Makita dominates the product news this week as new additions to both the 18V LXT and 40V XGT garden ranges start landing at UK distributors. Meanwhile, the latest Construction Leadership Council bulletin makes for uncomfortable reading, with ongoing weak demand and rising input costs squeezing the supply chain.
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Top stories today
Makita garden tools: new arrivals in the LXT and XGT ranges Fresh Makita garden power tools are arriving at UK trade stockists now, with blowers among the first units in stock. The LXT 18V and XGT 40V platforms mean tradespeople working in landscaping or grounds maintenance can run garden tools from the same batteries as their drills and drivers. That is a significant convenience for anyone already deep in the Makita ecosystem. Source: ITS Hub
Makita 18V LXT and 40V XGT power tools: latest batch arriving The wider Makita power tool delivery includes impact drivers and accessories from both the LXT and XGT lines. If you have been waiting on a specific model, now is a good time to check availability with your usual supplier. Source: ITS Hub
DeWalt circular saw: five tips for cleaner cuts A practical guide to getting more from DeWalt circular saws covers blade selection, cutting depth, and line accuracy. All basics, but worth a read if you are training apprentices or tackling a new material type. Source: Toolden Blog
CLC supply chain: "subdued demand and ongoing challenges" The Construction Leadership Council's latest Material Supply Chain Group bulletin is blunt. Higher input costs, weak consumer confidence, and continuing economic uncertainty are weighing on the whole sector. For tradespeople, the practical implication is that pricing pressure from clients is unlikely to ease soon, and some material lead times remain volatile. Source: Professional Builders Merchant
Shawfield Timber rolls out Podfather for deliveries Shawfield Timber is implementing the Podfather logistics platform to improve delivery visibility and proof-of-delivery processes. For contractors ordering timber on account, this kind of digital delivery tracking reduces the disputes that arise from missing or misdirected loads. Source: Professional Builders Merchant
Plumb Centre Gen T initiative Plumb Centre has launched Gen T, a programme aimed at understanding and supporting the next generation of trade professionals entering the plumbing and heating sector. The initiative focuses on mentoring, training pathways, and improving the industry's appeal to younger workers. Source: Professional Builders Merchant
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Watchlist
- Makita garden range depth: The ITS Hub pieces confirm stock arrivals but do not list individual model numbers. Worth watching Makita UK directly for full spec releases.
- CLC bulletin follow-up: The supply chain pressures outlined suggest Q3 2026 could see further material cost movements. Merchants flagging specific shortages would be worth tracking.
- Plumb Centre Gen T: Early stage launch. Worth following up once training partnerships and qualification pathways are confirmed.
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