The digitalisation of construction materials is profoundly transforming the sector and making housing more affordable in Portugal. By enabling greater efficiency in processes and more effective resource management, this digital transition promotes not only environmental and economic sustainability but also helps improve the social conditions of professionals in the sector.

The Portuguese Association of Building Materials Traders (APCMC) is leading this movement with the Next Generation MC project, an initiative aimed at preparing the construction supply chain for the challenges of innovation, digitalisation and sustainability. The project is funded by COMPETE2030-FEDER and will run until March 2027, with strategic actions in various regions of the country.

The main goal is to reduce construction costs and provide more affordable housing, thus meeting the growing demands of the national housing market. This digitalisation is not just a technological trend; it is an urgent necessity in a sector that has historically been one of the least innovative in terms of productivity and sustainability.

Digital transformation that prevents waste

The Next Generation MC project strongly invests in the training of building materials traders, equipping them with modern digital tools and more efficient logistics practices. The digital transformation covers the entire construction life cycle, from the production of materials to their application on site and the subsequent maintenance of buildings. This contributes to reducing waste and improving the management of available resources.

Moreover, with the adoption of digital tools and structured information systems, such as digital product passports, which are expected to become mandatory by the end of 2026, the sector will be able to meet European requirements concerning carbon footprint, circular economy and recycling. This collective effort promotes more efficient and environmentally responsible construction, which in the medium term also translates into more affordable housing for citizens.

Working conditions also benefit

The social component of digitalisation is also not overlooked. The use of advanced technology significantly improves working conditions on building sites and in warehouses, reduces physical strain, increases safety and can lead to the enhancement of careers in the sector. All of this contributes to a more attractive professional environment and a rise in productivity.

With the creation of a Strategic Plan for the Construction Supply Chain Beyond 2030, the project seeks to involve the approximately 260 APCMC members and other relevant sector stakeholders. The plan aims to define a clear path for the future, based on more sustainable, efficient and digital practices, with the ultimate goal of promoting access to more affordable and high-quality housing.

The planned actions also include workshops in cities such as Porto and Braga, where crucial topics for the future of construction will be discussed: digitalisation, off-site construction, artificial intelligence, logistics innovation and the opportunities of the circular economy. These events also serve as moments for sharing and learning, essential for aligning the entire construction value chain with the national and European goals for green and digital transition.

The transformation of the construction sector through digitalisation is, therefore, an essential step towards achieving more affordable housing. By improving processes, reducing costs and increasing sustainability, the Next Generation MC project shows that the future of housing inevitably lies in smarter, greener and more people-centred construction.

Source: SUPERCASA
General, Real Estate Market, Buy and Sell - Information, Portugal