Self-employed tradespeople earned an average of £1,000 per week in January, according to analysis by Hudson Contract, which manages the industry’s largest payroll for subcontractors.
That figure was down 7.7 per cent on December. However, it remained 1.5 per cent higher than the £985 average recorded in January 2025.
The seasonal downturn was most visible in external trades, where site activity is heavily weather-dependent. Bricklaying earnings fell 15.9 per cent month on month. Scaffolding was down 15.4 per cent. Demolition dropped 12.9 per cent.
Regional picture
Earnings varied across England and Wales:
Credit: Hudson Contract
Private housing was the only sector to decline, with orders falling 10.4 per cent year on year.
A report in the Financial Times said construction starts on homes in London were 94 per cent below target, the lowest figure for any major city in the developed world this century.
‘Darker clouds’ ahead
Ian Anfield, managing director of Hudson Contract, described the dip in earnings as predictable for this time of year.
He said external trades typically see work disrupted during winter and expects activity to recover as conditions improve.
However, he warned that the sector faces mounting structural pressures.
Construction firms, he said, are being squeezed by rising finance and insurance costs, higher employer National Insurance contributions, increased national minimum wage bills, disruption linked to the Employment Rights Act, the VAT domestic reverse charge and growing regulatory complexity.
He added that these pressures are making it harder and more expensive for firms to recruit and train new workers.
On housebuilding, Anfield said the sector risks stalling.
He compared it to a tanker that, once stopped, takes significant time to restart. Without intervention, he warned that when demand returns, there may not be enough firms or workers left to meet housing needs.
Hudson Contract tracks pay across 17 trades in 10 regions and supplies labour market data to the Bank of England to inform policy decisions on skilled labour demand. The Bridlington-based firm serves around 2,600 construction SMEs across England and Wales.
Construction charity Band of Builders has released a six-month schedule of upcoming projects, aimed at encouraging tradespeople to commit time in advance.
The registered charity delivers practical building projects for members of the UK construction industry and their families who are facing serious illness or injury. Its work relies heavily on volunteer trades, delivery partners and corporate backers.
With volunteers often balancing full workloads, BoB says publishing projects early will make it easier for supporters to “slot” the builds into their diaries.
The charity is close to completing its 50th project since launch.
Upcoming projects
Jay, Ipswich – March
General builder Jay began extending his family home before being diagnosed with spinal cancer. The property has been left unfinished. BoB will complete the extension, including rendering, roof finishing, kitchen installation, and electrical works.
Keren, Burnley – April
Keren has early-onset Alzheimer’s. Her daughter, Vicky, has given up work to care for her, but their home remains unlivable due to incomplete renovation works. BoB will finish the renovation so the family can live safely and comfortably together.
James, Cheshire – May
Eleven-year-old James has cerebral palsy, sight impairment, and global developmental delay. He uses a wheelchair outdoors. BoB will transform his garden into a safe, accessible space, including soil levelling, retaining walls, paths and fencing.
Jonathan, Market Bosworth – June
Following a stroke, Jonathan has worked hard on his recovery. However, uneven ground and slippery steps at his home have led to repeated falls. BoB will install a large block-paved area with a gentle slope, removing the need for steps and improving safety.
Amelia, Norfolk – July
Three-year-old Amelia has cerebral palsy. Her mother, Karis, requires a larger downstairs bedroom, a wet room, and a ramp to support her care. Although the family has applied for a Disabled Facilities Grant, funding is unlikely to cover the full cost. BoB will step in to bridge the gap.
Call for volunteers
Tony Steel, Operations Director at Band of Builders, said the charity wanted to give tradespeople as much notice as possible.
“We know that tradespeople have busy diaries, so we’ve released our six-month schedule to give volunteers as much notice as possible, plus details about what’s involved in each project,” he said.
“Tradespeople travel from all over the UK to volunteer their time on our projects. We’d love to hear from potential volunteers for our upcoming projects, whether they’re BoB veterans or new volunteers who want to join us in transforming the lives of others.”
More information and volunteer registration details are available via the Band of Builders website.
A new scaffolding-focused podcast has launched today with a clear ambition: to raise the profile of the industry while keeping conversations engaging and accessible.
The Brace Yourself Podcast is co-hosted by Ben Beaumont and Simon Boyes, both associated with ScaffPlan and bringing experience from different parts of the world and different aspects of the industry. The show blends professional insight with light-touch humour, with both hosts sharing a similar outlook on where the sector needs to go, and the challenges ahead.
Speaking to Scaffmag, Beaumont said the show grew from the natural chemistry between the two hosts.
“We wanted something professional, but not dry,” he said. “There’s a lot of negativity online. We’d rather highlight good practice and solutions without naming and shaming, promoting the positive aspects of the industry to a wider audience, and highlighting all great things that this industry does.”
Between serious and entertaining
The podcast is designed to sit between technical discussion and pure comedy. Humour draws listeners in before moving into more substantive topics.
The first episode explores how to grow a business using system scaffolding, gaining insight from people who have done just that, alongside practical guidance for contractors and companies wanting to do the same.
The hosts also plan to cover a range of future topics including marketing and brand building within the sector, insight into the role of trade associations, and examine major project case studies, focusing on what worked, what did not, and what lessons can be learned.
“Humour boosts engagement and opens the door to professional messages,” Beaumont said. “We want to find a blend between fun and ‘not taking ourselves too seriously’, with real experience, helpful guidance and knowledge, and engaging guests who we can all learn from”
Launch schedule
The first four episodes are already recorded or booked ahead of the first week of March. Early content will spotlight ScaffChamp 2026, with guests involved in the competition’s organisation.
The schedule also includes senior figures from major international companies sharing their expertise, and figures from across the globe discussing topics that people from all corners of the industry will find engaging. and leaders from scaffolding associations in the UK, Australia and the United States.
Episodes will be released fortnightly, in the first and third week of each month.
Format and recurring features
Episodes will be distributed across Spotify, Amazon Music, iTunes and YouTube.
You can subscribe to the show on all platforms HERE
One of the show’s recurring features, ‘Penthouse to the Doghouse’, was the idea of the show’s host, Simon Boyes. It will invite listeners to submit photographs of exemplary scaffolds alongside weaker examples.
Guests will have 30 seconds to defend the poorer examples in a satirical challenge format, designed to encourage higher standards without resorting to direct criticism of individuals or companies, and have some fun with what is an important topic for everyone.
“We want a constructive, uplifting voice for the industry,” Beaumont said. “Showcase how great an industry scaffolding is, bring together topics and people from across the globe, and give people something to be proud of.”
The International Access & Scaffolding Association has formally launched International Scaffolding and Access Day, which will be celebrated each year on 14 May.
The initiative is described as the first fully independent global day formally recognised by IASA and its international membership.
The annual event aims to highlight the essential role played by the scaffolding and access sector in construction, infrastructure, safety and economic development. It will also focus attention on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
To mark the launch, IASA said it has written to Presidents and Prime Ministers around the world outlining the purpose of the day and the contribution made by the sector to national economies and public safety.
IASA is encouraging contractors, manufacturers, educators, trade bodies and individual scaffolders to mark 14 May each year by sharing messages of support and recognition for the workforce.
David Brown, Chairman of IASA, said the day would provide a moment for the global community to recognise the skill and professionalism of those working in scaffolding and access.
“It provides an opportunity to highlight the vital role our industry plays in construction, infrastructure and safety, while also focusing on the challenges and opportunities that will shape its future,” he said.
“By coming together on 14 May each year, we can promote excellence, inspire the next generation of talent, drive innovation, and strengthen standards across the world.”
Five key global challenges
International Scaffolding and Access Day will centre on five priority areas identified by IASA as critical to the long-term sustainability of the sector:
Improving the image of scaffolding by promoting professionalism, safety and pride.
Developing global talent by attracting, training and retaining new entrants.
Driving innovation through new technologies and safer systems of work.
Strengthening compliance to protect workers, clients and the public.
Standardising training to improve competence, consistency and workforce mobility across borders.
IASA said the initiative is intended to be inclusive and industry-led, giving the global scaffolding community a shared platform to address common issues.
For 2026, the theme of the day will be:
“Recognising the industry. Supporting its people. Shaping its future.”
Organisations and individuals are being urged to mark 14 May by engaging with colleagues and clients, and by sharing stories and images that reflect pride in the sector and commitment to its continued development.
Bilfinger has signed a long-term framework agreement with Söderenergi AB to deliver scaffolding services across the Swedish district heating producer’s facilities.
The companies said the agreement is intended to improve safety and efficiency during maintenance work and to support day-to-day operations at Söderenergi’s sites.
Söderenergi supplies district heating to the Stockholm region and states that it primarily uses recovered and renewable biofuels, positioning district heating as part of a broader circular-economy approach.
Bilfinger said its scope includes the design, assembly and maintenance of scaffolding, with the aim of creating safer access for planned maintenance and supporting more efficient execution on site.
Martin Steffens, Department Manager for Scaffolding & Insulation at Bilfinger in Stockholm, said: “We are proud of our new framework agreement with Söderenergi. Together, we are creating a safer, more efficient, and sustainable working environment, with quality at every step.”
Bilfinger described the agreement as aligned with its strategy to be “No. 1” for customers in improving efficiency and sustainability, as it continues to grow its industrial services work in the Nordic region.
The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation and Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme have signed their first-ever national licensing agreement with an entire country, marking a significant step in the international rollout of UK scaffolding standards.
The deal builds on a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2025 between NASC and the Malaysian Occupational Scaffolding Association (MOSA).
Under the agreement, MOSA will deliver the NASC TG20 and TG30 ePortal systems, alongside CISRS training and certification, under licence across Malaysia.
NASC and CISRS will retain oversight through an audit and assurance regime, as MOSA works towards establishing up to 40 licensed centres nationwide.
Back in 2024 NASC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Malaysian Occupational Scaffolding Association (MOSA).
Clive Dickin, Group CEO of NASC, said the agreement reflected “the strength of our systems and the international confidence in TG20, TG30 and CISRS”.
“We are absolutely delighted to formalise this partnership with MOSA and to extend NASC and CISRS standards into Malaysia under our first national licensing arrangement,” he said.
“The fact that TG20 has already been written into Malaysian law, and that DOSH recognises NASC standards, speaks volumes about the credibility of our guidance.
“This agreement reflects our shared commitment to raising scaffolding and access standards globally.”
Dato’ Dr. Saravanan Karrupayah, representing MOSA, described NASC as “the gold standard for scaffolding guidance and governance” and CISRS as “the world’s most respected scaffolder training and certification scheme”.
He said the partnership would elevate safety, competence, and professionalism across Malaysia’s scaffolding sector.
The framework will allow Malaysian asset owners, principal contractors and scaffolding providers to operate under a single national standard for scaffold design, erection, inspection and training.
TG20 will continue to govern tube-and-fitting scaffolds, while TG30 supports compliance for system scaffolds. Together, the standards provide a structured pathway for competence assurance across complex access works.
Members of NASC, CISRS and MOSA will receive preferential access and pricing under the licence. Non-members will still be able to access the services, but at higher commercial rates.
NASC indicated the Malaysian model could be replicated in other territories, alongside its existing CISRS international delivery arrangements.
The International Access and Scaffolding Association (IASA) has announced the appointment of David Brown as its new Chairman.
The appointment follows the death of former IASA Chairman Wayne Connolly, who played a central role in shaping the organisation’s mission and strengthening international cooperation across the access and scaffolding sector.
Brown currently serves as Chairman and President of the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) in the UK. He brings extensive leadership experience and has been a prominent advocate for improved safety, standards and compliance within the industry.
In a statement, IASA paid tribute to Connolly’s contribution, describing his dedication, vision and commitment to collaboration as instrumental in the development of the association. The organisation extended its condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
“I am honoured to take on the role of Chairman of IASA at this difficult and important time,” Brown said.
“Wayne was a highly respected leader whose passion for the industry and belief in international collaboration helped define IASA’s purpose. I look forward to building on his legacy and working closely with the IASA Board to continue promoting safety, best practice and shared standards worldwide.”
During his tenure at NASC, Brown has been closely involved in initiatives aimed at raising industry standards, supporting innovation and reinforcing the importance of competence and compliance across the UK scaffolding and access sector.
Commenting on the appointment, Clive Dickin, Group Chief Executive of NASC and CISRS and an IASA Board Member, said: “As we remember Wayne and his many achievements, we also look to the future. David’s experience, integrity and commitment to the industry make him ideally placed to lead IASA forward and continue the work Wayne cared so deeply about.”
umdasch Industrial Solutions (UIS) has acquired Catari in a move that accelerates its ambition to create a leading global scaffolding group.
The acquisition, announced today, brings a long-established European manufacturer into the UIS portfolio and expands the group’s production capabilities and product range across the region.
Catari was founded in 1979 by Carlos Augusto Tavares Nery and is headquartered in Portugal. Originally a small metalworking business, the company has developed into a well-established scaffolding manufacturer with highly automated production facilities.
It has built a strong presence in Portugal, Spain, France and other international markets, supported by a reputation for technical reliability and engineering expertise.
Catari HQ
UIS was established in 2025 as the industrial-focused division of the Umdasch Group, with a remit to serve complex industrial sectors through specialised scaffolding, access and related solutions. Since launch, its growth has centred on scaling its first brand, AT-PAC, and expanding its global footprint.
Paolo Zumaglini, CEO of UIS, said the Catari deal marked a shift from pure geographic expansion to strengthening the group’s industrial backbone in Europe.
“umdasch Industrial Solutions was created with a clear ambition to build a leading global scaffolding group with strong industrial expertise,” said Paolo Zumaglini.
“Until now, we have pursued this ambition primarily through the global expansion of AT-PAC. With the acquisition of Catari, we are strengthening our European production base, broadening our product portfolio, and reinforcing our long-term growth platform with a resilient supply chain.”
Catari will continue to operate independently within the UIS structure, retaining its existing customer relationships and market approach. At the same time, it will benefit from the long-term investment perspective and strategic support of the wider group.
Paulo Nery, CEO of Catari, said the move would allow the business to build on its engineering-led approach while gaining international scale.
“Catari’s core has always been rooted in engineering-driven product development and manufacturing excellence,” said Paulo Nery. “Joining umdasch Industrial Solutions allows us to continue on this path while benefiting from the stability and international perspective of the Umdasch Group. Our customers and partners can expect continuity, alongside new opportunities for growth.”
By combining the capabilities of AT-PAC and Catari, UIS said it is expanding its reach across markets, applications and project lifecycles. The acquisition is positioned as another step towards establishing UIS as one of the leading scaffolding groups globally.
AFIX Group has taken a significant step in its European growth strategy with the opening of a new German subsidiary and the award of key regulatory approval for its system scaffolding range.
The company, which operates a UK branch in Thornwood, has confirmed the establishment of AFIX GmbH in Schweitenkirchen, near Munich, and has received general building authority approval from the Deutsches Institut für Bautechnik for its AFIXFAST X52 system scaffold.
The approval, known as abZ/aBG, confirms that the system complies with Germany’s strict construction and safety requirements. It provides formal assurance for designers, contractors and inspection bodies, and simplifies the use of the system on complex construction, industrial, infrastructure and event projects.
Stephan Hillaert, chief executive of AFIX Group, said the approval marked an important validation of the company’s long-term investment in product development and technical capability.
He said the business had undergone significant professionalisation since private equity firm Dovesco joined eight years ago, allowing AFIX to invest in technical expertise, production facilities and safety-focused processes.
“That we have successfully completed this journey is now once again confirmed by the DIBt approval, widely regarded as the world’s most respected authority for scaffolding certification,” he said.
Technical validation across Europe
AFIX Group’s chief technology officer, Tom Van Herbruggen, said the approval followed a strategic overhaul of the company’s system scaffolding portfolio in 2021, resulting in the AFIXFAST X52 and X37 ranges.
The AFIXFAST X37 system received NF certification in France in 2022 through Afnor Certification, while the X52 system has now been formally approved in Germany.
He said the extensive testing and audit programme meant the technical data for AFIXFAST X52 had been independently validated, giving engineers and clients confidence that structural calculations are fully substantiated.
“This validation is a fundamental prerequisite for the safety of temporary structures,” he said.
The new German branch will support customers across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, supplying system scaffolds and compatible solutions for scaffolding, stages, and grandstands.
Operations will be led by Christian Spies, managing director of AFIX GmbH, who brings extensive experience and regional industry contacts.
He said the DIBt approval would act as a gateway to wider market adoption, supported by local sales, service, and logistics.
Through its AFIX Finance unit, the group will also offer purchase, rental and tailored financing options, including export-backed funding solutions for customers in the DACH market.
Platform for further expansion
AFIX Group said Germany would act as a launchpad for further European expansion, building on more than 20 years of manufacturing experience and a service model that combines engineering, logistics, rental, and financing.
“Our goal is to build a strong network of service branches,” Mr Spies said. “This allows us to bring our international expertise closer to customers, with the speed and efficiency the market now expects.”
ScaffChamp powered by Layher has confirmed all 20 teams for its 2026 competition, following nearly five months of registrations and enquiries from around the world.
Organisers said the first 15 teams were confirmed within days of registration opening last September, while the remaining places took longer due to eligibility requirements and strict adherence to the competition’s terms and conditions.
In a LinkedIn post, Oleg Abramov, CMO and PR lead at Layher Baltic, said the selection process was deliberately rigorous to maintain fairness and professionalism.
“This part is tough,” he said, “but it is also what keeps ScaffChamp fair and professional.”
The final line-up includes a record number of new regions. Australia and Peru will make their first appearances, while the United States returns to the competition.
Europe has seen the largest expansion, with new teams confirmed from Scotland and Northern Ireland, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, Greece, and Spain. Returning European teams include Romania, Lithuania, Germany, Poland, Italy, the UK, Ireland, Sweden, and Estonia, which last competed in 2019.
Asia will again be represented by Mongolia, a returning team that has proved popular with spectators in previous editions.
Despite strong interest, no African team will take part in 2026. Organisers said discussions had taken place with teams from the region and expressed hope that Africa would be represented at a future event.
While organisers have confirmed which countries will be represented, individual company names have not yet been released.
With less than 120 days to go, ticket sales are already underway. Capacity is limited due to venue and crowd safety requirements, and organisers have warned that tickets could sell out. Discount codes are expected to be released through event partners in the run-up to the competition.
ScaffChamp has become one of the best-known live skills events in the scaffolding calendar, bringing together international teams to compete on speed, accuracy, and safety under pressure.
Jay, Ipswich – March
General builder Jay began extending his family home before being diagnosed with spinal cancer. The property has been left unfinished. BoB will complete the extension, including rendering, roof finishing, kitchen installation, and electrical works.
Jay, Ipswich – March
General builder Jay began extending his family home before being diagnosed with spinal cancer. The property has been left unfinished. BoB will complete the extension, including rendering, roof finishing, kitchen installation, and electrical works.
Keren, Burnley – April
Keren has early-onset Alzheimer’s. Her daughter, Vicky, has given up work to care for her, but their home remains unlivable due to incomplete renovation works. BoB will finish the renovation so the family can live safely and comfortably together.
James, Cheshire – May
Eleven-year-old James has cerebral palsy, sight impairment, and global developmental delay. He uses a wheelchair outdoors. BoB will transform his garden into a safe, accessible space, including soil levelling, retaining walls, paths and fencing.
Jonathan, Market Bosworth – June
Following a stroke, Jonathan has worked hard on his recovery. However, uneven ground and slippery steps at his home have led to repeated falls. BoB will install a large block-paved area with a gentle slope, removing the need for steps and improving safety.
Amelia, Norfolk – July
Three-year-old Amelia has cerebral palsy. Her mother, Karis, requires a larger downstairs bedroom, a wet room, and a ramp to support her care. Although the family has applied for a Disabled Facilities Grant, funding is unlikely to cover the full cost. BoB will step in to bridge the gap.
“Humour boosts engagement and opens the door to professional messages,” Beaumont said. “We want to find a blend between fun and ‘not taking ourselves too seriously’, with real experience, helpful guidance and knowledge, and engaging guests who we can all learn from”
“Humour boosts engagement and opens the door to professional messages,” Beaumont said. “We want to find a blend between fun and ‘not taking ourselves too seriously’, with real experience, helpful guidance and knowledge, and engaging guests who we can all learn from”
The AFIXFAST X37 system received NF certification in France in 2022 through Afnor Certification, while the X52 system has now been formally approved in Germany.
He said the extensive testing and audit programme meant the technical data for AFIXFAST X52 had been independently validated, giving engineers and clients confidence that structural calculations are fully substantiated.
“This validation is a fundamental prerequisite for the safety of temporary structures,” he said.
The new German branch will support customers across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, supplying system scaffolds and compatible solutions for scaffolding, stages, and grandstands.
Operations will be led by Christian Spies, managing director of AFIX GmbH, who brings extensive experience and regional industry contacts.
He said the DIBt approval would act as a gateway to wider market adoption, supported by local sales, service, and logistics.
Through its AFIX Finance unit, the group will also offer purchase, rental and tailored financing options, including export-backed funding solutions for customers in the DACH market.
The AFIXFAST X37 system received NF certification in France in 2022 through Afnor Certification, while the X52 system has now been formally approved in Germany.
He said the extensive testing and audit programme meant the technical data for AFIXFAST X52 had been independently validated, giving engineers and clients confidence that structural calculations are fully substantiated.
“This validation is a fundamental prerequisite for the safety of temporary structures,” he said.
The new German branch will support customers across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, supplying system scaffolds and compatible solutions for scaffolding, stages, and grandstands.
Operations will be led by Christian Spies, managing director of AFIX GmbH, who brings extensive experience and regional industry contacts.
He said the DIBt approval would act as a gateway to wider market adoption, supported by local sales, service, and logistics.
Through its AFIX Finance unit, the group will also offer purchase, rental and tailored financing options, including export-backed funding solutions for customers in the DACH market.
Asia will again be represented by Mongolia, a returning team that has proved popular with spectators in previous editions.
Despite strong interest, no African team will take part in 2026. Organisers said discussions had taken place with teams from the region and expressed hope that Africa would be represented at a future event.
While organisers have confirmed which countries will be represented, individual company names have not yet been released.
With less than 120 days to go, ticket sales are already underway. Capacity is limited due to venue and crowd safety requirements, and organisers have warned that tickets could sell out. Discount codes are expected to be released through event partners in the run-up to the competition.
ScaffChamp has become one of the best-known live skills events in the scaffolding calendar, bringing together international teams to compete on speed, accuracy, and safety under pressure. 
Asia will again be represented by Mongolia, a returning team that has proved popular with spectators in previous editions.
Despite strong interest, no African team will take part in 2026. Organisers said discussions had taken place with teams from the region and expressed hope that Africa would be represented at a future event.
While organisers have confirmed which countries will be represented, individual company names have not yet been released.
With less than 120 days to go, ticket sales are already underway. Capacity is limited due to venue and crowd safety requirements, and organisers have warned that tickets could sell out. Discount codes are expected to be released through event partners in the run-up to the competition.
ScaffChamp has become one of the best-known live skills events in the scaffolding calendar, bringing together international teams to compete on speed, accuracy, and safety under pressure. 
