LEAD TIMES

摘要

Four sectors reduced lead times and Only three areas increased in the past quarter. At the end of 2003, piling suppliers ↑ were optimistic for 2004 and lead times increased by one week to six weeks overall. Suppliers were concerned about possible steel shortages affecting reinforcement prices and availability and this may affect the sector next quarter. The average lead time for concrete works → is unchanged at six weeks overall. Suppliers have again commented on the volatility of the reinforcement market, and above-inflation price rises are expected. Structural steelwork ↑ has increased to an average of 11 weeks, due to an increase in the manufacturing periods being quoted. All suppliers are busy and note that UK steel prices are increasing as China procures large volumes of raw material.