January 2025: Industry Insights Impacting Bids & Tenders

Webid Consult’s monthly industry insights bring together key developments shaping the bidding and tendering landscape. From innovative technologies to sustainability initiatives and market shifts, these updates provide valuable context for bid strategies. Here are ten noteworthy topics this month:

_{1. New Technology to Maximise Level Boarding}

Southeastern and Network Rail Alliance have introduced advanced LiDAR and AI-processing services via Cordel to improve accessibility in the rail sector. By equipping maintenance units with this cutting-edge technology, highly accurate 3D models of station platforms are being developed, allowing manufacturers to optimise train designs for level boarding. This enhances accessibility for passengers and could become a key requirement in future rail tenders focusing on inclusivity and efficiency.

_{2. Electric Roller Revolution Hits the UK}

The UK has welcomed its first fully electric, 4.5-tonne road roller, the Sany STR50E. This innovation boasts a lithium-iron-phosphate battery, capable of operating for up to six hours on a single charge. With growing interest in sustainable infrastructure, this development could be a key factor in future road maintenance tenders, where low-emission solutions are increasingly prioritised.

_{3. Tarmac Trials New Technology to Cut Concrete Road Noise}

A National Highways trial on the A30 in Cornwall has demonstrated that a new concrete surface treatment can reduce road noise by up to seven decibels. Unlike traditional methods that wear down the road surface, this innovative approach extends road lifespan and reduces maintenance costs. This could influence procurement strategies for highway projects, where durability and noise reduction are crucial selection criteria.

_{4. RSSB Launches Free Sustainability Course for the Rail Industry}

The Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) has introduced a free e-learning course to help industry professionals understand and implement sustainability practices. Covering essential topics such as carbon literacy and environmental best practices, this course could influence tender requirements, with clients increasingly expecting sustainability expertise in bid responses.

_{5. New Climate Change Projections for the Rail Industry}

To enhance climate resilience, the Rail Safety and Standards Board has released new climate change projections for the UK rail industry. These projections provide data on future temperature extremes, storm frequency, and rising sea levels—factors that could impact infrastructure project planning. Understanding these trends will be critical for bidders seeking to future-proof their proposals against climate risks.

_{6. Census Confirms Hiring Challenges Facing Engineering Construction}

A workforce census by the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) highlights severe hiring challenges, with 71% of employers struggling to fill roles. The report emphasises a critical skills shortage in key trades, such as electrical engineering and pipefitting. This trend may drive procurement teams to prioritise workforce training and skills development in bid evaluations.

_{7. Tender Prices to Rise by 19% by 2029}

According to the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS), tender prices are set to increase by 19% over the next five years due to rising material and labour costs. This will impact bid pricing strategies, with bidders needing to account for inflationary pressures while remaining competitive. Strategic cost forecasting and value engineering will be key differentiators in future tenders.

_{8. HS2 Contractor Achieves Top Standard for Inclusion & Diversity}

Balfour Beatty VINCI SYSTRA, the construction partner for HS2’s Old Oak Common Station, has secured Clear Assured Platinum Accreditation for its commitment to diversity and inclusion. This recognition highlights the increasing importance of EDI (Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion) in bid evaluations, where social value commitments play a growing role in tender scoring.

_{9. Hospital Building Plan Extended by a Decade}

The UK government has restructured its hospital construction programme, extending project timelines by ten years. While all planned hospitals will still be built, project start dates have been delayed. This shift impacts bidding cycles for construction firms, requiring long-term planning and adaptability in healthcare infrastructure tenders.

_{10. New Funding Model Demanded for Local Roads}

The House of Commons Public Accounts Committee has criticised the Department for Transport for its fragmented approach to local road maintenance funding. The call for a simplified, long-term funding model could influence future road maintenance contracts, with bidders needing to adapt to new procurement frameworks and funding structures.

_{Download the Full Edge Document}

For a comprehensive overview of this month’s industry updates, download the full Edge document here.

Staying informed about industry trends is crucial for crafting competitive bids. Webid Consult continues to monitor key developments, helping businesses navigate evolving procurement landscapes with strategic insights.

For expert bid and tender support, contact us today to see how we can help you win more contracts.