Welcome BRIAN BERRY
A s businesses put their plans for the year ahead into motion, understanding what lies around the corner is vital. What the Budget means for you: Jeremy Gray, the FMB’s Head of External Affairs, unpacks what the Autumn Budget 2025 means for construction firms in 2026 and beyond (page 15). With policy decisions shaping the operating environment for small builders, the analysis offers insight into what members need to prepare for. Members showcase excellence: Q Build Ltd in Scotland, which was highly commended at the 2025 Master Builder Awards, shares its astounding project that transformed an unforgiving sliver of coastal land into a striking modern home. It shows that outstanding craftsmanship and intelligent design can overcome the most challenging conditions (pages 18-19). Engaged communities: Strong local networks are vital for member success, and the FMB’s West Wales Branch is a shining example. With high engagement and a genuine culture of support, members are sharing knowledge, generating opportunities, and strengthening their businesses. We explore what’s behind their success – and what other branches can learn from their approach (pages 20-21). Legal updates: Regulation continues to evolve, and on page 23, Hayley Lorimer, FMB Director of Membership Services,
“As businesses put their plans for the year ahead into motion, understanding what lies around the corner is vital.”
examines what likely changes to the Building Safety Act could mean for your company. Managing your business: Cash flow is one of the biggest pressures facing small firms. Getting paid on time is a challenge, so construction law expert Lorna Carter offers practical advice on how to protect your bottom line (pages 24-25). Cause for optimism: On pages 28- 29, Alexandra Madden, a carpentry and joinery apprentice in the Shetlands, shares her experience of forging a career in construction and highlights the growing role of women in the industry. Resilience abounds in the sector: We hear from Peter Archibald, who found himself leading a construction business overnight after his boss was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2020. His story is one of determination, learning, and navigating adversity under immense pressure (pages 31-33). Change isn’t easy, but it’s often necessary: We feature three member businesses that took bold steps – whether shifting company culture, embracing new technology or resetting client expectations – and emerged stronger as a result (pages 34-37). Enjoy the read and good luck for what will likely be a year of challenges and opportunities.
BRIAN BERRY, Chief Executive Federation of Master Builders
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Master Builder
www.fmb.org.uk
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