Why More Women in Construction is Good for Business
For years, construction has been seen as a male-dominated industry, but that’s changing, and for good reason! More women are entering trade and merchanting roles, bringing skills, perspectives, and expertise that strengthen the industry. But this isn’t just about ticking a box. It’s about solving real challenges, from the skills shortage to customer service, and making businesses more competitive and profitable.
If you’re running a trade business or hiring for a merchant branch, here’s why bringing more women into the workforce isn’t just the right thing to do… it’s good for business.
The Skills Shortage Isn’t Going Away
The construction sector is desperate for skilled workers, and the gap is only widening. The latest CITB report shows that the industry needs an additional 225,000 workers by 2027 just to keep up with demand. That’s not just tradespeople… it’s merchant staff, logistics, estimators, surveyors, and project managers, to name a few!
Attracting only half the population to fill those roles makes no sense. More women in trade roles means a larger, more skilled workforce at a time when the industry needs it most.
What Businesses Can Do:
- Offer apprenticeships or trainee roles that actively encourage women to apply.
- Promote the variety of roles available.
- Work with local colleges and training schemes to bring in new talent.
Customers Expect Better Service and Communication
A huge part of the trade industry is about problem-solving and communication, whether it’s working with clients, selling the right products, or managing teams on-site. Studies show that diverse teams far outperform homogenous ones, particularly in customer service and decision-making.
Construction businesses and builders' merchants that employ a wider range of people benefit from improved communication, stronger relationships with clients, and better business outcomes. Businesses that nurture and grow a balance of perspectives have better results.
What Businesses Can Do:
- Focus recruitment on skills like organisation, problem-solving, and strategy.
- Ensure your merchant counters and sales teams reflect the customers they serve.
- Recognise that diverse teams drive innovation, helping businesses grow faster.
Women in Leadership Strengthen Business Performance
There’s a proven link between diverse leadership teams and business success. A McKinsey study found that companies in the top 25% for gender diversity are 25% more likely to outperform their competitors.
Why? Because decision-making improves when different experiences, ideas, and working styles come together. That applies to construction firms, suppliers, and merchants alike.
Women in leadership roles can bring fresh perspectives on operations, efficiency, and customer engagement, helping businesses stay ahead in a competitive market.
What Businesses Can Do:
- Mentor and promote skilled women already working in your company.
- Recognise the value of diverse leadership styles, particularly in decision-making and business development.
- Provide clear career progression paths so employees see a future in the industry.
The Industry’s Reputation Needs an Update
The construction sector has changed, but perceptions haven’t caught up. Many people still think of it as an industry that requires sheer physical strength and long, gruelling hours. In reality, modern construction is more about skill, technology, and precision than brute force.
If businesses want to attract the best talent, they need to change how the industry is seen. Creating workplaces where anyone with the right skills can thrive, not just those who fit outdated stereotypes, makes a company more attractive to all top talent, regardless of gender.
What Businesses Can Do:
- Challenge outdated perceptions by showing the real variety of roles available.
- Create a positive workplace culture where respect is the standard.
- Offer flexible working where possible (this benefits everyone, not just women!).
More Women in the Trade = A Stronger Future for the Industry
At the end of the day, this isn’t about ticking diversity boxes. It’s about making the trade industry stronger, more competitive, and better equipped for the future. The companies leading the way are already benefiting from a wider talent pool, improved customer relationships, and stronger teams.
At Lords, we believe that strong businesses are built on diverse teams, fresh ideas, and equal opportunities for all. International Women’s Day is a chance to recognise and celebrate the women who are shaping the future of our industry. From those on-site and behind merchant counters, to those leading teams and driving innovation. But it’s also about taking action and holding ourselves and our industry accountable.
We are committed to creating opportunities, breaking down barriers, and ensuring that talent, skill, and hard work define success in construction and merchanting. Today, and every day, we stand for an industry where everyone has the chance to build, lead, and thrive.
To find out more about our values and current vacancies please click here
