
In a sector defined by rapid innovation, evolving standards and increasing demand for efficient building solutions, success is no longer achieved in isolation, claims Jackie Maginnis, chief executive of the Modular & Portable Building Association (MPBA)

It is built through collaboration, shared knowledge and a collective commitment to progress. This is the objective at the heart of our association and the reason its influence across the industrialised and offsite construction sector continues to grow.
A sector strengthened by connection
The Modular and Portable Building Industry is made up of highly skilled manufacturers, designers, engineers, specialist contractors and supply chain partners. Each plays a vital role in delivering high-quality, efficient and sustainable building solutions. Yet it is the connection between these roles that transforms individual capability into sector-wide strength.
The MPBA exists to create those connections. We bring businesses together under a united mission: to raise standards, share expertise and promote the value of modular construction throughout the commercial sectors across the UK and beyond.
Bringing people, ideas and the industry together
One of the most visible expressions of this philosophy is the MPBA’s calendar of industry events. Our annual charity golf day has become a cornerstone of our social and networking calendar. It brings together members, partners and stakeholders in a relaxed environment where relationships are strengthened and new connections are formed – all while raising funds for meaningful charitable causes. It reflects the industry at its best: collaborative, supportive and community minded.
Alongside this, the Modern Methods of Construction Awards provide a platform to celebrate excellence across the sector. These awards shine a spotlight on innovation, project delivery and technical achievement, recognising the organisations and individuals pushing modular construction forward. More than recognition, they create shared ambition – raising expectations and inspiring continuous improvement across our membership.
Developing skills that power industry progression
Connection is not limited to networking. Training transforms connectivity into capability, unlocking new opportunities for growth. The MPBA’s dedicated training centre plays a crucial role in developing the workforce that underpins the sector’s future. At a time when skills shortages present a significant challenge for construction, our association has invested in creating focused learning opportunities that help individuals and businesses grow.
From new entrants to experienced professionals, members benefit from training designed to improve competence, confidence and consistency across the industry. This ensures that as the sector expands, it does so with quality and professionalism at its core. By sharing knowledge and investing in people collectively, the industry becomes stronger than any single business could achieve alone.
A united voice for modular construction
Beyond events and training, the MPBA acts as a unifying voice for the sector. We engage with government, policymakers, industry bodies and stakeholders to ensure that modular and portable construction is properly represented in discussions shaping the built environment.
This advocacy role is vital in ensuring that the benefits of offsite construction – speed, sustainability, quality and efficiency – are clearly understood and recognised. In this way, the association does more than connect businesses. It connects ideas, priorities and ambitions into a coherent voice that strengthens the entire sector.
A team that drives the industry forward
Behind this work is a passionate, knowledgeable and highly committed team who bring energy and focus to everything the MPBA delivers. Their role is not simply administrative. They are facilitators, connectors and advocates – working closely with members to understand challenges, create opportunities and ensure the association remains responsive to the needs of a fast-moving industry.
From organising events to taking part in exhibitions that ensure our message is heard loud and clear and developing training programmes to supporting industry engagement and strategic initiatives, the team plays a central role in turning collaboration into tangible impact.
Every initiative – whether an awards ceremony, training programme, networking event or advocacy effort – is designed to bring people together. Because when the industry connects, it progresses faster. When it shares knowledge, it innovates more effectively. And when it speaks with one voice, it achieves greater influence. That is the power of collaboration and the strength of membership.
Join today
Joining an association with many other likeminded professionals will open up new collaboration opportunities and add significant value to your company. The MPBA is recognised as the voice of the industry. As a member the team can help you solve business problems, connect you to new customers and suppliers and make your voice heard.
Become a member today and open the door to a wide range of resources and support. For more information or details of how to join call 02475 901938 or email kate@mpba.biz
For more information visit: https://mpba.biz/
*Please note, this is a commercial profile.
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