Origin explains how you can build a strong reputation in a challenging market
The building industry has faced big challenges over the last year. From a surge in demand and global supply shortages, to soaring interest rates and inflation, plus a record hike on the cost of construction materials, it has been a turbulent time for builders and manufacturers to manage effectively.
With a UK recession looming, some professionals may be worried about work drying up. However, while industries such as hospitality, retail, and tourism will suffer as consumers tighten their belts, our research suggests that the construction industry won’t suffer quite as much, with homeowners stating they want to proceed with renovation plans despite economic uncertainty.
Ben Brocklesby, Director at Origin, talks to Professional Builder about why homeowners won’t scrap plans to update their homes and explains how builders can help their customers make the most of their budgets.
Reprioritising budgets
It will be a relief to know that 70 per cent of homeowners still want to push forward with renovation plans, according to Origin research. While budgets may be tighter, they have re-prioritised spending to ensure they can create a living space to suit their needs. The reason for this is a newfound appreciation for the benefit homes have on our health and wellbeing.
Building a happy home
Sarah Weir, CEO of the Design Council, explains this shift in mindset in her report, ‘A public vision for the home of 2030’: “We have become more acutely aware of how well or not our homes enable us to function – to work well, care for others, stay connected with friends and family, and keep healthy and happy. The pandemic has brought into sharper focus the critical importance of homes in meeting both our physical and emotional needs.”
Natural light plays a vital part in fulfilling these needs. It improves mental health, sleep, and cognitive performance. Origin research shows that homeowners are three times more likely to believe their home is bad for their wellbeing if it lacks natural light.
Unfortunately, with more people now working from home, the rise of ‘closed plan living’ poses a threat to the flow of light within homes. Separating spaces with solid walls and doors creates a barrier between rooms, but the Origin Internal Door (OI-30) is a clever solution. Available in over 150 RAL colours, the sleek internal glazed door elegantly divides spaces without compromising natural light.
All systems in the Origin Home Range offer ultra slim sightlines to maximise the light flow through a home. Made bespoke from high-grade aluminium, the range is ideal for use in all property types, from heritage buildings to modern new builds.
Reputation above all
Reputation is key. Origin research shows that 100 per cent of homeowners are more likely to purchase from companies with a good reputation and brands they trust to deliver high quality products and superior customer service. Despite budgets being tighter, homeowners will not compromise when investing in their homes.
At Origin, we ensure every project runs without a hitch. Our priority is to protect our Partners’ reputation and help them deliver the best performing systems and service to meet homeowner needs.
Homeowners want products that stand the test of time, which is why we offer an industry-leading guarantee of up to 20 years on our bespoke systems that have all been made in Britain. We also offer training to Partners to ensure every door and window is installed with expert precision.
Glazing on demand
Project delays can cause serious damage to reputation, timescales, and budgets. Origin’s unique ‘Your Lead Time, Not Ours’ zero lead-time service means our Partners can dictate when systems are delivered, even if that’s required in as little as 24 hours, so they never miss an install day.
Although homeowners will be more cautious with their budgets, it’s positive news for the building trade to know that home renovations remain a priority. Quality products and service excellence that demonstrate value will be vital as savvy homeowners opt to only spend with companies they trust. Working with reputable suppliers and manufacturers that offer unrivalled levels of service and products that stand the test of time is now more important than ever before.
For more information about setting up a trade account with Origin, visit Origin Trade – Join The Leading UK Aluminium Supply Network (origin-global.com).
