Scafom-rux, a prominent name in the system scaffolding market, has taken a significant step in solidifying its presence in Sweden by acquiring Tobit, its Swedish distributor. This strategic move aims to bolster Scafom-rux’s footprint in Sweden and lay the foundation for future expansion into Norway and Finland while also enhancing services for Tobit’s existing customers.Tobit, a recognized leader in the regional scaffolding market in northern Sweden with its own webshop, will now be integrated into Scafom-rux’s existing Swedish subsidiary. This move will enable a more cohesive and unified customer offering across Sweden, set to be implemented in 2024, with Tobit undergoing a rebranding process.Anders Olausson, Managing Director of Scafom-rux in Sweden, expressed his satisfaction with the acquisition and highlighted the potential for growth in the northern region. “I am very satisfied with the acquisition of Tobit and look forward to working with Johan Sandin, the founder of Tobit. Together, we can offer sales and rental solutions to customers throughout Sweden. We see good opportunities to expand our operations in the north given the large investments that will take place in the region,” Olausson said.The demand for Scafom-rux products in northern Sweden has been on the rise, and with Tobit’s existing sales and regional market dominance, the acquisition opens up avenues for expanding the rental of scaffolding materials – a business segment requiring substantial capital investment.Johan Sandin, founder of Tobit, emphasized the significant potential in northern Sweden’s green industry transition, where massive investments are projected. “Norrland will be the center of a massive investment in the green transition of the industry. According to the plans, more than 1000 billion will be invested in new steel mills, battery factories, and energy solutions in the region. Tobit is the largest seller of scaffolding in the region. Scafom-rux will be able to take advantage of the coming boom by using Tobit’s network and customer base that we have built since 2016,” Sandin stated.The acquisition will also enable Scafom-rux to offer scaffolding equipment rental services to customers in the north of Sweden, while customers in the southern region will gain access to the webshop and an expanded product portfolio.Koen de Wit, CEO of Scafom-rux Holding, commented on the acquisition, highlighting the synergies between the two companies. “Tobit adds new dimensions with its webshop, payment solutions, and a strong position in customer segments that we have not previously served. With the large investments in northern Sweden, it is important for us to have a strong presence in the region. The acquisition gives customers in the north of Sweden the opportunity to rent our equipment, while customers in the south get access to the webshop and a broader product portfolio,” de Wit noted.
National Access & Scaffolding Confederation Bids Farewell to David Mosley After 20 Years of ServiceAfter more than two decades of dedicated service at the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), David Mosley is set to embark on a new chapter in his illustrious career. The NASC announced his departure from the role of Director of Training to take up a full-time position as Managing Director of the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS). This transition reflects a significant development in scaffolding and training.David Mosley, a stalwart in the scaffolding industry, previously held the role of Managing Director at CISRS alongside his responsibilities as Director of Training at NASC. His decision to concentrate fully on the position of Managing Director at CISRS signifies his commitment to enhancing CISRS and further strengthening the training industry.In a press release, NASC expressed deep gratitude for David’s invaluable contributions over the years. His leadership, expertise, and dedication have played a pivotal role in shaping the NASC and the industry. The organization is confident that his expanded role within CISRS will lead to even greater success during these exciting times.Clive Dickin, CEO of NASC, praised David’s contributions and expressed the organization’s well wishes, saying, “David Mosley is a key industry figure who has been an integral part of NASC’s success over the years. His contributions, and personality, will be sorely missed within the team. We sincerely wish him all the best and look forward to continuing to work with him as part of our close relationship with CISRS.”David Mosley’s departure marks the end of an era at NASC, but it also signifies the beginning of an exciting journey within CISRS. His deep knowledge and vast experience in the scaffolding and training industry are expected to bring new perspectives and initiatives to CISRS.While NASC bids farewell to David Mosley, they eagerly anticipate continued collaboration and success as he embraces this new chapter in his distinguished career. The industry looks forward to witnessing the positive impact his full-time dedication to the role of Managing Director will have on CISRS and the scaffolding sector as a whole.
The scaffolding sector is bracing itself for a year of challenges and opportunities in 2024. As we embark on a new year, the industry finds itself at a crossroads, navigating economic uncertainty, cost volatility, and a persistent shortage of skilled labour. However, amidst these hurdles, there are signs of growth driven by sustainability initiatives and technological advancements.
Workforce Challenges Persist
One of the foremost challenges facing the scaffolding sector is the ongoing shortage of skilled labour. This shortage has plagued the industry for several years and shows no signs of abating in 2024. The need for more qualified workers continues to pressure construction projects, potentially delaying timelines and increasing labour costs. As a result, companies are intensifying efforts to attract and retain skilled labour, offering competitive wages and training programs to bridge the skills gap.
Economic Uncertainty and Rising Material Costs
Economic uncertainty remains a cloud over the industry in 2024, with high interest rates and tighter lending standards impacting construction activity. The cost of construction materials, according to the Construction Products Association, is projected to rise by 5.9% this year, exceeding the expected inflation rate. This surge in material prices could further strain construction budgets, making project viability a concern for stakeholders.
Bright Spots on the Horizon
Despite these challenges, there is a silver lining for the scaffolding sector. Deloitte Insights predicts growth in 2024, primarily fueled by sustainable practices and technological advancements. The industry is aligning with the International Energy Agency’s Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario, which demands that all new buildings and 20% of existing structures be zero-carbon-ready by 2030. This commitment to sustainability is expected to drive demand for green buildings and construction activity.Furthermore, the industry may receive a much-needed boost from funds allocated through key pieces of legislation passed in 2021 and 2022. Investments in manufacturing, transportation infrastructure, and clean energy infrastructure could welcome capital into the sector. This financial support could spur growth and offset some of the challenges posed by the shortage of labour and rising material costs.
Technological Advancements to the Rescue
In addition to sustainability efforts, the adoption of technological advancements is set to revolutionise the scaffolding industry in 2024. Innovations in construction technology are expected to improve the efficiency of scaffolding processes, reducing costs and increasing productivity. Companies are increasingly exploring the use of drones, artificial intelligence, and advanced materials to enhance safety and streamline operations.
A Year of Adaptation
In conclusion, 2024 presents both hurdles and opportunities for the scaffolding sector. Economic uncertainty, labour shortages, and rising material costs will require adaptability and resilience from industry players. However, the commitment to sustainability and the adoption of cutting-edge technology offer pathways to growth and improved efficiency. As the year unfolds, the scaffolding sector will need to navigate these challenges while embracing innovation to secure a prosperous future.
In an exciting development, system scaffolding and access solutions giant Layher UK Ltd has appointed Des Moore as their dedicated Brand Ambassador.
Layher’s ambitious growth plans for the UK system scaffolding market place both Layher & Moore centre stage.
Both Des Moore [who brings over five decades of scaffolding experience] and Sean Pike, Managing Director of Layher UK Ltd, spoke to Scaffmag, where Des expressed his pleasure at being entrusted with this important role.
“It’s a pleasure to be asked to work with Sean & Layher as their Brand Ambassador. It’s an important role, and I am looking forward to playing a part in Layher’s accelerating, exciting, and ambitious growth plans for the UK market,” Moore commented.
Pike added that “Having Des on board to jointly deliver and get across our core values and customer focused 4 x ‘S’ strategy ofService, Support, Solutions & Supply is invaluable, along with his many years of experience, use and exposure of the Layher system scaffolding advantages.”
A Trusted Partnership
What many may need to learn is Moore’s longstanding history with Layher. His journey with the company began during the early 1990s recession when he joined TRAD and was tasked with overseeing a small scaffolding contractor named Sevenhurst.
Recognising the potential for growth by entering new markets, Moore explored the use of system scaffolding for aircraft maintenance, a niche with significant profit potential. He and Layher crossed paths during their evaluation of scaffolding systems, ultimately leading to a strategic partnership.
Moore recounted, “We were very impressed with Layher’s Allround Scaffolding, together with all the other benefits the company provided, in terms of design, innovation, financing support, and service. The product gave us the opportunity we were looking for to move into niche markets initially and to improve our labour costs.”
Using Layher’s Allround Scaffolding System, Moore’s team expanded their presence in the aircraft maintenance industry, working across major airports such as Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Manchester, and Filton Airport in Bristol. The versatility and profitability of Layher’s product made it a perfect fit for this specialised market.
A Catalyst for Growth
Over the years, Layher played a significant role in TRAD Scaffolding’s growth, allowing the company to access new sectors and establish a strong market position. As a result of this partnership, between 60% and 70% of TRAD Scaffolding’s work was conducted using Layher’s Allround Scaffolding System.
Des Moore’s involvement also drove interest and investment in Layher from other contractors who recognised the market opportunities presented by Layher’s solutions; as Sean Pike recounts, “This collaborative effort fuelled not only TRAD Scaffolding’s success but also Layher’s growth in the UK, as I was able to demonstrate the benefits of strategic partnership we achieved with Trad, and which could be engaged by other scaffolding companies”.
In his role as Brand Ambassador, Moore will leverage his extensive experience and unique dual know-how to support Layher’s sales teams and customer base. He will conduct workshops and training sessions, sharing valuable insights and advice on tackling the challenges facing scaffolding contractors today, as well as engage with tier 1 contractors. Moore’s and Pike’s aim is to help businesses thrive even in challenging economic climates.
Expanding Layher’s Reach
Additionally, Moore will work with Layher on expanding Layher’s profile beyond the scaffolding industry and promote the benefits of Layher’s quality system scaffolding across the broader construction sector. He emphasises the importance of healthy competition in driving product innovation, competitive pricing, and collaboration on best practices within the industry.
Des Moore’s consultancy business MOR1X aligns with his passion for working with companies he believes in and trusts. He is excited to support Layher as it embarks on a significant strategic growth journey in the coming years.
“One of the most satisfying things in business is to successfully plan and deliver sustainable growth,” Moore said. “I’m looking forward to supporting Layher in building on an already very successful business as it delivers its strategic growth plans for the coming years.”
Pike concludes, “Des’s appointment, expertise & wider industry experience will undoubtedly contribute to Layher’s mission of delivering sustainable growth while maintaining a commitment to quality and innovation”.
As Des Moore takes on his role as Layher’s Brand Ambassador, the scaffolding industry anticipates further advancements and innovative solutions that will benefit both existing and potential customers in the UK system scaffolding market.
With Moore’s rich history and Layher’s dedication, the future of scaffolding and access solutions looks promising from these two growing market influencers.
In a press statement released today, the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has expressed profound concern over a series of scaffold collapses that occurred during recent high winds, issuing a stark warning about the potential dangers of substandard scaffolding practices.
The headline reads, “National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) Expresses Significant Concern Over Scaffold Collapses During Recent High Winds.”
NASC, a prominent authority in the scaffolding and access industry, has reported that despite the anticipated arrival of winter storms like Storm Henk in the UK, the recent incidents of scaffold failures should have been avoided under normal circumstances.
Thankfully, no injuries have been reported thus far; however, NASC says it is deeply disappointed that these incidents have tarnished the industry’s otherwise improving safety record.
While NASC refrains from commenting on the specifics of these incidents, as they will be subject to investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the organisation is urgently calling upon all clients and contractors to review their procurement and working at height practices immediately.
Scaffolds constructed in accordance with statutory requirements diligently managed, and well-maintained should remain stable even in adverse weather conditions, such as high winds. The industry and the law mandate that scaffolds be erected in compliance with recognised standards, such as a TG20 compliance sheet, a system scaffolding user manual, or a bespoke scaffold design produced by a competent scaffolding designer.
In light of the recent events, NASC is urging all contractors and clients to promptly assess the design and safety of their scaffolding and access systems. This evaluation should include a thorough review of the TG20 compliance sheet, system manufacturer’s instructions, or a bespoke design, which should be available for every scaffold. Additionally, NASC emphasises the importance of ensuring that all scaffolding operatives adhere to SG4 Preventing Falls in Scaffolding Operations industry guidance.
For those engaged in procuring scaffolding, NASC’s guidance document, SG39, on appointing a scaffolding contractor, offers comprehensive support. Furthermore, it is prudent for clients and contractors to verify the competence and recognition of their chosen scaffolding and access contractors through independent third-party assessments that confirm adherence to industry standards.
The NASC’s urgent appeal underscores the critical importance of maintaining the highest safety standards in the scaffolding and access industry, especially during adverse weather conditions, to prevent potential disasters and protect the lives of workers and the public.
The recent scaffold collapses serve as a stark reminder of the dire consequences of cutting corners in the construction and maintenance of scaffolding structures. The industry as a whole must take immediate and decisive action to rectify these issues and ensure the utmost safety on worksites across the nation.
Scunthorpe-based scaffolding hire and sales firm Caspian Group Ltd. has announced a strategic partnership with AFIX Group UK, bringing the innovative AFIX Fast X52 modular system scaffolding to the north of England.
Caspian Group Ltd., a leading name in the United Kingdom’s construction and scaffolding hire and sales industry, has unveiled a ground-breaking collaboration with AFIX Group UK. This partnership will introduce the cutting-edge AFIX Fast X52 modular system scaffolding to the UK market, marking a significant milestone in the construction sector.
Caspian Group Ltd., renowned for its expertise in producing BSI-accredited scaffold boards and related equipment, has embarked on a mission to revolutionise the scaffolding industry in the North, with a new range of System Scaffolding. With a strong focus on delivering top-quality solutions to the construction industry, this partnership aligns perfectly with the company’s vision.
Neil Garrison, CEO of Caspian Group Ltd., expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Caspian Group Ltd. is thrilled to sign this partnership agreement with AFIX Group UK Ltd. as part of our ongoing expansion and investment program. This collaboration underscores our commitment to delivering top-quality solutions to the construction industry.”
AFIX Group NV, an internationally acclaimed vertically integrated scaffolding manufacturer with a global presence, specialises in providing high-quality multidirectional scaffolding solutions for construction, industrial, infrastructural, and event projects worldwide.
Caspian Group will now offer the complete AFIX Fast X52 system scaffolding range, complemented by a suite of scaffolding services, including engineering calculations and financing options for both hire and sale.
Chris Viney, Director of AFIX Group UK, emphasised Caspian Group Ltd.’s commitment to becoming a major distributor of the AFIX Fast system scaffolding in the UK. This aligns perfectly with the company’s dedication to delivering high-quality scaffolding components while meeting the stringent requirements of its customers.
“Our focus remains on customer satisfaction. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer relations. Our dedication to understanding and meeting our clients’ needs has solidified our position as a key player in both national and international scaffolding hire and sales markets,” concludes Neil Garrison, CEO of Caspian Group Ltd.
This partnership between Caspian Group Ltd. and AFIX Group UK promises to bring advanced scaffolding solutions to the UK’s construction and scaffolding industry, setting a new standard for quality and innovation in the region. With their shared commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, this collaboration is poised to make a lasting impact on the sector.
Sutton Council has launched an investigation into the dramatic scaffold collapse on Sutton Street on Tuesday, January 2, as Storm Henk brought gale-force winds and chaos to the area.The incident unfolded near the former Wilko’s location on Sutton’s bustling high street, when a scaffolding tower succumbed to 60mph winds, collapsing to the ground in a stunning display of destruction. Fortunately, there were no injuries to bystanders, and the damage to the surrounding area was minimal. However, the incident was captured on camera, drawing significant public attention.Sutton Council has swiftly taken action to address the incident and is collaborating with the police and the scaffolding company to determine the root cause of the collapse. A spokesperson from Sutton Council stated, “Following yesterday’s incident, the Council’s Health and Safety team visited the site and worked with the scaffolding company and the police to ensure the high street was made safe. The scaffolding was cleared to ensure that businesses were able to open this morning.”
HSE Informed
The council has also reported the incident to the Health and Safety Executive, which will investigate the matter. This multi-agency approach aims to uncover the truth behind the incident and ensure that lessons are learned to prevent similar accidents in the future.Unsurprisingly, members of the public have voiced their concerns and pointed fingers at the scaffolding company, speculating that inadequate safety measures or poor workmanship may have played a role in the collapse. One person expressed their skepticism on social media, stating, “Not ‘severe winds’ but shoddy workmanship. Sorry to disappoint.”The investigation will delve into various aspects, including the scaffolding company’s adherence to safety regulations, the maintenance and security of the scaffolding structure over the Christmas period, and the impact of the extreme weather conditions brought by Storm Henk.The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous safety measures in construction projects and the need for proper maintenance, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Scaffolding training provider 3t Training Services is making significant strides in addressing the skills shortage plaguing the scaffolding industry by nurturing a new generation of scaffolders through their highly sought-after apprenticeship scheme.The program offers scaffolding firms an extensive and hands-on 18-month training regimen coupled with practical on-the-job experience. The culmination of this rigorous training is an intense week-long end-point assessment. Successful apprentices are rewarded with industry-recognised qualifications, including an NVQ Level 2 certification in accessing and rigging for the scaffolding industry, a COTS qualification, CISRS Part 1 and 2 Scaffolding certificates, and a CISRS Recognised Industry Scheme Card.This innovative apprenticeship scheme has garnered immense popularity among numerous North East firms, utilising it to cultivate fresh talent and bolster their workforce.One firm benefiting from 3t’s apprenticeship program is JTL Scaffolding, a privately owned company based in Gateshead, with sister company JTL Projects. They employ approximately 110 individuals operating within the commercial, offshore, and industrial sectors. Matthew Johnson, Engineering Manager at JTL Scaffolding, expressed the significance of apprenticeships for the company: “We are passionate about investing in our workforce, and apprenticeships are integral to our strategy. We continually seek ways to enhance and develop the learning outcomes for our apprentices. As the construction industry grapples with skill shortages and an aging workforce, our approach is to bring in fresh talent and pair them with seasoned professionals to facilitate the transfer of skills and knowledge. This ensures that our personnel are highly skilled, exceptionally loyal, and exhibit the right work ethic.”JTL Scaffolding has been partnering with 3t for several years now, harnessing their top-notch training facilities and experienced instructors who have firsthand knowledge of the scaffolding industry. Johnson added, “The training and apprenticeship programs designed by 3t are undeniably aiding the scaffolding industry in overcoming skills shortages and shaping a highly skilled workforce for the future.”Gayle McCann, Business Development Manager at 3t Training Services, emphasised the importance of their scaffolding apprenticeships: “Our programs nurture young talent from the ground up, moulding them into competent and skilled workers that the industry desperately needs. We prioritise the needs of employers in every program we develop, focusing on producing motivated, proactive, and enthusiastic workers equipped with the skills needed to be productive from day one. This unquestionably addresses the industry’s demand for fresh recruits who possess the right skills and attitude, while simultaneously assisting young people in taking their vital first steps on the career ladder.”
As the year edges closer to an end, and before we pack up and close for the traditional Christmas break, we take a look back at what most attracted your attention during 2023.Daniel Norton, Founder/Editor of Scaffmag
The last twelve months have been another busy news-filled year for both the scaffolding industry and our website.
During 2023, the Scaffmag website attracted more than 233,000 visitors from around the world, generating a massive 535,539 page views across our extensive industry-related news stories.
As Scaffmag looks forward to the upcoming milestone of 15 successful years in the scaffolding industry in 2024, we remain committed to providing you with the latest trade news and keeping you informed about all developments. Whether you’re accessing our updates on your desktop, mobile device, tablet, or through our quarterly magazine, rest assured that we’ve got you covered.
During the holiday season, we will update the site with any major breaking news, but our full news service will be back on 3 January 2024.
Scaffmag wishes you a very Merry Christmas
We want to take this opportunity to wish all our valued readers, subscribers and the many thousands of social media followers from around the world a very safe and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
10
The construction industry’s premier networking event, the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity Lunch, proved to be a roaring success once again as it raised an impressive £180,000 in support of construction families.
Held at the Westminster Park Plaza on December 1st, the event brought together over 950 guests for a day of entertainment, fundraising, and networking.
The event was hosted by the charismatic duo of rugby presenter and commentator David Flatman, affectionately known as ‘Flats,’ and Ellie Costello, a Weekend Breakfast presenter and journalist. They kicked off the proceedings by highlighting the importance of addressing poor emotional wellbeing within the construction sector, drawing parallels between the industry and the macho image of rugby.
One of the event’s highlights was the traditional heads and tails game, which not only energized the crowd but also tested their knowledge of turkey cooking times, adding a lighthearted touch to the day.
The prestigious ‘Peter Capel’ Cup was awarded to Multiplex in recognition of their outstanding fundraising efforts and commitment to ensuring their team and supply chain are aware of available support. Claire Scrimgeour, Health, Safety, and Training Project Manager at Multiplex, expressed their pride in supporting the Lighthouse Charity, saying, “The charity holds a significant place in our hearts, and we are proud to work with and support them and those in our industry.”
Guests were treated to a gourmet three-course meal and had the chance to bid on unique items in an auction led by auctioneer Addison Gelpey. Among the items up for grabs were a VIP tour of the Aston Martin F1 Team Campus, a luxury holiday in India, and VIP event tickets for top football matches and concerts.
The event also featured a star-studded lineup of sporting celebrities. Bernie Collins, the strategy analyst for the Sky Sports F1 team, shared insights into her career and joked about her expertise in rainy weather in Ireland, helping her make strategic race-winning decisions.
Lighthouse Charity Christmas 2023 | Paul Davey
England wheelchair rugby duo Martin and Tom Coyd spoke about the development of Wheelchair Rugby League in England and their victory in the Wheelchair World Cup in 2022, emphasizing the inclusivity and achievement the sport brings to people of all abilities.
Legendary football manager Harry Redknapp entertained the audience with stories from his illustrious career and his experiences on reality TV. Redknapp’s quick wit and charisma left the crowd in stitches.
Bill Hill, CEO of the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, expressed his gratitude for the tremendous support, especially during challenging times. He praised the industry for coming together to change and save lives, thanking volunteers and sponsors for their contributions.
The event concluded on a high note with a tribute band, Re-Take That, performing some of the iconic band’s greatest hits, leaving guests in high spirits. The festivities extended into the evening, with attendees fully embracing the Christmas spirit and seizing networking opportunities.
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