Offsite in the Spotlight at UK Construction Week

According to recent reports, the UK now lags behind Sweden, Germany and the Netherlands when it comes to offsite construction and the efficiencies this can offer the housing market in particular.

So all eyes will be on the Offsite area at this year’s UK Construction Week (UKCW). Discussing and dissecting the developments in modular and volumetric building technologies, products and techniques, scrutiny will be on the proof of performance of this fast-growing sector and how well, in reality, it can address critical issues such as skills shortages in the construction industry.

This year’s UKCW event includes the return of the Offsite Theatre, supported by the Modular and Portable Building Association and showcasing the latest news, products and discussions in premanufacturing, volumetric and all other types of offsite construction, at Birmingham’s NEC between 9-11 October 2018.

Industry experts and commentators will take centre stage to provoke discussion and outline plans for how offsite construction can tackle the housing crisis, and how the supply chain can keep up with the unprecedented demands to come.

Offsite Innovations

Ahead of the official release of the Offsite Theatre seminar programme, UKCW has announced a selection of Offsite exhibitors including CTX Containex, Extenda Line, Smart Panel, KC Cabins Solutions Ltd, Kerkstoel, Fermacell, REM, MPBA and Portakabin; alongside more than 100 exclusive product launches.

Nathan Garnett, UKCW event director, said “If you work in the construction industry, it’s a must-attend event. It’s an opportunity to see new products, discuss deals with suppliers, meet with your peers and hear what’s going from leading industry experts.

“For any forward-thinking business, the knowledge that will be taken away is invaluable.”

The Offsite Theatre links three of UKCW’s nine shows including:

Build Show
Centred around the Regeneration Hub, sponsored by Easy-Trim, the Build Show will uncover the latest developments, trends and projects in building refurbishment, repair and maintenance, alongside three new sections to the show: Doors, Windows and Glass; Roofing, Cladding and Insulation; and Tools, Health and Safety.

Timber Expo
The Timber Expo, supported by TRADA, returns with a new feature – the Confederation of Timber Industries’ workshops on issues such as fire safety and the successful use of wood in construction. These will take place alongside an array of timber-related talks, installations and exhibits.

Surfaces and Materials Show
The Surface and Materials Show will deliver workshops on hybrid concrete construction and modern materials, alongside a digital display hub which promises a tangible and visual experience that will inform your future projects.

Innovation Trail
A trail of innovation will flow through each of these shows, as well as Energy 2018, Building Tech Live, Surface & Materials Show, HVAC 2018, Civils Expo, Plant and Machinery Live, and Grand Designs Live; cementing UKCW’s 2018 innovation theme.

Talks, workshops and free CPD sessions will bring you up-to-speed with the innovative ideas shaping the future of the offsite construction industry. Bookings for CPD sessions are now live so register quickly as spaces are limited.

Other highlights of the week include the Beer & Ale Festival with hot food and live entertainment, and a chance to celebrate the Role Model of the Year, following the official shortlisting of 37 inspiring men and women.

Take Part

The Build Show takes place between 9-11 October at the NEC in Birmingham. Free tickets for visitors are now available at www.buildshow.co.uk. Tickets allow access to the other UKCW shows.
There’s also still time to take part in the UKCW as an exhibitor. If you want to share your latest product launch or service with those who matter, register your interest via the Build Show Exhibitor page.