For subcontractors in the construction industry, procurement can often feel like a precarious balancing act. Managing supplier availability, controlling costs, and ensuring projects remain on schedule presents ongoing challenges. For Planning Management Limited (PML), the quest for an improved procurement strategy led them to The Build Chain, a digital procurement platform that has transformed their operations.
PML faced several entrenched issues familiar to many in the sector. Traditionally, their options were limited, confining them to a narrow supplier base which stifled competition and inflated costs. Price uncertainty added another layer of complexity; without real-time access to various quotes, making informed and cost-effective decisions was a daunting task. Adding to their woes were time-consuming procurement processes and project delays caused by late deliveries, which often compromised the integrity of operations.
To alleviate these challenges, PML opted to utilise The Build Chain. This platform connects contractors to an extensive network of suppliers—over 500 UK-based merchants—facilitating real-time price comparisons and efficient procurement practices. Speaking about the change, Paul Leivers, managing director of PML, noted, “The Build Chain has completely changed how we source materials. The ability to instantly access multiple suppliers, compare quotes, and secure the best prices has been a game changer for us.”
The results of this transition have been profound. By integrating The Build Chain into their procurement process, PML added four new suppliers to their network, reducing reliance on established relationships that often lacked competitive pricing. Through the platform, PML accessed more competitive pricing structures, unlocking significant cost savings across various projects. Furthermore, the ability to compare multiple supplier quotes instantaneously has expedited decision-making, allowing PML to keep projects on track and avoid the delays that previously plagued them.
Jordan Henry, a quantity surveyor at PML, echoed these sentiments, stating, “For us, it’s all about efficiency and cost control. The Build Chain has made procurement incredibly easy—quotes come in super fast, we can compare suppliers instantly, and the platform helps us make informed, cost-effective decisions.” This shift towards streamlined procurement not only enhances efficiency but also cultivates better relationships with suppliers, fostering long-term strategic partnerships.
Moreover, the platform’s design inherently promotes sustainability. Each inquiry is automatically matched with local suppliers, significantly reducing transportation-related carbon emissions. This is a vital feature in an industry increasingly scrutinised for its environmental impact. According to another study, embracing local suppliers can lead to substantial carbon savings, enhancing both the efficiency and sustainability of construction projects.
The Build Chain is not only transforming individual procurement operations but also spearheading a broader trend towards digitalisation in the construction sector. As contractors and subcontractors embrace these technologies, they stand to gain greater efficiency, reduced costs, and strengthened supply chain dynamics.
Reflecting on their experience, PML illustrates the potential of digital procurement platforms to redefine industry standards. With the construction landscape continually evolving, embracing platforms like The Build Chain is increasingly seen as essential for maintaining competitive advantage.
As the industry looks towards the future, the question remains: is your procurement process holding you back? The shift towards digital solutions may well be the key to unlocking a new era of efficiency and sustainability in construction.
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Source: Noah Wire Services
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