According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), while construction output in Great Britain showed no growth in the first quarter of 2025, the latest data points to significant opportunity ahead. Total new orders jumped by 26.6% (£2.45 billion) compared with the previous quarter, driven by infrastructure and private industrial projects—both sectors typically demand substantial plant and machinery investment.

With housing activity also picking up and contractors looking to upgrade their fleets, the timing of the PlantWorx construction exhibition in September couldn’t be better. Returning to Newark Showground from Tuesday, September 23rd, to Thursday, September 25th, 2025, PlantWorx offers a timely platform for equipment suppliers to engage directly with construction professionals planning their next move.

ONS data confirms that while quarterly output was flat (0.0%) compared to Q4 2024, March saw modest growth of 0.5%, following an upwardly revised 0.2% in February and a 0.3% fall in January. Within the Q1 figures, new work rose by 0.9%, offsetting a 1.2% fall in repair and maintenance activity.

Growth in both segments underpinned March's positive momentum. New work increased by 0.6% on the month, while repair and maintenance rose by 0.4%. Notably, private housing and infrastructure were the key contributors to growth, rising by 2.3% and 2.5%, respectively.

New orders are a forward-looking indicator. They signal contracts awarded but not yet delivered – in other words, the work that’s coming. And where there’s work, there’s demand for machines, attachments, safety systems, servicing and technology.

Contractors with new projects on the books will review their fleets, assessing what they need to buy, hire, or replace to meet the demands of complex builds and regulatory standards. For the supply chain, this is a moment to be present, visible, and ready.

PlantWorx 2025 offers that opportunity. As the largest working construction exhibition in the UK this year, it gives the sector a clear view of where the market is heading — and how companies are responding. With over 300 exhibitors expected, live demonstrations, new technology, and a focus on workforce development, it’s a key date for anyone involved in construction equipment. More than 12,000 visitors are expected across the three days.

After a muted start to the year, the construction sector is clearly building towards something larger. The sharp increase in new orders suggests that contractors are looking beyond short-term uncertainty and planning for delivery. For equipment manufacturers and suppliers, the message is clear: demand is coming. Now is the time to make sure you're ready for it.

The complete exhibitor list is now live online and you can now register for your free fast-track entry to PlantWorx 2025 at VISITOR TICKET