NEWSROUND NMBS continues its apprenticeship recruitment drive
Builders’ merchant buying society NMBS has helped recruit over 150 apprentices across the independent merchant sector. The 150 apprentices are distributed across NMBS member companies, including Gardner and Scardifield Ltd, Yard Direct, and Silverton Builders Merchants Ltd. Apprentices across these businesses include a mix of completely new entrants to the construction industry and
of careers, ranging from entry Level 2 qualifications, such as warehouse operator, advanced Level 7 qualifications suitable for upskilling existing staff or onboarding new managers with experience and transferable skills into senior positions.
experienced professionals looking to enhance their skills and advance their existing careers. They are carrying out
apprenticeships over a wide range
Lords appoints new COO for merchanting
Independent builders merchant group Lords has appointed Steve Durdant- Hollamby as merchanting chief operating officer. Most recently divisional managing director at Genuit Plc (Polypipe), Durdant-Hollamby has 26 years of industry experience, having held leadership positions in
major building material companies spanning across merchanting and manufacturing. In his new role, he will lead Lords Builders
Merchants, Advance Roofing, Condell, George Lines, and Hevey brands, while partnering with Shanker Patel, CEO of LGT. This appointment is a key part of the Group’s strategy to expand its merchanting division and grow the business over the next few years. “We are thrilled to welcome Steve,” said Shanker Patel. “His impressive experience in merchanting, building products, and civils, alongside his ability to build high-performing teams, aligns perfectly with our vision for the future. Steve’s leadership will be crucial in realising our ambitious growth plans and reinforcing our commitment to creating a sustainable, socially responsible business.” “I am excited to join LGT and take on this new challenge,” Durdant-Hollamby said. “The company’s reputation for quality and commitment to exceptional service as well as sustainable growth was key in attracting me to the business. I look forward to working with Shanker and the team to drive forward new opportunities with my experience to help grow the business to its full potential.”
6
Dean Hayward, NMBS head of sales and marketing, said: “Our apprenticeship recruitment drive is contributing towards reducing the skills gap in the independent
Davies expands with Taf acquisition
Davies Builders Merchants, in South West Wales, has bought Taf Building Supplies in St Clears. This move marks a significant expansion for Davies Builders Merchants and solidifies its position as a premier supplier in the region.
“We are excited to welcome Taf Building Supplies into the Davies Builders Merchants family,” said Kevin De Banks, managing director of Davies Builders Merchants. “Taf has a strong reputation for excellent customer service and a loyal customer base, and we look forward to building upon their legacy.” As part of the acquisition, Davies Builders Merchants plans to invest in the St. Clears branch, including renovations to the yard and showroom. Additionally, the company will introduce its kitchen and bathroom design and supply services to the area. All Taf Building Supplies employees will be retained.
Travis Perkins opens bigger branch in Oldham
Builders
merchant Travis Perkins has relocated its Oldham branch to a bigger and better location on Featherstall Road North.
Branch manager Laura McCaig said: “Whenever we open a new branch, we’re making a commitment to providing our customers with greater accessibility to a wide range of tools and materials, ensuring they have everything they need to deliver their projects on time and to a high-quality standard.”
The new location is strategically positioned to meet the growing demands of the local trade sector.
merchant sector. It is brilliant to see our members and suppliers continuing to support the next generation of merchants and share their knowledge so willingly. With the support of the BMF, we want to continue to grow our industry’s apprenticeship offering to help secure a future for our industry and to instil the importance of customer service and local knowledge into the next generation.”
CLC reports good availability, but urges caution
The Construction Leadership Council’s Material Supply Chain Group is reporting good levels of product availability towards the final quarter of the year. According to the latest statement issued by the group, most regions reported stronger sales, prompted by a slight increase in house building activity. The main concerns flagged by the group centres on the potential impact of the government’s ambitions for new housing and infrastructure when, over the past 18 months, manufacturers have adjusted capacity to match far lower levels of demand.
Demand world-wide has declined in the last two years leading to the closure of older facilities, the loss of skilled labour, and very low stock levels.
AWARDS ERROR Apologies to Tippers and SR Timber for a page production error that took them off the Highly Commended listing in their respective categories, Independent Merchant of the Year, and Timber Supplier of the Year, in our Awards Winners Brochure, published last month. Rest assured, you can keep your trophies.
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net November 2024
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40
