BMF looks to Europe for Members’ Conference topic
Professor Anand Menon, a leading expert on the UK’s relationship with Europe, will offer a fresh perspective on future relations at the BMF Annual Members Conference in September. Menon, who co-authored ‘Brexit and British Politics,’ is a Professor of European Politics and Foreign Affairs at King’s College London and serves as director of the think tank UK in a Changing Europe. Additionally, Menon was
Plumb Centre launches exclusive heat pump package
Manufacturers Haier and Passiv UK have announced a new partnership that will see the Passiv Smart Thermostat integrate directly with Haier heat pumps. This exclusive bundle will be available through Plumb Centre branches, making it easier for installers to specify a fully integrated, smart heat pump solution at a competitive price point.
Commercial director at Plumb Centre, Alex Andreou, comments: “Installers want heat pump systems that are easy to commission and even easier for customers to understand. This Haier and Passiv partnership removes friction on both sides.
appointed this year as a director at Public First, a leading policy, research, and strategy consultancy.
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At the conference, he will share his insights into the UK’s future relationship with its closest neighbour and most significant trading partner, explore the changing nature of the EU itself, and consider the broader global implications of European political shifts.
BMF CEO ,John Newcomb, said: “The UK’s relationship with Europe is more relevant than ever, especially in this time of
Timber Development UK reports 2.2% fall in imports in 2025
Total UK timber and panel product imports reached 9.1 million m³ in 2025, representing a 2.2% decline compared with 2024, according to the latest Timber Development UK (TDUK) figures.
While the figure indicates an overall reduction in volumes, the data also highlights a number of areas where imports grew during the year, which could suggest the market may be approaching a turning point.
Head of technical and trade policy at timber development UK, Nick Boulton, said: “While total timber import volumes fell slightly in 2025, the figures show that the picture across the sector
is mixed. Much of the reduction in overall volume was driven by lower softwood and MDF imports, while other product categories, such as Particleboard and a number of engineered wood products, recorded strong growth during the year. This highlights continued demand in parts of the market even while overall construction activity remains subdued.”
Robert Price acquires Lliw Building Supplies
Builders’ merchant Robert Price has announced the acquisition of Lliw Building Supplies Limited, further strengthening its presence across South Wales. Robert Price operates 31 sites across South Wales and Herefordshire, comprising 20 traditional merchant yards alongside a number of specialist branches, operating under the
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Robert Price, Tudors and Gower Timber brands. Managing director of Robert Price, William Godfrey, commented: “Robert Price and Lliw represent a particularly harmonious partnership. As a local, family business, Lliw Building Supplies shares many of Robert Price’s core principles, particularly a strong relationship with our loyal
customer base, a trusted presence within our local communities, and a valued and committed workforce. We look forward to building on these strengths as we integrate the Lliw business into our own.”
Suppliers or customers with any queries on the acquisition are encouraged to contact Robert Price Head Office in Abergavenny.
Leading UK paint manufacturers and retailers are coming together to trial PaintCare UK, a voluntary, industry-funded take-back scheme run by the British Coatings Federation (BCF).
The scheme, which will be trialled in the West Midlands for three months from March 2026, will allow consumers and tradespeople to return leftover decorative paint and empty packaging to selected participating retailers. The PaintCare pilot brings together major paint brands working in collaboration with retail partners including B&Q, Brewers Decorator Centres, Dulux Decorator Centres and Johnstone’s Decorating Centres.
CEO of the British Coatings Federation, Tom Bowtell, commented: “This trial marks a major step forward - not just for our industry, but for consumers and tradespeople who want simple, practical ways to reduce waste.”
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net April 2026
global uncertainty and conflict. Understanding how the EU is evolving and what that means for the UK is crucial—not just for our industry but for everyone interested in stability and prosperity. I’m delighted that Professor Menon will discuss these vital topics at our conference.” The BMF Annual Members Conference and Awards takes place at the Belfry Hotel and Resort in Sutton Coldfield on September 16 and 17.
UK paint brands pilot leftover paint return scheme
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