The construction industry has evolved significantly in recent years, driven by regulatory changes, technological advancements, and a shift towards deeper, more collaborative client relationships. As ACS marks over 40 years in the sector, our Managing Director David Flannery, reflects on how we’ve not only embraced change but are leading the way in shaping the future of masonry façade solutions.
Our sector has come of age
The construction sector has transformed dramatically in recent years. A plethora of macro variables have pushed the industry to learn and grow; from the tragedy of Grenfell and the subsequent scrutiny and introspection to the technological advancements that continue to shape our sector.
With 40 years of experience under our belts, we’re not just embracing this change but driving it, shifting the nature of our relationships with clients. We’re a business that’s built on tradition and driven by innovation with a desire to deepen client relationships. We’ve seen a shift from being ‘ACS the manufacturer’ to ‘ACS the construction partner’.
A partner with purpose
We’re proud of our product portfolio. It’s vast, comprising masonry support systems, advanced modular brick-slip systems, wall ties, cavity trays, and other façade solutions designed for modern architecture. But today, our role extends far beyond just supplying products. We’re working with clients earlier in the design stage, providing expertise from concept to completion.
Once specified later in the process, we now collaborate with many of the UK’s leading main contractors, developers, architectural practices, and brickwork contractors to deliver bespoke, innovative solutions – many of which have featured in iconic structures across the country and beyond.
This early engagement is particularly crucial in navigating regulatory changes, including the implications of the Building Safety Act. By taking a proactive role, we help clients maintain accurate, transparent, and accessible information across a building’s lifecycle.
That means we support our clients in aligning with the Golden Thread principles outlined in the Hackitt Report – crucial in an industry facing significant risks. By doing so, we help ease that burden, backed by our robust professional indemnity insurance, which offers further reassurance to our clients.
The role of technology
Technology plays a fundamental role in our approach too. We invest in the capabilities of our design team ensuring they can expertly use cutting-edge BIM-compliant software to create bespoke solutions that meet both the aesthetic and technical demands of modern construction. Whether that’s delivering intricate brickwork details or sustainable material specifications, we tailor each design to exceed expectations.
Advancements in streamlined production processes ensure rapid delivery without compromising quality. We also support clients through Building Safety Regulator (BSR) Gateway 2 submissions, providing expert guidance and technical documentation to ensure compliance with the highest safety standards.
And we continue to invest in our state-of-the-art factory in Leeds, where more than 100 colleagues – many of them skilled technical and manufacturing professionals – continuously push boundaries to deliver the safest, highest-quality, and most sustainable products in the market. With advanced operational efficiency and industry-leading lead times, we ensure our clients meet project deadlines while maintaining exceptional quality.
Facing the skills shortage head-on
While progress in technology and regulation is vital, one significant challenge remains – the skills shortage. According to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), an additional 250,000 construction workers will be required by 2028 to meet industry demand.
That’s we’re putting people first, with an investment and training programme that’s central to our long-term strategy. Our training options ensure colleagues stay ahead of the curve, while our apprenticeship scheme welcomes the next generation of skilled workers into our business every year (you can read some of our apprentices’ stories here). By investing in our workforce, we’re securing the future of both ACS and the industry as a whole.
We also recognise the importance of sharing knowledge and best practices beyond just our team. That’s why we extend training beyond the factory door, offering a completely free, accredited CPD programme, providing construction professionals with the latest insights into façade innovation, safety regulations, and industry advancements.
Sustainability at our core
And I’m proud to say that all of these bold steps we’re taking are made with one eye on the future. Sustainability underpins everything we do – be that energy-efficient operations in our factory, to products incorporating recycled materials, we’re committed to reducing our environmental impact. Every new process and product we develop is designed with sustainability at its heart.
ACS turned 40 last year, and with that milestone, we’ve truly come of age. At our core, we remain manufacturers who are passionate about producing exceptional products. But today, we are also trusted partners, working hand-in-hand with clients to realise their architectural vision while ensuring safety, compliance, and outstanding results.