The highly anticipated international scaffolding championship, ScaffChamp 2025, has confirmed its full roster of 20 teams, marking a significant milestone for the event. Taking place in Vilnius, Lithuania, June 5th – 7th, ScaffChamp is the ultimate test of skill and teamwork for scaffolding professionals, challenging competitors in speed, precision, and safety standards. The event has become a key industry showcase, bringing together the best scaffolders worldwide to compete in various technical challenges.Despite the registration window remaining open for six weeks, most applications were submitted within the first few days, ScaffChamp organisers told Scaffmag.However, confirming the final teams has proved a more prolonged process. Organisers received an overwhelming 71 applications, though not all were able to proceed. Oleg Abramovas, Head of ScaffChamp Operations, said: “We’re thrilled to have secured 20 strong teams for this year’s championship. While some teams had to withdraw, many have already expressed their intent to participate in 2026. To assist them, we will announce the date for ScaffChamp 2026 immediately after this year’s event, giving potential competitors more than a year to prepare.”
Expanding Global Representation
ScaffChamp 2025 will see representation from a diverse range of countries, with four new regions joining the competition for the first time: the USA, France, Italy, and Germany. Other returning nations include Poland, Norway, Ireland, Lithuania, Hungary, Sweden, Slovakia, Romania, Serbia, Turkey, and Mongolia.Turkey’s participation is particularly noteworthy, as their team will be composed of members from five different companies. Additionally, Poland and Hungary will conduct local qualifying rounds to determine their representatives.
UK Absence, But Future Hopes Remain
UK’s Team, Star Scaffolding at ScaffChamp 2024Despite the global expansion, the UK will not be fielding a team in this year’s championship. However, organisers are optimistic that at least one British team will compete in 2026.“We were close to having a team from the UK this year, and we expect to see representation next time,” Abramovas addedThe competition has also drawn interest from scaffolding teams in Australia and South Africa, though neither will be present this year. With plans to announce the 2026 championship date well in advance, organisers hope to secure even broader international participation in the future.More updates to follow..
Anton Scaffolding Ltd has expanded its operations with the launch of a new Hire & Sales division, further strengthening its presence in the scaffolding industry. The Tamworth-based company, which has seen rapid growth over the past decade, has capitalised on its recent move to a larger yard to facilitate this latest development.The expansion aims to address a key challenge faced by local scaffolding firms—access to materials. Many businesses in the area have previously had to travel long distances or incur substantial transport costs to source scaffolding components. Anton Scaffolding’s Managing Director and Owner, Tom Pawliw, highlighted the increasing demand for such services. “Over the years, we have often received enquiries about scaffolding components and consumables. These enquiries became more frequent, and after speaking to other local firms, we recognised an opportunity to supply a range of scaffolding items from our yard in Tamworth,” he said. “We have a great central location with many scaffolding companies and construction projects around us.”The Hire & Sales division officially launched in January and has quickly gained traction, with many local businesses benefiting from the wide variety of stock now available on-site. To lead this new venture, Anton Scaffolding appointed Zak Singers as Hire and Sales Manager. With over 25 years of experience at Lyndon SGB, Singers brings extensive knowledge and expertise to the role.The company’s latest move reinforces its commitment to growth and industry support, providing a more accessible solution for scaffolding firms in the region.
The UK’s scaffolding sector has welcomed major changes to apprenticeship rules, which are expected to create up to 10,000 more training opportunities each year. The government’s decision to ease entry requirements and reduce apprenticeship durations has been described as a “huge boost” for the industry, helping to address the ongoing skills shortage.The reforms, announced today by the Department for Education, remove the requirement for apprentices over the age of 19 to complete a Level 2 English and maths qualification—equivalent to a GCSE—to pass their training. Previously, this requirement deterred many would-be apprentices from entering the sector, exacerbating labour shortages in scaffolding and other key trades.Additionally, the minimum duration of an apprenticeship will be reduced from 12 months to eight, allowing businesses to train and qualify workers more quickly. The changes are part of a broader push to boost economic growth by removing red tape and giving employers more control over workforce development.
NASC Backs Reform as “Major Catalyst for Growth”
The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has been a strong advocate for reform and has welcomed the government’s decision to remove bureaucratic hurdles.The organisation has long argued that the previous rules unfairly restricted entry into the scaffolding profession, making it harder to recruit and train new talent.NASC CEO Clive DickinNASC CEO Clive Dickin hailed the announcement as a turning point for the industry: “I am really pleased with today’s announcement on the relaxing of previously strict requirements for Maths and English qualifications. These have prevented many potential candidates from starting an apprenticeship in our sector.“Over the last year, I have written several times to various senior politicians on behalf of NASC members and CISRS Centres asking for exactly this kind of change. We’re in favour of anything that reduces red tape. Cutting the bureaucracy around apprenticeships could be a major growth catalyst and help the sector recruit many young talent that had previously been put off.“This could be a huge boost for the scaffolding and access sector. Longer-term, we are keen to get more funding into training and education initiatives to give a much-needed boost to our home-grown scaffolding talent.Projects such as NASC’s collaboration with City & Guilds Training on Scaffolding Skills Bootcamps are an excellent example of the industry’s desire to upskill and train more talent.”
A Step Forward for Construction Training
The reforms come at a critical time for the construction sector, which has struggled with a shortage of skilled workers. By removing barriers to entry, the government hopes to attract more apprentices into industries where the demand for labour is high.Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said the changes were designed to respond to the needs of businesses:“Growing the economy and opportunity for all are fundamental missions of our Plan for Change, and we are determined to support apprentices. Businesses have been calling out for change to the apprenticeship system, and these reforms show that we are listening. Our new offer of shorter apprenticeships and less red tape strikes the right balance between speed and quality.”The Federation of Small Businesses has also welcomed the move, highlighting that greater flexibility will help companies, particularly SMEs, to fill skills gaps more efficiently.
Looking Ahead
With the scaffolding industry facing long-term challenges in recruitment and retention, the NASC and other trade bodies will be closely monitoring the impact of these reforms. Many hope that by making apprenticeships more accessible and reducing the time needed to qualify, the industry will be able to attract and train the next generation of scaffolders more effectively.More details on the rollout of these changes are expected in the coming months.
As the scaffolding and construction industries face a critical skills shortage, apprenticeships and workforce development remain at the forefront of industry discussions. Scaffmag spoke to Tim Balcon on apprenticeships, diversity and the skills crisis.
I had the privilege of speaking with Tim Balcon, Chief Executive of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), to gain insights into the initiatives and strategies being employed to address these pressing challenges.
Apprenticeships: Building the Talent Pipeline
When it comes to apprenticeships, the CITB is pulling out all the stops to attract new talent into scaffolding and the broader construction industry. As Tim Balcon explains, “We’re investing in a range of initiatives to make careers in construction accessible and appealing. Our Go Construct careers portal is a prime example—it provides a comprehensive resource for individuals exploring opportunities in scaffolding and other sub-sectors.”Beyond guidance, CITB offers robust financial support to employers. “Scaffolding businesses hiring apprentices can access a £2,500 annual grant per apprentice, plus a £3,500 achievement grant upon completion,” Balcon shares. “For those pursuing the CISRS route, we fund training stages like COTS, Part 1, Part 2, and NVQ qualifications.”Despite these efforts, the scaffolding sector faces unique challenges, including what Balcon refers to as a “hidden jobs market,” where many roles go unadvertised. He believes improving the visibility of these opportunities could significantly bolster recruitment.Highlighting the scale of CITB’s commitment, Balcon notes, “Between April 2023 and March 2025, we’re investing nearly £150 million into apprenticeship grants. Since 2020, we’ve awarded over 72,000 grants, supporting employers and learners alike. Small and medium enterprises, which account for over two-thirds of construction apprenticeship starts, are particularly benefiting from these programs.”Balcon also acknowledges the need to tackle retention issues. “Currently, 60% of further education learners in construction do not end up in the industry. We need to address this by promoting the clear career benefits and providing effective recruitment and training support.”Tim Balcon was one of the keynote speakers at last November’s ScaffEx24 conference in Belfast
The Skills Crisis: A Collaborative Approach
The construction industry will require over 250,000 additional workers by 2028 to meet growing demand. Balcon describes this as a significant challenge but remains optimistic. “CITB has partnered with the Government and the National House Building Council (NHBC) to launch Homebuilding Skills Hubs. These hubs will deliver fast-track apprenticeships and training, enabling us to produce 5,000 new homebuilding apprenticeship starts annually once fully operational.”The initiative, which will see 32 hubs established by 2027, is part of a £140 million investment by CITB and NHBC. “These hubs are a game-changer,” Balcon explains. “They’ll flatten peaks in demand for skills and equip individuals to be productive on-site in record time.”Digital transformation is another critical area. “Technology is key to the future of scaffolding and construction,” Balcon states. “Our Industry Impact Fund provides scaffolding businesses with the financial resources to adopt digital tools that enhance productivity and safety.”
Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities
Balcon outlines three core funding strategies designed to support scaffolding businesses grappling with rising training costs:
Grants: Financial support for completing construction-specific training, often covering the full cost.
Skills and Training Fund: Tailored allowances for small businesses, providing up to £5,000 upfront to cover eligible training expenses.
Employer Networks: Regional CITB advisors source and subsidise training on behalf of employers, covering up to 70% of costs.
“CITB is also collaborating with the Department for Education’s Bootcamps to adapt offerings like HGV driver training,” Balcon adds. “This ensures that even non-construction-specific skills, crucial to scaffolding operations, are accessible.”Looking ahead, Balcon emphasises CITB’s commitment to diversity and leadership development. “We’re investing £267 million to make construction a more attractive career choice for future generations. Initiatives like the Leadership and Management Commission will provide over 10,500 courses to upskill frontline managers and supervisors.”
A Vision for the Future
Balcon concludes with an optimistic outlook for the industry. “Through apprenticeships, digital innovation, and collaboration, we’re not just addressing today’s challenges but preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities. Scaffolding businesses that embrace these resources will be well-positioned for growth.”The scaffolding industry, like construction as a whole, stands at a pivotal moment. With the CITB’s support, employers have the tools and funding to build a skilled, sustainable workforce that can meet the challenges of the future.For more information on CITB initiatives, visitCITB’s website or contact your local CITB advisor.
A scaffolder from Yorkshire is preparing to take on a gruelling 230-mile trek across England to raise money for men’s mental health charity, Andy’s Man Club.Harry Ingham, a Part 2 scaffolder with Burflex Scaffolding Ltd, will be running and walking with a 23kg backpack as he embarks on an epic journey. Setting off from Southport on the west coast on 22 March, he aims to reach Hornsea on the east coast in just eight days. His journey along the Trans Pennine Trail will see him cover more than a marathon a day in a bid to highlight the issue of male suicide and mental health struggles, particularly within the construction industry.The challenge is deeply personal for Ingham, who has battled his own mental health issues. A former soldier, he served three and a half years in the military before being medically discharged. In the years that followed, he faced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the breakdown of family relationships, and a gambling addiction – struggles that led him to the brink of suicide.Scaffolder, Harry InghamHe spoke about his darkest moment to Scaffmag: “A little over two and a half years ago, I hit rock bottom. I had all the intentions of ending it. I didn’t want to leave the house, see friends or family, and even getting up for work felt like a chore. But thanks to a great circle of friends, my little family, my son, and Andy’s Man Club, I found support when I needed it the most.”Andy’s Man Club is a peer support group that encourages men to open up about their mental health, offering a safe space to talk without fear of judgment. The charity has been instrumental in Ingham’s recovery, and he is now determined to prove that “no matter how low you get, you can bounce back and achieve big things with the right guidance.”According to statistics, 12 men in the UK take their own lives every day—two of whom work in construction.“There’s a stigma around men and mental health. People think we don’t talk or let our emotions out, but that needs to change,” he added.Ingham’s challenge will take him through key locations, including Liverpool, Warrington, Stockport, Barnsley, Doncaster, Selby, Hull, and finally, Hornsea. He encourages people to join him for parts of the walk and even celebrates with him at the finish line.With weeks to go before he sets off, he is calling for donations to support the cause.To contribute, visit his JustGiving page: Harry’s Fundraising Page.
Swedish safety solutions provider HAKI Safety has reported an 8% increase in net sales for the fourth quarter of 2024, reaching £21.6 million (up from £20.1 million in Q4 2023).The company attributed the growth to strong organic performance, which saw an 11% rise, despite headwinds from exchange rate fluctuations and divestments.In a statement, Sverker Lindberg, President and CEO of HAKI Safety, described the quarter as a “good end to the year with continued growth in a soft market.” The company’s adjusted EBITA (earnings before interest, taxes, and amortisation) also saw a significant boost, rising 32% to £1.85 million, up from £1.41 million in the same period last year.
Key Financial Highlights for Q4 2024
Net sales: £21.6 million (+8% year-on-year).
Adjusted EBITA: £1.85 million (+32%).
Operating profit: £1.48 million (flat compared to Q4 2023).
Net result after tax: £0.74 million (up from £0.52 million in Q4 2023).
Earnings per share (before dilution): £0.027 (up from £0.019).
The company’s cash flow from operating activities, however, declined sharply to £1.04 million, compared to £5.25 million in the same period last year.Thiswas attributed to ongoing acquisition activities and market challenges.
Full-Year Performance
For 2024, HAKI Safety reported a 12% decline in net sales to £77.7 million, down from £87.9 million in 2023. Organic sales fell by 5%, while acquisitions and divestments contributed to a further 7% decline. Adjusted EBITA for the year stood at £5.70 million, down from £7.03 million in 2023, reflecting the softer market conditions.Despite the annual decline, the company highlighted its resilience in a challenging environment, with a gross margin improvement to 35.8% (up from 33.4% in 2023).
Strategic Moves and Acquisitions
HAKI Safety continued its expansion strategy during the quarter, acquiring Semmco Group on 29 October 2024. Semmco, which has an annual turnover of approximately £7.4 million, is expected to bolster HAKI’s market position in the safety solutions sector.Following the close of the reporting period, the company announced on 30 January 2025 that it had signed an agreement to acquire Trimtec. The Board also revealed that it is considering a new issue of shares to support its growth ambitions. Additionally, a strategic review has been initiated for Landqvist Mekaniska Verkstad, one of HAKI’s remaining portfolio companies.
Lyndon SGB is no more! In a historic move, the scaffolding giant has announced it’s changing its trading name to Brand Access Solutions, effective today (4th February 2025). New liveryThe rebranding marks the end of an era for the century-old scaffolding and access solutions provider and the beginning of a new chapter under the global BrandSafway umbrella.The decision reflects the company’s evolution and commitment to integrating its operations more closely with BrandSafway, a leading global provider of access, specialised services, and forming and shoring solutions. With over 100 years of operational experience, Lyndon SGB has been a cornerstone of the UK’s construction industry, and this transition to Brand Access Solutions signifies a renewed focus on innovation, customer service, and global collaboration. Lyndon SGB has long been synonymous with high-quality scaffolding, temporary access solutions, and engineering expertise. Its reputation for delivering safe and efficient solutions has made it a trusted partner in the construction and industrial sectors. The company has said its rebranding does not diminish its legacy but rather builds upon it, leveraging BrandSafway’s strength and resources to enhance its offerings.
What’s Changing?
The change affects all Lyndon SGB branches across the UK, including locations in England, Scotland, and Wales. Brand Access Solutions remains the largest and most recognised provider of temporary construction access in the UK, offering a comprehensive range of services, including:
Tube and fitting and modular system scaffolding
Motorised access (Mastclimbers™ and hoists)
QuikDeck™ Suspended Access solutions
Edge protection systems
G-Deck metal decking
Temporary roofing and shelters
“As the UK’s leading commercial access provider, we are excited to celebrate our new trading name, which better reflects our market position and supports our customer-centric growth plans,” said Centin Baxter, Regional Vice President,Europe, at Brand Access Solutions.Centin Baxter“We plan to honour our rich heritage as an award-winning provider of scaffolding and access solutions by prioritising safety and innovation, delivering exceptional service to our clients, and exceeding our reputation for excellence. The team is ready to partner with clients to get their projects completed on time, on budget, with a high focus on safety, empowering them to accomplish more than ever before.”The company’s day-to-day operations, service offerings, strong industry relationships, and dedication to safety remain unaffected by the name change.Brand Access Solutions has worked on a considerable number of significant projects throughout its 100-plus-year history, including:
The Historic New Register House, Edinburgh – Winner of the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation’s Project of the Year
Co-op Live, Manchester – The UK’s largest entertainment arena
The Runcorn Bridge, Manchester
Manchester Town Hall
Looking Ahead
As Brand Access Solutions, the company will leverage cutting-edge technology, sustainable practices, and global best practices to meet its clients’ evolving needs. The rebranding underscores its commitment to safety and innovation, core values that have defined both Lyndon SGB and BrandSafway.The change comes at a time when the construction and industrial sectors are experiencing rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements and increasing demand for sustainable solutions. By aligning more closely with BrandSafway, Brand Access Solutions is well-positioned to lead the way in delivering innovative access solutions for the challenges of tomorrow.As of today (4th February 2025), Lyndon SGB will officially operate as Brand Access Solutions, marking the beginning of a new era for the company and its stakeholders.
In a move set to shake up the UK’s temporary fencing and hoarding market, Altrad Generation has announced the acquisition of Heras Mobile Fencing & Security UK’s assets and branch operations. The deal will see Altrad, already a major player in non-mechanical construction equipment, significantly expand its UK presence and strengthen its customer offerings.The acquisition brings six new Heras branches into Altrad Generation’s existing network of 32 locations, taking its total UK footprint to 38 branches. This expansion is expected to enhance the company’s ability to deliver high-quality temporary fencing and steel compound hoarding solutions to a broader customer base.Mark Clifford, Managing Director of Altrad Generation, was excited about the deal: “We’re delighted to welcome the Heras Mobile Fencing UK team into the Altrad Generation family. This is a fantastic opportunity to combine the strengths of both businesses, driving innovation and improving the services we offer to our customers. Our focus has always been on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction, and this acquisition allows us to deliver on that promise even more effectively.”Heras Mobile Fencing is a well-known name in the industry, particularly for its temporary fencing solutions. Clifford emphasised that the acquisition would build on this legacy: “The Heras brand is synonymous with quality in temporary fencing, and we’re excited to take that forward. By bringing together our expertise, we’ll be able to offer customers an even wider range of products and services, along with greater value.”Over the next few months, the newly acquired branches will be rebranded to align with Altrad Generation’s corporate identity, with operations fully integrated into its existing network.However, Heras will continue operating independently under its brand for permanent fencing and security solutions.This acquisition is a significant step for Altrad Generation, which already supplies over 1,400km of temporary fence panels annually—enough to stretch from Lands’ End to John O’Groats. The company, part of the global ALTRAD Group, is a leading provider of scaffolding, groundworks edge protection, and light access equipment across the UK and Ireland.The deal is expected to bring tangible benefits to customers, including access to a broader range of products, improved service efficiency, and enhanced innovation in the temporary fencing market.
Altrad, the global industrial services group, has announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Stork TS Holdings Limited, the parent company of Stork UK. The deal, finalised on 1st February 2025, represents a significant milestone in Altrad’s strategic expansion within the UK onshore and offshore market.The acquisition is expected to bolster Altrad’s presence in the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) offshore sector while broadening its service offerings to clients across the region. The move also integrates Stork UK’s 1,900 employees into the Altrad family, further strengthening the group’s workforce of 65,000 worldwide.John Walsh, Altrad’s CEO for the UK, Ireland, Nordics, and Poland, described the acquisition as a “transformational step” in the company’s strategic development. He said: “Today’s announcement reflects an important milestone in executing our strategic plan. This acquisition provides scale to our UKCS offshore operations and extends the portfolio of services we can offer our clients in the UK, both offshore and onshore. We are delighted to welcome Stork UK and its talented people into the Altrad family and look forward to seeing them grow and develop under our broader organisation.”Steve Hunt, Regional Director of Stork UK, echoed Walsh’s enthusiasm: “We are extremely pleased to be joining Altrad and are confident our business will be well positioned to grow and develop at pace under the new ownership structure.”
Strategic Expansion
Altrad, headquartered in France and majority-owned by entrepreneur Mohed Altrad, has steadily expanded its global footprint. The group operates in over 50 countries and reported revenues of €5.452 billion in 2024. The acquisition of Stork UK, which generated approximately £230.5 million in revenue last year, aligns with Altrad’s strategy to enhance its service capabilities and market reach.Stork UK is renowned for its innovative, data-driven solutions in operations, maintenance, turnarounds, and modifications. Its integration into Altrad is expected to create synergies that benefit clients across both organisations.
Industry Impact
The deal is likely to significantly impact the UK’s industrial services sector, particularly in the energy and infrastructure markets. Combining Altrad’s global expertise with Stork UK’s local knowledge and capabilities, the acquisition is poised to deliver enhanced value to clients and strengthen the UK’s position as a hub for industrial innovation.
The Swedish safety solutions giant strengthens its digital and technical offerings with the purchase of high-tech precision equipment distributor Trimtec.HAKI Safety, a leading provider of safety solutions and scaffolding systems, has announced the acquisition of Trimtec, a Swedish distributor of high-tech precision equipment. The deal, expected to be finalised in March 2025, marks a significant step in HAKI Safety’s strategy to broaden its geodesy offerings and strengthen its presence in the Swedish market.The acquisition, valued at SEK 50 million (£3.75 million) on a debt-free basis, could see an additional SEK 50 million (£3.75 million) paid as contingent cash consideration if Trimtec meets specific financial performance targets between 2025 and 2026. The initial purchase price will be paid in cash, financed through existing credit facilities, with the possibility of refinancing via a new share issue in HAKI Safety.
A Strategic Move
Trimtec, founded in 2002, specialises in the sale and rental of precision equipment for cadastral surveying, mapping, and related services. The company, which operates from its headquarters in Stockholm and five additional sales offices across Sweden, reported a turnover of approximately SEK 130 million (£9.75 million) in 2024.With a product range largely supplied by Trimble, a global leader in precision equipment, Trimtec has established itself as a key player in the Swedish market.Sverker Lindberg, President and CEO of HAKI Safety, highlighted the strategic importance of the acquisition. “With the very good experiences from our Norwegian operation, Norgeodesi, which also distributes Trimble products, we see significant growth and development opportunities for Trimtec,” he said. “The digital and technical offering is a strong complement to our safety products and solutions. There are clear synergies with our existing offerings in work zone safety and system scaffolds, which we are excited to develop further.”
A New Chapter for Trimtec
Peter Hammarbäck, co-founder of Trimtec, expressed optimism about the company’s future under HAKI Safety’s ownership. “After successfully building Trimtec for over 20 years, we are confident that HAKI Safety is the right partner to further develop and strengthen our business,” he said.Trimtec’s preliminary financial results for 2024 show net sales of SEK 130 million (£9.75 million), with an EBITDA of approximately SEK 10 million (£750,000) and an operating profit of SEK 7 million (£525,000). The company’s return on capital employed (ROCE) stood at an impressive 60 percent, underscoring its strong market position.
Financial Implications
The acquisition is expected to temporarily increase HAKI Safety’s debt ratio, measured as financial net debt/adjusted EBITDA, beyond the group’s target of 2.5 times. However, the company anticipates that the ratio will decrease over time as Trimtec contributes to profit generation. HAKI Safety does not foresee significant integration costs, suggesting a smooth transition for both companies.To finance the acquisition, HAKI Safety is considering a new share issue, which could take place in the first half of 2025. The issue may be structured as a directed share issue or a rights issue, depending on market conditions.Existing shareholders Tibia Konsult AB and Marknadspotential AB have indicated their willingness to support the initiative through binding subscription and guarantee commitments.
A Growing Market Presence
The acquisition of Trimtec aligns with HAKI Safety’s broader strategy to expand its product portfolio and geographic reach. By integrating Trimtec’s expertise in precision equipment and digital solutions, HAKI Safety aims to offer a more comprehensive suite of services, from project planning to the delivery of safety products.This move also reflects the growing demand for advanced technical solutions in the construction and safety industries, particularly in urban development and infrastructure projects. With Trimtec’s established market presence and HAKI Safety’s industry expertise, the combined entity is well-positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities.
Looking Ahead
As the transaction moves toward completion, industry observers will be watching closely to see how HAKI Safety leverages Trimtec’s capabilities to drive innovation and growth. For now, the acquisition represents a significant milestone in HAKI Safety’s journey to becoming a more diversified and integrated provider of safety and technical solutions.
