Howdens has announced the
opening of three new depots in the Republic of Ireland.
Premier Forest buys National Timber Group businesses
Premier Forest Products has acquired engineered timber specialist National Timber Systems (NTS), strengthening and enhancing its timber engineering capability across the UK. National Timber Systems was previously part of National Timber Group England Ltd, which went into administration at the end of last year.
The transaction sees Premier
Forest acquiring NTS operations in Bristol, Catterick and Newcastle, plus the assets of the Sheffield site, with the aim to return to full production capacity to meet customer demand.
The acquisition follows the recent purchase of the Arnold Laver sites in Manchester, Reading and Hull from the administrators. Terry Edgell, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of
BMF Report highlights need for greater customer engagement
The third annual BMF State of Sustainability research report, conducted by strategic agency CMDi, has highlighted that the top three barriers to adopting sustainable building materials are all customer-related. With trade customers having low awareness of the need for sustainable materials, showing scepticism
about sustainability and/or being unwilling to pay more for sustainable products. In response, the BMF is
stepping up support with practical guidance through Working Group 1, which focuses on sustainability and environmental issues. CMDi managing director, Dianne Lucas, says: “This sector has made real progress, but now we must protect it. Sustainability cannot become optional because market conditions are tough. Momentum is fragile and we cannot afford to lose the wins we’ve fought for.”
Huws Gray invests in Grangemouth site
Builders’ merchant Huws Gray has completed an extensive upgrade to its Grangemouth Timber depot improving facilities for both staff and visitors.
The branch, which employs 16 people, is the only location in Scotland that still operates a working timber mill. It offers a wide range of services, including full sawing capabilities, moulding and profiling, wood preservation, and specialist cutter tooling. It maintains substantial stocks of timber, sheet materials, and pre-primed MDF mouldings,
and supports both national and regional housebuilders, as well as local joiners and shed manufacturers. The refurbishment has focused on transforming the sales office and kitchen, along with a large training and meeting room. Managing director at PDM, Eddie Hernon, says “This site has been part of the Grangemouth community for 140 years, and we’re incredibly proud of its history and the specialist timber services that continue to make it such an important part of our business.”
January 2026
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net
Premier Forest said: “The Hull operation significantly extends our geographic coverage and delivery capability, enabling us to better support customers across Yorkshire, the Humber and the wider north-east with a broader range of timber products and faster, more resilient supply.”
Draper Tools
acquires Van Vault and Defender Lighting
Kitchen and appliance distributor LDD UK is celebrating 25 years in business.
Russell Roof Tiles is celebrating its 60th anniversary.
NEWS INBRIEF
Heidelberg Materials’ reaches milestone at Padeswood cement works
Heidelberg Materials UK has reached the next milestone in its plans to build the UK’s first carbon capture facility at a cement works at Padeswood in north Wales.
The manufacturer has signed an engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM) contract with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Worley, following the successful completion of the front-end engineering design (FEED) by the partners.
Planning &
Infrastructure Act becomes law
L-R Joe Draper, John Draper, Tom Draper
Tool and equipment supplier Draper Tools has announced it has acquired two new brands, Van Vault and Defender Lighting. Both brands were formerly part of Toolstream Ltd, which has recently entered administration. Van Vault, was established over 20 years ago and is a supplier of vehicle and on-site security storage solutions. While Defender operated within the site lighting and power distribution industry. Speaking about the news, Matt Sheen, CEO at Draper Tools said: “We are pleased to be able to incorporate two such well- known brands into the Draper offering. The acquisition allows us to continue meeting demand and helps us further our goal to provide the most comprehensive range of best-in-class tools to our customers.”
Further updates are due to follow from Draper in early 2026.
The Planning & Infrastructure Act, which aims to remove blockages and delays in the planning system received royal assent on December 18.
Fergus Charlton, planning partner with national law firm Michelmores commented: “Only some parts of the Act will be immediately effective. The remainder will gradually come through a steady stream of government issued statutory instruments. For those parts there is still much work to be done.
Total Roofing joins NBG
Colchester-based roofing merchant, Total Roofing, has become an NBG Partner. By joining the National Buying Group (NBG), Total Roofing will now benefit from deals including outside of the Roofing Category, aiding expansion and diversification of product ranges stocked and sold. As an NBG Partner, Total Roofing will also have immediate access to NBG’s online Hub and network.
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