Construction output drops 0.8% in May, Screwfix joins forces with Google to bring AI training to the shop floor, and a plasterer expands into online training
Construction output dropped again in May, largely due to a 5% downturn in housing repair and maintenance work.
Overall, government statistics estimated that output fell by 0.8%.
Despite disappointing figures in April and May, a strong performance in March meant the three-month picture remained positive.
Jo Streeten from ACOM said the fall in output illustrated that political and economic uncertainty was continuing to “weigh on investment decisions across the sector”.
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Screwfix has partnered with Google to bring AI training directly into its stores.
The tech-titian will operate a juice bar at selected outlets, where it will illustrate how AI tools can turn sketches into 3D renderings and handwritten notes into proposals.
Research from Google suggests that over 70% of tradespeople are keen to grow their AI skills, but over half don’t know who to ask.
The firm’s report also claims that AI could improve the productivity of small businesses by 20%.
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A plasterer in Shrewsbury is expanding into online training.
Mark Konieczny, the owner of Mr Smooth Plastering, has already been running hands-on training sessions for external rendering systems from his workshop.
The tradesman now plans to offer structured lessons, demonstrations, and guidance to learners worldwide to raise standards and confidence “wherever people are”.
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