Construction procurement at Christmas: how to plan effectively
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Sourcing building supplies in the run-up to Christmas? It's not easy. Learn how to keep things running smoothly without ruining your holidays.
It's a cliché, but it's true. Christmas might be a time for rest and relaxation, but it's often impossible to rest and relax.
The same is true for the construction industry at this most wonderful time of the year. Project managers often find themselves caught between a rock and a hard place. On the one hand, there's an increase in project tenders. On the other hand, well, pretty much everyone's on holiday.
Many construction sites and contractors take a break. This will often consist of the two weeks allowed by the Working Rule Agreement, with a bit of annual leave thrown in for good measure.
Naturally, this means the industry temporarily slows down. In 2024, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that "monthly construction output is estimated to have decreased 0.5% in volume terms in December 2023; this came solely from a decrease in new work (1.1% fall)".
Higher demand and reduced operating hours don't make for great bedfellows. Often, project managers suffer from supply chain disruptions – and this at a time when supply chains are already under pressure.
So, how can you increase your chances of success at this tricky time? Here are five things to keep in mind.
1. Plan, plan, plan
Christmas procurement is a lot like Christmas shopping. The more time you give yourself, the more likely you are to see someone's face light up.
There's no hard and fast rule, but we'd suggest planning your procurement process in early autumn.
This has a number of benefits. It reduces the risk of orders running short or running out entirely. It gives you a clear view of your budget. And it means that if disaster or inconvenience strikes, you've got plenty of time – and headspace – to sort it out.
As with all procurement for construction, you need to be clear and detailed about what you need and when you need it. In the case of toughened glass (our bread and butter), you need to specify the product you want, the thickness you need, tolerances and more.
2. Order early
Our second point follows naturally from the first. Once you know the materials you need, order them! And as with planning, make sure you do it with plenty of time to spare.
If you work with a reputable supplier, you shouldn't run into any difficulties. But ordering early frees up time to address any problems should they arise.
We've talked elsewhere about how to order glass. You need to be clear about your measurements, your tolerances and your turnaround. You also need to make sure you work with a good provider. Cut any of these corners and it could be beans on toast for Christmas dinner…
3. Use frameworks where relevant
Most of the time, project managers are responsible for sourcing and working with suppliers. But in some contexts, especially in the public sector, pre-planned agreements known as "frameworks" can be used.
This is where a buyer and their suppliers agree on terms and conditions for future contracts. It means that the budget and turnaround are baked in, streamlining the process and reducing the risk of overspending.
Of course, circumventing the tender process isn't something every organisation can do – and it's not something you can make happen at the last minute.
But if you're in the public sector and need continuity every Christmas season, a procurement framework such as a direct award could be just what you need.
4. Manage expectations
Following these steps will increase your chances of procurement success – but they don't guarantee it. At a time of prolonged supply chain volatility, there's a very real chance you won't have exactly what you need at this time of year.
This is a problem, for sure. But it's only a disaster if you haven't effectively managed expectations. Your team, partners and other stakeholders all need to be aware that shortages are possible. This lets you pull together as a team and make contingency plans.
Expectation management is a must in business all year round. But at a time of year when the likelihood of delays is increased, it's non-negotiable.
5. Prioritise effective communication
A supply chain is made up of many links. Links between manufacturers and suppliers, hauliers and couriers. But there's one link that keeps the show on the road: effective communication.
Skimp on communication and you're likely to run into difficulties. You need to be clear about your requirements and keep your procurement partners in the loop.
None of this will help you much, however, if your suppliers aren't the best in town. Working with experienced, reputable professionals means a better relationship – and a better relationship means more effective problem-solving.
If you have a tried and tested supplier, talk to them! And if you don't, look for marks of quality before relying on them for Christmas procurement.
How we can help
Here at ToughGlaze, we provide clients in a range of sectors with high-quality
toughened and
decorative glass products. These can be cut to your exact requirements and processed in a wide variety of ways.
What's more, all of our glass products have the Kitemark seal of approval and are manufactured in line with BS EN standards. This makes us an ideal partner if you're procuring glass for a large or complex project where compliance is essential.
Finally, we do everything under one roof – from cutting to firing, from treating to delivery. This means the ordering process is streamlined. Hold-ups are rare – but if they do happen, you know who to talk to.
So, if you're looking for high-quality toughened or laminated glass products this festive season, we can help. Get in touch today for a quick, competitive quote or explore our range of products online.
