Client: Registered Master Builders Association

Commercial construction is a key contributor to the New Zealand economy and is responsible for building our schools, hospitals, workplaces and other facilities across the country. Yet, the challenges of the sector are not well understood, with residential construction taking centre stage in the news agenda. Acumen supported Master Builders to launch the Vertical Construction Leadership Group (VCLG) to address the systemic issues facing the commercial construction sector and unlock better outcomes for New Zealanders.

We helped develop a launch strategy centred around research, educating stakeholders and media around the challenges facing the sector and the importance of demonstrating leadership. The Group’s official launch was an opportunity to share the story of commercial construction, its critical contribution to our economy, and share research around key issues, including growing complexities of projects, the magnitude of cost escalation and delays, procurement, and sector productivity.

We worked closely with the Group to understand and refine a proposed workplan for a more sustainable sector. The Minister of Building and Construction was a key participant in the event, alongside other sector leaders and officials as change will require input from the sector and from Government. We are continuing to work closely with the VCLG to further develop this workplan as it moves into its first implementation phase.

The launch was well-attended and covered by top tier media including 1News, Stuff, Newstalk ZB, and Today FM. The Group established strong relationships with key media and stakeholders who are eager to continue to closely cover and engage with the Group moving forward.