Marbella’s Construction Industry Faces Skilled Labour Shortage
Marbella’s construction industry, along with the rest of Spain and the Costa del Sol, is grappling with a growing shortage of skilled workers. The high cost of housing, which makes it difficult for workers to afford rent, is exacerbating the situation. The increasing cost of materials is also contributing to the problem, making construction a luxury service.
Construction Industry’s Crisis Discussed at Marbella Fair
The critical situation was discussed at the Feria de la Construcción e Inmobiliaria in Marbella. The lack of interest in the construction profession among younger generations was identified as a significant risk. Manuel Melero, CEO of MM360, a design and architecture studio, noted that the skilled workforce is aging, and the men who taught their children the trade are now retiring. He warned of a crisis in a decade when the second generation retires, leaving no young people interested in learning the trade.
Foreign Workers Dominate Construction Workforce
The construction workforce is primarily made up of foreign workers. Roberto García, CEO of Valart Obras y Servicios, revealed that his employees are Colombian and that they are considering recruiting directly from abroad due to the difficulty of finding local workers. He criticized the public aid system, which discourages workers from accepting formal employment for fear of losing their aid.
Shortage of Qualified Personnel and High Housing Prices
The construction sector is facing a double challenge: a shortage of personnel and a lack of qualifications. In the past, a bricklayer would handle all types of work, but now each step requires a specific profile, making it harder to find professionals and causing delays in project execution. High housing prices, particularly in Marbella, are another concern for construction companies as they prevent many employees from settling in the area.
Impact on Housing Prices
The lack of qualified personnel is directly affecting housing prices. As labour becomes scarce, its cost increases, impacting the final product. Construction companies also point to the rising cost of materials, which has surged since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the high cost of land as factors complicating the sector’s development.
