Figures for Q2 2019 just released in the BMF’s Builders Merchants Building Index (BMBI) report the first negative growth in sales through UK builders merchants since data collection began in 2014. In value terms, total merchant sales for the Q2 2019 were down -1.2% against the same period last year.  The negative figures were exacerbated […]

Kishor Harsiani, IBC’s Strategy & Finance Director, explains why the merchant industry must make risk management an urgent priority You’ll struggle to find a company within the building industry that isn’t working to a strategic plan. Whether merchant or supplier, everyone has a plan for future growth, and a strategy that outlines their vision, goals […]

Flex-R is increasing its capacity to work with merchants to showcase its range of products to contractors with the appointment of Emma Butterworth-Day. Butterworth-Day has joined the company as a Business Development Manager for the southern half of the UK with a brief to increase the amount of stockists of its range of products, including […]

Lakes has achieved the Carbon Footprint Standard having assessed its carbon emissions and achieved carbon neutrality via support of internationally certified carbon offset projects. The two-stage process audited all greenhouse gas emissions associated with Lakes’ UK operation. This resulted in the award of the Carbon Footprint Standard – based on Lakes’ carbon footprint assessment being […]

The Builders Merchants Federation has announced the shortlist for the 2019 BMF Young Achiever Awards, which recognise and reward talent, commitment, innovation and achievement in the next generation of managers. The Awards are presented to those under the age of 35 who have demonstrated their ability to go above and beyond their day to day […]

Independent builders merchant Thompson & Parkes is launching its first retail DIY shop in Stourpor. Nikki Shipton has been appointed as the branch manager and Harry Dowling-Bingle as its Supervisor. Shipton says: “I’m thrilled to be a part of Thompson and Parkes and I am very excited to be on this journey with some really […]

Designed to provide a matchmaking solution to help suppliers and retailers get the most out of their time at the show, Glee Connect – created by market-leading experts, Grip – will offer benefits for both exhibitors and retailers, utilising a platform that has already proved its worth at many leading events across the globe. Available […]