Earlier this year, ceda announced the formation of its new working group’s structure to focus on some of the most important topics facing the catering equipment and foodservice industry. Working in the construction sector was identified as a key focus area.

The Main Contractor Working Group exists to allow Members working in the increasingly challenging construction space to collaborate and share knowledge. It is responsible for highlighting the challenges that exist in the construction sector working with main contractors – both general issues and those specifically pertaining to our sector – and delivering solutions that mitigate risk, create a more efficient process and promote the importance of early engagement with catering contractors.

Key priorities such as eliminating retentions, improving payment practices and contractual terms, have been identified and ongoing work continues in these areas.

The Group has produced guidance documents and template policies to help Members navigate and thrive in this sector, but it was felt that training was significantly important to enable Members to be best equipped to conquer challenges and best protect themselves.

Between June and August, we ran the following courses, in partnership with the Confederation of Construction Specialists;

1. Introduction to Construction Contracts
2. Contractual Awareness for Salespeople
3. JCT Contracts 2016 & 2024 Updates
4. Contractually Managing & Supervising Construction Work
5. Specialist Sub-Contractor Management
6. Obtaining Payment
7. Handling Claims & Disputes

86 attendees from 23 Member companies attended these sessions and the feedback has been extremely positive.

ceda Director General, Adam Mason comments, “It’s so important that we best arm and equip our Members who are operating in the increasingly challenging Construction sector. Not only to protect themselves but also to be best placed to win business and deliver outstanding projects.

“Our membership of Build UK helps enormously in this regard and allows us to be at the heart of discussion, development and influence.

“The more Members are prepared to collaborate and share, the better the solutions that we can deliver. I’m satisfied with the progress that has been made, but conscious that there is lots more to do to enable our Members to thrive in Construction.”

The next areas of focus are BIM and CDM. Further details of which will be announced shortly.