LANDSCAPING
DIGBY STONE SETS SIGHTS ON SALES
Digby Stone tells BMJ how it is addressing the increased customer demand for a more contemporary look.
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rom the outset, Digby Stone has consistently prioritised put the needs of the independent builders merchant, aiming to deliver its products and services to as many people as possible whilst maintaining its high standards. Founded by Darren and Clare Digby, the company earned its stripes by providing its extensive knowledge and dedication to customer satisfaction to its independent merchant customers
Geoff Moulton, sales director of the Global Stone Group which includes Digby Stone, says: “In a strategic move in 2021, Darren and Claire made the decision to sell Digby Stone to their long-term supply partner, World of Stones. “This transition allowed Digby Stone to maintain its Halesowen base and retain the majority of its staff, ensuring a seamless evolution.”
The brand now stands as a crucial component within the Global Stone Group, supporting a two-brand strategy that capitalizes on the strengths of the Digby Stone brand. “Under the ownership of World of Stones, Digby Stone is set to broaden its national reach while continuing its commitment to independent builders’ merchants, including both individual establishments and buying group members,” explains Moulton.
“The comprehensive product portfolio, encompassing Stone, Porcelain, Composite Decking, Jointing Compound and other accessories, is underpinned by a robust end-to- end supplier in World of Stones.” He says that the company still maintains its
THE ANSWER LIES IN THE SOIL …
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commitment to provide customers with its knowledgeable sales team whilst embracing a wider national focus. It aims to extend its product ranges and services to a broader audience of builders’ merchants. “As part of our ongoing commitment to innovation and product excellence, Digby Stone introduces three stunning additions to the porcelain range. The Decor Porcelain tile, available in two colours and a 600x600mm size, adds a touch of chic with its geometric design. “The Sandstone Porcelain range replicates the beauty of sandstone in porcelain, offering practicality and durability. The Alpini Quarzo tile, available in three colours, captivates with its dazzling quarzitic surface when illuminated by sunlight.
“Responding to the demand for a more contemporary look, Digby Stone introduces the Premium Sandstone Fusion Paving. Striking a balance between classic riven sandstone and modern straight-cut edges, it caters to those who appreciate the colour and texture of sandstone paving while desiring a more contemporary look.”
Moulton says that this offering from the company presents a wide range of complementary products, including stainless- steel trims, porcelain edgings, setts, and coping/ steps, enhancing outdoor spaces with grace and sophistication.
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elcourt managing director Andy Chalmers says it’s all about what’s below the surface. “At Melcourt we have been
successfully supplying Melcourt Blended Loam Topsoil to builders’ merchants for many years. Over that time, we have learnt how to increase stockist sales, customer spend, volume and profit,” he says.
“Apart from the product quality, which is probably better than a stockist could buy locally together with prompt delivery, we provide practical sales support items, product training, referred customer leads among other things. We strive to develop long-term partnerships with our customers. For this reason, we definitely do not have an e-shop, where we would in many respects compete with our stockist customers.
“Everywhere we see ‘shrink-flation’, even for bulk bags of topsoil,” he continues. ”We will not be reducing the product quantity or product volume of our bags, which will remain at 600 litres. This gives the stockist 100 litres – 20% - more product than in a 500l bag. We remain members of all of the major builders merchants buying groups, including CBA, Fortis, H&B, IBC and NBG and have negotiated attractive deals with them.” BMJ
“We have also launched the Global Rewards Club, aimed at helping merchant partners build loyalty with their customers” he adds. “This program offers points on Global Stone purchases, which can be exchanged for exciting prizes. Contractor members can enjoy benefits such as free membership, sample cases, regular competitions, expert RSM support, and exclusive rewards.” “We look forward to collaborating closely with our merchant partners to enrol contractors in the Global Rewards Club, starting today.” BMJ
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net March 2024
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