesel delivers greater energy density and improved fuel efficiency, making it the preferred choice for high-performance equipment. Simultaneously, the 5–10 L engine capacity segment maintains a strong presence, particularly in compact excavators used in urban construction, forestry, and landscaping. Population-driven housing demand and commercial expansion are further reinforcing the adoption of this equipment category.

Power Output and Application Trends

In terms of power output, the 201–400 HP segment leads globally, supported by its balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and operational capability. Equipment within this range including loaders, road rollers, and compactors is widely used across both residential and commercial construction projects. Lower maintenance requirements and improved machine efficiency further strengthen its adoption.

Material handling applications also account for a significant share of the Heavy Construction Equipment market, particularly in industries such as construction, manufacturing, mining, and oil and gas. Equipment such as cranes and telescopic handlers play a central role in lifting, transporting, and unloading materials efficiently across complex industrial environments.

End-Use and Regional Outlook

The mining sector is expected to register the fastest growth among end-use industries, driven by rising global demand for consumer goods and the corresponding need for minerals and rare earth metals. Increased mining activity has accelerated the use of advanced machinery designed for drilling, crushing, and excavation. Equipment such as dump trucks, crawler excavators, and motor graders remain essential to these operations.

Regionally, Asia Pacific continues to dominate the global landscape, supported by a high concentration of construction projects and increasing demand for technologically advanced equipment. The region is also witnessing a gradual shift toward electrified and hybrid machinery, with ongoing developments aimed at improving battery capacity and reducing operational constraints.

The data from Glenigan goes on to reveal that the UK construction sector growth is anticipated to see a growth of 21% in the next two years.

As per its UK Construction Industry Autumn Forecast 2026-2027 report, the construction analyst opines that it forecasts the private housebuilding to stay on course to progress quite significantly. It also foresees certain commercial office projects continuing their rise.

The economic unit of Glenigan forecasts a 13% boost in terms of activity and suggests that the sector is going to be relieved at the limited negative effect of trade wars and international conflict, as well as policy speculation on construction.

It adds the sector is surely going to be in a good position to start the activity following the forthcoming Autumn Budget.

Allan Wilen, the Glenigan economic director, said that as would happen with any forecasts, it is quite challenging to foresee any unpredicted and spontaneous political as well as economic issues till the time they suddenly land, mostly completely altering the situation.

The will-they-or-won’t-they attitude that the professional as well as consumer landscape has taken towards the trailer government policy has gone on to do nothing so as to inspire confidence in the latter half of 2025.

This has cropped up due to the dramatic performance decreases they have seen all across their own indexes ever since the summer, therefore dashing any hopes in terms of recovery by the end of 2025.

He adds that, however, the chancellor has got a real opportunity in this budget to go ahead and rebalance this situation and also make sure that the beginning of 2026 is not the false start they went on to witness in the spring of 2025.

Glenigan opines that it foresees growth when it comes to both private as well as public sector project starts, with residential construction getting back to its positive numbers post a blip in the summer and also autumn.

As per the report, when it comes to the public space, the government is going to be hoping to kickstart many capital projects, specifically in terms of renewables, and at the same time deliver on the social housing commitments and also promised increases when it comes to funding for health as well as education.  With a more broadened view, a renewed commitment so as to deliver net zero throughout the state-owned assets by 2050 is going to present enough opportunity for the contractors and, along with them, the subcontractors too in order to seize on.

The report adds that when the building safety regulator goes on to reduce its well-documented backlog, it goes on to warn that the bricks-and-mortar retail is going to be slower to recover since the operators go on to face rising cost pressures from the national insurance increase as well as growth in the minimum wage.

The report further opines that looking towards the public space, the overall construction industry is sure going to be waiting with bated breath to witness what the chancellor is going to pull out of the hat when one talks of the Autumn Budget.

After what looks like a series of false starts, everyone is going to be looking for clarity, especially in areas like health as well as education.

Although the Labour government has gone on to grow the capital funding for the school rebuilding program and further education in the 2025-26 period, it notes, the previous uncertainty looks like it has disrupted the local authorities’ plan of development, therefore leading to a dip in the value of school as well as college project starts in 2025.

Glenigan forecasts that a clearer funding pipeline is going to boost activity throughout the construction sector in 2026 as well as 2027, with some robust growth forecast when it comes to further education since the government goes on to prioritize vocational training.

It is worth noting that a progressive rise when it comes to the water industry activity is expected to lift the utility starts throughout the 2026 and 2027 season, as the AMP8 investment program goes on to gather more momentum.

Wilen remarked that there are certain very encouraging indications already throughout different verticals, and it is going to be up to the sector to take advantage of them.

When it comes to some of the cases, that might as well mean diversifying to go ahead and meet more niche demands surrounding low-carbon construction and also commercial fit-out and even different building approaches for that matter.

He adds that while they happen to be experiencing short-term struggles, they are still confident of a long-term picture that looks bright.