Merchant relationships are evolving fast in 2025 — driven by tighter timelines, rising material pressures and the growing expectation that subcontractors should move quicker, smarter and with more visibility than ever before. The Build Chain, the UK’s first procurement platform designed specifically for subcontractors, is sitting right at the centre of this shift. By simplifying enquiries, improving transparency and cutting admin, it’s reshaping how subcontractors connect with merchants nationwide.
Instead of relying on old contact lists or repetitive phone calls, subcontractors are now turning to digital tools like The Build Chain to build stronger, more efficient merchant relationships. With real-time visibility and instant supplier matching, communication becomes clearer, faster and more collaborative.
The Build Chain’s Role in Transforming Merchant Relationships
The way subcontractors work with merchants has changed more in the last two years than in the previous decade. Rising material demand, pricing volatility and shrinking labour availability are pushing subcontractors to rethink how they source and manage supply chains. And in 2025, merchants expect digital readiness — not manual processes.
This is where The Build Chain is shifting the landscape.
By giving subcontractors a single place to send enquiries and compare responses, the platform removes the slow, fragmented back-and-forth that traditionally strained merchant relationships. Instead of chasing availability or juggling multiple conversations, subcontractors get clear visibility all in one place — while merchants receive more accurate, structured enquiries that are easier to respond to.
This consistency creates a better experience for both sides. Subcontractors gain confidence in their procurement decisions, and merchants benefit from higher-quality enquiries and fewer misunderstandings. The automation of admin-heavy tasks frees everyone from the time sinks that used to dominate early stages of a project.
2025 is also seeing a shift towards data-led decision-making. Subcontractors using The Build Chain can identify patterns around lead times, responsiveness and pricing trends — helping them choose suppliers more strategically while staying competitive. This clarity is transforming relationships from reactive to proactive, strengthening long-term partnerships rather than relying on whoever picks up the phone first.
The real impact? Subcontractors get materials faster, merchants receive better opportunities, and both sides build trust through transparency — a crucial advantage in an industry where deadlines and margins are only getting tighter.
By centralising communication, The Build Chain reduces friction that typically slows projects down. Subcontractors no longer lose time chasing quotes or repeating the same details. Merchants receive enquiries they can action immediately, improving responsiveness and helping projects stay on schedule.
With smarter tools, clearer visibility and better supplier matching, The Build Chain is redefining how subcontractors and merchants collaborate in 2025.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Save time with structured enquiries and instant supplier matching
✅ Improve visibility with a centralised procurement workflow
✅ Strengthen merchant relationships through clearer communication
✅ Reduce admin and make more confident buying decisions
Book a demo today and modernise how you work with merchants!
