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In the mix Say hello to CLM on stand D40 at EHS 2023, and check out the full range of equipment at www.clm-supplies.com


Speaking of customers, has your client base changed at all over the last couple of years? “It has become a real mix of new and existing customers,” says Chris Hughes, finally getting a word in. “We got several new enquiries at this year’s Executive Hire Show and a few more when we had the front cover of the April/May issue. In the meantime, one of our larger customers opened concessions in B&Q stores, so they've had a few items from us.”


I noticed on your website that you have a ‘Trade Store’ coming soon. Can you tell me a bit more about that?


“We were looking to plug a bit of a gap in the winter months, when everything quietens down,” explains Chris. “We have been looking at heating, lighting and things like that, based on a drop-shipping arrangement with our suppliers. Getting it going has been difficult, with prices changing so quickly, but hopefully this young lady here will be able to launch it soon…”


Emily takes the challenge in her stride. She has only been with the company since May, but already seems to have her feet under the table. Having done so, what else is she hoping to achieve?


“We’re hoping to launch the Trade Store at the Executive Hire Show next year. There's a lot to go through as CLM were looking for the right fit, and there was a gap in between me joining and the previous person leaving," she says.


CLM - Profile


A view inside the CLM Construction Supplies warehouse, which is situated in Bilston, West Midlands.


“During my interview I felt so relaxed and at ease, it felt like I was talking with friends. I am so excited to be part of the CLM family and there is so much potential here, it's a very exciting time for us all.


The next six months involve improving our websites and creating exciting content for our social media channels, so that we can go hell-for-leather in the New Year.”


‘‘ …there is so much


potential here, it's a really exciting time for us all


’’


That’s the spirit, for sure, and also a neat link into the final question. Now that business is booming and the team has been bolstered, what are the plans going forward?


“We definitely need more staff in all roles – not just technical, but in the warehouse, in packing and in sales support,” says Bob.


“My vision is to broaden the IMER product range and develop part of this business as a tool store – we’re already planning how we can move the offices in order to create a showroom,” Chris continues. “This year, with Bob stepping away from the day-to-day activities of the business, we feel that the company needs another director – so Greg is going to step up, and we will need to recruit somebody to support him. I’d like to be able to do this before the end of the year.”


“The company is expanding, and we are looking to recruit more people across various roles" says Bob. “We have built a very successful business and there is so much potential for us to continue to grow over the coming years, so it's a great time for us to welcome more staff into the fold.”


Which seems like a good place to leave it. It was great to find CLM in such fine and chatty form – doing well financially, actively promoting and recruiting, and preparing to expand its product offering. My thanks to Bob, Chris, Emily and Greg for their time. n


Loading a range of IMER electric tile saws for next day delivery to one of CLM's customers.


July/August 2022 - Executive Hire News 29


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