The Future of House Building Machinery Show, hosted by JJ Smith on the 4th and 5th of February 2025 in Liverpool, gathered innovators, thought leaders, and industry professionals at JJ Smith’s Liverpool headquarters to tackle one of the most urgent challenges of our time: the UK’s housing crisis.
Across two inspiring days, attendees witnessed firsthand how modern methods of construction (MMC) are transforming the way we design, build, and deliver homes.
In partnership with the New Homes in New Ways festival and Modular Building Automation, the event highlighted key themes that could unlock a brighter future for the housing sector. Cutting-edge machinery and innovative modular techniques showcased during live demonstrations proved that we can accelerate housing delivery without compromising on quality. Equally important is the integration of sustainable practices – from reducing construction waste to embracing energy-efficient designs, these innovations are critical to achieving long-term environmental goals.
Guests were joined by Councillor Graham Morgan, Cabinet Member of the Combined Authority for Housing and Leader of Knowsley Council, who highlighted the challenges faced in the Liverpool City Region in light of ambitious new housing targets from Central Government, and discussed how the region’s Combined Authority for Housing are working to find solutions to assist in new housing delivery.
The two-day event featured a range of keynote speakers, including Anna Spencer and Paul Amann from Liverpool City Region’s Combined Authority. They discussed the Future Homes Alliance and its pivotal role in promoting modern methods of construction across the region, driving awareness and increasing the supply of high-quality homes. The event also underscored the importance of local procurement, emphasising how investing in local supply chains can strengthen regional economies while minimising the carbon footprint of construction projects.
Jan Willem Dijkstra, Managing Director of H&M Machines in the Netherlands uncovered a crucial insight: buying machinery is only the beginning of the journey, highlighting that the real challenge lies in applying product thinking throughout the process. Jan Willem explained how the UK can draw on best practices from Dutch builders, who have mastered the art of successful factory construction.
Mike Doolan, Sales and Partnerships Manager at LoCal Homes, also delivered an insightful keynote on the current state and future of the timber frame market, discussing challenges and opportunities shaping the industry with a focus on the growing pipeline of projects in both private and affordable housing sectors.
A powerful takeaway from Ele George, founder of Ele-vate, was the urgent need for industrialised retrofit solutions. With an aging housing stock across the UK, retrofitting existing homes offers a practical, scalable pathway to meeting housing and sustainability targets. Additionally, Emma Fletcher, Low Carbon Homes Director at Octopus Energy, presented an inspiring vision for the future of housing: Zero Bills Homes. In her keynote, Emma demonstrated how innovative design, renewable energy solutions and sustainable building practices are shaping a new era in housing where energy bills are eliminated entirely.
Rachael Baker, Managing Director of JJ Smith, summed up the event’s vision perfectly –
“We are at a critical moment for the housing industry. The machinery and techniques showcased at this event demonstrate that we have the tools to solve the housing crisis—but we must act decisively and collaboratively. Together, we can build faster, greener, and better.”
Despite these opportunities, the challenges cannot be ignored. The UK faces a severe housing shortage, rising costs, and a growing demand for more sustainable solutions. However, the show reinforced an essential message: if the industry works together – embracing innovation, collaboration, and bold ideas – we can overcome these obstacles. By aligning our efforts, we can deliver the change that is so desperately needed and build the homes that communities deserve.
The Future of House Building Machinery Show reminded us that progress is within reach. Together, we have the tools, technologies, and determination to transform the housing sector for the better. The time to act is now.
To discuss any of the topics covered, or arrange a machinery demonstration, contact JJ Smith on 0151 548 9000 or visit www.jjsmith.co.uk.
