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Persimmon: construction skills shortage “challenging”

Housebuilder Persimmon has said that finding the right construction skills for its build programme is a challenge.

The company was, however, managing inflationary pressures in the supply chain, it added.

In its half-year results, published today, the group said it would “remain cautious with respect to new land investment for as long as the uncertainties facing the market persist, particularly those associated with the risks to the UK economy resulting from the UK’s exit from the EU”.

Nonetheless, it said that in the second half of 2016 it had experienced stronger market conditions than it expected following the EU referendum on 23 June 2016. Profits were up by 30% over the period to £457.4m, from £352.3m in 2016.

Revenue was up by12% to £1.6bn.

Jeff Fairburn, group chief executive, said: “The market remains confident. Customer interest in our developments remains strong. Our private reservation rate over recent weeks is around 2% ahead year on year.

“While we remain vigilant to changes in market conditions we also recognise we are in a strong position to take advantage of opportunities that arise. We are looking forward to a good autumn sales season.”

To send feedback, e-mail nick.johnstone@egi.co.uk or tweet @n_johnstone or @estatesgazette

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