CPA study reveals UK plant-hire sector’s economic impact

The Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) has unveiled a comprehensive study on the economic contributions of the UK plant-hire sector at its annual conference on 7 November.

The study, conducted by Oxford Economics, sheds light on the sector's £14 billion contribution to the UK economy, its role in supporting jobs, and its notable productivity levels compared to other industries.

According to the report, The Economic Impact of the UK Construction Plant-hire Sector, plant-hire supports around 191,500 jobs across the UK, including 88,600 direct employees in plant-hire roles and temporary plant operators, as well as thousands of additional jobs through indirect economic activity. For every 100 direct jobs in plant-hire, an additional 216 jobs are supported in related sectors.

“This research has been carried out over many months, and we are excited to share the findings,” said CPA chief executive Steve Mulholland, who sees the report as an opportunity to highlight the plant-hire sector’s importance to both the economy and the workforce.

Productivity in the sector is 16% higher than the UK average, with a significant share of roles in management positions. The economic ripple effect of plant-hire is substantial, with every £100 contributed to GDP directly by the sector supporting a total of £218 in economic activity throughout the UK.

The study also emphasises the plant-hire sector’s adaptability, having evolved over recent years to navigate economic challenges. Looking forward, Mulholland anticipates further change as the sector addresses the priorities of decarbonisation, net-zero policies, and digitalisation. “Decarbonisation and the move to a net-zero economy are priorities,” noted Mulholland, pointing to the sector’s shift away from diesel towards cleaner energy sources. Additionally, the adoption of AI and digital technologies is expected to reshape operations and efficiency in the coming years.

Mulholland says the CPA will continue to support its members as they face these changes, emphasising the role of the report in setting a strong foundation for future initiatives. “This economic impact study helps set the foundations for moving forward for the CPA,” he added.