Key factors influencing sharing economy practices in the construction industry: findings from partial least squares – structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM)

Purpose The sharing economy (SE) has emerged as a novel approach to achieve circular economy objectives while revolutionising traditional construction practices. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the factors influencing SE practices in the construction industry (CI). Design/methodology/approach A questionnaire survey (with 157 responses) was used as the primary data collection method for this study. This study employed convenience and snowball sampling techniques to collect the primary data. These key data were analysed using Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modelling. Findings The developed model statistically explains the influence of the finalised 24 SE factors and eight factor categories related to the SE practices in the CI. According to the results, economy, environment, governance, health, safety and security, people and technology-related factor categories showed a significant influence on construction-related SE practices. In contrast, the marketing and research, as well as product and service-related factor categories, demonstrated an insignificant influence compared to other factors in the model. Originality/value This study represents one of the pioneering efforts exploring the construction-related SE practices, and this is the first study that investigates the influence of SE factors in the CI. Overall, this study enhances theoretical and practical knowledge and understanding of deploying SE practices, contributing to more sustainable and circular construction.