GRANGEMOUTH-based Jarvie Plant has urged construction firms to ‘hire smart’ to help control costs as the sector battles with a reduction in major public infrastructure projects, potentially higher labour costs and the fallout from inclement weather conditions earlier in the year.
The company said that hiring high quality equipment can ‘help maintain margins’ and also aid staff retention.
“The construction sector is facing significant challenges on several fronts,” explained Jarvie’s business development director David Jarvie. “Hiring newer equipment isn’t only the safest option, it can also be the most cost-effective overall as projects will not be negatively impacted by older machines breaking down. If a machine breaks, you need to find a replacement and that can result in time delays and significant costs.
“Moreover, some of our newer equipment could help reduce fuel bills. For example, our ECO-Settler welfare accommodation units feature an automatic power management system which delivers 75% fuel savings against conventional units. In addition, our new fuel management offering is allowing our customers hassle-free hire of generators and accommodation, minimising downtime on site. Customers are also benefiting from reduced emissions from our new JS130 excavators and 25-35m rotating telescopic handlers.”
Jarvie said that in addition to rising costs, the industry is suffering a skills and labour shortage, which is driving up wages. The firm claimed recruitment costs are also rising, emphasising the importance of retaining existing employees.
David added, “Our customers’ staff have access to great equipment to work with and accommodation that offers them an excellent working environment, and we feel that is crucial to staff retention.”
