It is currently the only domestic retail industry. Previously, there was automotive, but over time, the secondary automotive manufacturing (parts and components) was outsourced overseas (because it was cheaper by cents-in-the-dollar), which was the beginning of the end.

The building industry is still supporting the secondary industries of building materials. Forestry, plaster/concrete/brick manufacturing and other bulk industries rely on builders to stay solvent, so they do get a fair bit of leeway.

With the cessation of the Home Owners Grants and other corporate welfare, the builders Ponzi schemes are starting to collapse and the national economy cannot afford another major fizzling out of another major industry. Builders can’t squeeze their suppliers any more, so the only way they can continue is to rip-off their retail customers.