U.K. Concrete Formwork Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Aluminium Formwork, Steel Formwork, Timber & Plywood Formwork, and Others), By Application (Residential & Commercial Buildings, Infrastructure, and Others), and Country Forecast, 2025-2032

The U.K. concrete formwork market size was valued at USD 0.44 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 0.45 billion in 2025 to USD 0.52 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 2.1% during the forecast period.

Formwork is the temporary mold used in the construction sector to give wet concrete its desired shape and size. Made from materials such as wood, steel, or aluminum, it holds the concrete in place as it cures and hardens, ensuring the structural element has the correct form until it can support itself. It plays a vital role in modern construction by providing a cost-effective solution to ramp up the project speed, without hampering the quality, and ultimately saving extra cost. In large-scale projects such as bridges, tunnels, and high-rise buildings, engineered formwork systems ensure precision and safety. Formwork systems also play a central role in achieving dimensional precision, concrete durability, and repeatability, especially in high-rise cores, bridge piers, tunnel linings, and large-span civil structures. The U.K.’s strong pipeline of regeneration projects, housing programmes, and major civil infrastructure investments, including HS2, Lower Thames Crossing, Hinkley Point C, and regional development schemes, is set to propel market growth in the foreseeable period. 

The U.K. concrete formwork market is shaped by several established domestic and international providers. Leading players include Altrad RMD Kwikform, PERI, Doka, ULMA Construction, and MEVA, each offering extensive portfolios of modular, climbing, shoring, and heavy-duty civil formwork systems. Their competitiveness is reinforced through investments in digital engineering (BIM integration), automated climbing systems, sustainable material cycles, carbon footprint transparency, and advanced safety features.

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

Urban Redevelopment and Housing Expansion Driving Market Growth

Urban redevelopment and rising housing demand are becoming the primary engines for the United Kingdom concrete formwork market growth. Much of the nation’s housing stock is decades old, and growing population density in major metropolitan areas has intensified the need for modern residential and mixed-use construction. The regeneration of underutilised urban zones, particularly in London, Birmingham, and Manchester, is creating sustained demand for in-situ concrete structures, directly increasing the use of modular aluminum, steel, and timber formwork systems. The momentum is supported by national housing programs and ongoing public investment, such as Homes England reported 38,308 housing starts and 36,872 completions between April 2024 and March 2025, reflecting 5% and 12% growth from the previous year. Alongside residential expansion, redevelopment schemes increasingly feature complex architectural forms and higher structural requirements, contributing to greater adoption of engineered formwork systems in both commercial and infrastructure components of regeneration projects. These dynamics collectively strengthen long-term demand for advanced, reusable, and high-precision formwork technologies within the U.K. construction market.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Volatility in Construction Activity and Capital Budgets to Limit Market Expansion

Fluctuations in construction activity and frequent changes in capital budgets continue to create challenges for steady growth in the building sector. Rising material prices, high borrowing costs, and inflation have made it difficult for contractors and developers to plan and execute long-term projects. Many public and private construction initiatives experience delays due to funding revisions, planning approvals, or uncertainty in investment priorities. This irregular flow of work affects the overall demand for building materials, equipment, and formwork systems, leading to unpredictable order volumes for suppliers. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), construction output in Great Britain fell by 0.3% in August 2025 after showing no growth in July, while new work decreased by 0.4% over the three months to August. 

Additionally, high upfront investment and limited storage capacity for large formwork equipment remain significant practical constraints, particularly for small and medium-sized contractors. The setup and maintenance of reusable or modular systems require significant capital, transport, and logistics costs. These financial pressures increase overall project expenses and limit the adoption of modern construction methods, especially among smaller firms that operate on tighter budgets.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Public Infrastructure Renewal and Green Energy Projects to Create New Opportunities

Investment in public infrastructure renewal and green energy development is opening new avenues for construction activity across the country. Aging bridges, transport corridors, and public facilities require modernization, while renewable energy projects, such as wind farms and solar parks, are expanding rapidly. These initiatives generate large-scale demand for concrete structures, foundations, and supporting systems used in both civil and energy infrastructure works. According to the UK Government Infrastructure Pipeline, over 780 public and private projects are planned across the country, representing investments of about USD 676.9 billion over the next decade, including USD 364 billion in public funding. This supports the government’s 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy and includes major upcoming works in transport, energy, healthcare, and education sectors. Continuous government funding and private participation will encourage greater adoption of modern, reusable formwork systems, creating lucrative opportunities in the market. 

U.K. CONCRETE FORMWORK MARKET TRENDS

Integration of Digital Design and BIM in Formwork Planning to Fuel Product Adoption

The increasing integration of digital design tools and Building Information Modelling (BIM) is reshaping how formwork systems are conceived, planned, and executed in the U.K. Contractors and structural engineers now employ 3D BIM models to simulate formwork layouts, detect design clashes, and optimize material utilization before work begins on site. This digital-first approach enhances precision, reduces costly rework, and shortens project timelines. It also improves communication between stakeholders, allowing formwork suppliers, project engineers, and site managers to coordinate seamlessly through shared digital environments. Leading suppliers such as PERI, Doka, and RMD Kwikform now offer BIM-integrated planning software that links formwork design with on-site sequencing, logistics, and safety compliance. As the UK construction industry continues its digital transformation journey, the integration of BIM in formwork planning is set to become a standard best practice, driving product adoption across large-scale building and infrastructure projects.

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Segmentation Analysis

By Type 

High Demand for Aluminium Formwork to Remain the Market’s Growth Centre Due to Its Corrosion Resistance & Recyclability

Based on type, the market is classified into aluminium formwork, steel formwork, timber & plywood formwork, and others.

Aluminium formwork dominated the U.K. concrete formwork market share in 2024 due to its lightweight design, reusability, and compatibility with modular construction techniques. It is widely used in mid- and high-rise residential buildings, where repetitive floor layouts make it cost-effective over multiple uses. The system’s durability and quick assembly support faster project turnaround and reduced labor requirements, key benefits amid the U.K.’s ongoing labor shortage. Aluminum’s corrosion resistance and recyclability also align with the country’s Net Zero and circular construction objectives.

Timber & plywood formwork held another major chunk of the market in 2024, supported by its flexibility, cost efficiency, and strong base among small to mid-sized contractors. Despite rapid modernization, timber remains indispensable in custom concrete works, refurbishment, low-rise, and non-repetitive structures where modular systems are less economical. Its ease of on-site fabrication makes it the preferred choice for complex architectural geomsetries and projects requiring frequent design adjustments. The segment also benefits from a robust domestic supply chain and the use of certified sustainable plywood, aligning with UK environmental standards. 

The “Others” category comprises plastic, composite, fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP), and stay-in-place formwork systems, which are a niche but expanding segment of the U.K. market. These systems offer advantages such as corrosion resistance, lightweight handling, and design flexibility, making them suitable for water-retaining structures, basements, and energy-efficient façades. Plastic and FRP panels, such as PERI DUO, are gaining traction in projects seeking to reduce carbon footprints and minimize maintenance. 

By Application

Residential & Commercial Buildings Segment Led the Market Due to Persistent Housing Shortages 

Based on application, the market is segmented into residential & commercial buildings (high-rise, mid-rise, and low-rise), infrastructure (bridges & viaducts, tunneling & underground, roads & highways, and others), and others.

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The residential & commercial buildings segment held the largest market share in 2024, driven by persistent housing shortages, large-scale regeneration schemes, and the growing population density in major cities, accounting for the majority of concrete formwork demand. Between 2019 and 2024, residential construction output increased by more than 15 percent, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This momentum is expected to continue as the government advances the Affordable Homes Programme, which allocates ~ USD 15 billion of funding by 2026 to deliver new and refurbished housing stock across England. Over the coming years, the combined focus on urban densification, sustainable building methods, and modular formwork systems will sustain long-term growth in the UK formwork systems market.

Infrastructure construction remains a vital backbone of the U.K. economy, with total output valued at approximately USD 35.5 billion in 2024, supported by major undertakings such as HS2, Lower Thames Crossing, and Hinkley Point C. The National Infrastructure and Construction Pipeline outlines over USD 950 billion of planned investment through 2030, ensuring long-term stability for formwork demand. Large-scale civil works, bridges, tunnels, and energy facilities continue to require heavy-duty steel and composite formwork systems, sustaining steady sales and replacement cycles across the segment.

The “Others” segment accounts for a small percentage share of the U.K. market and includes precast and factory-based mould production, refurbishment works, and marine or offshore applications. Growing adoption of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) is driving the use of precision-engineered steel moulds in precast yards, while refurbishment and retrofitting of ageing infrastructure sustain recurring demand for reusable and temporary formwork.

U.K. Concrete Formwork Market Country Outlook

The market is expanding steadily, supported by a strong pipeline of housing development, large-scale urban regeneration, and major national infrastructure programmes. The country’s push to modernize ageing housing stock, combined with rising demand for high-density residential and mixed-use projects in cities such as London, Birmingham, and Manchester, continues to fuel the use of modular aluminum, steel, and timber formwork systems. Additionally, the refurbishment of aging bridges, utilities, and public assets sustains recurring needs for reusable and adaptable systems. As contractors increasingly adopt advanced construction methods, including digital formwork planning and off-site precast mould production, the U.K. market is becoming more technology-oriented. Hence, long-term growth is supported by building & construction expansion projects, sustainability objectives, and improved construction productivity requirements.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players:

Lightweight Polymer Formwork is a Key Strategic Lever Adopted by Companies to Reinforce their Market Position

The market is moderately consolidated, with competitiveness shaped by engineering depth, modular system innovation, digital integration, and project-specific technical capability. Leading firms, including Altrad RMD Kwikform, PERI, Doka, ULMA Construction, and MEVA, continue to reinforce their positions by expanding advanced modular system portfolios, enhancing climbing and shoring technologies, and integrating BIM-driven design services. European multinationals such as PERI and Doka are accelerating the rollout of lightweight polymer formwork, automated self-climbing platforms, and concrete maturity monitoring tools, positioning themselves strongly for high-rise and commercial applications. Meanwhile, Altrad RMD Kwikform leverages its domestic engineering heritage and involvement in national megaprojects such as HS2 and Hinkley Point C to secure recurring demand in heavy civil and infrastructure segments. Increasing emphasis on low-carbon materials, reusable system design, and lifecycle transparency is emerging as a key differentiator, as suppliers align with the U.K. Net Zero objectives.

LIST OF KEY U.K. CONCRETE FORMWORK COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Acrow Formwork (U.K.)
• Altrad RMD Kwikform (U.K.)
• Doka UK Formwork Technologies Ltd. (Austria )
• EMJ Plastics (U.K.)
• Fast Form Systems (U.K.)
• MEVA (Germany)
• PERI Group (Germany)
• ULMA Construction (Spain)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• August 2025: Doka expanded its UniKit heavy-duty shoring system, introducing wall-mounted supports up to 400 kN and full scaffold compatibility. The upgrade strengthens Doka’s capabilities for bridge, tunnel, and infrastructure formwork applications. 
• February 2025: PERI introduced the new generation MAXIMO Panel Formwork System featuring advanced PERIskin technology for improved surface quality, durability, and environmental performance. The innovation reflects PERI’s focus on sustainable and efficient concrete formwork solutions.
• February 2024: Doka officially launched the DokaXdek Slab Formwork System in the U.K., designed for quick setup, reduced material handling, and enhanced site safety. The system delivers an optimized solution for concrete slab construction and marks a significant investment in the U.K. market.
• December 2023: PERI acquired a majority stake in KERN Tunneltechnik SA (Switzerland), a specialist in tunnel formwork systems. This acquisition expands PERI’s expertise and presence in global tunnel and infrastructure construction.
• January 2023: PERI acquired Implenia Schalungsbau GmbH in Germany to expand its engineering and special formwork services, particularly for large-scale civil infrastructure and high-rise projects. The acquisition involved taking over all 46 employees and strengthening PERI's capacity to meet growing demand in these sectors. 

REPORT COVERAGE 

The market analysis provides an in-depth study of market size & forecast by all market segments included in the report. It includes details on the market dynamics and market trends expected to drive the market in the forecast period. It offers information on the technological advancements, new product launches, key industry developments, and details on partnerships, mergers & acquisitions. The market research report also encompasses a detailed competitive landscape with information on the market share and profiles of key operating players.

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Report Scope & Segmentation