Damian Sheridan at Wren Contract Kitchens discusses the growing trend of BTR developments and why trusted partners are becoming essential to delivering quality and sustainable solutions.
The Build to Rent (BTR) sector has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past 12 months, experiencing sustained growth as developers pivot in response to prolonged stagnation in the residential sales market. With five consecutive interest rate cuts in 2025 and modest house price growth beginning to return, green shoots are visible in the wider housing market. Yet, the momentum in BTR is undeniable – a sector that is now firmly established as a cornerstone of UK housing delivery.
While Europe has long embraced a culture of high-quality rental living, the UK historically favoured home ownership, often underpinned by the ‘my home is my castle’ mindset. Today, however, there is a clear shift. A new generation, particularly graduates and young professionals, seeking homes in urban locations where career opportunities, connectivity and lifestyle amenities converge. This has fuelled demand for (mostly) high-rise, high-quality developments, often featuring coliving spaces and premium communal facilities such as gyms, swimming pools and well spec’d shared kitchens.
Industry leaders have noticed that this demographic change is influencing the way developers define accommodation. Compact apartments are increasingly complemented by generous shared amenities, creating vibrant, socially connected communities.
What to look for in a partner
In such a competitive and demanding market, developers are seeking peace of mind above all else, the assurance that their supply chain partners can deliver confidence, reliability, scale, flexibility
and consistency without compromise.
One recent project involved the delivery of over 600 kitchens in under 30 weeks to a single site. This level of demand illustrates why developers prioritise working with manufacturers that have the stability, scalability and operational agility to meet deadlines without disruption to other projects and areas of the business.
Lifetime value over short term savings
Durability is another defining factor in BTR specifications. Unlike private homeowners, tenants may not always treat their surroundings with the same level of care, meaning products must be resilient and built to last. Increasingly, quartz worktops are replacing laminates and timber alternatives. Although more expensive upfront and requiring longer installation, quartz reduces long term costs by preventing damage that could otherwise lead to cabinet replacements. Similarly, glass splash-backs and true handleless cabinetry with lacquer finishes provide durability while elevating the aesthetic appeal of rental properties.
One stop solutions deliver real value
The growing complexity of BTR projects has made the case for turnkey, end to end solutions. A single, trusted partner capable of supplying kitchens, bedrooms, flooring, appliances, installation and even interior design can reduce site management costs significantly. Each supplier typically requires a dedicated site manager or ‘Black Hat’, consolidating suppliers therefore directly impacts efficiency and cost controls.
ESG as a contract differentiator
Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) credentials are no longer a ‘nice to have’; they are increasingly decisive in contract awards. British manufacturing, supply chain ownership and the ability to minimise carbon footprint are vital considerations for builders and developers. Quick response remedials, dependable after sales care and sustainable logistics, such as utilising return journeys to remove waste, all contribute to the low disruption, ‘no noise’ approach that the BTR and Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) markets now demand.
Raising the standard
The sector has driven contract suppliers to differentiate and innovate. Manufacturers are now expected to deliver much more than products. In-house bespoke manufacturing, white glove delivery to plot by trained staff, sourcing of specialist finishes such as Silestone or acrylic worktops and integrated installation and interior design services are becoming the new standard.
For us, this evolution represents an opportunity to demonstrate the breadth of capability and commitment to being the ultimate contract partner. By offering developers a seamless, end to end service rooted in quality, reliability and sustainability, we are helping to shape a Build-to-Rent sector that is not only thriving today but built for life tomorrow.
Damian Sheridan is sales director at Wren Contract Kitchens