Etex’s Modular Construction for the Future of Building

Etex is driving sustainable building practices through innovative modular construction solutions, addressing challenges in the global construction market. Our reporter, Erin Tallman, met with CEO Bernard Delvaux in Bristol, UK, for the inauguration of the company’s new plasterboard factory.

On the heels of Etex’s grand opening of its largest plasterboard factory in Bristol, UK, CEO Bernard Delvaux addressed the ongoing challenges in the global construction market and how Etex’s innovative modular construction solutions offer a sustainable way forward. With demand in key markets such as the UK, France, and Germany showing signs of recovery, modular construction aims to play a pivotal role in meeting the needs of the evolving industry.

The Construction Market: Challenges and Opportunities

The global construction market continues to experience volatility, particularly in Europe. According to Etex’s CEO, Bernard Delvaux, the UK’s residential market, a key indicator for construction demand, saw a 35% drop in brick deliveries between 2020 and 2024. However, recent data suggests that the UK may have hit the bottom in 2024. And slow growth is expected moving forward. On the other hand, France continues to experience declines, while Germany faces significant challenges with further decreases likely in 2025.

Delvaux cited high interest rates, energy costs, and inflation as the primary drivers of the downturn. However, he emphasized that Etex is well-positioned for a rebound when the market stabilizes: 

“We see a gradual recovery in some countries, and by 2026, the construction industry is expected to start picking up again. With rising demand for quality housing and living spaces, Etex is ready to deliver innovative and sustainable solutions,” Delvaux stated during the press conference at the Bristol factory.

Modular Construction: A Smart Response to Market Demands

As traditional construction struggles with productivity and fragmentation, modular construction is a smart alternative. This method provides numerous advantages, including speed, efficiency, and sustainability. In fact, the UK and Ireland are already front-runners in adopting modular construction, with growing interest across Europe.

Etex is at the forefront of this shift. The company offers a full suite of modular construction solutions through its diverse product platforms. Their Building Performance division provides plasterboards, fiber cement boards, and fire protection materials. Their Insulation division specializes in glass mineral wool and extruded polystyrene (XPS). Together, these products form the backbone of high-tech offsite construction. Etex’s brands, including Siniat, Promat, and URSA, play a vital role in these modular systems. They ensure durability, fire safety, and energy efficiency.

As Delvaux noted, modular construction allows Etex to combine these products into fully integrated solutions: 

“We’re combining our expertise across multiple platforms to deliver complete systems that reduce costs, improve sustainability, and speed up the construction process. This is the future of the construction industry.”

A Full-Scale Modular Construction Solution

Etex is taking modular construction to the next level. They are offering clients a complete solution, assisting them in building fully operational structures from start to finish. The company’s innovative approach combines materials expertise with its ability to manufacture high-quality modular units. Etex’s systems are already being used in various applications, from residential housing to high-performance industrial and commercial buildings.

For example, Etex recently developed lightweight plasterboards for exterior use and soundproofing, reducing both material weight and carbon emissions while improving performance. These advancements demonstrate Etex’s commitment to reducing environmental impact and supporting the circular economy by incorporating recycled materials into its modular solutions.

One shining example of Etex’s full-scale modular construction capabilities is at Lower Steenbergs Yard in Newcastle. Here, Etex played a central role in delivering a five-story residential development in 2021. Appointed by Esh Construction, Etex’s Remagin team installed 1,310 linear meters of light gauge steel frame panels, 13 steel staircases, and a 930m² hot-rolled transfer structure to construct 28 contemporary riverside apartments. This modular construction project transformed the vibrant Ouseburn Valley, offering luxury two- and three-bedroom apartments, as well as four commercial units on the ground floor, all within a challenging and space-restricted environment.

Etex’s involvement in this project demonstrates the power of combining its product portfolio. The development utilized Remagin’s LGSF panels for the structural frame, Siniat plasterboards for partitions, and in-wall insulation provided by URSA or Superglass. The building’s façade was completed using Cedral fiber cement boards and Siniat exterior plasterboards, underscoring the seamless integration of Etex’s materials to deliver a high-quality, sustainable building.

As the construction market continues to face challenges, Etex is confident that its modular construction solutions will help drive the industry forward. With a growing focus on sustainability, efficiency, and innovation, Etex aims to play a key role in shaping the future of building.