From the Chief Executive

I hope this issue of Construction Worx finds you, your families and colleagues well. I was hoping to write this with news that the war in Ukraine was over, but sadly Russia's invasion continues and has sparked further outrage internationally. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families affected by this.

The backlash from Covid-19 is a continuing global issue which is having a severe impact on the worldwide supply chain, escalating existing challenges relating to the pandemic. News of the cost of living reaching a 40-year high is also painting a gloomy picture of where we are today. However, I write this with some positive news from our sector, which despite many uncertainties, has remained upbeat with sales in the first quarter of this year closing at 2.7% above 2021 levels.

The construction industry is making great inroads in terms of efficiency, automation and emerging technologies. Transformation is inevitable in every sector of our industry and the main theme in this issue is ‘telematics’ and how the Internet of Things and data is driving us forward.

We recently hosted the Futureworx Technology showcase and conference which was a resounding success. It was well attended by industry professionals and leading tech companies, and was a great insight into the future of the construction site. There's more about the event and conference in this issue.

We are also excited to launch the long anticipated Plantworx 2023, which is taking place on 13th – 15th June at its Peterborough home. You can read all about our plans on page 26.

As an association we continue to welcome new members and are working on important initiatives which will help to guarantee the continued success of the CEA and the sector in the future. Skills, sustainability and the road to net zero remain high priorities, with alternative fuels of particular importance since the demise of the red diesel rebate.

I would like to hear from you about these challenges or anything else you would like to get in touch about – do drop me an email at suneeta. johal@thecea.org.uk with any thoughts or ideas.

My very best wishes,

Suneeta Johal

Chief Executive

Construction Equipment Association