NEWSROUND Harris & Bailey introduces Podfather logistics


Builders merchant Harris & Bailey, has introduced Podfather logistics software to boost its customer service levels.


The merchant is seeking to reduce its environmental impact and improve operational efficiency including route planning and optimisation tools and electronic Proof of Delivery features. Podfather has already enabled a reduction in paper usage in the delivery process by one third, and a significant reduction in incoming customer queries.


“At the start of the year I championed ‘streamline’ as our buzzword for 2026,” says Connor Grinham, IT administrator at Harris & Bailey. “We are an established


Howdens launches kitchens


sales designer apprenticeship Trade kitchen supplier Howdens has launched a new group apprenticeship programme for kitchen sales designers across major UK cities including Leeds, Newcastle, Sheffield, Liverpool and Manchester.


Apprentices will learn as part of their regional cohort and will join classroom sessions, with direct learning from Howdens experts including lead kitchen sales designers, product and category teams and internal sales and leadership teams, as well as close support from learning and development and training partners.


The apprenticeship also includes one-to-one support from an apprenticeship coach, sponsorship from senior leaders and a structured, supportive route into a sales career with real progression opportunities.


No prior experience is needed, and Successful apprentices will achieve a Level 3 fitted furniture design technician apprenticeship over 14 months achieved through a combination of on-the-job learning, classroom sessions and external training.


Apprenticeship manager at Howdens, James Baker, says; “Our apprenticeships are perfect


business with an impressive history, but it was obvious we needed to update some of our processes, and the paper-based delivery operation was a natural place to start as, prior to Podfather, this was completely manual, and the red books we used were all powerful. “However, by utilising the experience and expertise of our transport team, together with Podfather’s easy to implement, easy to use functionality, we are already seeing positive impacts for our customers and our business.”


BMF Members Conference shares Italian innovation


for people who thrive in a team environment. The role of kitchen sales designer centres on creativity and relationships and is an exciting and rewarding role. “Many of our colleagues, more than one in 10, started their careers with us as apprentices. They are a huge part of what makes our business successful, so we’re excited to welcome this new cohort to our enhanced scheme.”


Premier Forest Products relaunches NTS Sheffield site


Timber supplier Premier Forest Products has confirmed the full relaunch of the National Timber Systems (NTS) Sheffield manufacturing site, following its acquisition of NTS out of administration at the end of 2025. The temporary shutdown of the 25,000 sq ft facility has enabled an operational reset at the Sheffield site, a key hub within NTS’s national network between Newcastle, Bristol and Catterick. The site now


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benefits from a reconfigured yard with clearly defined loading areas, Increased time allocated to the loading process and a robust two- stage checking system, ensuring every order is verified both in the loading bay and again on the vehicle prior to departure. A central focus of the relaunch has been the retention of skills and continuity of service, with many roles having been restored, including a core group of


experienced shop floor, transport and office staff.


Co-founder & CEO of Premier


Forest Products, Terry Edgell, said: “Re-establishing Sheffield was a strategic priority for the business. . “Our focus has been on retaining the expertise on site while taking the opportunity to strengthen processes. The result is a facility that combines proven capability with an improved and disciplined customer- focused approach to delivery.”


Daniele Moretti, general coordinator of 4BILD, an Italian building materials distribution network, will share his insight at the BMF Annual Members Conference in September. The company manages and transforms construction and demolition waste, supporting the development of a circular economy within the sector as part of the REC (Construction Circular Recovery) Consortium. BMF CEO John Newcomb said: “Daniele plays a pivotal role in shaping 4BILD’s network to support the construction supply chain in Italy. I am looking forward to hearing about the impact this is having and to see what lessons we can take to continue developing solutions within our own supply chains.”


Collier & Catchpole sets up Collier Hire


Builders merchants Collier & Catchpole has launched Collier Hire, a tool hire service built for the trade & DIY.


The service includes ground


care and landscaping tools from rotavators, aerators and lawnmowers to stump grinders, as well as compaction, mixing, and pumping equipment such as plate compactors, cement mixers, and submersible pumps. There is also breaking, demolition, cutting, flooring, cleaning, heating, and cooling equipment available.


Customers can use their existing Collier & Catchpole account to hire directly from the merchant’s Colchester branch.


www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net May 2026


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