FM growth for contractors

A report from BSRIA suggests that there is a move away from the traditional blue collar image of the industry and a polarisation is taking place between the m&e maintenance companies and facilities management (fm) companies that manage local workers.

Grouped contracts are currently growing at 26% per annum, while single service contracts have a growth rate of only 10%.

The growth of the fm industry and the increasing influence of its companies in the maintenance market are cited as the reasons for the changes. The rise in pfi projects, where facilities services are grouped, has also had a large impact, accounting for 42% of all public sector contract maintenance.

Length of contracts is increasing. This is being driven by clients looking for continuity, with 10-year contracts not uncommon. PFI projects have also helped.