FORT Fencing
Agricultural & Equine Fencing
2022.FORT May Newsletter
07 May 2022
Despite the awful mix of global and economic news, the building industry seems to be remarkably strong; nobody knows where we’re heading, but a mixture of high inflation and falling disposable income must have an effect at some stage.
FORT Progress Update
FORT is still very busy and our larger delivery fleet is already ‘maxing out’ on some days – our ambition is to always deliver on the next working day, but bear with us! Our stock levels remain strong and that is helping to ensure that overall availability is good.
So, how’s the market – what’s happening on costs?
The Ukrainian war is going to cause long-term issues on prices, particularly for timber, but in a range of other products. Energy costs will stay high and have probably not topped out yet. We continue to make good progress on our showroom in Unit B, with the Trex decking show deck now installed and ready to be viewed. The rest will come together
General Availability & Price Update
Availability, in general terms is actually pretty good at the moment, but there are ongoing threats. The huge surge in energy costs across the world affects most building products, particularly heavy, low value items like cement & concrete. Inflation is bound to affect the types of products far more heavily than other items.
Our advice remains the same:
- We strongly urge you to NOT give any firm price commitments beyond a very short timeframe – availability and inflationary pressures are extremely high
- FORT continues to hold excellent stock levels in most areas. Contact our sales team for further advice.
Let’s look at the key indicators:
Containers:
We’ve seen another small fall in overall rates, but they are still at historically high levels. These rates have been around for some time, so they’ve become ‘normal’; hopefully we might see further falls to compensate for other cost increases.
Steel:
Having jumped in price after the initial invasion, prices have settled down, but remain at high historic levels.
Timber:
As usual, this chart only plots US rates, but gives the general picture; timber prices are increasing. The lack of Russian/Belarusian timber into the market is forcing up prices. Sawlog availability is poor.
Certain items (Siberian Larch and Birch plywood) are going to be severely affected. Please contact the sales office for advice on substitutions and alternative options.
Inflation:
We are at scary levels of inflation. Even more concerning is that this is not going to be a short- term issue. The impact is bound to affect affordability and thereby demand.
With everything that's going on, at FORT we've undergone an extensive review of our prices and the upshot is that although there are still increases in some areas, there are also price decreases being seen in others. Your FORT pricing terms are available on your Customer Portal and if you ever have any questions then please don't hesitate to get in touch.
May Offers
Get great savings this month that will give you a real SPRING in your step.
• Touchstone Composite Flooring - 17 flavours in stock at £24.99/m2 +VAT
• PointFix Jointing Compound - in Grey and Buff colour at £26.50/tub +VAT
• Imperial Blend Bricks - at £975/thousand +VAT
Get in touch with our awesome sales team on 01488 505800, or pop in to see us on Ramsbury Road, Membury.
Take advantage of these offers until 31st May.
Staff Profile of the Month
Each month we’ll introduce you to members of our fantastic team, from those at the sales counter through to those who you may not usually come into contact with.
Name: Chelsea Sage
Job Role: Sales Counter
Hobbies & Interests: Sleeping, Football, Chatting!
Joined FORT In: February 2022
Most customers would know me as the friendly, smiling face of FORT as I work on the sales counter, but you’ll probably hear me before you see me! My job is to look after everyone that comes into the shop, and make sure they get prompt, efficient service with a smile!
Outside of work I enjoy football, both watching and playing. I’m an Everton fan, (but have a soft spot for Hungerford Town!) and I’ve been trying to get into the FORT 5-a-side team but as yet haven’t made the cut...
People tell me I’m a fantastic cook, and my kids especially love my home-made chicken kievs and cakes. I love a good horror movie, and enjoy listening to music – my favourites are the likes of Jess Glynne (when I’m trying to look cool) and ABBA (when I’m not). I love karaoke and am happy to give a bit of a sing-song to anyone that asks in the shop. Just make a request!
As always, please do not assume stock availability - check with the sales office!
Our reputation relies on word of mouth and testimonials from our valued customers, and as such we'd love for you to share reviews of your experiences with us on either Google, Facebook or TrustPilot if you have the time.
Thank you very much for your understanding and support at this time.
Best regards,
Matt, Tim & Keith
The Directors