MERCHANT FOCUS: FARMAC I
n the heart of West Yorkshire, Farmac Timber and Building Supplies has built its reputation over more than 50 years as a reliable supplier to local building and landscaping contractors. However, as a family-owned independent builders’ merchant, it has also developed into something of a cornerstone of community life in Pudsey, near Leeds, and the surrounding area. The company has a reputation for backing local people not just on site, but on the high street, in the classroom and even on the local carnival floats. The merchant is led by co-director Simon Beverley, who says that Farmac’s approach to business is steeped in the values of local loyalty and social responsibility. “My brother and I run the
business, we were born and brought up in this town,” he says.
“We’ve never lost sight of that. It’s not just where we do business, it’s where our families live and where our children go to school. So, if we’re in a position to give something back, we absolutely will.”
Backing the community That philosophy has helped define Farmac’s brand as much as its products ever could. The business has been a major supporter of the Pudsey Carnival for more than 20 years. Every year, it sponsors the main stage, provides secure storage for carnival equipment, and enters several themed wagons into the parade, complete with drivers and decorations. There’s also a fundraising stall, with proceeds going to Marie Curie Cancer Care.
The Christmas period is just as busy every year. In Pudsey, more than 200 Christmas trees are installed annually across the town, and it’s Farmac that stores them and sponsors the main stage for the light switch-on. In nearby Farsley, the company has been supplying its wagons and materials for three of the floats in the lights parade. These are used by schools, nurseries and scout groups, and Farmac lets them do so free of charge. “These events don’t happen by magic,” says Beverley. “They take materials, storage space, planning, transport and people willing to get stuck in. Our team loves doing it, especially because our own children and their friends are some of those who get to enjoy it.” He explains that Farmac’s commitment to local life goes well beyond seasonal celebrations. When a nearby primary school lost its forest classroom to arson, it was
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CARNIVALS AND COMMUNITY
BMJ meets an independent merchant that’s committed to its community of customers.
Farmac that stepped in with the timber and plywood to rebuild it.
Beverley says: “When you help a school or a local group that needs it, you’re helping your customers, your neighbours or your future team. That’s what being a local merchant is really about.”
Gaining momentum
In terms of robust business backup which then allows the company the time and brain space to get involved in community causes, Farmac points to buying society NMBS as being a major factor.
“We joined NMBS in 2018 and quickly saw what they could offer us, including better terms with suppliers, the ability to build those relationships, and real, tangible support when things got tough,” he says. “During COVID, when national supply lines were unpredictable, it was our NMBS network that kept us trading. And now, as we look to expand our site, that support is more important than ever.” Dean Hayward, head of sales and marketing at NMBS, is full of praise for Farmac’s commitment to both its customers and its community.
He says: “Farmac is a brilliant example of how a merchant can contribute meaningful social value in local communities. They show that success isn’t just about transactions and products, it’s about trust, longevity and supporting local people.”
With strong community links, a loyal customer base and ambitious plans for growth, Farmac continues to prove that independent merchants can thrive, not just by selling well, but by standing for something that goes beyond their business. BMJ
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net February 2026
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