Is Construction’s Business Model Broken? – Episode #23
No Fluff. Just Real Industry Conversations
Is the construction industry set up to succeed – or designed to struggle? Is it the case the model is broken?
In this episode of The Hard Hat Talks, Kenneth Martin is joined by Paul McDevitt of McDevitt & Co to explore the deeper challenges shaping construction today. Drawing on over 30 years of experience across contractors, consultancy and industry advisory, Paul offers a candid view on why so many developers and construction businesses feel under pressure – despite strong demand across the sector.
From fragmented industry structures and low-margin business models, to planning delays, skills shortages and a lack of trust across the supply chain; this conversation goes beyond surface-level issues to look at what’s holding the industry back. Paul also shares a more practical perspective on what construction businesses can control – highlighting the importance of strategy, client selection and long-term thinking in building a more resilient and profitable business.
For anyone involved in construction – whether you’re designing, delivering or leading projects – this is a fairly grounded and honest discussion on what needs to change, and where the opportunities still lie.
What you’ll discover from the podcast
- Why construction remains vital to the economy – but still undervalued as an industry
- The impact of fragmentation and why construction struggles to speak with one voice
- Why low margins and risk allocation are holding businesses back from investing
- How a lack of trust continues to affect collaboration and project delivery
- Why many construction businesses operate without a clear strategy or direction
- The role of planning, policy and confidence in slowing development and investment
- Why skills shortages persist – and what’s needed to attract and retain talent
- How client selection, values and positioning shape long-term business success
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