UK concrete consumption is at its 62-year lowest level

Results of research conducted by analytics from the Mineral Products Association (MPA) show that concrete sales in the UK are at their 62-year lowest level. Additionally, there is a decline in sales of asphalt and building mixtures. But what are the reasons for that, and how will it influence the UK?

The main source: Concrete sales hit 62-year low

What are the reasons for that situation?

First, and the main reason for that situation, is the decreasing amount of building works, and the growing number of unfinished buildings. In this regard, MPA calls on the UK government to take appropriate measures. In other cases, there can be serious consequences for the UK. The use of other building materials influences the amount of concrete consumption, but its impact is not significant.

For example, ready-mixed concrete volumes dropped by 11.5% to just 2.7 million cubic metres (Mm³) in Q2 2025. Over the last four quarters (Q3 2024 to Q2 2025), total sales were 11.9 Mm³ – the lowest since 1963.

What does the lowest concrete consumption mean for the UK?

A decrease in concrete and building mixture consumption hurts the UK. It means that the building industry slows down, which may cause a serious problem in the economy. It may also lead to the closure of production lines, which in the future will lead to increased dependence on foreign suppliers.

Aurelie Delannoy said: “This quarter’s data offers a stark reminder that market conditions remain incredibly challenging for the mineral products sector. A fourth consecutive year of declining sales is now a serious risk, including to jobs.

“What we are seeing is not just the challenge of a specific industry market; it is a broader signal of a UK construction sector and national economy stuck in first gear, hampered by weak confidence, patchy project delivery, and a chronic lack of tangible demand. Despite the government’s positive long-term announcements, businesses are still waiting for any concrete signs that the UK is ready to invest and to build again.”

Fencyx, as one of the leaders in the UK building industry, cautiously looks at this situation. We hope that the UK government takes all necessary actions, and this problem will be solved.

Read also: Research about using graphene in building materials has started