We all know how much Covid-19 has affected so many people, both in terms of their physical well being but also their mental health.
We are all having to adapt to a different world. With this latest Omicron variant being so highly transmissible, we are also experiencing staff and manpower shortages in every industry.
How has this affected the Building Material Manufacturing Sector?
There are a number of things to consider:
Building Material prices have soared
Inventories are constantly changing
Prices for Timber and steel are always vulnerable
Prices for cement and concrete set to remain high
Building Contractors margins are diminishing
Protecting our customers
For Steel and Timber there is a huge global market with a number of buyers and sellers. This makes these markets very competitive. However, the market for concrete, cement and bricks is more local, due to the characteristics of the materials. They are usually large, heavy, and therefore difficult and costly to transport. It is estimated that the cost for these materials will stay high for the foreseeable future. Manpower shortage is one factor, however a major one is disrupted supply chains. Then there are also problems with logistics. The price of energy, chemicals, wood, metals and labour has affected supply.
On Going Effects?
For the building Industry itself obviously the effects are knock-on. The profit margins in the building industry are normally fairly tight, but these increased material costs are squeezing them even tighter.
This also means that it makes it virtually impossible to adhere to agreed programs of work of ongoing projects at already set prices. This can result in a number of unfinished building works which is neither good for the contractors, consumers or the environment.
Remember, an estimate is a price given for a short time, it is not contractual!
A quote however is giving you a defined cost and is contractual although it is sensible always to make sure of any clauses.
R A & Sons Ltd’s Promise
R. A & Sons are doing everything possible to shield our customers from inflating prices and absorb these increases.
However, if costs do rise, we are keeping our customers informed an updated.
Experience the vibrant journey of compassion and community with the Colours of Malta Calendar 2025, presented by R.A. & Sons Manufacturing. This calendar highlights Malta's rich cultural heritage while featuring a different charitable cause each month. Join us in supporting local foundations and inspiring awareness throughout the year. Discover the stories behind each cause and find meaningful ways to contribute!
This December, RA & Sons Manufacturing is supporting the Foodbank Lifeline Foundation by encouraging customers to donate essential food items that will be passed directly to individuals and families facing hardship. These contributions help the foundation provide emergency food parcels to those most in need, especially during the festive season when demand is at its highest. To see how you can support their work or make a direct contribution, visit
Throughout December, R.A. & Sons Manufacturing is focusing its community efforts on supporting the Foodbank Lifeline Foundation by encouraging customers to donate essential food items. This month’s initiative reflects our commitment to helping families facing hardship, especially during a period when demand for support is at its highest. By joining us and contributing what you can, you help provide emergency food parcels to individuals and households in need across Malta and Gozo. Together, we can offer practical help and a sense of hope to those who need it most.
Whilst every effort has been taken to confirm the accuracy of the information presented in this article, R.A. & Sons Ltd and R.A. & Sons Manufacturing Ltd cannot be held responsible for errors and / or omissions or for any direct or indirect consequences resulting from the use and application of its products.
The company expressly disclaims any and all liability as to any results obtained or arising from any use of its products or reliance on such information; no warranty of fitness for any particular purpose or any other warranty, expressed or implied, is made concerning the goods described or the information provided herein.