Q1: What is The Build Chain?
The Build Chain is a **digital procurement platform** that connects main contractors and subcontractors with a vast network of suppliers, streamlining material sourcing, tracking procurement activity, and providing ESG reporting.
Q2: How does The Build Chain work?
Main contractors and subcontractors can submit material requirements, receive and compare supplier quotes, manage orders, and track procurement **whether purchases are made by the main contractor or subcontractor**—all from one central platform.
Q3: Can subcontractors procure materials through The Build Chain?
Yes! The platform allows subcontractors to buy materials while ensuring **the main contractor retains full visibility** of all purchases, supplier selection, pricing, and ESG tracking.
Q4: How does The Build Chain help main contractors?
It streamlines procurement, reduces admin, improves cost control, and **provides real-time visibility** into **all material purchases**—whether made by your team or subcontractors—allowing for better budget management and compliance.
Q5: Can I onboard my existing suppliers?
Yes! You can onboard **your preferred suppliers** to maintain continuity while also gaining access to **500+ verified UK suppliers** for competitive pricing and availability.
Q6: How fast can I receive supplier quotes?
Typically, multiple quotes are received **within 24 hours**, allowing for fast decision-making and efficient procurement planning.
Q7: Does The Build Chain support urgent material requests?
Yes! Our platform helps source suppliers quickly for urgent requirements, while also promoting **pre-planned procurement** for best pricing and availability.
Q8: Can I track all procurement activity, even when subcontractors buy materials?
Absolutely! The Build Chain ensures **full transparency** by tracking **who placed the order, what was purchased, pricing, supplier selection, and ESG impact**, giving main contractors full oversight of procurement decisions.
Q9: How does The Build Chain support sustainability and ESG compliance?
The platform provides **real-time ESG reporting**, tracking **Scope 3 carbon emissions, sustainability ratings, and local supplier engagement**, helping you meet Net Zero targets and regulatory requirements.
We highlight **carbon savings per supplier quote**, estimating CO₂ reductions based on delivery distances using a **26-tonne truck emissions benchmark**.
Q10: Does The Build Chain charge a commission on material purchases?
No, we do not charge commission. We operate on a **transparent subscription model**, ensuring you always receive the **best market price** without additional fees.
Q11: Why doesn't The Build Chain charge commissions?
Our goal is to **keep construction costs down** by ensuring **direct supplier pricing**. Adding commission would inflate material costs and impact project budgets.
Q12: What makes The Build Chain different from traditional procurement?
Unlike manual procurement processes, The Build Chain provides:
- **Live supplier pricing** and instant quote comparisons.
- **Automated workflows** for material ordering.
- **Full visibility over subcontractor-led purchasing**.
- **ESG & Scope 3 tracking** to support sustainability reporting.
Q13: How can I get started?
It’s easy! Simply book a FREE demo and see how The Build Chain can transform your procurement process.
