Building a solid future

The UK government’s ambitious pledge to build 1.5 million homes has the potential to revitalise the construction industry. Sameer Sawant, Director of solid surface manufacturer Velstone, sees the move as more than just a housing initiative – it’s a potential catalyst for widespread growth and innovation across multiple sectors.

Having spent more than two decades in this industry, the construction industry has had its fair share of challenges in recent years, from the recession in 2008, Brexit, more recently the uncertainties in the aftermath of COVID-19 pandemic.

The construction industry has always been the backbone of economic growth, and this pledge could be the game-changer we’ve been waiting for in the construction sector, including the solid surface industry. One and a half million new homes means the same number of kitchens and bathrooms over the next five years minimum.

But it will not just be about putting roofs over the heads. As the focus shifts to new builds, there’s an opportunity to breathe life into existing commercial spaces, and what’s hugely exciting is that new residential areas don’t exist in isolation. They need schools, healthcare and retail spaces, and each of these buildings require high-quality, long-lasting surfaces.

From laboratory countertops in schools to counters and desks in shops, the potential for growth in the commercial sector is enormous.

Such a focus on construction could also be the catalyst for a new phase of growth and new opportunities often lead to innovation. A surge in demand, for example, could drive advancements in manufacturing processes.

Innovation has always been at the heart of our ethos at Velstone. Our continuous casting line to incorporate adjustable sizes in 1997, the launch of our 25mm thick material in 2004, were responses to market demands, while we started our project services in 2006, specifically targeted for use as laboratory tops in educational and research facilities, before moving to bathrooms and kitchens in 2010. More recently Velstone has adapted its projects services to cater to the high volume, short lead times, budget constrained demands of the Student Accommodation market.

Similar new challenges and opportunities lie ahead, and we will embrace them at Velstone.

We’ve been at the forefront of solid surface manufacturing for years. Our durable, versatile materials are perfect for all applications, from style and substance for new builds to a 100% non-porous seamless surface that resists bacteria growth for commercial spaces.

While the focus is on residential construction, the benefits to the commercial sector could be transformative too and, having worked in Residential, Education and Retail, it is a potentially exciting time for us all.

For more information visit www.velstone.com or call 0208 861 4422.