Our friends over at the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) have released the findings from their Spring 2026 Member Survey, offering an interesting snapshot of how businesses across the plant hire sector are feeling about the year ahead.

While we were unable to attend this year’s CPA Conference, we’d certainly have enjoyed a sneak preview of the results, which make for some fascinating reading.

The survey, which gathered feedback from CPA members across the UK, reveals a sector facing a number of familiar challenges. Rising employment costs, increasing energy prices, higher National Insurance contributions and ongoing uncertainty around taxation are all having an impact on confidence and investment plans.

For many businesses, the biggest concern remains the cost of doing business. The survey found that higher employment costs are already affecting recruitment plans, with some companies reducing hiring or putting recruitment on hold altogether.

Taxation also remains a hot topic. Changes to Business Property Relief (BPR) and inheritance tax continue to worry many family-owned businesses, which make up the vast majority of the UK’s plant hire sector. Unsurprisingly, many respondents said recent tax changes have made them more cautious when it comes to investing in new equipment and future growth.

Looking ahead, confidence appears mixed. While some businesses remain optimistic, many respondents feel conditions are tougher than they were 12 months ago, with concerns over project pipelines, rising costs and wider economic uncertainty all weighing on sentiment.

The survey also touches on the industry’s transition towards lower-emission equipment. Most respondents support the move towards net zero, but many feel that the practical challenges—particularly the cost of machines, alternative fuels and supporting infrastructure—still need to be addressed before widespread adoption becomes realistic.

One message comes through loud and clear: plant hire businesses want to see greater support for investment, infrastructure delivery and long-term growth. With the construction industry continuing to play a vital role in the UK economy, the sector is keen to see policies that encourage confidence rather than add further costs.

The full survey provides plenty of food for thought and offers a valuable insight into the issues currently shaping the plant hire industry. Many of the challenges highlighted will no doubt resonate with businesses right across the construction supply chain.

You can read the full CPA Spring Survey 2026 report via the CPA website.