PHAM NEWS | MARCH 2026 Merchant & Distributor News Two new branches for MKM


February saw the opening of two new branches for MKM Building Supplies – Sidcup and Arbroath – taking the total number of branches for the independent merchant’s national network to 139. The company says that both branches will be led by experienced local directors and teams shaped by regional knowledge, reflecting the emphasis on continuing to expand its national footprint while retaining local autonomy and community focus. MKM was founded in Hull in 1995 and was acquired by specialist HVAC distributor Oceanair UK in 2024. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/326/12


Positive figures for November sales


The latest figures from the Plumbing & Heating Merchant Index (PHMI) report show total like-for- like value sales for November 2025 through specialist plumbing and heating merchants were up +2.7% compared to the same month the year before. Like-for-like value sales in the three months


September to November were +1.6% higher than the same period last year (September to November 2024). There was no difference in trading days, so unadjusted value sales were also +1.6%. Unadjusted volume sales were 1.8% down. Like-for-like value sales in the 12-month period


December 2024 to November 2025 were +2.4% ahead of the previous 12 months. Mike Rigby, MD of MRA Research which produces


the PHMI report, comments: “During November, in the run up to the budget, the government created so much uncertainty and unease that many consumers and businesses just sat on their hands and paused their spending on larger items and projects until they could see what the Chancellor announced. “In the event, the budget was less extreme than


expected. Consumers and businesses breathed a little easier and got back to plan, but by then the damage had been done to November’s sales.” To download the latest report, please use the online link below: ◼ phamnews.co.uk/326/10


Plumb Centre tour Life Made Better 9


THE NEW GENERATION iSure ELECTRIC SHOWER


Wolseley Plumb Centre branches around the country are hosting a nationwide roadshow staged by plumbing and drainage manufacturer Wavin and professional tool manufacturer Milwaukee, bringing hands-on product demonstrations and exclusive giveaways to tradespeople. The 29-stop tour kicked off in Kendal on 17th


February and will conclude in Aberdeen on 21st May. At each venue, Wavin’s custom mobile display vehicle – the ‘WaVan’ – will arrive on site and visitors will get the chance to take advantage of expert advice and pick up free product samples. Anyone purchasing a Milwaukee product on the day will also be entered into a prize draw to win a Milwaukee branded radio. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/326/11


The AKW iSure is a cost-effective, user and installer friendly, non-thermostatic electric shower suited for modern or traditional bathrooms.


+ Retro-fit footprint covers many manufacturers’ models


+ Flexible installation with 6 Electrical / 8 Water entry points


+ 2-year warranty as standard www.akw-ltd.co.uk | Telephone: 01905 823 298 |


2 YEAR WARRANTY


View our iSure video


Email: sales@akw-ltd.co.uk


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