Construction trade 2025: These five trends will shape the industry
This year more than ever, BAU in Munich focussed on digitalization, sustainability and resource efficiency - topics that are becoming increasingly important not only at the trade fair, but throughout the construction industry and in the building trade.
A shortage of skilled workers, material bottlenecks and the inadequate level of digitalization in many trades will continue to pose challenges for companies if they do not take action. Dominik Hartmann, Co-CEO at OneQrew, highlights five key trends that will have a particular impact on the skilled trades in 2025.
1 Digitalization of the construction industry as an answer to the shortage of skilled workers
Achieving more with fewer staff - this remains a key goal for many companies. Digital tools such as mobile construction site apps or automated time recording systems help to reduce time-consuming office work so that fitters and trades-people have more time on site for their actual tasks and can better focus their capacities on the trade. Digitalization therefore offers the opportunity to be productive despite limited resources and to optimize work processes at the same time.
2 Efficient resource management is becoming indispensable
Material bottlenecks and rising costs make precise planning essential for all trades, but especially for the construction industry and building trades. Digital systems such as modern ERP tools make it possible to optimize the use of materials and identify bottlenecks at an early stage. This not only saves costs, but also benefits customers who expect a reliable and punctual service.
3 Training must become more digital
On the one hand, the construction and ancillary building trades are struggling with a growing shortage of young talent; many training positions remain unfilled. On the other hand, young talents expect modern working conditions and the use of digital tools. The digitalization of training is not just a trend, but a necessity. This shows young people that the skilled trades are not only traditional, but also anything but shy of the future and innovation. OneQrew, for example, supports companies with digital platforms that prepare trainees for the demands of the modern working world.
4 Sustainability is becoming the standard
In future, companies in the construction industry, whether SMEs or mid-sized companies, will also be expected to work in a resource-saving and environmentally friendly manner. Digital tools can help to make processes more efficient, save energy and avoid waste. Sustainability has therefore long ceased to be a nice-to-have and is now a key competitive factor. Companies that now rely on sustainable solutions can reduce their ecological footprint and show their customers that they are taking responsibility.
5 Networking improves collaboration
Smooth communication - both internally within the team and with customers - is a key success factor for trade businesses. Digital platforms that provide real-time information on project status and progress keep customers up to date at all times. At the same time, modern ERP and CRM systems enable more efficient coordination between teams and locations. These improved communication options create clarity, reduce misunderstandings and ensure a smoother process - from quotation to final acceptance.
The industry must actively seize opportunities in 2025
2025 will be a year of setting the course for companies across all trades. Those who invest in digital solutions now will not only secure a strong market position, but will also actively shape the future of the skilled trades. The companies that focus on digitalization, sustainability and efficient resource management today - the key to ERP - are actively facing up to the challenges of tomorrow and laying the foundations for long-term success.
