Shaping Tomorrow’s Construction Industry: What Awaits the European Sector?

Construction never stands still. New technologies, changing legislation and growing pressure on housing construction are keeping the sector in flux. But every challenge also offers opportunities. In the 2026 Trend Report, 4PS shares the most important developments that will determine how we build, collaborate and innovate in the coming year.

In this blog, you can read a brief preview of five trends that experts believe will make a difference.

How is AI changing from hype to proven value?

AI (Artificial Intelligence) is no longer something of the future; it is already here. Yet the construction industry is still in the early stages of this revolution. According to Dirk Hoogenboom (USP Marketing Consultancy), AI is still mainly a buzzword within the sector, but that is changing rapidly.

The urgency to get on board is growing because with AI, the construction industry can:
– Plan more intelligently and automate processes.
– Partially compensate for staff shortages.
– Build faster and more sustainably thanks to data-driven insights.

As Marjon Scholten (PwC) says: ‘The construction industry is on the eve of an AI revolution.’ And that revolution offers opportunities, especially for companies that dare to experiment now.

Why is prefab construction lagging behind in Europe?

Prefab and industrialised construction solves many bottlenecks: they speed up projects, improve quality and reduce dependence on scarce personnel. Yet research shows that their use is still limited.

How is the construction industry dealing with increasing complexity?

Construction is becoming more complex every year: more regulations, stricter requirements, and more complicated technology. This requires skilled professionals, and there is a significant shortage.

The solution? Building smarter instead of working harder. Consider:
– BIM modelling to improve collaboration.
– Plug-and-play solutions that simplify installation.
– Digital training for young talent, so they can get up to speed faster.

By simplifying processes and using technology where it really adds value, the sector can turn complexity into efficiency.

Why are housing construction and infrastructure under so much pressure?

The housing shortage and outdated infrastructure are challenges every builder faces. But the causes go deeper than a lack of capacity. Slow permitting, complicated rules and unpredictable demand are causing stagnation.

Nevertheless, there are also bright spots. Countries such as Poland are demonstrating that prefabrication and long-term cooperation can improve effectiveness. By learning from each other, European builders can grow faster and smarter.

How can the construction industry remain resilient in uncertain times?

The world is changing faster than ever, which creates uncertainty. Yet the construction industry is remarkably strong. Local production and cooperation ensure that the sector is less dependent on international tensions.

As Dirk Hoogenboom puts it so well: ‘The construction industry is full of local heroes. That makes the sector resilient.’

Resilience does not mean waiting and seeing; it means moving with the times. Companies that invest in digitisation and collaboration today are building a future-proof sector tomorrow.

Ready for 2026?

Construction is changing, but those who look ahead see opportunities above all else. In the Trend Report 2026, you can read how innovative companies are turning today’s challenges into growth, efficiency and resilience.

Download the Trend Report 2026 and discover how your organisation can move with the future of construction.

Frequently asked questions about trends in construction

**What is the biggest opportunity for construction companies in 2026?**

The use of AI and prefabrication offers the greatest opportunity to build faster, smarter and more sustainably.

**Why is digitisation so important for construction?**

Digitisation makes collaboration smoother, reduces margins of error and helps solve the labour shortage.

**How can builders deal with changing legislation?**

By standardising processes and working with digital tools that are always up to date with regulations.

**What makes the European construction market unique?**

The strong presence of local players, the ‘local heroes’, ensures agility and stability.

**What are the concrete benefits of the 2026 Trend Report?**

Insights, figures and inspiring examples that help you make strategic choices for the coming year.