Contractors don't chase every job anymore – and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. 

Gleeds’ Q1 2026 market survey shows that a steady pipeline of government‑backed work is allowing firms to be more selective, focusing on projects they can deliver confidently and profitably.

 - Education continues to lead the way, with strong demand driven by SEND schemes and long‑running Department for Education programmes to improve ageing school buildings. 

 - Energy, infrastructure and defence work is also helping to keep workloads stable, while data centres remain busy thanks to AI‑led and hyperscale investment.

But caution is shaping the market too. Rising global uncertainty and cost pressures mean contractors are becoming risk-averse, with many declining tenders where labour is hard to secure or commercial terms feel unclear. 

Tight margins, ongoing skills shortages and the threat of sudden material cost spikes mean careful planning is more important than ever.

For small businesses, this more disciplined market can open doors – but only where risks are well understood and properly priced.

Konsortia helps local SMEs in Property & Construction businesses to make good choices.

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