Weak product information is costing the UK construction industry billions — and the lessons resonate globally. A new study by GS1 UK, in partnership with Barbour ABI, reveals how fragmented data undermines compliance, safety, and efficiency in the built environment.
Key Insights from GS1 UK
The report highlights that poor product data could cost the UK construction sector an estimated £3.8 billion annually, a staggering figure that underscores the scale of inefficiency caused by inconsistent information. While 98% of professionals are aware of the Building Safety Act, only 21% fully understand its requirements, revealing a significant gap between awareness and compliance readiness. Much of the industry still relies on static PDFs and brochures, leaving substitution decisions risky and compliance uncertain. GS1 UK points to the adoption of global standards such as Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) as a pathway to consistent identification and traceability, offering a practical solution to the sector’s data fragmentation problem.
Standards as Solutions
GS1 UK points to the adoption of global standards such as Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) as a pathway to consistent identification and traceability. By embedding these standards into construction workflows, the industry can move away from fragmented records and toward a future where product information is reliable, accessible, and digitally integrated.
Kenya’s Construction Sector
Kenya faces similar challenges: fragmented records, limited digital adoption, and growing compliance pressures. As infrastructure projects expand, the need for reliable product information becomes critical. Lessons from GS1 UK’s findings could guide reforms here, especially as digital product passports and traceability gain traction in Africa’s construction supply chains.
For Kenya, adopting global standards could mean safer, more efficient, and more transparent construction practices — reducing risks and improving accountability across the sector. The GS1 UK study is a timely reminder that data is not just an administrative detail; it is the backbone of compliance, safety, and innovation in construction.
The GS1 UK report underscores that “digitalisation is essential to the future of the built environment.” For Kenya, adopting global standards could mean safer, more efficient, and more transparent construction practices — reducing risks and improving accountability across the sector.
“Most people in the industry, in their hearts must know that we’ve been taking risks. But a lack of effective systems and policies has too often left those on the ground feeling powerless to push back against the constant pressure to hit time and cost targets and call out issues.”
Brian Green
Industry analyst
This feature is based on GS1 UK’s research: “Construction’s Product Information Problem.” Explore the full report here: GS1 UK Insights https://www.gs1uk.org/insights/news/constructions-product-information-problem
By Smart Construction
