INTRODUCTION
Better data results in better decisions and better outcomes
Now in its seventh year, RLB’s annual Procurement Trends survey paints an accurate and detailed picture of the procurement landscape in UK construction.
Every year we survey contractors across the supply chain to examine the latest procurement trends and their impacts in key areas, from how contractors are selected for a project and the different types of contracts used, to sustainability targets, modern methods of construction and, for the first time this year, the adoption of AI.
By sharing our data and analysis of what is happening in procurement, our aim is to shape the industry’s thinking and best practice for the benefit of everyone working in the sector.
The last 12 months have seen heightened uncertainty across global markets and that uncertainty is evident in the built environment. Global supply chains are also feeling the pressure with rising input costs.
In the chart (top right), we look at two indices: the World Uncertainty Index and the Global Supply Chain Pressure Index. Both are elevated, but when we compare each index against its five-year average, we can see that uncertainty is weighing more heavily than supply chain pressure. This is directly playing through to risk appetite and procurement decisions.
It is always important to factor in the economic and geopolitical backdrop because for procurement planning to be effective it must not only consider client objectives but also market context. Both need to be addressed to deliver projects successfully, with the latter currently having more influence than has been the case historically.
The findings of this report will help project teams to balance the two and make more informed decisions around critical points such as type of contract, route to market and appropriate value selection criteria.
By making better procurement choices, our industry can achieve better outcomes for our clients and communities.
Paul Beeston Partner – Head of Industry and Service Insight paul.beeston@uk.rlb.com Connect on LinkedIn
Methodology
The findings of this report are compiled from a survey of key figures across the supply chain, covering a range of sectors, project size and type of contractor, with the aim of gaining insight and a broad spectrum of views on a range of procurement topics.
The survey was conducted anonymously in April 2026 and over 100 main contractors from all parts of the UK participated. We thank them for their time and their contributions.
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