Impact of Steel Trade Measure
The Government’s new steel trade measure came into force yesterday (1 July), reducing steel import quotas by 51%, with imports above these levels now subject to a 50% tariff. Following concerns raised by industry, the reduction is less than the 60% originally proposed, but the cost of delivering projects is still expected to increase significantly.
Price rises of between 14% and 18% are currently being reported on projects, placing even further inflationary pressures on the construction supply chain. Build UK member, the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA), has highlighted that the omission of fabricated steel products from the new quota and tariff framework leaves UK manufacturers facing higher input costs, whilst overseas competitors can continue importing fabricated steel into the UK without equivalent quota restrictions. It is anticipated that clients will be incentivised to move fabrication overseas, putting up to 30,000 UK jobs at risk.
The Government has confirmed that the quotas will be reviewed every 12 months, but the industry is pushing for this to be reduced to six months, warning that businesses are facing unsustainable financial pressures and there is a high risk of insolvencies. There is a transitional arrangement in place, which means that the new quotas and tariffs will not apply to steel under contract before 14 March 2026 and imported between 1 July and 30 September 2026.
Final Weeks to Enter the 2026 UK Fencing Awards
The countdown is on! With the 31st July deadline fast approaching, this is your final opportunity to enter the 2026 UK Fencing Awards.
From outstanding contractor projects and innovative solutions to exceptional apprentices, trusted suppliers and inspiring individuals, the awards celebrate the very best our industry has to offer.
This year’s awards will be held at the iconic Old Trafford on 12th November, where we’ll be joined by legendary England footballer Sir Geoff Hurst as our guest speaker.
Have you entered yet?
Whether you’re proud of a project you’ve delivered, want to recognise an apprentice who’s gone above and beyond, or know someone who deserves recognition through the Women in Fencing or Lifetime Achievement categories, we’d love to hear from you.
Remember, if you’re not in it, you can’t win it.
Entries close: 31st July
Enter today
Lifetime Achievement nominations: info@theafi.co.uk
Join us in celebrating the people, businesses and projects that continue to raise standards across the fencing industry.
Impact of Building Liability Orders
The first Building Liability Orders (BLOs) have now been issued by the High Court and the implications for groups of companies are significant. BLOs, which were introduced by the Building Safety Act, extend liability for building safety defects to ‘associated’ companies, even where the company that carried out the work has since been dissolved.
The latest BLO was issued by the High Court in its judgment on Mulalley v Sto. It ruled that Sto Limited was the manufacturer and supplier of a defective cladding system and must pay a contribution towards the costs of remedial work. As Sto Limited was placed into administration in 2025, the BLO means that Sto’s German parent company, Sto SE & Co. KGaA, is now liable to pay the contribution.
Earlier this year, a BLO was also issued in the ruling on Crest Nicholson v Ardmore, the ‘profound impact’ of which has resulted in Ardmore Construction Group going into administration. The group could not afford to pay a £14.9 million fine or further potential liabilities, which it became liable for when ‘associated’ company Ardmore Construction Limited went into administration.
Build UK will be bringing together members who have acted as Principal Contractors on projects on Tuesday 28 July for a roundtable discussion on the impact of BLOs, and if you would be interested in joining the meeting, please email us.
FenceX 2027 Continues to Gather Pace
With stand bookings now open, preparations for FenceX 2027 are progressing well, and we’re delighted with the positive response received from exhibitors across the industry.
Returning to NAEC Stoneleigh on Thursday 23 September 2027, FenceX will once again showcase the very best of the fencing and perimeter security sector, bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, contractors and industry professionals for a day of innovation, networking and business opportunities.
Following the outstanding success of FenceX 2025, the AFI is working to build on the event’s reputation by delivering an even bigger and more engaging exhibition.
Businesses looking to exhibit can continue to take advantage of our Early Bird Booking Scheme, allowing indoor stands to be secured with just a 10% deposit.
Booking early provides exhibitors with the greatest choice of stand locations while allowing them to spread the cost of exhibiting over a longer period.
FenceX remains the UK’s only exhibition dedicated solely to the fencing and perimeter security industry, making it an invaluable opportunity for businesses looking to showcase products, strengthen customer relationships and connect with a highly targeted audience.
If you’re considering exhibiting, now is the perfect time to secure your place.
To discuss stand availability or request a floorplan, contact the FenceX team at fencex@theafi.co.uk.
Make the Most of This Autumn – Join Us at the AFI & AFA Best Practice Day
With the busy summer season well underway, now is the perfect time to plan ahead and book your place at the AFI & AFA Autumn Best Practice Day, taking place on Thursday 15th October at Northumberland College – Kirkley Hall Campus.
Designed by the industry, for the industry, the Best Practice Day offers fencing contractors the chance to step away from the day-to-day demands of work and invest in something equally important – their skills, knowledge and professional development.
Throughout the day you’ll be able to watch practical demonstrations, discuss installation techniques with experienced contractors, meet leading suppliers and discover products and services designed to make life easier on site.
It’s also an opportunity to network with others working across the fencing sector, exchange ideas and hear about developments affecting the industry.
For just £15, your ticket includes:
- Breakfast roll and hot drink on arrival
- Lunch
- A full programme of practical demonstrations and workshops
- Access to exhibitors and industry experts
Whether you’re looking to refine your techniques, keep up to date with industry best practice or simply spend time with others who share your passion for fencing, this is a day not to miss.
Event Details
Thursday 15th October
Northumberland College – Kirkley Hall Campus, Newcastle upon Tyne
9.00am – 3.00pm
Places are now available, and we’d encourage you to book early.
Book your place today
Member Benefit Spotlight: Save on Fuel with UK Fuels
Fuel is one of the biggest day-to-day running costs for many fencing businesses, whether you’re travelling between jobs, transporting materials or managing a fleet of vehicles.
That’s why AFI members have access to an exclusive fuel card offer through UK Fuels, helping you save money every time you fill up.
Your AFI Member Benefit
✔ Guaranteed 4p per litre discount off the pump price of standard diesel
✔ Accepted at 6,900+ fuel stations across the UK
✔ Simple online account management with the Velocity app and portal
✔ HMRC-compliant invoices – no more collecting fuel receipts
✔ No contract or non-usage fees
Whether you run one van or an entire fleet, these savings can quickly add up over the course of a year, while making fuel administration much simpler.
Find Out More
Visit the dedicated AFI member page to apply and start saving today. If you have any questions about the application process, the UK Fuels team will be happy to help.