PRESS STATEMENT
The Masonry Association of Great Britain (MAGB)
Response to the Autumn Budget
The Masonry Association of Great Britain welcomes several elements of the Autumn Budget that offer long-term potential for our sector—particularly the renewed commitment to infrastructure investment and efforts to strengthen planning capacity. These measures are positive steps that could unlock long-awaited development, housing delivery, and regeneration work across the UK. For the masonry industry, which remains central to safe, durable and sustainable construction, this signals a welcome increase in future demand.
However, today’s Budget also lands heavily on the very businesses that form the backbone of our industry. Thousands of SME contractors, manufacturers and suppliers—already under severe pressure from rising costs, tight margins and economic uncertainty—now face further tax burdens and minimal targeted support. The lack of meaningful measures for retrofit and energy-efficiency upgrades, despite their importance to both decarbonisation and economic recovery, represents a missed opportunity.
As CEO of MAGB, I know how challenging the environment has become for our smaller firms. Many continue to struggle with cashflow, access to skilled labour, and an increasingly complex regulatory landscape. This Budget will not make their situation easier.
That is why MAGB is accelerating plans to substantially expand the support we offer to SMEs in 2026. We are actively developing a package of new member benefits, focused on practical, cost-saving and business-enhancing tools.
Our message to the Government is clear: if SMEs are expected to deliver the homes, infrastructure and skilled employment the UK urgently needs, they require meaningful support—not additional pressure.
Our message to our members is equally clear: MAGB will stand with you. We will continue to champion your interests, challenge barriers to your success, and put in place the partnerships and programmes needed to help you thrive in 2026 and beyond.
