Voice from… the ARL Suppliers Committee

The ARL Suppliers Committee is a recognised and proven platform for suppliers in the BTR sector to meet (virtually) on an 8 weekly basis, amongst other factors, to share insights and improve procurement practices. The Committee focuses on leveraging suppliers’ expertise in BTR design, development and implementation. Further, the platform acts as a great opportunity for suppliers to network, learn from sector leaders (frequently invited as ‘guest speakers’) and discuss challenges and best practice.

Participation is open to all ARL members on the supply side and is widely encouraged to all as a no cost meet.

Current market conditions

Whilst it may seem at macro level that post Covid supply chain issues and delays are now a variable of the past, the general cost of raw materials across the board continues to rise making BTR schemes more expensive to complete, potentially resulting in a squeezing of margin for suppliers. Yet simultaneously, and of paramount importance is the need to balance regulatory changes, mostly safety related, where suppliers need to adapt quickly to suit yet work with the associated probable increase in cost. Likewise, the need for supply chain to have both hands firmly grasping sustainability requirements, making sure that procurement is offered the finest (and most green) product, again, with an eye on cost and margin. Investors seek returns, and it is for the supply chain to propose solutions that can enable the asset manager a solid NOI. Navigating these challenges takes commitment, investment and knowledge, all variables that the Forum members as a collective unite with to champion.

To aid in this manner, the Committee and Forum work together in an alliance to establish a series of events to promote supply chain within the sector. Most notably, networking sessions (mostly virtual), webinars, seminars, social events and study tours. All of which allow a first hand, transparent deeper level of engagement, insight and participation, offering a solid structure for members to benefit accordingly.

The networking sessions allow suppliers to meet with decision makers, giving that all important connectivity with procurement. Webinars and seminars take a detailed topic relevant to current market conditions, designed to educate members on market trends, best practice and new regulations. Social events are designed to be informal yet structured, a wonderful opportunity to mix in a relaxed environment. Finally, the study tours are arguably the most successful vehicle to witness a ‘deep dive’ into successful UK BTR projects, close up, first hand, illustrating valuable insights into the design, delivery and operation of schemes.

All of these events are hugely successful and continue to grow in popularity year upon year. They are evidently well received by all involved, across supply chain, investor and procurement.

The Future…

The Suppliers Committee continues to strengthen in numbers, and with ARL membership on the increase overall (one third of new members being supply side), we invite and indeed encourage new suppliers to engage with us. The agenda is dynamic, and amongst other elements will include:

1. Product Development: To drive product development and raise the standards within the sector.
2. Engagement: To create engagement between operators and suppliers.
3. Best Practices: To explore and educate on best practice principles in the BTR market.
4. Liaison: To provide a liaison between suppliers and the ARL Leadership Team.
5. Understanding Needs: To understand operator and investor needs.
6. Market Education: To be educated by the ARL on market trends, forecasts and regulations.

And above and beyond this, we have the Annual BTR Conference 2024 and BTR Expo 2025 to look forward to!

For more detailed information, you can visit the ARL Suppliers Committee page or contact Edward Grimshaw, Suppliers Committee Chair.

The ARL is YOUR membership. Use the resources available to be part of the widening association!