Analysis and outlook for construction prices
Im Jahr 2023 verzeichnete der Hochbau in der Schweiz einen moderaten Anstieg der Baupreise um 1.4 Prozent, wie aus dem vom Bundesamt für Statistik veröffentlichten Baupreisindex hervorgeht. Diese Entwicklung deutet auf eine Verlangsamung der zuvor beobachteten Preissteigerungen hin, obwohl die Baupreise weiterhin 15 Prozent über dem Niveau von vor drei Jahren liegen.
The Construction Price Index 2023 reveals a complex dynamic in Swiss building construction, with moderate price increases influenced by a mix of international market conditions, currency effects and local economic factors. The industry faces challenges, including a changing labour market and declining construction activity, which require strategic adjustments. The report provides key insights for property industry management professionals to make informed decisions and anticipate future developments.
The analysis of material prices for building construction shows a differentiated development: while the KBOB material price index only recorded a slight increase of 0.6 per cent in November 2023 compared to the previous year, a look at individual materials reveals significant differences. For example, prices for reinforcing steel fell sharply by 28 per cent, while fresh concrete and bricks saw price increases of 9.5 and 36 per cent respectively. These price developments reflect a normalisation of international market prices and the effects of the appreciation of the Swiss franc, which reduced import costs for building materials. However, this was offset by rising energy and fuel prices, which affected the cost of materials.
The situation on the labour market in the construction industry and wage trends remain of strategic importance. Following a temporary increase in job vacancies in spring, the rate stabilised at 2.1% in the third quarter of 2023 and thus remains above the ten-year average. Demographic trends are intensifying the challenges facing the construction industry, which is contributing to continued upward pressure on wages.
Construction activity, particularly in the area of residential and office space, has declined continuously since 2021. Investment in new building permits has fallen compared to the average values of the last five years, which is due to high financing costs and a subdued economic outlook. These developments could lead to increased price competition and impact profitability in the construction sector.