Hammers will swing stronger in 2023

Most construction companies across the state have a positive outlook on business for 2023. 

The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA), in its 2023 construction forecast survey of commercial construction companies, found 81% believe this year will be better than last year, with 22% of those companied predicting drastic growth and 59% looking at modest growth. 

According to the survey, 11% of respondents said they are looking for their volume of work to equal last year while eight percent said they expect a drop in business. 

“This is positive,” said John O’Brien, executive director of KCA. “People are looking forward.” 

O’Brien said in 2022, there was no backlog of work due to supply chain issues and material costs. While supply chain issues and costs are still a concern, he said they are more predictable, giving contractors a more complete picture. 

The survey results backed that up with respondents saying they believe projects are back and strong compared to this time last year. 

Along with expected growth, 44% of companies said they expect to hire office staff; 68% expect to hire field workers; 36% expect their company to stay the same size as last year; and 8% expect their company to downsize. 

One survey respondent said the lack of labor availability will limit the company’s growth potential, forcing it to find more efficient ways to perform.  

“Companies are learning to work more with less,” O’Brien said. While filling workforce needs is still a challenge, he said, companies are more prepared. “We promote the industry the best we can.” 

In the survey, KCA said one construction executive said 2022 was a strong year due to health care opportunities, a trend which is expected to continue. 

 This survey is distributed to the entire KCA membership, as well as many other construction companies based throughout Pennsylvania to make sure that all types of companies, market sectors, and locations are represented, KCA said.