The British Polish Construction Forum 2025, held on 25 April at Howden Group Holdings in London, opened its doors to a diverse group of industry professionals, business owners, and innovators keen on exploring the UK construction and property markets. Organised by PBLINK in collaboration with Howden, the event attracted over 100 business leaders and decision-makers, setting the stage for a day filled with insightful discussions and valuable networking opportunities.
Bart Kowalczyk, PBLINK Director, and Wojciech Olejniczak, Commercial Director at Pol-Plan Insurance, (Part of Howden) kicked off the forum with warm welcomes and introductions. Their opening remarks set a positive and encouraging tone for the day, emphasising the importance of collaboration and innovation in navigating the complexities of the construction industry.
Wojciech Olejniczak, Commercial Director at Pol-Plan Insurance, (Part of Howden)
Mark Birch's, Commercial Manager at Howden presentation, "Growth Through Risk Management," struck a powerful chord with the audience. He emphasized that sustainable business growth isn’t just about seizing opportunities — it’s equally about identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks. Drawing on his extensive background in the insurance sector, Mark shared practical, real-world strategies to manage risks more effectively and strengthen business resilience.
Mark Birch, Commercial Manager at Howden
He highlighted several critical areas where risks often emerge, particularly within the construction industry. These included health and safety incidents and the resulting legal and contractual risks, as well as financial pressures that can arise from project delays and unforeseen setbacks. Mark also touched on the importance of managing public and employers' liability exposures alongside contractors' all-risk coverage to ensure comprehensive protection.
Further, he addressed the necessity of safeguarding businesses against management liability and professional indemnity issues, as well as mitigating potential losses through legal expenses coverage, surety bonds, and credit risk management. Recognising the importance of leadership continuity, Mark also emphasized the value of key person insurance in securing long-term business stability.
Throughout the session, Mark reinforced that effective risk management is not a static, one-off effort but a continuous, proactive process. Businesses must stay alert to emerging threats and put robust systems in place to minimize their impact. By doing so, they not only protect themselves against disruption but also create a stronger foundation for sustainable growth, especially in industries as dynamic and unpredictable as construction.
Attendees left the session with a refreshed and practical understanding of how managing risks wisely can drive their businesses forward, turning potential vulnerabilities into opportunities for greater resilience and success.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive at the Federation of Master Builders,
Brian Berry, Chief Executive at the Federation of Master Builders, delivered an insightful session on the challenges and opportunities in the construction industry. Brian insights highlighted the current issues facing the sector, from regulatory hurdles to skilled labour shortages. However, he also pointed to the myriad opportunities available for those willing to adapt and innovate.
Despite these obstacles, Brian emphasized that construction remains a vital and resilient part of the UK economy. With around 380,000 companies connected to the sector — representing 14% of all UK businesses — construction plays a crucial role in national prosperity. The industry is overwhelmingly made up of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with 99% of firms falling into this category. Notably, 86% of construction businesses employ fewer than four people, while only a small fraction, 5%, employ ten or more.
Employing approximately 3.1 million people and contributing 8% of total UK employment, the construction sector generates an impressive £155 billion annually, accounting for 8.8% of the UK's GDP. Brian also pointed to the sector’s strong local economic impact: for every £1 invested in construction, £2.84 is generated, and 92p of every £1 spent stays within the UK economy.
Brian's session reinforced the message that while challenges are inevitable, opportunities abound for those businesses ready to adapt, innovate, and invest in skills and technology. The construction industry remains not only a cornerstone of the economy but also a sector rich with potential for growth.
Edyta Krakowiak Director at LUXURY BUILDING SERVICE LTD
A key theme of the forum was the power of community collaboration, particularly for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the construction industry. The discussion panel, moderated by Adam Pilanc, Managing Director at Step by Step Financial Solutions, explored how SMEs can thrive through local networks and partnerships.
Panellists, including, Marek Suchocki Head of Industry Associations Strategy at Autodesk, Dan Gomez, SME Business Consultant At Grow London Local, and Edyta Krakowiak Director at LUXURY BUILDING SERVICE LTD shared their experiences and strategies for building strong community ties. They highlighted the benefits of collaborating with suppliers, architects, and other professionals to enhance competitiveness and drive sustainable growth. The session underscored that collaboration is not just a buzzword but a practical approach to achieving long-term success.
Marek Suchocki Head of Industry Associations Strategy at Autodesk
Adam Pilanc, Managing Director at Step by Step Financial Solutions
The property investment workshop, led by Adam Pilanc, was a major highlight for attendees interested in the property market. Titled "Winning Strategies for Property Investors in the UK – 2025 and Beyond," the workshop provided both novice and experienced investors with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the evolving market.
Adam shared actionable strategies for identifying lucrative investment opportunities, managing risks, and maximising returns. The workshop was a blend of theoretical insights and practical advice, equipping attendees with a clear roadmap for successful property investment. The session reinforced the importance of staying informed and adaptable in a dynamic market environment.
Networking is a cornerstone of any successful business event, and the British Polish Construction Forum 2025 was no exception. Colin McKeand, a renowned expert in business networking, led an engaging workshop on effective networking techniques. His session aimed to equip participants with the skills needed to build meaningful professional connections.
Colin emphasised the importance of preparation, active listening, and follow-up in networking. He provided practical tips for making a lasting impression and cultivating long-term relationships. The workshop was interactive, allowing attendees to practise their networking skills in a supportive environment. Participants left the session feeling confident and prepared to make the most of their networking opportunities.
In conclusion, the British Polish Construction Forum 2025 provided a valuable platform for industry professionals to gain insights, share experiences, and build meaningful connections. The key takeaways from the event highlight the importance of staying informed about industry trends, managing risks effectively, and embracing collaboration to thrive in the competitive construction market. As the industry continues to evolve, forums like this play a crucial role in fostering growth and innovation.