Key Take Outs from 2024:

• Challenges for the industry -  the construction sector faced a number of challenges last year, some of which flowed from the post-covid years, including increased costs of production, a shortage of skilled labour across the construction industry and increasing compliance costs.  Also, given the changing economic climate the industry saw fewer construction projects and homes in the pipeline, which saw a number of companies facing financial pressure.
• People and Relationships – these remained a constant for us at Jensen Steel Fabricators. We’re really proud of our team and the commitment and resilience they showed, as well as the long-standing relationships we have in the communities we live and work. These were key factors in allowing us to retain all our staff throughout 2024 and at full time hours as well, something we are extremely proud of.
• Achieving a 10 Year Audit - we completed our first 10 yearly SFC and ISO3834 Part 2 audit. It’s hard to believe it’s  been 10 years since achieving ISO 3834 Part 2 and at the highest SFC Construction Category 4 Certification. Achieving this 10 year audit is a true testament to the commitment of the whole team throughout the company as quality touches on all aspects of our business.  
• Involvement in Tauranga CBD Reinvigoration -  we were fortunate to be involved in a number of exciting projects in the Tauranga CBD which are transforming the city centre. Projects included are below, some of which are continuing into this year:
  • Thirty Eight Elizabeth - a mix of retail, residential and dining in the one location
  • 90 Devonport Road - a Green Star project to house the Tauranga City Council administration team
  • Strand Board Walk - the waterfront makeover
  • Community Hub and New Library
  • 2 Devonport Road
    Click here to view more details about these projects

‍“When we look back at 2024, we’re extremely grateful for all our opportunities, the projects we were involved in, the strong relationships we continue to enhance and grow and for the expert, professional and committed team we have. Things aren’t always easy in the construction sector and there’s lots of planning and hard work that goes into it, but at the end of the day, we still really enjoy what we do. 

Working with a great group of people and playing a part in helping shape the communities we work in and are part of, is never lost on us”.

- Ben Jensen, Financial Manager, Jensen Steel Fabricators.

The Year Ahead

Looking forward for 2025, the forecast for the construction sector is another challenging year. The main issue facing the sector is the increased competition for projects given the reduction in work available.  Many in the industry will find it tough and the market may not return to some form of ‘normal’ for another year or two. The economy will no doubt look to rely on the primary industries once more.

From a Jensen Steel Fabricators point of view, the year ahead will see us continue to value and build on our key relationships and people focused approach. We’re excited about what we have lined up  this year, in particularly continuing with the city rebuild projects in the Tauranga CBD including the library, exhibition centre and the museum, alongside large-scale projects in the energy and agriculture sectors.  

In a year that no doubt will bring its fair share of uncertainty and change, one thing we know is that Jensen Steel Fabricators will continue to do things the ‘Jensen way’ with the upmost integrity, go the extra mile to provide both excellent service and high quality of product.