EH Smith Explores The Damaging Effects Of The UK Brick Shortage
Birmingham, West Midlands (PRWEB UK) 7 February 2014 -- As one of the UK's largest independent building merchants, EH Smith have explored some of the reasons why this has happened to the industry, as house building continues to thrive across the country.
Mark Mallinder, Marketing Director for EH Smith said: “The brick shortage has been directly linked with the recession. When house building hit a record low in 2007/8 up to 1.2 billion bricks were stock piled with minimal demand. When you consider that this is roughly half the amount of bricks the UK uses in a year, it's no wonder that so many brick manufacturing plants were mothballed or entirely closed during this period.
“With the housing market seeing a dramatic resurgence from 2013 onwards, these stock piles are dwindling and now brick manufacturers in the UK are struggling to keep up with demand.”
The government's 'Help To Buy' scheme is one of many reasons why the industry is picking up again. But the shortage of bricks has left developers searching for alternatives and a lengthy wait.
“The deficit in the industry means that some construction companies are sourcing their bricks form Europe, which not only increases sourcing and transport costs, but it also damages the UK economy, as well as the UK brick manufacturing industry.” Mr Mallinder concluded.
As it happens, EH Smith are well placed for this sort of material shortage, having significant brick stock holdings throughout their branches, plus the invaluable resource of brick specialists who are able to source alternative options if required.
For more information on their services and products or to find your nearest branch, visit the EH Smith website here or call 0121 713 7100.
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About EH Smith
EH Smith Builders Merchants is one of the largest independent builder’s merchants and timber merchants in the UK, stocking a comprehensive range of building supplies and trade products. Traditionally a specialist in heavyside building materials, EH Smith has explored more diverse markets and have expanded their sustainable building material ranges as well as the timber merchant side of the business.
Holly Plant, Ricemedia Ltd, +44 8450943770, [email protected]
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