Access International magazine recently completed its annual Access Confidence Survey which reveals an industry sector facing challenges in 2026 with cautious optimism. Among the larger issues highlighted were the impacts of U.S. and Chinese tariffs, mature U.S. and European markets, and increased competition in maturing markets.
On the other hand, the article said maturing markets in Finland and Malaysia along with Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Turkey all present growth opportunities for the sector. The more robust activity in those markets, however, tended to be balanced by increased competition as OEMs focused on them.
Overall, the survey revealed a sector facing clear challenges for 2026 while maintaining a dynamic outlook based on positive potentials for the year.
-
UK AI data centre
The project could provide 2,600 - 3,600 full-time equivalent construction jobs yearly over the 10 year programme.
Read more -
US rental growth
American Rental Association (ARA) has upgraded its forecast of 2026 industry growth from 02.3 percent to 2.8 percent.
Read more -
ConExpo records 140k visitors
More than 140,000 construction industry professionals from 128 countries visited in March.
Read more -
AI Equipment Agent
United Rentals has introduced what is believed to be the rental industry’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Assistant.
Read more -
Operator comfort and technology meet in the cab
Operator comfort and safety have emerged as major selling points for earthmoving equipment.
Read more -
Data-driven management for more profitable farming
Technologies and devices used in modern farming can generate vast amounts of data.
Read more -
Trust, not technology, will be the key to future success
Customers remain sceptical of the real world value technology can deliver.
Read more -
Diesel generator sets will continue to backstop the grid
Global power grids face a dual dilemma while transitioning to renewable generation technologies.
Read more
