Professional Builders Merchant May 2021

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PROFESSIONAL

BUILDERS MERCHANT THE No.1 BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR MERCHANTS

MAY 2021

Merchant sector sales & confidence

TOOLS, FIXINGS & ADHESIVES Developments in sealants, screws and power tools

BRICKS, BLOCKS & HARD LANDSCAPING Innovation and efficiencies

PAINTS & WOODCARE Colour trends in an RMI renaissance

Plus: News, showroom solutions, training, acquisitions, industry comment and more.

Fantasy Football The home straight See page 59

www.professionalbuildersmerchant.co.uk

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CONTENTS

May 2021, Volume 31 No. 5

PAINTS & WOODCARE 20

BRUSHING UP Preparing for a post-pandemic RMI uplift.

22

A DESIGN FOR LIFE The colour trends to shape 2021.

23

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

35

TOOLS, FIXINGS & ADHESIVES 24

GRAB YOUR ATTENTION Examining the different options for sealants and adhesives.

35

THE FORCE AWAKENS Senco outlines its renewed drive to provide essential fastening solutions.

39

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

BRICKS, BLOCKS & HARD LANDSCAPING 43

SUSTAINABLE SECRETS Sustainable solutions with traditional construction materials.

47

FACING FACTS Exploring the sales potential for concrete facing brick.

51

BLOC PARTY The launch of a ‘game changing’ cement-free ultra-low carbon concrete block.

52

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

SPECIAL REPORTS 14 POSTAL SERVICE The latest generation of steel fence post solutions.

16

REGULARS 5 6 8 11 12 54 56 58 59

VIEWPOINT NEWS MARKET MONITOR PEOPLE NEWS BMF TRAINING ZONE MARKETING SUPPORT PRODUCTS & SERVICES ADVERTISEMENT INDEX FANTASY FOOTBALL

16 THE PULSE Tracking confidence, concerns and prospects in the merchant sector.

18 PRESENT AND CORRECT Packaging solutions for fire-rated door hardware.

ADVERTORIAL SUPPLEMENT

27 www.professionalbuildersmerchant.co.uk

27 A deep dive behind the scenes at leading wholesaler, Centurion Europe.

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VIEWPOINT

Back for good?

W

ith the country taking further steps forward on its roadmap to recovery, getting back to some form of normality edges closer. As non-essential retail reopens — including more capacity for showrooms to further expand their services — and the public can contemplate getting a haircut and having a pint outdoors, we can but hope that the cautious path is indeed “irreversible”.

And whilst we have been broadly in this position before, the continued success of the vaccine rollout seems to have changed the game completely. This presents the Government with yet another awkward conundrum — success is, in essence, invisible and if the loosening of restrictions has only a limited impact on coronavirus cases, hospitalisations and deaths, the clamour will grow for an even more rapid return to business as usual.

This curious logic — restrictions are working, therefore there’s no need for restrictions — has underpinned so much of the pandemic debate, and is clearly uncomfortable ground for a government and especially a Prime Minister whose laissez-faire instinct runs deep. But whatever the frustrations with the pace of reopening, we must accept there’s a long road ahead in any eventuality — and whatever the ‘new normal’ will truly look like remains to be seen.

Will home-working, or at least a hybrid blend, become a permanent feature? What will be the ultimate impact on jobs once the government support measures such as the furlough scheme come to an end? How do we re-evaluate the make-up of our towns and PROFESSIONAL

BUILDERS MERCHANT THE No.1 BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR MERCHANTS

MAY 2021

Merchant sector sales & confidence

TOOLS, FIXINGS & ADHESIVES Developments in sealants, screws and power tools

BRICKS, BLOCKS & HARD LANDSCAPING Innovation and efficiencies

PAINTS & WOODCARE Colour trends in an RMI renaissance

Plus: News, showroom solutions, training, acquisitions, industry comment and more.

Fantasy Football The home straight See page 59

“With so much up for debate, it is painfully ironic there has been an all too predictable air of the inevitable with the failure of yet another Government sustainability drive as the Green Homes Grant joins the Green Deal on the scrapheap.” city centres, following the accelerated ecommerce hammer blow to the High Street over the last year?

For the merchant sector and indeed the wider construction industry, plenty of questions have to be confronted — the ongoing nature of front of house trading operations, the safe return of office staff and the longer term impact of online trading, not least in relation to customer preferences and the broader threat of ‘other’ digital competitors.

For the industry at large, hopes for a sustained RMI boom offer tangible hope as many individuals emerge from the pandemic with cash saved and a desire to adapt their homes for a new future. Others may not be in such a fortunate position. In terms of the new build sector, there are myriad questions of a different nature — proximity to commuterfriendly transport links and open plan living may now be trumped by green space and a home office in the eyes of potential buyers.

Where and how we need to build our new homes may not be the same as it was 18 months ago.

We all crave the familiarity and freedom of face to face interaction with colleagues, or

Editor Paul Davies Assistant Editor Abbie Smith Group Advertisement Manager Craig Jowsey craig@hamerville.co.uk Tel: 07900 248102 Advertisement Manager Sam Shannon-Tinsley stinsley@hamerville.co.uk Tel: 07554 013302 Midlands & Northern Advertisement Manager

www.professionalbuildersmerchant.co.uk

Ian Duff Tel: 01204 596633/ 07810 353525 probuilder@sky.com Design Adeel Qadri Group Production Manager Carol Padgett Production Assistant Kerri Smith Circulation Manager Kirstie Day Managing Editor Terry Smith

going for a meal with friends, but I hope that the determination for ‘business as usual’ doesn’t serve to eliminate sensible conversations about re-evaluating our previous procedures. There are big issues to address and the pain felt by so many, in numerous ways, since last March would surely be ill-served by a wholesale return to ‘the way it was’ just because that seems easier than reaching for more imaginative and ambitious solutions.

With so much up for debate, it is painfully ironic there has been an all too predictable air of the inevitable with the failure of yet another Government sustainability drive as the Green Homes Grant joins the Green Deal on the scrapheap. For all the early hope, it offers a perfect example of where bigger thinking is required.

A far-reaching National Retrofit Strategy — taking a more measured and broader approach to the much-needed upgrading of the nation’s homes — must now be considered. And crucially, it must be developed firmly in harness with the industry itself, and delivered in a way that complements the existing supply chains.

As we move into an uncertain future, such things really shouldn’t be beyond us…

Publisher Bryan Shannon Subscriptions to PROFESSIONAL BUILDERS MERCHANT are available at the following rates: UK – 1 year (11 issues) – £30 post paid EUROPE and OVERSEAS 1 year (11 issues) – £50 post paid AIRMAIL – 1 year (11 issues) – £65 post paid

Printed by Walstead Peterborough Published by HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF. Tel: (01923) 237799 Fax: (01923) 246901 Email: pbm@hamerville.co.uk Copyright © 2021

Average net circulation figure for the 11 issues distributed between 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2020 = 9,912 To be removed from this magazine’s circulation please call 01923 237799 or email circulation@hamerville.co.uk

Cover story: Recently acquired by Grant & Stone, potential customers can tour the Escape Bathrooms showroom in Frome ‘virtually’. See page 54 for more on the topic.

www.professionalbuildersmerchant.co.uk

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NEWS UPDATE Digital digest It has been a busy month for the merchant sector on the PBM website. Travis Perkins plc, for example has reported that its demerger of Wickes has taken some significant steps forward as part of the group’s drive to simplify operations and concentrate on its core trade activities. TP also announced that it has reduced its gender pay gap across the group, with the mean level of average pay difference between its 28,000 male and female colleagues narrowing to 5% in 2020 from 10% in 2019.

Across the sector, merchants have been announcing a host of new branches and/or acquisitions including a new Selco branch in Liverpool, MKM’s purchase of Richard Williams in Deganwy, North Wales and the acquisition by Lords of Condell’s two branches in Sutton and Horsham.

Cairngorm Capital has also extended its reach into the sector further with the acquisition of the 17 branches of Bromborough Paint & Building Supplies.

For the latest news from PBM online, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb001

Counter balanced cashback

CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT EXPANDS AT SHARPEST PACE SINCE SEPTEMBER 2014

Rate of recovery The latest IHS Markit / CIPS UK Construction PMI shows that the building sector recovery gained considerable momentum in March, supported by robust rises in house building, commercial work and civil engineering.

Adjusted for seasonal influences, the Total Activity Index registered 61.7 in March, up sharply from 53.3 in February and signalled the strongest rate of construction output growth since September 2014.

Housebuilding (indexed at 64.0) was the best-performing category, with growth the fastest since July 2020. Strong increases in activity were also seen in commercial construction (62.7) and civil engineering (58.0), with the index readings for both segments the highest since the second half of 2014.

Survey respondents often commented on the mobilisation of delayed projects, especially in areas such as hospitality, leisure, and office development. There were again reports of a boost from major infrastructure projects in March, as well as higher workloads due to greater spending on residential construction work and rising new home sales.

Improving client demand and contract awards on projects that had been put on hold

earlier in the pandemic contributed to a steep upturn in new orders during March.

Forthcoming new project starts also spurred a solid rise in employment numbers, with the rate of job creation the strongest for over two years in March.

Higher demand for construction products and materials contributed to longer wait times for deliveries by suppliers with around 41% of the survey panel reporting longer delivery times from suppliers in March, while only 1% saw an improvement.

Supply constraints and logistics issues were commonly reported, especially for imported items, and imbalanced demand and supply for construction inputs led to the steepest increase in purchasing prices since August 2008 as survey respondents widely noted that suppliers had cited Brexit and Covid-19 as reasons for price hikes in March.

Meanwhile, the latest survey indicated a strong degree of confidence for the outlook for the year ahead in construction activity. Growth projections were the most upbeat since June 2015, reflecting confidence in the UK economic outlook, the improving pandemic situation and pent up demand.

Network upgrade Toyota Material Handling UK is offering customers £1,000 cashback on new counter balanced trucks until June in its ‘Toyota Super Deduction Plus’ campaign, inspired by ‘The Super Deduction’ initiative announced by the Government in the recent Budget which encourages firms to invest in new equipment and receive 100% tax relief, plus an additional 30%.

To qualify for the £1,000 cash back, customers must also trade in their old counter balanced truck. This will be ethically recycled in line with Toyota's sustainability policy and be collected upon delivery of the new truck.

To find out more about the Toyota Super Deduction Plus £1,000 cashback offer, visit www.rdr.link/mb002

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Selco Builders Warehouse has committed to a £5 million branch refurbishment programme which will see the business carry out work to modernise 18 of its longest-standing branches. Three of the branches — Catford, Ruislip and Barking — will undergo major improvements to customer and colleague facing areas, while a further 15 stores will benefit from smaller refits.

The changes that will be made include the introduction of updated checkouts and power tool displays, improvements to the sales floor and updates to internal and external signage. This investment is in addition to the opening of three new branches, the first of which opened its doors in Liverpool in April.

CEO Howard Luft said: “As well as maintaining our branch

expansion programme, we are fully committed to ensuring that our existing branches undergo constant improvements.

We are also fully committed to a programme of sustainability and, as part of that, the branch refurbishments will see initiatives including the installation of full LED lighting and an energy management system.”

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TEL: 01923 237799

EMAIL: PBM@HAMERVILLE.CO.UK

BMF CALLS UP THE SAS FOR MEMBERS’ DAY CONFERENCE

Present and correct As the successful vaccine rollout fuels confidence that live events will be able to return for the second half of the year, the BMF has announced the headline speaker for its Members’ Day Conference. Under a theme of ‘Reshape, Renew, Rebuild’, the Conference — and BMF Awards — will take place on 23 September 2021 at the De Vere Beaumont Estate in Old Windsor, Berkshire.

Taking to the stage as headline speaker will be Ollie Ollerton, one of the first former members of the UK Special Forces to talk about their experiences and turn them into a positive force for good. Ollie served in both the SAS and the SBS, becoming one of the most highly trained fighters in the world and undertaking operations in some of the most dangerous and remote locations on Earth, involving hostage rescue, counter narcotics and counter terrorism.

He went on to use his expertise in SouthEast Asia commanding a three-man team infiltrating child trafficking rings — a cause that remains close to his heart today. Returning

to the UK, he founded BREAK-POINT, a leadership and development course for the public and corporate world that also supports veterans suffering the effects of PTSD. Ollie is now well-known as the DS on Channel 4’s popular SAS: Who Dares Wins.

John Newcomb, BMF CEO, said: “After a year in which everyone has had to dig deep to overcome the challenges thrown up by Covid19, we are delighted that Ollie will be sharing his experiences and explaining how mental and physical strength combine to create a powerful force within us.”

To find out more and book your place for the BMF Members’ Day Conference and Awards 2021, visit the events section at www.bmf.org.uk

Charity partners Jewson has announced Band of Builders as its official charity partner in a move designed to ensure “even more tradespeople impacted by illness or injury get the help they need”. Neil Lawrence, the merchant chain’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “The work that Band of Builders does, and the lives they change, is nothing short of remarkable. We’re very proud to be able to support such a worthy cause that is so close to our and the whole industry’s hearts.

“The whole Jewson team is really excited to be involved with this partnership.

Everyone will have the opportunity to get involved in fundraising and they will be able to volunteer on upcoming projects. We’re

hoping this will bring our team even closer and support our focus on their wellbeing.”

Gavin Crane, Trustee and Board Member at Band of Builders, added: “Jewson has been a much appreciated, longstanding supporter of our projects across the country, but we are thrilled to have taken this to the next level by being named its official charity partner.”

a @PBMmagazine

Levelling up agenda For more than 60 years, measuring tools from German manufacturer Stabila have been available in the United Kingdom via distributors such as Brian Hyde, however the business is now establishing a sales subsidiary in England as a commitment to the UK market.

“Our strategy is to be present in our most important markets with an owned entity (and) the time is right to establish Stabila UK Ltd,” explains CEO Ulrich Dähne.

“Having our own team of dedicated sales and application specialists will allow us to provide intensified support to our customers in the future. Stabila UK will work hand-inhand with our distribution partners to develop strong and sustainable sales through enhanced and focused support in sales, logistics and training.”

Ulrich adds: “We are extremely grateful to our long serving agency, Brian Hyde which has done a tremendous job since 1956 to make the brand in the UK what it is today. After so many decades of close collaboration, we are now turning over a new leaf but are delighted that Hyde will continue to offer the full range to its customers, unchanged.”

The rampingup of Stabila UK is led by Tony Hirst (pictured), a British-born sales professional with more than 20 years of experience in distribution within the tool industry, with a focus on Stabila.

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MARKET MONITOR in association with

Back to the drawing board The Green Homes Grant in England has been scrapped, due to a supposed lack of participation and sign up. Heralded as an opportunity to revolutionise Britain’s homes in the fight against climate change, only a fraction of the eligible homes signed up for the scheme.

T

he support for the scheme, which was introduced in 2020 to offer £10,000 to homeowners looking to upgrade their homes and could have been worth up to a reported £2billion, is now set to be reallocated to councils and local authorities. And with 19 million homes in the UK still said to be in need of a pressing environmental facelift, the administration of the campaign has drawn significant criticism, ranging from the outsourcing of logistics to the inability to source local tradespeople for installations.

The Federation of Master Builders said the Government’s decision to cancel the scheme will significantly damage the country’s progress towards net zero targets. Brian Berry, FMB Chief Executive, commented: “The misguided scrapping of the Green Homes Grant scheme sends entirely the wrong message to consumers and builders, and will harm the UK’s desire to be seen as a global leader in tackling climate change.

“Flaws with the scheme should have been addressed, in consultation with industry, with a commitment to training. Instead we have another example of a stop-go green initiative that undermines, rather than creates, certainly for both the public and

installers. The Government needs to be more ambitious in its thinking and set out a long-term plan to upgrade our existing homes to make them greener and more energy efficient.

“A National Retrofit Strategy would address this need and allow the Government to be taken seriously as well as regain the trust of industry.”

Brian concluded: “Small, local builders who have spent thousands of pounds becoming eligible for work under the scheme rightly feel let down and angry. Without these workers on the Government’s side, we will fail to retrofit our 28 million existing homes, missing the opportunities for green growth, new jobs, and to level up.”

Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Builders, picked up the theme: “In order to access this scheme, thousands of small businesses jumped through costly hoops to win this work. Closing it with four days’ notice is completely disrespectful and some small businesses will close because of it.

“The Government cannot dwell on this failure and it is time to move on and ensure that next time, industry is at the heart of retrofitting policy. This is why NFB is backing the National Retrofit Strategy (NRS).”

Rico Wojtulewicz, Head of Housing and Planning Policy at the NFB and who sits on the Construction Leadership Council Repair, Maintenance and Improvement taskforce, added: “Had anybody listened to industry, this could have been a successful scheme. The Government needs to create a market environment for retrofitting works and understand that there isn’t yet the skilled workforce in every area to complete retrofitting works at the standard the Government set.

“Once it has a pathway to upskill industry, it must seek out professionals already doing these works and in the early days, allow them access to any accredited retrofitting works. It also needs to reform planning so these works can more easily go ahead.”

Rico continued: “It must also offer market, not just tax payer funded incentives. We recommend a stamp duty rebate on homes which new homeowners can get to EPC C within two years, as well as an exemption on the most energy efficient new homes.

It should also offer a VAT cut on our 9 million traditional and heritage buildings as this will build a highly skilled workforce and stimulate the most innovative retrofitting solutions.”

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PEOPLE NEWS

Talasey Group has announced two appointments to its senior management team. Having previously spent 22 years at Marshalls Plc, Geoff Moulton is well renowned and recognised as a leading expert within the industry and joins the company as Business Development Director.

Newly appointed CFO, Gary Vaughton, is a chartered accountant and brings with him over 15 years of experience within the building sector, having previously held roles at Masonite International.

Speaking of the new appointments, Talasey Group CEO Mark Wall said: “These are two very exciting appointments for the business that I am sure will help us to realise our five-year growth strategy.”

Hayley Stocks has been appointed as Northern Area Sales Manager for JT. Hayley brings five years of experience across the manufacturing, construction, distribution and utilities sectors to her new role after working with SIG, IBC Buying Group and Power Control.

Hayley will now be the main point of contact throughout the Northern Area region, tasked with driving sales and building customer relationships through successful account management, as well as reviewing stock profiles.

Hilton Banks has announced the appointment of Scarlet McAleese-Banks and Charlie Banks as Co-Managing Directors.

Charlie and Scarlet jointly take over from their father Robert Banks and are the latest generation of the family to lead the firm, which can trace its history all the way back to 1850 when it was established by Benjamin Banks.

Scarlet said: “We are excited and delighted to be taking over as joint Managing Directors of the company, which has had a good year despite the Covid-19 pandemic. Both myself and Charlie have some exciting ideas for the future but rest assured, our merchant customers can continue to rely on the products and services that has made Hilton Banks so successful for so long.”

In January, Saniflo UK welcomed new Sales Director, Simon Emmons. Based at the company’s head office in Watford, Simon brings a wealth of senior level experience to the role and he will work to strengthen the distribution network for the firm’s domestic range and oversee growth of commercial pumps and lifting stations alongside the Kinedo range of showers, trays and baths.

Following the recent revisions to ToughBuilt’s sales and distribution arrangements to now offer stockists the chance to buy from the business direct rather than through wholesale distributors, the company has appointed two National Key Account managers — Scott Thompson and Stuart Cowling — whilst Andrew Hatch joins as UK Commercial Manager - Retail.

All three have considerable pedigree in the sector and ToughBuilt (Europe) MD Vahe Der Kureghian said: “I am delighted that Scott, Stuart and Andrew have recognised the potential of ToughBuilt products in the UK and Irish markets and have decided to join National Sales Manager Tony Spain to complement our team. We could not be in a better position to meet the needs of customers moving forward.”

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TRAINING ZONE

A welcome boost The latest news from the BMF discusses a £3k cash bonus to boost merchant firms’ apprenticeship provision and the return of the popular MasterMerchant team-building challenge.

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ess young talent is being recruited and trained as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic with the latest government report on apprenticeships in the country, covering the period 23 March 2020 to 31 July 2020, finding new UK apprenticeships were down 46% on the same period in 2019.

Many will say they had too much on their plate last year to recruit young workers and trainees, but reskilling and training is essential to the UK’s post-pandemic recovery and with generous government incentives currently available there has never been a better time to recruit.

Announced in the March Budget, a £3,000 grant will be paid to any employer in England hiring a new apprentice of any age between 1 April and 30 September 2021. Previously, firms in England received £2,000 for each new apprentice

under the age of 25 and £1,500 for those over 25. The new £3,000 cash grant is on top of the £1,000 age incentive already provided for new apprentices aged 16 to 18, which means that some employers could receive £4,000 in total.

And although this grant is only available to employers in England, each of the Devolved Nations also offers different incentive programmes to encourage apprenticeships — and BMF Apprenticeships Plus has all the details.

Carmen Daley, Operations Manager at BMF Apprenticeships Plus, said: “This is fantastic time to bring new talent into your business.

You will find excellent candidates who have been made redundant from retail and other roles and there will be a new cohort of school and college leavers seeking their first jobs in a few months’ time.

MasterMerchant is back!

After a year off due to Covid-19, this year’s BMF MasterMerchant year’s competition will be held in the Lake District from 9-11 July.

O

pen to any BMF member company, the fun but demanding team competition involves a series of mental and physical problem-solving challenges to test each team’s creativity, communication and leadership skills.

John Newcomb, BMF CEO, said: “This fantastic teambuilding event has been taking place since the 1980s. Its longevity is testament to the great way it can help people to get to know each other better and work together as a team. We would also like to than the event’s headline sponsor Natural Cement.”

Some 19 teams have already signed up and the event accommodates a maximum of 20 teams (each comprising four people), however there may still be an opportunity to enter via www.bmf.org.uk/events

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“Furthermore, our service is designed to remove potential administrative hurdles and make it easy for BMF members to take on apprentices in any job role. We can even employ an apprentice on a member’s behalf and take responsibility for all associated administration. In this circumstance, the cash incentive will be passed back to the BMF member, offering the best of both worlds.”

For more information call Carmen Daley on 0333 305 7656 or email carmen@bmfapprenticeshipsplus.co.uk ■ BMF training ranges from formal Apprenticeships and sector-specific Diplomas and a Foundation Degree in Merchant Management, to online product knowledge and other specialist skills training.

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SPECIAL REPORT: STEEL FENCE POST SOLUTIONS

Postal service Merchants continue to play a pivotal role for trade professionals who need the most up to date product advice and recommendations. Antony Reed, DuraPost Product Manager at Birkdale, outlines the latest generation of steel fence post solutions and how they can benefit both merchants and their customers.

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ver the last few decades, the scope of fencing solutions on the market had not changed a great deal, with limited options available to those using fencing products day in, day out. Timber or concrete solutions were always the trade’s go to when looking to install a fencing system.

That is, until the recent evolution of steel fencing solutions, which offer a genuine and reliable alternative.

Despite their long-term adoption, concrete and timber fencing solutions have always had certain drawbacks. While attractive, timber is known to rot and warp over time so timber fencing systems require

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regular treatment and maintenance during their lifespan. On the other hand, concrete fence posts can deliver more robust, long-term performance, but they can also be far more difficult to store, transport and install on account of their size and weight.

Unlike these traditional methods, galvanised steel fence post systems provide a durable and maintenance-free solution, which will not rot, warp, chip or require additional treatment over its lifespan. These stylish, durable fence post systems are also capable of dealing with high windspeeds, with our own DuraPost by Birkdale tested to withstand winds of up to 110mph. As such, for merchants, this reliable solution can be recommended without the fear of returns or complaints and is underpinned by a comprehensive warranty of up to 25 years.

When compared to concrete and timber fence posts, galvanised steel solutions are also more compact with a small flush profile, providing a far greater strength to weight ratio. As a result, these products do not only offer greater aesthetic value, but enable simple and safe transportation on and off site.

“From a merchant perspective, more compact solutions can help to ease in-branch capacity concerns, particularly in branches where space is at a premium” For installers, it also reduces the time and effort needed to install systems and can help to significantly reduce labour costs.

However, this reduction in weight is not only beneficial for those fitting the solutions as from a merchant perspective, more compact solutions can help to ease in-branch capacity concerns, particularly in branches where space is at a premium.

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■ As the company looks ahead to its 40th anniversary in 2022, Birkdale has announced a

branding refresh across its product ranges. By identifying its series of sub-brands as ‘By Birkdale,’ the company feels it will be able to more clearly present its comprehensive suite of fencing solutions to the market.

Founded as a family-run fencing contractor in 1982, Birkdale has since evolved into a manufacturer and supplier of gate and fencing accessories, and has launched several tailored fencing sub-brands — GATEMATE, FENCEMATE, SITEMATE and DuraPost — to offer a family of product ranges for contractors. Each brand will retain its current logo that the trade has come to recognise, however this will now be supported by the new ‘By Birkdale’ strapline.

Furthermore, such solutions can make delivery and collection processes far easier, as due to their light weight, more products can fit into the back of a vehicle at one time. Finally, the reduced weight of the solution also makes it safer for merchant staff to handle in-store.

By recommending products like DuraPost, merchants are able to provide customers with a modern solution that is built to last with no upkeep or maintenance.

Instead, they combine the strength of concrete, the longevity of steel and visual

appeal of timber in one lightweight system.

Ideal for design-centric garden projects, the solution is available in a choice of powder coated colours to provide additional corrosion protection and shrink wrapped to prevent damage during storage and transit.

Especially as we move into the busy summer months, merchants who can communicate these benefits to their customers can really take advantage of new product lines as we hit peak season for fencing.

Fencing installers are often well versed in

traditional approaches and the products available but may not be aware of new, modern solutions that can provide real performance benefits. Steel fence post solutions offer major benefits for those installing them, while also helping those in the merchant sector to ease ongoing storage issues and ensure the safety of their staff members.

■ For further information on DuraPost by Birkdale or to request a sample pack, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb003

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Covid roadmap and seasonal trends boost confidence Whilst the sector’s views in March were boosted by the Prime Minister’s announcement of a roadmap out of lockdown, increased sales activity and seasonal expectations sent merchants’ confidence in their own business and in the market significantly higher.

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his survey highlights the remarkable recovery of the sector since March last year, with merchants’ outlook notably strong for the next three months (March to May) and the next six months (March to August).

The Pulse, by MRA Research, is a monthly tracking survey of merchants’ confidence and prospects. Telephone interviewing took place between 2nd and 5th March 2021.

Impact of Covid-19 Ninety-seven per cent of merchants said all or most of their suppliers were currently able to supply them — see Chart 1. But there were differences by size, region and type of merchant.

Sales expectations Sales expectations for March compared to February were strong (net +62%), with continual improvement since December — see Chart 2.

Expectations were almost at the same level as last March before the first lockdown (+77%), and strongest among mid-sized merchant outlets (+75%), those in the South (+74%) and Regional branches (+71%).

Of the merchants anticipating an increase, a third expected March’s sales to improve by up to 10% compared to February. Just over four in ten expected sales to be up by 10-20%.

Year-on-year, merchants’ sales expectations improved markedly with a net +35% of merchants forecasting an improvement in March compared to -6% in February’s survey — also Chart 2. The outlook for merchants in the Midlands and the North (net +50% and +46%

The difference between the percentage of merchants expecting growth and those expecting a decrease is the net figure, expressed as a percentage. A positive net percentage indicates growth, a negative indicates decline. Net zero implies no change.

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TRENDS MONITOR respectively), and mid-sized and large branches (+45% and +44%) was even stronger.

A third of merchants forecasting stronger year-on year sales expected sales to increase by up to 10%. Two thirds expected to sell 10-20% or more.

Sales expectations for the three months ahead (March to May) improved to the highest level since the survey began (net +77%).

More merchants in the North (net +86%) expect higher sales than those in Scotland (+63%). Regional branches (+83%) are more bullish than Nationals (+70%).

Of those forecasting higher quarter-on-quarter sales, one in three expected sales to increase by up to 10% — see Chart 3. However, almost two thirds of those expecting to sell more, anticipate growth of 10% or more.

Confidence in the market Confidence in the market continued to improve compared to February (net +42%). Merchants in the South (+63%) were most upbeat. Independent outlets and those in the North (both +23%) and Scotland (+25%) were more cautious.

Year-on-year confidence rose significantly and to the highest level since this survey began (net +62%). Confidence was well ahead of last March’s pre-Covid levels — Chart 5. Merchants in the South were more confident (+71%) than those in the North (+46%). Similarly, Regional branches and Nationals (+68%) were more confident than Independents (+41%).

Confidence in their business Merchants’ confidence in the prospects for their own business continued to strengthen in March compared to February (net +60%). Merchants in the South (+71%) were more confident than those in the North (+50%).

Merchants’ confidence in their own business increased significantly in March compared to the same month last year (net +64%) — also Chart 5. Regional branches (+81%) were most confident.

Merchants’ sales expectations for the next six months (March to August) are strong too (net +68%) — see Chart 4. Regional branches (+78%) and those in the North (+77%) are most positive.

■ About the Pulse The Pulse is a monthly trends survey tracking builders’ merchants’ confidence and prospects over time. Produced by MRA Research, the insight division of MRA Marketing, it captures merchants’ views of future prospects in terms of sales expectations, confidence in their business, confidence in the market, and the key issues and problems they experience.

This report is the 23rd in the series, with interviews conducted by MRA Research between 1st and 5th March 2021. Each month a representative sample of 100 merchants is interviewed. The sample is balanced by region, size and type of merchant, including nationals, regional multi-branch independents, and smaller independent merchants.

Download the full report at www.mra-research.co.uk/the-pulse.

■ The full report can be downloaded for free from www.mra-research.co.uk/the-pulse and www.professionalbuildersmerchant.co.uk, or call Ralph Sutcliffe at MRA Research on 01453 521621.

www.professionalbuildersmerchant.co.uk

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SPECIAL REPORT: DOOR HARDWARE PACKAGING

Present and correct Joshua Watkins, from fire-rated door hardware company Spärka, discusses how the responsibility to provide the right product for the job lies with all links of the supply chain.

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hen you’re a professional builder selecting a product for your next project, how do you know it’s the right one? The onus is on the individual to make sure they choose the products that are fit for purpose — good quality, up to standard and accredited. And not only does a tradesperson’s work have to meet building regulations, but it also has to uphold their professional reputation.

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When customers enter your branch, they are typically met with a myriad of products to choose from. And as a builders’ merchant, you’re confronted with the same choices — how do you know which products you should stock? And once you’ve stocked the products, how do you educate your staff enough to talk confidently about, and help, builders/end users decide which products to buy?

The responsibility has to be a shared one, that we believe starts with the manufacturer providing the merchant and their customer with as much information as possible whether that is through well-designed, simple and informative product packaging or through product training or digital assets.

For instance, our research has shown that a lot of building products come in plain white boxes

with very little description to show what is actually in the box, let alone if it is fit for the job intended. In order to see what’s inside, builders have to open the packaging, quite often leaving contents scattered and unsellable product on the shelves (and the floor!).

Consequently, we think it’s really important to have clear information and imagery on the packaging. Simple, informative packaging means that it’s easier for builders to select the right product for the job and also means merchant staff don’t need to spend time gaining as much in-depth knowledge of the product. It’s easier for both sides.

Many more clicks The Covid-19 pandemic has brought lots of changes to the way we do things, and one of them is the way builders buy their products. Lockdowns have meant click and collect has been relied upon by many as the way to get their goods. As a result, online has more and more become the default buying method.

It follows that being clear online is also crucial to enabling builders to select the right product for the job and strong digital assets are a must. This can be in the shape of

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an informative, written product description, including its applications and technical information. But increasingly, videos are being consumed online due to the ubiquitous use of smart devices and our ever-increasing time pressures and our need for multi-tasking.

Creating technical ‘how to’ videos gives builders easy to follow useful information on the go and also provides merchants with content that can be used to either train staff in store, or as part of a merchandise display to aid customers with their buying decision.

On top of that, research shows that approximately 85% of purchases start online where buyers do the mental leg work before heading to browse or pick up in store. During lockdown, companies like Kingfisher have reported 150%+ growth in their online sales, so whether it’s by necessity or choice, it’s clear that online buying is only going one way.

And as more trade moves online, it’s important that merchants have strong digital content — and that the online and offline experiences match up. It’s also why we’ve been looking at what we can provide to merchants for in store merchandising that cannot be done online to complement the full buying journey. One of the things we’re doing is providing door handles on stands that match the products on sale, giving further information on what’s inside the box. This means that customers can touch and feel our products without opening the packaging.

Embrace the new We all have a responsibility to ensure the right products are used in the right way and the industry needs to embrace the changes that smart devices and the pandemic have brought about. That’s why we’re helping our

customers understand our products as much as possible. Whether that’s with our clear packaging or our digital content that’s also available for their use, and that we’re adding to on a daily basis.

It’s important that we all embrace and keep up with the future way of trading and not simply keep doing it the way it has always been done.

■ A specialist supplier of certified fire door hardware, Spärka offers more than 150 SKUs in simple door packs which are said to offer “everything a builder needs in one simple, recyclable cardboard box or recyclable plastic bag”.

■ For more information on the company’s range of products and support services for merchants, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb004

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PAINTS & WOODCARE

Brushing up Merchants such as Bradite stockist Abington Decorating Supplies are expecting a post-pandemic uplift in sales when building and decorating work, stalled by COVID-19, gathers pace in the months ahead. PBM reports.

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ased in Northampton, Abington Decorating Supplies is a family firm that has catalogued nearly 40 years in the business, building a five-star reputation for its excellent service. Founded in 1982 by the father of present MD Ian Dick, the business was originally both a painting contractor and a retail outlet. With the contracting side of the business being sold in 1985, emphasis switched to becoming a reputable decorators’ merchant.

Ian, who joined the company in 1984, explained: “We have quite a spread of business.

There’s a large retail side, and the interior design side that my wife runs and this includes Little Greene, sister brand of Bradite.”

The merchant side of the business is where the industrial coatings can be found, and the varied customer base covers both trade and the general public.

“Dad set up the business to handle small to medium sized painting contracts — that was the aim rather than the larger corporations and that’s still the ethos,” says Ian. And this approach has served him well through the challenges of the last year: “With the larger contractors, their jobs have been put on hold so they have seen a massive downturn. The work’s still there but while people are up against it they are

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not really bothered about having the factory floor painted.”

Conversely, Ian notes that the small to medium customer has been very busy, saying: “In the first wave (of the pandemic) everybody wanted their houses painted.” And whilst there had been a slackening in the most recent lockdown as people were perhaps more resistant to having decorators in the home, there is now light at the end of the tunnel: “I would say that overall the building industry has been a good sector to be in, compared with hospitality or travel for instance. I think we have been pretty lucky (and) we’ve never had to shut the shop. We were essential retail because we were allied to the building trade.”

The firm’s connection with Bradite goes back some years. The early relationship began with Little Greene’s exclusive range of paints and this then progressed to Bradite’s industrial range of specialist coatings.

Of his long relationship with Bradite’s National Sales Manager James Burton, Ian said: “I have known James for a long, long time, since he worked with his father in a decorators’ merchant. Because of his knowledge of working at both ends of the business, he knows what people require in a paint coating. So, because of my relationship with James I thought I’d give Bradite a go.”

The result? “I have been very impressed with the range. Its growth has been greater than the growth of our company. People like the product. They tend to use it and stick to it.”

Ian says he’s also happy to support a British company where, if need be, he can call and speak to the owner whilst he also speaks highly of support from Bradite, particularly on larger jobs. He revealed: “I know I can call James and he or one of his colleagues will come on site. That’s very important, particularly with industrial coatings.”

Abington carries the Bradite core selection of specialist coatings, amounting to some 80% of its range whilst another bonus

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is that the company already had a Little Greene tinting machine which also works with Bradite products, so there was no need for a new large machinery outlay.

Looking to the post-Covid future Ian said: “I do think that there’s a pent-up demand. I think as we come nearer the end

of this the UK’s going to have a massive upturn for at least a couple of years, certainly in our industry.

“Furthermore, there’s a new, younger generation of painters who are a lot more interested in coatings and are looking for new technology. James is aware of that, and

that is one of the reasons that Bradite are bringing these products out.”

■ For more information on Bradite’s range of coatings and support services for stockists, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb005

Bradite has responded to feedback from both users and merchants to market a matt version of its successful One Can combined primer, undercoat and topcoat.

One Can in an eggshell finish quickly found favour with professional users when it was launched just two years ago. Said to retain all of the product’s key benefits but in a lowsheen matt finish, One Can Matt is touch dry in just 30 minutes and re-coatable in one hour enabling three coats of the quick-drying finish to be applied in a single working day.

Water-based and “virtually odourless”, the product combines a primer, undercoat and topcoat all in one can, which means it can be applied to perform any of those individual roles or act as all three at once. For example, the paint has “excellent stain-locking characteristics” so can be used to overcoat a surface where there is a requirement to obliterate a range of blemishes including water damage, nicotine stains, rust or resin bleed.

Used as a primer, One Can Matt will

handle difficult-to-paint surfaces — both porous and non-porous — such as MDF, plywood, soft and hard woods (including redwoods and sapele) as well as ceramic tiles, glass, powder-coated surfaces, stainless and galvanised steel, plastics (including uPVC), Formica and melamine.

This paint works both as an adhesion primer and sealer to allow overcoating in a short space of time, and will also act as an anti-corrosive protection and can be applied direct to metals both ferrous and nonferrous. Three coats of One Can Matt are said to give full anti-corrosive protection on bare steel.

Applied by brush, roller or spray, Bradite says that there are thousands of BS, RAL and NCS colours available whilst its full range is supported by high quality technical information, available at point of sale.

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PAINTS & WOODCARE

A design for life

As the country hopes to put the worst of the pandemic behind us, many are speculating that there is significant pent-up demand for domestic renovation and refurbishment projects. Decorating will play a key part in this RMI revival and Crown Paints has announced the colour trends it thinks are set to shape interior design choices for Spring/Summer 2021. PBM reports.

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rawing inspiration from a world which has changed dramatically in the last 12 months or so, Crown Paints’ panel of colour experts — which comprises consultants, specialists and designers — has revealed three considered colour trends for 2021 that are designed to

uplift, inspire and restore.

The three trends — named as ‘Witty’, ‘Foresight’ and ‘Cocoon’— are said to have a distinct identity, and the panel has highlighted both ‘hero shades’ and complementary colours within each. As pictured, ‘Witty’ is described as “upbeat and

Extreme measures Crown Trade is highlighting the high-performance formulation of its Clean Extreme Stain Resistant Scrubbable Matt and Acrylic Eggshell. Said to offer

“exceptional durability”, it combines the dual benefits of helping to prevent stains from forming on the paint surface and being able to withstand regular cleaning by minimising the amount of paint film that is removed each time.

Produced using water-based paint technology to offer the additional benefits of being low-odour and quick-drying, the Clean Extreme range

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quirky” and a “real celebration of colour” that draws on bright and bold primary colours to create a feeling of positivity, chosen to improve happiness and wellbeing and to “cheer up even the darkest of spaces”.

The second colour trend for this season is ‘Foresight’ which, as the name implies is primarily about looking to the future, is inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement of a hundred years ago. “Optimistic and contemporary”, its strong colour palette is said to perfectly suit a functional design with equally strong shapes.

Centred on a desire to create “a place of sanctuary and quiet calm”, the final colour trend — ‘Cocoon’ — uses soft neutral tones and muted shades to sooth and comfort. The palette complements natural materials and fabrics and works best with soft edges and curves.

Kathryn Lloyd, colour specialist at Crown Paints, said: “We always pay close attention to the macro trends, what’s happening in the world around us to inspire our trends for the year ahead. With our 2021 trends we wanted to reference how the world looks and feels without being negative and I think the combination of the joyful ‘Witty’, optimistic ‘Foresight’ and calming comfort of ‘Cocoon’ does just that, while also offering something to suit all tastes.

“The right colour scheme can make a huge difference to any project, so we want to encourage everyone to have the confidence to embrace colour by taking these trends and making them their own.” has been developed and tested to perform in challenging high-traffic environments such as corridors and hallways as well as kitchen and dining rooms, which can be prone to stains from food spills.

For specific problem areas, Crown Trade has also developed its Clean Extreme Anti-Bacterial and Clean Extreme Mould Inhibiting paints, with both available as a high performance scrubbable matt or washable mid-sheen acrylic eggshell finish.

■ For more information on Crown Trade’s range and support services for merchants, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb006

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PAINTS & WOODCARE

HMG PAINTS MADE IN BRITAIN ACCREDITATION HMG Paints has attained Made in Britain accreditation — the collective mark which is designed to showcase the British manufacturing sector and help buyers identify products that are made in Britain.

HMG will now use the branding across its packaging and products along with its marketing materials and digital channels.

John Falder, Managing Director of HMG Paints, said: “With more and more paint manufacturers offshoring production and decision making, we’re proud to be a paint manufacturer in Britain.”

Go to www.rdr.link/mb007 to find out more.

LFI LADDER HANDY The LFI Ladder Handy is a British-made solution for safely holding buckets, paint pots and tools on a ladder when working at height. Tested to 12kg for safe working loads, the safety of the user is said to be ensured by allowing them to keep three points of contact to the ladder at all times when working at height.

The versatile hook is also available as a Step Handy.

Fitting step ladders with 60 to 80mm tread depths and with a 3.5kg working load, it is suitable for those jobs when only a step ladder is required.

Enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb008 for further details.

WERNERCO WERNER ADJUSTABLE PRO WORK PLATFORM The Werner Adjustable PRO Work Platform has been designed to allow users to work safely on uneven surfaces and in hard to reach places such as stairwells. With height adjustable legs, the platform extends from 0.51m to 0.76m and enables a safe maximum working height of up to 2.51m.

It can be configured to 10 different height positions with one handed adjustment and locking whilst the large slipresistant platform will provide a safe and suitable space to move around when working.

For more, go to www.rdr.link/mb009

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TOOLS, FIXINGS & ADHESIVES

Grab your attention

With so many different types of building adhesives available, Andrew Scanlon, Applications Manager from Sika Everbuild, takes a closer look at the solutions merchants can offer their customers.

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than solvent-based adhesives.

They are still a popular choice though, and a great all-rounder as they are easy to use and offer great results.

Hybrid Polymers are where the adhesives market has really evolved to allow manufacturers, and merchants, to offer their customers a premium high-performance solution that combines the best of both solvent and water-based products and so much more.

This new generation of adhesives, such as Everbuild Stixall Extreme Power, are characterised by their ability to create a high-strength bond on almost any surface and their ability to be used in both wet and dry conditions, making them great for larger projects both inside and out.

Other advanced hybrid adhesives such as Sika Everbuild’s own EB25 offer even more flexibility as, in addition to being suitable for use with various surfaces and materials, they can also be used as a sealant. Although the terms are often used together, sealants and adhesives are designed to perform in very different ways and traditionally, one product would not do the job of the other — as their name suggests, adhesives are strong and bond two materials together, whereas sealants are much more flexible and efficient at filling small gaps to protect from the ingress of water.

Although many solvent-based adhesives can be used to fill small gaps, the innovative development of these dual-function hybrid products also allows them to be used to bond and seal, providing a convenient solution for the customer and a reliable recommendation for merchants.

orking closely with product manufacturers is one of the best ways for merchants to arm themselves with the most up-to-date knowledge and technical information, ensuring that they can not only meet their customers’ needs but be able to successfully identify opportunities for both cross and upselling.

Offering a great product range is essential, but too much choice can lead to confusion and when it comes to adhesives, understanding where the product is to be used and what it is to be used for can make all the difference between creating a strong bond with your customers, or coming unstuck.

A key element of most building projects for both the trade and DIY customer, from attaching skirting boards and hanging mirrors, to fixing plasterboards and floor panels, there are a multitude of adhesive products available for a variety of tasks.

Although some are easier to identify than others, such as those that are clearly marketed as wood or tile adhesives, the extensive world of grab adhesives can be a little harder to navigate.

Categorised by their fantastic ability to create a strong bond with the surfaces, grab

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adhesives are by far the most popular product on the market. The very first products available to the market, and which still have a strong following, are the solvent-based adhesives. These are often the product of choice for the trade user as they dry by evaporation into the air and so are suitable for use on non-porous surfaces such as metals and ceramics.

A good example of a solvent-based adhesive that is still going strong is Everbuild Pinkgrip, one of our first flagship products which offers high-bond strength and excellent weathering-resistance.

Solvent-based adhesives also tend to cure much faster so are ideal for busy building sites and the professional trade customer.

Non-solvent, water-based adhesives — often referred to as acrylic based — have very little odour and are also better for the environment as they have a lower VOC content than their solvent-based counterparts. Suitable for both professional trade users and DIY customers, products such as Everbuild Gun A Nail or Pinkgrip SF are suitable for a wide range of projects but must be applied to a porous surface in order to dry — and they will cure a little slower

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Background checks By understanding the benefits of each type of product, merchants are better placed to advise their customers based on their budget and the work they are planning. It’s also important to check if they have other specific requirements, such as an EC1 Plus certification to prove its green credentials — an increasingly important criteria for commercial jobs. And don’t forget the little details, like recommending the use of a clear adhesive to give a more subtle finish to interior jobs.

The adhesive market has been revolutionised by multi-purpose polymer-based adhesives, thanks to their strength and suppleness. We know that this is a huge growth market, which is why Sika UK has invested in manufacturing facilities so we can make our own PVA, wood adhesives and acrylic polymers to better meet demand.

Sticking closely to your supplier of choice is great way to stay up to date with the latest

product development to help increase your adhesive sales, as well as gaining access all the latest product guidance, application advice and point of sale material.

■ As the popularity of porcelain patios and paving continues to soar, merchants can help their customers achieve professional results from start to finish with SikaCeram FlowFix bonding primer and jointing compound system.

Part of Sika Everbuild’s high-performance range of landscaping solutions, the product is said to provide an exceptional bond between porcelain paving and the bedding mortar.

Easy to apply by brush or roller to increase the bond strength between the paving slab and mortar bed, it is ready to use when mixed with just water and is fully cured in 72 hours.

Once installed, the porcelain paving tiles can be finished with SikaCeram-621 FlowFix Jointing Compound, a controlled, cementitious flowable jointing grout. The jointing

■ To find out more about Sika Everbuild’s range of adhesives, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb010

compound can cure in as little as 60 minutes, depending on site conditions, to achieve a non-permeable finish and is available in Light Grey, Dark Grey, Buff and Ivory.

■ For further details, including a handy coverage calculator and an application guide video, enter www.rdr.link/mb011

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PROFESSIONAL

BUILDERS

MERCHANT ADVERTORIAL SUPPLEMENT

MAY 2021

CENTURION EUROPE For quality brands you can trust Q&A — in conversation with the Centurion leadership team THE RANGE — delving into a portfolio of more than 27,000 products MARKETING SUPPORT — merchandising, brochures and more

www.professionalbuildersmerchant.co.uk

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ADVERTORIAL SUPPLEMENT

From hardware, ironmongery and decorating accessories to plumbing solutions, tapes, adhesives and signs and labels, Centurion is one of the UK’s leading wholesale suppliers and every day ships thousands of products to customers nationwide from its warehouse in South Yorkshire.

“More than your average wholesaler…”

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ith over 35 years of experience distributing thousands of products, Centurion has a wealth of knowledge and has always been proud in ensuring the products it sources — whether its own house brands or other brands — are of the highest quality.

Back in 1983, the company was started by the Kantecki family and in 2005 Paul Kantecki, along with David Geczi, took over the business and built the 80,000sqft warehouse on Hunt Lane in Doncaster where it is still situated today. Since then, the business has gone from strength to strength, extending its product ranges, developing its own house brands and diversifying into safety signs for the building trades.

Centurion works hard to maintain a consistently high standard of quality across its full portfolio of brands. To achieve this, the company ensures the ongoing development of a quality management system that meets the requirements of BS EN ISO 9001:1401 accreditations, as well as the development of personnel to match the

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needs and expectations of the business, whilst also ensuring that the full potential of each employee is fulfilled.

Around 40% of its staff have worked for the business for over five years, whilst 25% have more than 10 years’ service and another 7% have been with it for over 20 years, clearly demonstrating the positive working culture experienced at Centurion.

And in fact, its longest serving employee has actually been with the company right from the start.

Over the years, Centurion have been affected by a number of incidents — for example, prior to Covid and the first Lockdown, Hunt Lane was badly affected by the floods when the River Don burst its banks in the early hours. Not only were the floods on the firm’s doorstep but also the local residents were affected very badly and much more so than its own premises.

Having “lost everything they had worked hard for” and “experiencing significant devastation to their homes”, the team at Centurion supported them as much as it could, from help with sandbags to

FACT FILE Established: 1983 Location: Doncaster, South Yorkshire Size of Warehouse: 80,000 sqft No of employees: 111 Stock range: 27,000 products Distribution: National supply. A next day guaranteed delivery service is available, with all other deliveries made between 1-3 working days.

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that your customers trust, our products can be supplied pre-packed and retail ready.

We also specialise in bespoke merchandising solutions for enhanced product display, driving customer engagement and boosting sales.” providing cleaning supplies, pallets to help raise their furniture and appliances off the floor and making donations to the local residents’ charity appeal.

“Because of their excellent delivery times and cohesive ranges, we have benefited from a great upturn in sales.”

Centurion stockist The road was closed as the emergency services worked to remove the water as quickly as possible, which meant deliveries from Centurion’s building were affected, but we received tremendous support from our customers during that time.

The reaction was a continuation of Centurion’s wider ethos. Located in a residential part of the town, the firm works with its neighbours to understand the impact the business may have on their home life. It conducts surveys regularly to identify any concerns the residents may have and in actual fact, many of its employees actually

live in this area meaning “we are not just a business, we are part a big part of a community.”

This feeling is perhaps reflected by a recognition that, in today’s marketplace, customers are far more aware of the need to buy responsibly.

Centurion accordingly makes every effort to source environmentally safe and sustainable products, whilst investing in improved technology, energy efficiency and conservation throughout its operations.

Furthermore, the customer service team at Centurion pride themselves on developing effective working partnerships with its customers, recognising their individual needs and tailoring its service accordingly.

This is bolstered by a nationwide network of Area Sales Managers, whilst customers can benefit from 24 hour online ordering and the reassurance of a 99.5% picking and order accuracy.

As MD Paul Kantecki says on the Centurion website: “We offer much more than your average wholesaler. For brands

www.professionalbuildersmerchant.co.uk

■ For more information on Centurion’s full product range and support services for stockists, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb012

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ADVERTORIAL SUPPLEMENT

Paul Kantecki

Debi Miller

David Geczi

In conversation…

PBM speaks with Centurion’s Managing Director Paul Kantecki, Director David Geczi and Customer Services Director, Debi Miller.

How would you define Centurion’s current relationship with the merchant sector?

Paul Kantecki: The Centurion name is recognised within the builders’ merchants industry, and we have long standing relationships with many. However, they perhaps don’t always understand the full offering we have available and how we can support them.

We are working hard through our Sales and Marketing teams to raise awareness and encourage conversations with merchants so they can understand just how good a supply chain partner we can become.

Debi Miller: We have excellent longstanding relationships with many merchant buying groups including NMBS, CBA, H&B, Fortis and NBG (not to mention buying

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groups in other sectors such as Troy, THS, Amalgamated Hardware, Associated Hardware and National Hardware).

Furthermore, we can tailor and tweak our offerings in accordance with each merchant customer’s particular requirements and provide bespoke POS.

“We have always taken pride in our level of customer service and this remains the forefront of everything we do.”

How can you sum up the tough trading conditions experienced over the last year?

Paul Kantecki: Due to Covid and Brexit, freight prices, customs clearances and product availability have all proved challenging over the last 12 months.

Also, there have been lots of changes and challenges to the way we communicate with our customers and internal staff. Online meetings have become the new norm and smaller group meetings have been necessary to ensure social distancing remains in place.

And more generally, how do you feel the industry has changed in recent years?

Debi Miller: We are seeing the industry moving more online, not only researching

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but purchasing online as well. Many are using online to see what is available, check out the choice and delve into details — even if they then pick up the phone to order, most of their decision making is being made online.

Of course, these trends have been accelerated by Covid-19, which affects how merchants serve their customers and pushing increased activity online and for delivery.

Plus, the younger generation coming through the trades are more digital savvy and embracing technology for purchasing and research — the perception the industry ‘is traditional’ is becoming outdated.

In our own business, online used to mean small package deliveries but we are now seeing much larger orders placed online. We are working hard to keep our online presence accessible to everyone with our 24/7 website where merchants can browse products, place orders and take advantage of our direct delivery to their own customer if required.

This year will also see us introduce a YouTube channel to showcase and demo products and provide guides as well.

What other trends are developing within your sector of the industry at the moment?

Debi Miller: The main driver in our industry at the moment is service. Everyone has come to expect a speedy service and we are rising to the challenge to make sure we keep up with supply and demand.

We have always taken pride in our level of customer service and this remains the forefront of everything we do.

Can you bring us up to speed on the latest developments and any recent investment made by Centurion into its manufacturing and production facilities?

Paul Kantecki: We have made a lot of changes over the years, and most recently have focused on increasing our production and office capacity within our

manufacturing facility. We have created a modern office space that offers an expansive open plan layout and has been designed to stimulate creativity, collaboration and communication by incorporating a showroom, meeting rooms and chill out areas.

This will allow our customers to understand the different aspects involved in our manufacturing process and also let them see exactly what we can offer.

Over the last financial year, we have invested £¾ million in new plant and machinery. This has enhanced our manufacturing capability not only to improve speed but also to give us the bestin-class quality which we always strive for.

New LED lighting has also been installed across 90% of the building, both inside and out, not only saving on energy but the lighting Lux levels have surpassed the required standards to support our ISO14001:2015 Environmental accreditation.

We have also created a waste care area and are pleased to advise that 100% of our recyclable waste material does not reach landfill.

What new products have you recently brought to the market and what do you hope to achieve for your target audience?

David Geczi: We were the first to market with our range of Social Distancing signage and safety-related products which became the standard for the industry. We are very proud that we are supplying products for the NHS vaccine program, manufacturing privacy booths and supplying related items needed for the vaccine rollout.

In addition, the point-of-sale offering for our products is second to none. With the introduction of new lines such as ratchet straps and Mellerud cleaning products, our in-housing design and manufacturing team have created custom made stands which help to display the products in a way that makes it easy for the consumer to shop.

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Reliability of supply is a key issue for merchants. What steps is Centurion taking to ensure merchants can always get the products they need, when they need them?

David Geczi: We are in a fortunate position that we manufacture all of our own safety and other signage in-house, so we can guarantee supply. We have an indepth MRP system which allows us to track demand and place forward orders to ensure continuity of supply.

“We are working hard through our Sales and Marketing teams to raise awareness and encourage conversations with merchants so they can understand just how good a supply chain partner we can become.”

This year more broadly, we have increased our raw material and stock holding to combat the issues predicted with Brexit and our purchasing team have done a fantastic job of managing our stock levels.

Our in-house packing facility is also controlled via our MRP systems and forms part of our ISO9001:2015 quality assurance guarantee.

Our latest ISO external audit found no observations or non-conformances giving us a near perfect report.

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ADVERTORIAL SUPPLEMENT

Quality brands…

Centurion provides products that help get the job done, working closely with manufacturers to achieve innovative high-quality products the company is proud to make its own house brands.

The Centurion Brand Ironmongery — a high-quality range which delivers great choice to suit every need, from hinges and latches to door furniture.

Hardware — an extensive hardware range which includes everything the professional tradesmen would need.

Chains — suitable for a wide range of uses, Centurion chain products include decorative chain, steel chain, stainless steel chain and polythene chain and accessories.

Trade Packs Includes over 300 of Centurion’s most popular hardware lines in a handy resealable bag that can be thrown back into the toolbox until they are needed again.

Warmseal A well-known brand that reduces heat loss by up to 35%, Warmseal provides an effective range of draught exclusion and weatherproofing products that have been tried and trusted for years.

Pro Task Pro Task offers high performance, quality tools for the job at hand. When performance

32 PBM MAY 2021

is key, everyone wants hand tools they can depend upon and Centurion offers a wide range of essentials.

commercial grade options that conform to EN 12195-2.

Spectrum Industrial Ratchet Straps Ratchet straps are some of the most versatile tie-downs available and can be used in a range of applications. They play a vital role to ensure the safe securing of loads during transit and Centurion offers light duty, medium duty, heavy duty and

A range of signs and safety solutions of over 5,000 lines ideal for the construction and building trades.

■ For more information on Centurion’s full product range, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb013

www.professionalbuildersmerchant.co.uk

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Merchandising & marketing support…

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enturion has always supported its resellers with point of sale and merchandising. The company understands how pushed end users are for time and the Centurion merchandising systems have been developed with convenience in mind, making it easy for the merchant to set up in store and easy for the end user to shop.

The display units maximise use of floor, wall or countertop space to not only ensure

that customers can find what they are looking for but also enable branch staff to easily replenish stock and showcase products to their best effect.

With in-house facilities to design and manufacture bespoke point of sale solutions, Centurion can provide striking and functional units to help maximise your sales.

In addition, Centurion aims to be more than just a distributor or vendor, working with and supporting its

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customers on growing sales. Its inhouse dedicated marketing team ensures that it can help merchants to drive sell through by providing a wide variety of marketing tools, including brochures, mailers, promotions, web support and much more.

■ For more on Centurion’s merchandising and marketing solutions, search www.rdr.link/mb014

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TOOLS, FIXINGS & ADHESIVES

The force awakens PBM speaks with Stephen Warren, Sales and Operations Manager at Kyocera-Senco UK, to discuss the firm’s reinvigorated drive to provide essential fastening solutions for its trade and merchant customers.

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ell-recognised in the world of fastening technology, Senco lays claim to an excellent reputation for ‘do the job’ tools that the trade can rely on. DuraSpin auto-feed screwdrivers, cordless gas nailers, air nailers and staplers and low-noise compressors form just a part of an extensive portfolio that is intended to help make on-site jobs “quicker, easier and more profitable”.

Under dynamic Japanese-based Kyocera Corporation ownership, the firm’s UK Sales and Operations Manager Stephen Warren tells PBM that the brand is set for an even brighter future — and he says that means good news for merchants too.

Stephen explained: “Whilst we have always enjoyed a solid reputation for both product and service, we are now in the very fortunate position to be able to truly capitalise on our extensive expertise thanks to Kyocera Corporation investment. There is

very much a sense that the Senco brand in the UK is re-awakening.

“There has been a cultural shift too with a strong ‘think big, be brave, be bold’ attitude now running throughout the entire company. This has created a step-change for us giving a growing sense of confidence — the result of which has been many positive changes already and more on the way.”

Investing in the future Stephen continued: “Our vision is to create a dynamic, streamlined and efficient organisation where our customers are at the heart of everything we do. Of course, this requires an all-encompassing company-wide approach. This is only the start, but we have both the resource and determination to succeed.’

A combination of attitude and investment has already seen a drive forward towards that goal. Operationally, Senco’s internal

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departments are said to “communicate with ease”, meaning that all processes, from admin to sales, are now more effective whilst the company’s stock control regime has been streamlined ensuring product availability.

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Customers, both old and new, “enjoy good pricing on product” and the company asserts it is working hard to increase its visibility to them with a stronger presence in both traditional media as well as the digital arena, including more social media activity.

Investment has reportedly been increased in research and development too, allowing Senco to respond to market demand with products such as its brand new F35XP Fusion Cordless 1st Fix Nailer. Utilising Senco’s Fusion technology, the F35XP is powered by an efficient brushless motor and a self-contained compressed air cylinder, which does away with hoses, compressors or fuel cells. Framing nails are “driven completely into even the hardest substrates”, including engineered timbers, to deliver what is described as “the ultimate in cordless convenience for its demanding customers working on site”.

Testing times Of course, Senco’s optimism is punctuated by forces affecting every single organisation today. The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with the fallout from Brexit, has created unparalleled uncertainty and an absolute need to do things differently to safeguard both lives and businesses.

Although extremely challenging, Stephen argues that Senco’s ‘hands on’ approach has helped smooth the way.

He said: “Supply issues and increased raw material and freight costs when exporting to the UK have been experienced by most, if not all, companies and have been welldocumented. However, despite these difficult trading conditions, we have systems in place to ensure we still keep our customers supplied.

“Hopefully, we can begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel regarding the pandemic, however, we are not complacent.

No-one knows for sure what’s going to happen next or for how long this situation will continue.”

He continued: “As such, Senco’s careful and cautious approach, combined with our agile nature, will help us respond to further demands that may arise because of the pandemic. Many sectors have been hit hard, notably hotel & leisure and the travel

36 PBM MAY 2021

industry, which have suffered devastating losses of both jobs and businesses but whilst trading has been difficult, the construction industry has fared better — and that’s a trend that looks likely to continue.

“The pandemic has demonstrated just how fast a situation can change, but it has also provided several key learnings. It has taught us that we can work differently, more efficiently and more cost/time effective. It has proved that a robust business continuity plan is essential, into which resilience and flexibility must be built to allow us to act quickly when unexpected and unforeseen events arise.

“Finally, without a doubt, it has shown that good, clear and timely communication is critical — with our staff, suppliers and our customers.”

Despite of the difficulties everyone continues to face, the changes at Senco are said to be creating welcome opportunities for its merchant customers. Stephen explained: “We are out there, supporting our merchant customers whenever they need us.

Our highly experienced field sales team will be available for face-to-face visits once regulations allow it and, in the meantime, our knowledgeable remotely-based customer

service department pro-actively supports merchants via the ‘phone, ensuring they have product when they need it.

“To further support our merchants, we have a variety of impactful point-of-sale material and signage for trade counters, such as free-standing units designed to fit easily into premises and maximise the available space.

“We are also investing in our UK marketing operation to include trade advertising, a greater digital exposure for the brand across all relevant platforms and increased PR activity, all aimed at supporting the Senco brand within the market to create awareness and demand from the end user.”

Looking to the future, Stephen concluded by saying: “As we move forward, hopefully through these difficult times, with its great product range, experienced team and ‘can do’ attitude Senco is perfectly placed to partner with merchants who are serious about fixings. We are optimistic of a great future ahead.”

■ For more information on Senco’s products and support services for merchants, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb015

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TOOLS, FIXINGS & ADHESIVES OPTIMAXX MASONRY SCREWS Optimaxx, Royd Tool Group’s high performance wood screw brand, has branched out into the masonry screw market with a specially designed fixing. The newest addition to the range, Optimaxx WallBite, is an all-steel, self-drilling onepiece threaded fastener which is said to be fully compliant to fire safety wiring regulation BS 7671:2008. These noncombustible screws are designed for light to medium duty applications including fitting fire-rated clips and other electrical installations.

Suitable for a wide range of materials including concrete, brick and stone, no pre-drilling is required for use in wood and plasterboard applications whilst up to 5.5mm pre-drilled holes may be required for some masonry materials.

Available in 6.5 x 32mm and 6.5 x 38mm sizes, the screws offer both white and chrome head finishes and are coated with the renowned Maxxtect exterior coating which makes them suitable for both interior and exterior application. They further benefit from a Torx drive ensuring there is no ‘Cam Out’ in more demanding concrete and brick applications.

The range is available in tub quantities of 75 and 100, depending on screw size, and is countertop ready in a robust display unit of 48, containing 12 of each size/finish.

Enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb016 for more information on the new Optimaxx WallBite masonry screws and for details about becoming a stockist.

TEMBÉ DIY & BUILDING PRODUCTS ECO-PAC RANGE Under its Hippo brand of sealants and adhesives, Tembé DIY & Building Products has declared a “war on waste” in the construction sector, and is showcasing the products in its more sustainablypackaged ‘Eco-Pac’ range in ecofriendly aluminium foil ‘sausages’.

The company’s foil project first began in late 2018 / early 2019, and the aluminium foil sausages are said to contain less than 1% plastic and create 96% less waste than the plastic cartridges they replace. Indeed, Tembé has “invested heavily” to back a format it describes as being better both “environmentally and economically” to move users away from single use plastics and “change the market forever”.

A range of 14 foils are now available to cater for all jobs within the adhesive, filler and sealant categories across the “good, better and best” performance levels via products such as its high-performance, multi-purpose premium hybrid sealant and adhesive, Hippo Pro3. The foils themselves offer 400ml for the same price as a 290ml cartridge and can even be removed from the gun and reused again in the future. And once removed, it is clearly visible how much sealant remains in the foil, unlike the ‘traditional’ cartridge and plunger system.

Merchandising stands are also available to display the products and communicate Tembé’s broader campaign.

Enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb017 for more information and to view the company’s full 2021 product catalogue.

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TOOLS, FIXINGS & ADHESIVES

HIKOKI CORDLESS UM36DA 36V MIXER The new cordless UM36DA 36V Mixer weighs in at 4.7kg, including the Multi Volt battery which detects whether it is being used in an 18 Volt or a 36V device and automatically adjusts the voltage. The Mixer itself features a constant speed control and a two-speed gearbox which makes it easy to churn and mix paints, mortar and many more mixed materials.

The two-speed gearbox has a variable speed trigger, with high speed suitable for paints and the low-speed option suitable for mortar. This is backed up with a five-year warranty.

NORTON CLIPPER PRO DIAMOND BLADE

Reducing the environmental impact of products is an increasingly important priority for the construction industry, and Bond It’s Reload range of silicones employs a reusable design that helps to minimise waste to landfill. Offering a more sustainable packaging solution, the system is designed for use with special sausage refills.

Three of the company’s most popular silicones and sealants — WP100, Frame-Mate and Multi-Mate — are currently being offered in the refill option, with the concept set to be rolled out to other products in the range at a later date.

Norton Clipper has announced the release of its newly updated Pro Universal Laser Diamond Blade, complete with a price freeze on the upgraded product to encourage sales for distributors. Said to ensure a more precise, quicker and sharper cut than its predecessor, the blade is available in a range of sizes, from 115mm to 350mm, to suit all cutting requirements.

To help stockists quickly and easily locate the correct tool for their customers, the Pro Universal Laser Diamond Blade has been colour coded in blue and includes images of the correct applications and machinery.

www.rdr.link/mb019

www.rdr.link/mb020

To find out more, go to www.rdr.link/mb018

BOND IT RELOAD RANGE

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HB42 ALL-IN-ONE ANTI-MOULD HB42’s Ultimate ‘All-in-One’ Sealant & Adhesive is now available in an improved formula which includes Anti-Mould as standard. Solvent-free and available in a range of colours, the product can be used inside and outdoors, in the wet or dry.

Odourless, food safe and recognised for its very low emissions, the company lays claim to offering one of the safest all-in-one sealants whilst the added Anti-Mould formula is described as important to minimise callbacks for the trade working in bathrooms, wet rooms or other areas where moisture may be present.

For further details, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb021

SPECTRE EXPANDED RANGE The Spectre range has been expanded to include more products designed to make the lives of tradespeople easier. As well as the Spectre Advanced Multi-Purpose Wood and Timber Fixing Screws, which are said to incorporate features often only found in premium screws, a range of holesaws and screw driver bits have been added.

The Spectre range of screwdriver bits, for instance, includes nut drivers, bit holders and bit sets covering Pozi, Torx and Philips in 25mm and 50mm lengths.

www.rdr.link/mb022

MAKITA XGT 40V RANGE Makita has expanded its 40Vmax XGT range with the addition of three new tools — the new Rotary Demolition Hammer, 216mm Slide Compound Mitre Saw and 230mm Angle Grinder.

All three of the additions to the XGT range include Makita’s brushless motor technology and Auto-Start Wireless System (AWS) functionality when fitted with an optional AWS chip. The brushless motor minimises friction and wasted energy within the machine for better performance and extended run-times.

The AWS function allows the tool to connect to compatible dust extractors via Bluetooth.

Go to: www.rdr.link/mb023 for more information.

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BRICKS, BLOCKS & HARD LANDSCAPING

Sustainable secrets Chris Stanley, Housing Manager - Modern Masonry at the Concrete Block Association, discusses the importance of promoting sustainable construction solutions and outlines the renaissance of traditional materials.

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s we continue into the decade ahead, sustainability has pride of place on the agenda for the UK’s built environment professionals. Tireless work across countless sectors has made this possible and now building product manufacturers must carry the torch on the way to Net Zero 2050.

There is, understandably, excitement and optimism around the role new green solutions and technologies play in this.

However, relatively recent innovations, such as ground and air source heat pumps as well as AI-backed infrared technology, are currently expensive to install and operate.

Accordingly, we mustn’t dismiss what’s ‘traditional’ as outdated. Manufacturers of

tried and tested building products, including our own Modern Masonry membership, have evolved to incorporate sustainability throughout their operations, going beyond manufacturing to include the products full life, supply chain and thermal performance.

Fundamentally, in a green context, wellestablished methods have more to offer than perhaps initially meets the eye. Let us take the simple yet highly efficient concrete block as an example.

Well composed In recent years, considerable investment has been made into the make-up of blocks as manufacturers seek to produce the material in a circular way. All our members, including

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some of the most recognised brand names in the industry, are dedicated to using aggregates in blocks that are 100% recyclable at end of use — and this eases pressure on excavating virgin resources and recapturing all embodied carbon at end of life.

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Furthermore, intensive research is being done into utilising waste materials in concrete products. PFA (Pulverised Fuel Ash) and FBA (Furnace Bottom Ash), both by-products of the steel industry and typically found on slagheaps across the UK, are finding a new lease of life as replacements for a portion of the already small amounts of cement used in block production.

Used in conjunction with cement, the result is a strong chemical bond with a considerably lower carbon footprint.

Love thy neighbour Additionally, in a post-Brexit world, shipping and logistics are increasingly in the spotlight and a significant challenge for a number of building materials categories.

Locally sourced, formed and cured blocks offer a welcome, and convenient, solution.

Indeed, it is estimated that any construction

site is less than 40 miles away from a healthy supply of concrete blocks. Less transportation means a lower carbon footprint.

Domestic manufacturing using locally sourced materials further reduces a block’s environmental impact by removing the ocean freight costs associated with imported materials like structural timber.

In a social context, sustainability also extends to supporting and strengthening communities and the block manufacturing industry supports a large number of jobs, often in remote areas, contributing to people’s livelihood and prosperity for years to come.

Efficiency drive With a drive towards reduced reliance on carbon-intensive mechanical HVAC systems and few comparably priced alternatives, a ‘Fabric First’ approach is

crucial and the thermal performance of construction materials has become vitally important — even more so as changes to Part L of the Building Regulations take effect, requiring a 31% decrease in new home emissions.

It is well known that masonry, combined with high-performance mineral insulation, will deliver consistent, optimal thermal performance, helping home owners and occupiers stay comfortable in both the heating and cooling seasons. This not only delivers an energy efficient solution, but significantly reduces CO2 emissions and ensures lower utility bills.

The concrete block industry has come a long way over the last few decades and is consistently surpassing its carbon targets.

We continue to build on these as we edge closer to Net Zero 2050 and we will also continue to look at block composition, exploring the use of recycled aggregates and alternative cementitious materials, to ensure circular design.

Giving careful thought to the issue of climate change and conducting research, we are finding ways to help housebuilders adapt to shifting meteorological conditions.

In the broader context of social responsibility, we are taking action to help revive and establish natural ecosystems.

Towards the end of last year, our affiliate organisation, The Mineral Products Association (MPA), announced its members have already created 8,000 h of UK priority habitats, such as meadows, heathland and wetlands. A further 11,000 h, at least, is in the pipeline for restoration.

As your businesses seek to increase their sustainability offering, you can rest assured many of the products with which you are most familiar need not be relegated to the archives. Starting with sensible material choices and a holistic understanding of ‘sustainability’, we can work together to confidently build on the green foundations of the last decade.

■ For more information about the Concrete Block Association, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb024

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Facing facts Recognising the recent growth in demand for low carbon facing bricks made using concrete, Michael Davies, Technical Manager from AG, emphasises that Concrete Facing Brick has now truly come of age, becoming the first choice for many leading housebuilders and therefore providing builders’ merchants with a genuine opportunity to capitalise on this new demand.

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sk any design purist what they are looking for in a facing brick and they’ll probably tell you they want the very best in both form and function.

Housebuilders, for example, require a facing brick that delivers a stunning first impression. Of course, the colour, texture and how they are laid are essential elements but so are strength, levels of consistency, colour integrity and overall performance.

As there is often no room for negotiation, in order to keep architects, housebuilders and end-users happy, it is vital that builders’ merchants stock an adequate range and variety of products that can meet specific demands.

With the current surge in new-builds within the residential sector, housebuilders are no longer able to wait for weeks or

months for products. One of the undoubted advantages of concrete facing brick is the fact that — generally speaking — it has an attractive lead time from order to delivery. In fact, at AG — which holds a wide range of in-stock items — Facing Brick can be called off with as little as 24-72 hours’ notice with lead times on some Made to Order solutions

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being as short as three weeks.

Furthermore, the huge technological advances made within the manufacture of concrete bricks that impact positively on the aesthetic and performance of concrete bricks in recent years mean it’s not a case of getting an inferior product more quickly.

Indeed, more and more leading housebuilders across the UK are now realising facing brick can be beautiful, dimensionally accurate and also more sustainable than the traditional alternatives.

Here, did you know that concrete facing bricks do not need to be fired in a kiln the way older methods of manufacturing brick do, such as with clay? The overall carbon produced in the manufacture of concrete facing bricks can therefore be up to 28% less

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BRICKS, BLOCKS & HARD LANDSCAPING

than other materials — which offers homeowners, housebuilders and merchants the opportunity to utilise a modern, engineered solution for building facades with superior environmental credentials.

Builders’ merchants will be familiar with the historic concerns of some in relation to the colour integrity of concrete bricks.

However, thanks to significant investment in pigment development and technology, AG Concrete Facing Bricks are produced in strictly regulated factory conditions, thereby ensuring repeatable results.

Plus, the innovative production of facing brick made with concrete is also dispelling the age-old opinion of tradesmen associating concrete brick as being heavy and hard to lay. For example, AG’s Woodward collection, available in two finishes, is designed with a ‘frogged’ hollow depression on the top face which reduces the weight of the brick, thus making it easier to handle.

Bricklayers love them and, depending on weather conditions and mortar consistency, they can easily build 15-20 courses in a day using facing brick made with concrete.

It isn’t surprising that when it comes to designing and building, brick size matters.

Dimensional accuracy is a critical element in any choice if onsite efficiencies are to be optimised and waste is to be minimised.

Concrete brick will deliver dimensional accuracy of 1-3mm across all dimensions — much higher than many of their

48 PBM MAY 2021

counterparts — whilst they are also highly resistant to sound transmission and boast a moderate rate of thermal conductivity. In terms of durability, concrete bricks are fully frost resistant with minimal soluble salts, making them worthy of consideration.

All AG brick is manufactured to exceed standards established by BS EN 771-3:2011 and (subjected to terms and conditions) boast an impressive 60-year guarantee — something that will please housebuilders across the nation.

Another major consideration for merchants when recommending a brick is water absorption. Apart from compressive strength, water absorption is important in masonry and a product’s ability to absorb water can impact colour integrity and overall performance. Concrete facing brick has typical absorption levels of 6-8% (and some as low as 4%) which, compared to many other building options with a much higher absorption rate, make it ever more popular with contractors.

Efflorescence, meanwhile, is the bane of the specifier, contractor and end-user alike.

Who hasn’t seen a beautiful building spoiled by the presence of efflorescence? The higher the porosity of the material, the greater the likelihood and risk of efflorescence occurring, meaning AG concrete bricks, thanks to vapour curing, creates minimal porosity and soluble salts to achieve exceptional levels of performance.

Furthermore, as an added protection layer, all AG Concrete Facing Bricks are shrink wrapped to eliminate exposure to rainwater that can be a key element in the development of efflorescence.

As new products enter into your yard it is vital that your team is educated about the products that you stock. Customers rely on your knowledge, and misinformation can lead to a very costly mistake. As such, AG works closely with our merchant partners in order to ensure they are thoroughly knowledgeable in our products, offering demonstrations and training. We have a dedicated team responsible for this who will ensure our partners have great understanding of our products, therefore instilling trust and assurance in the customer.

It is no surprise then that facing bricks manufactured using concrete represent one of the fastest growing material groups in the UK brick industry, reshaping the construction landscape. In a year that has seen unprecedented change take place across the construction industry, this increase in demand for concrete facing bricks is providing builders’ merchants across the country with a unique opportunity to capitalise on this new demand.

■ To find out more about AG’s range of Concrete Facing Brick, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb025

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Bloc party The launch of a new cement-free ultra-low carbon concrete block has been described as a ‘construction game-changer’ by its manufacturer. PBM takes a closer look.

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romising up to 73% CO2 savings compared to traditional concrete blocks, Greenbloc has been launched

by CCP — part of SigmaRoc plc. Described as a sustainable and ultra-low carbon alternative to traditional cement-based concrete blocks, it is designed to help reduce the construction industry’s dependency upon cement — reportedly the world’s third highest source of man-made CO2 — as a key ingredient in concrete manufacturing.

Instead, the high-density load bearing concrete block is made from class 1 aggregates and Cemfree — a “totally cementfree alternative to conventional concrete”.

Manufactured to BS EN 771 – 3: (2011) and complying with Part E of the Building Regulations for Walls and Floors, Greenbloc is manufactured, stored and placed in the same way as conventional concrete blocks. With no compromise on strength compared to ordinary Portland cement (OPC) blocks, it is said to be suitable for all applications, including foundations, load bearing walls, internal leaves of cavity walls and partition walls.

Michael Roddy, Managing Director at CCP, commented: “Greenbloc is a game-changer for the construction industry.

Up until now, sustainability has all-too-often been focused on operating carbon emissions

post-build rather than the carbon generated during the build schedule and in the manufacture of building materials.

“Greenbloc is an important step in the greening of both construction projects and the wider supply chain, as it has the capability to reduce CO2 by up to 73% on a project compared to OPC. In short, the only difference to OPC is that Greenbloc has the ability to dramatically reduce CO2.”

The company notes that concrete has long been regarded as a key building material despite the fact that its manufacturing process is one of the world’s largest emitters of CO2.

Indeed, CCP’s own figures suggest that, for an average three-bedroom house, OPC accounts for almost 3.7 tonnes of CO2. In comparison, it says that Greenbloc would account for just 981kg of CO2 for the same house, achieved through a saving of 1kg of CO2 per block and adding up to a total saving of 2.7 tonnes of CO2 per house.

Data from the National Energy Foundations further suggests that switching to Greenbloc is the equivalent of offsetting the electricity emissions on an average three-bedroom house for an entire year.

Michael added: “As a building material, cement cannot be matched; however it remains the source of about 8% of the

“Up until now, sustainability has all-too-often been focused on operating carbon emissions post-build rather than the carbon generated during the build schedule and in the manufacture of building materials.” www.professionalbuildersmerchant.co.uk

■ Part of the Precast Products Group (PPG), a platform wholly owned by SigmaRoc PL, CCP Building Products has supplied aggregates and concrete products throughout the North West and North Wales for over 60 years.

Previously Cheshire Concrete Products, the business has a strong track record in the builders’ merchant sector, supplying its products through a large number of wellknown stockists including Jewson, Travis Perkins, TG Builders Merchants, EH Smith, Howarth Timber & Building Supplies and Huws Gray. In 2018, CCP won the Buildbase Regional Supplier of the Year title.

In addition to Greenbloc, the company manufactures a range of concrete blocks, lightweight coursing bricks and aggregates supplied from its quarry in Aberdo, Flintshire.

world’s carbon dioxide emissions (source: Chatham House). Greenbloc offers the construction industry a clear path to a more sustainable future, decreasing the carbon footprint of one of its core building products and the projects it is used in.”

■ For more information on Greenbloc, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb026 whilst a short introductory video can be seen via www.rdr.link/mb039

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BRICKS, BLOCKS & HARD LANDSCAPING CHARCON DOWNLOADABLE BROCHURE Bringing its range of products and integrated solutions together into one place, Charcon has unveiled a new full-colour, 170-page brochure which can be downloaded from the supplier’s website and includes information on all its product ranges including the new H2O Linear Surface Water Drainage and the Cycle Kerb and Segregation Unit.

General Manager Jamie Baldwin said: “We’ve always been very proud of our commitment to innovation, our extensive product portfolio, technical expertise and sustainability credentials but the launch of our new brochure really celebrates this, bringing our capabilities together into one, accessible place.”

To find out more go to www.rdr.link/mb027

IBSTOCK BRICKMAKERS QUALITY CHARTER CERTIFICATION Ibstock has achieved a three-star rating from the Brick Development Association — the highest level of accreditation. To obtain the newly-launched Brickmakers Quality Charter accreditation, the manufacturer had to demonstrate compliance with and adherence to eight internationally recognised Critical Assessment Points (CAP), including Responsible Sourcing Systems (BES 6001), Health & Safety Management Systems (ISO 45001) and Anti-Modern Slavery Policy and Procedures.

The concept has been launched to promote the responsible sourcing of clay bricks, providing the UK construction supply chain with complete assurance that the highest standards have been adhered to during the manufacturing process.

Visit www.rdr.link/mb028 for further information.

BRETT LANDSCAPING INVICTA Featuring the company’s AggTech surface technology, Brett Landscaping has introduced the new high performance Invicta range.

Suitable for contemporary driveways, patios and pathway projects as well as urban streetscapes and commercial plazas, the collection utilises a formulated surface layer to create a hardwearing paving block with a durable finish which shimmers in different lights.

For added design flexibility, the block paving is available in five single size packs using 800mm thick blocks, with sizes 600x200mm, 300x200mm, 300x100mm, 200x200mm and 200x100mm. There is also an Invicta Trio pack made up of three different block sizes in 60mm thickness: 105x140mm, 140x140mm and 210x140mm.

For more details, go to www.rdr.link/mb029

CEMEX READYPAVE CAMDEN Using a manufacturing process said to ensure a more sustainable and environmentally friendly product, the CEMEX ReadyPave Camden offers the appearance of a traditional stone sett but without the need for a secondary manufacturing process to ‘rumble’ the pavers.

The product is different to the supplier’s previous multi-sett paving as it is available in a three-size multipack, which can be combined to form various patterns with consistent row widths. Combining all three sizes into one multipack has also reduced packaging and eliminated the potential for waste product on site.

Enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb030

SIKA FASTFIX ALL WEATHER Merchants preparing for the landscaping products season can help customers with Sika Fastfix All Weather self-setting paving jointing compound. Available in a choice of five colour options — Stone, Flint, Charcoal, Dark Buff and Deep Grey — Fastfix is ready to use with no mixing required and can be easily applied in all weather conditions, including in the rain.

It is said to offer long term protection and an easy solution for a range of applications including footpaths, stone setts, cobbles and Indian sandstone paving slabs.

Enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb031 to find out more.

BRADSTONE LOW CARBON PAVING RANGE

The new Bradstone ECO collection is a complete range of low carbon products for patios and driveways that is said to offer a 20% reduction in carbon footprint compared to the previous versions of the products. The range is part of the company’s stated intention to review its entire concrete products portfolio with a view to lowering its carbon footprint.

Featuring an improved design mix using sustainable materials and practices, the first products to be awarded Bradstone ECO status from the brand’s concrete paving and driveway collection include Old Town ECO, Old Riven ECO, Aged Riven ECO, Ashbourne ECO, Edale ECO and BradDrive Cobblestone ECO. All pack sizes and colours will remain the same.

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MARKETING SUPPORT

Open all hours C ombining sales and marketing support with rewards to its most committed stockists, Lakes has recently signed up its 150th customer to Lakes Partners — its ‘mutually beneficial partnership programme’ that was launched in March 2020, immediately before the first lockdown.

Developed to drive awareness and help Lakes’ stockist partners sell more, the programme offers tailored support through different tiers to allow customers to choose the level that best matches their current capacity and commitment. Last summer, Lakes expanded the programme to include exclusive access to its innovative online showroom — described as a pioneering lead generating tool that allows trade and enduser customers to browse and favourite Lakes products, request joint-branded brochures, and contact stockists directly to ask questions or place an order.

Accessed via a stockist’s own website, the online initiative has proved to be a timely boost to a sector constrained by the closure of physical showrooms.

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A similar philosophy of maximising the newly-realised benefits of virtual communications and enhanced digital services underpins the thinking behind the partnership between Jones Digital and Virtual 360° Tours Glos. Creating a “totally immersive, virtual reality tour that is tailored to KBB showrooms”, the service is able to provide a “stunning visual aid” to market any showroom location, using the high-tech Matterport 360 camera to create “pinpoint accurate 3D tours”.

The partnership cites statistics which report that websites which offer virtual tours gain 83% more interest than those without and Jones Digital’s Peter Jones said: “Having the added benefit of a virtual tour is a proactive way to have an edge on the competition and serve an already captive audience without needing your physical store to be open. We have already begun to disrupt the narrative of our industry, transforming how retailers are able to communicate and engage with their customers and this is why we are overwhelmed by the positive results so far.”

Scott Currie, Managing Director at Virtual 360° Tours Glos, added: “Peter and I found we had a common goal — to unreservedly support the specialist retailer.

From there, we decided to team-up and share the benefits of digital storytelling as with the addition of a virtual showroom tour, you can support everything you say to your customer with well-rounded visuals and interactive mapping of your showroom and all-important product displays. We have

Whilst restrictions are now slowly lifting, the Covid-19 pandemic has caused established business practices to be turned on their head. However, the experiences of the last year have shown that some of the changes have proved to offer tangible benefits and are likely to now be a permeant feature of merchant operations moving forward.

One example is the growth of the ‘virtual showroom’, with a number of approaches delivering successful results.

PBM reveals more.

found that serious customers will visit a virtual showroom up to seven or eight times, so you can be safe in the knowledge you’re able to engage with self-selecting clients who are keen to spend with you.”

In just six months of the partnership, 106 Showroom Tours have already been filmed and completed which are said to have generated 632,507 unique visits and page impressions to its clients’ online showrooms.

■ For more information, enter the appropriate shortcode: Lakes www.rdr.link/mb033 Virtual 360° Tours www.rdr.link/mb034

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WONDER GRIP UK SALES SUPPORT

Wonder Grip is a global glove manufacturer, concentrating its efforts on developing and innovating new technologies to ensure that the safety of end users is paramount. The business has recently restructured its sales platform in the UK by opening its own warehouse and dealing directly with builders’ merchants nationwide.

Outlining the potential for ‘great margins’ and with a low reorder value, the company prides itself on manufacturing products that conform to the highest level of international standards and also recognises the importance of helping stockists to promote its product range in-branch. To make advertising its gloves easier whilst making “good use out of your trade space”, the firm says it is pleased to supply a POS stand free of charge with all new orders.

OWLETT-JATON NEW WEBSITE

Designed with builders’ merchants and distributors in mind, Owlett-Jaton’s comprehensive new website — www.owlett-jaton.com — has been launched with the wholesaler stating that it has also worked hard to improve its online ordering platform for customers.

Said to offer easy navigation, increased product information and several new features — including stock availability indicators, merchandising case studies and catalogues to download — for a more interactive experience, the website showcases the fixings and fasteners supplier’s 30,000+ product lines which are typically available for free next-day delivery, with low minimum order levels.

TARMAC 50% RECYCLED CONTENT PACKAGING Tarmac states that it has become the first major cement manufacturer in the UK to move to 50% recycled plastic in its packaging with the roll out of new all-weather, fully recyclable hybrid bags. The new packaging continues to offer rip, tear and puncture resistance, as well as providing essential protection against rain and water damage.

The bags also feature clearer recycling labelling and information to encourage customers to ‘empty, rinse, recycle’ and dispose of the packaging responsibly.

RESAPOL MERCHANT SUPPORT BROCHURE

ALIAXIS RAINWATER CALCULATOR TOOL

Launched across its Hunter Plastics and Marley Plumbing & Drainage brands, Aliaxis has launched a new Rainwater Calculator too which will enable installers, contractors, merchants and even homeowners to easily and quickly estimate the number of brackets, unions, downpipes and fittings that are required for a specific project.

The easy-to-use tool is designed to save customers valuable time, with the automated calculations improving the efficiency of placing an order. For merchants, the tool also has the ability to apply a discount across all products.

TOBERMORE SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING

Acknowledging that everyone has a part to play in protecting the planet, Tobermore has overhauled its packaging design to have significantly less environmental impact. Its new 100% recyclable polyethylene film contains 30% recycled material enabling the business to decrease waste and reduce its packagingrelated carbon footprint by 20%.

These environmental benefits are said to come with no downfall to the quality or efficiency of the packaging with the strength and durability of the original film being maintained.

Builders’ merchants are said to have been key customers to Resapol ever since its formation in 1999, growing further in importance with the launch of its dedicated merchant support team in 2019. Its new Merchant Support Brochure for 2021 gives an insight into a selection of the products available through the independent supplier of construction chemicals, including everything from rapid concrete and waterproofing essentials to flooring and joint sealing solutions as well as crucial ancillaries and primers.

In addition, the brochure highlights the firm’s commitment to providing expert technical support, quick quotations and next day delivery. Hard copies are available, whilst a digital version can be downloaded via www.rdr.link/mb035 For more examples of supplier support for merchants on the PBM website, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb036

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PRODUCTS & SERVICES ABODE FRACTION Described as a design-led tap range, Fraction is available from Abode in a choice of finishes, including Chrome, Brushed Nickel, Matt Black and Antique Brass. Featuring a cog-inspired detail on the handle, the tap’s 90° angled spout includes an elongated, single lever handle to ensure ease of use.

Fraction can also be chosen with the added functionality of a neatly hidden pull-out spray feature. This offers the same styling as the single lever tap, but with a spray function as a useful addition for a variety of cleaning tasks.

POSTSAVER PRO-SLEEVE Following the Association of Fencing Contractors (AFI) timber fencing report which claims preservatives are causing increased premature post failure, Postsaver is urging the industry to continue to support the use of wood.

The company’s patented Pro-Sleeve protects wooden fence posts at the ground-line to prevent decay from occurring and is backed by a 20-year guarantee, supported with independent test data.

IDS ZENITH Following its appointment as a UK distributor

by Wilsonart to help grow sales in the merchant sector, IDS has added Zenith solid compact laminate to its product portfolio. The collection’s 20 designs, available on eight solid colour cores, offer an ultra-slim 12.5mm thick worktop designed to provide a realistic and cost-effective alternative to natural stone.

The range is said to be fully waterproof, antibacterial and features a consistent colour all the way through. Its double-sided decorative finish offers the flexibility for use with undermount sinks and for cutting into bespoke shapes to create matching shelves and sills.

RESAPOL RBS HAND SANITISER To help in the fight against COVID-19, Resapol has launched the rbs Hand Sanitiser, which has been formulated as an alcohol based anti-bacterial, hospital grade, hand rub that works to effectively kill 99.9% of bacteria on contact whilst also working to cleanse and refresh the skin without the use of soap or water. Fast drying and non-sticky, once applied to the hands it will evaporate without leaving any residue or unpleasant odour.

The sanitiser is available to order in 250ml and 500ml recyclable plastic bottles whilst bulk pack sizes of 5 and 20 litres are also available

ESSENTIAL BATHROOMS MONTANA Described as a budget-friendly collection for small spaces, Montana is the newest addition to Essential Bathroom’s portfolio. The range comprises 12 all-in-units, each combining a basin, storage and a flat surface, making it suitable for modern bathrooms and ensuites where space is at a premium.

Montana is available in two finishes; Painted White and Urban Grey, and is available in widths of 1000, 1100 and 1200mm, with a left or right-handed design.

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VIESSMANN VITODENS 100-W SERIES Viessmann has introduced the Vitodens 100-W. WiFi-integrated and said to be easier to install, the boiler’s control platform is also designed to make commissioning and servicing the boiler easier whilst it is now possible to monitor and make adjustments to customers’ boilers remotely.

The supplier has also launched the Vitodens 111-W wall-mounted combi boiler. Intended for family homes where there is high hot water demand, the 111-W features a cylinder loading system and 46-litre integrated stainless steel storage tank, allowing it to provide a flow rate of up to 181 litres in 10 minutes.

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WAVIN OSMA ANTHRACITE GREY GUTTERING

ARIEL PLASTICS COROVERGE UNIVERSAL DRY VERGE SYSTEM Developed and designed for ease of installation, the Coroverge Universal Dry Verge system from Ariel Plastics provides a neat mortarless finish at roof verges on new build and retrofit projects alike.

The system is fully adjustable for installation with tiles of between 260mm-350mm gauges, and is a 100% mortar-free, dry fix solution, offering a hard-wearing finish to the roofline without the inconvenience of using mortar bedding.

The Verge Sections are not handed, and so will fit both the left hand and right hand sides of the roof verge for ease of installation.

An informative video can be viewed via www.rdr.link/mb037

Wavin has updated its Osma DeepLine semi-elliptical guttering range, with an ‘anthracite grey’ (RAL 7016) addition.

The product matches the colour scheme being used for external windows and doors across the UK. Steve Skeldon, Above Ground Product Manager at Wavin, said: “Grey external accents on homes and buildings have been growing in popularity and are now ontrend; in fact research suggests that anthracite grey is now the most popular shade of grey for new windows and doors in the UK. By colour-matching prominent yet peripheral features like guttering, buildings can really be brought to life.”

SNICKERS WORKWEAR STRETCH SHORTS Combining four-way stretch fabric that delivers working comfort with slim-fit designs, Snickers Work Shorts are designed for grafting in the warmer months. The lightweight garments feature a body-mapping design and are made from a self-ventilating stretch fabric with CORDURA reinforcements for durability and all-round mobility.

The Men’s FLEXIWork lightweight work shorts come with flexible gusset seams and also have easy-to-access holster pockets with zip compartments, an expandable stretch cargo pocket and a ruler pocket. The AllroundWork Women’s multi-purpose, slim-fit shorts have 4-way stretch panels for consistent comfort and practical pockets for optimal functionality.

REMEHA QUINTA ACE 135 WALL HUNG BOILER Remeha, part of the Baxi Heating and BDR Thermea Group, has launched the Quinta Ace 135 — a new addition to the Quinta Ace 30-160 range of high-efficiency, low-NOx, wall-hung condensing boilers.

The boiler has similar dimensions and connections to the Quinta Ace 160 and with its compact design, it is suitable for both individual installation and as part of a multi-boiler cascade or rig system. As with all the models in the Quinta Ace range, there is the additional opportunity to mix and match outputs for added design flexibility to enable the more accurate matching of heat demand for reduced energy consumption and waste.

TRACER MARKER RANGE Designed specifically for the construction industry, TRACER has developed a new range of markers. The Heavy-Duty Permanent Marker, for instance, is an aluminium bodied 1-3mm bullet point marker designed for general construction marking.

The Fine Point Permanent Marker, meanwhile, is a 1-2mm bullet point marker that is said to be durable and xylene and toluene free. Finally, the Paint Marker is a 1-3mm bullet point marker that includes a tough metal barrel with a valve action ink mechanism.

Available in yellow and white, these are designed for high visibility marking on all surfaces, including glass and porcelain as well as general purpose construction marking.

For more details on these and other new products on the PBM website, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mb038

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ADVERTISEMENT INDEX Aanco (UK) Ltd t/a Made For Trade .....................................................................................................page 13 Blue Rock Systems Ltd ......................................................................................................................page 50 Bond It ..............................................................................................................................................page 38 Bradite Paints Ltd ...............................................................................................................................page 23 BSW Timber Ltd ..................................................................................................................................page 8 Buckler Boots Ltd ..............................................................................................................................page 50 Builders Merchants Federation ..............................................................................................inside front cover Centurion Europe Ltd ..................................................................................................................pages 27-34 Charles Bentley & Son Ltd ..................................................................................................................page 19 Evergreens UK Group ........................................................................................................................page 46 Global Stone (Colchester) Ltd .............................................................................................................page 49 Hilton Banks Ltd ................................................................................................................................page 15 Instarmac ..........................................................................................................................................page 42 Kerridge Commercial Systems Ltd ......................................................................................................page 53 Kyocera Senco UK ....................................................................................................................pages 40, 41 Long Rake Spar Co. Ltd ......................................................................................................................page 7 Mannok Build Ltd ...............................................................................................................................page 45 MEDITE SMARTPLY .............................................................................................................................page 9 Resapol Ltd .......................................................................................................................................page 49 RWC (UK) Ltd ....................................................................................................................outside back cover Saint-Gobain Abrasives ......................................................................................................................page 38 Samac Fixings Ltd .............................................................................................................................page 26 Saniflo Ltd ...........................................................................................................................................page 4 Setcrete ............................................................................................................................................page 10 Simpson Strong-Tie ...........................................................................................................................page 46 Soudal (UK) Ltd .................................................................................................................................page 26 Stuart Turner Ltd ................................................................................................................................page 53 Tembe DIY & Building Products Ltd .....................................................................................................page 37 Wonder Grip Europe ..........................................................................................................................page 25

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With Paul Davies

THE FINAL STRETCH

ISLAND HOPPING

Despite writing this in the immediate aftermath of their 2-1 home defeat to Leeds United, it would take a collapse of Devon Loch style proportions for Manchester City not to secure their seventh top flight title overall and fifth Premier League win. In this most surreal season, City had something of a stuttering start before embarking on an incredible winning streak of 21 games in all competitions from December until March.

They also equalled their record of 28 consecutive games unbeaten, but it was a run founded on a solid defence more than the swashbuckling attack we have come to associate with them — granted, this isn’t a huge surprise as goalkeeper Ederson is the current holder of the Premier League Golden Glove award for the most clean sheets last season, but who would have predicted that İlkay Gündoğan would be their top goalscorer?!

Indeed, the German is the only City player to reach double figures in the league, and it is such a shame that it looks like the curtain will be brought down on Sergio Agüero’s illustrious spell at the blue half of Manchester with a bit of a whimper, as an injury-blighted campaign has seen him only score once in the Premier League. I’m sure the inevitable addition of yet more silverware for the club’s record goalscorer will be some compensation, but the big question is just where will Aguero be plying his trade next season?

Barcelona seems a logical destination, but rumours are growing that we will not have seen the last of him in the Premier League. Chelsea are strongly linked to his signature, and I just wonder if we’ll be considering him for our FPL teams in the next campaign…

On the subject of winning streaks, spare a thought for the Jersey Bulls of the Combined Counties League.

The team was established a couple of years ago with the aim of giving the Channel Island representation in the English Football Pyramid, following in the footsteps of their (relatively) near neighbours Guernsey FC who embarked on a similar journey a few years previously.

Taking their place in Division One of the CCL for the 2019-20 season, the Bulls hit the ground running with a 3-0 win over Ash United. By March, they had secured 81 points from winning ALL 27 matches and promotion was surely a formality. And then Covid struck, with the League programme ultimately cancelled and all results declared null and void.

This season’s CCL programme also had to be abandoned, with the Bulls having played and won just four league matches before coronavirus-related travel restrictions to and from the island were introduced, but as club director Ian Horswell recently told the BBC: “If you were to aggregate this season’s league with last season’s, despite us playing nine fewer games, we’re still top by a point.”

We’ll keep a watching brief on Jersey’s progress next season, and hope for a smooth return for all lower league football, but we finish on a rather brilliant quote explaining the club’s choice of name which reflects the island’s dairy heritage: “Jersey may be most famous for its cows, but they’d be nowhere without the bulls!”

FOR THE RUN-IN There are still points up for grabs in FPL and whilst Manchester City look to have run away with the title, there’s still a battle royal for at least one of the Champions League places. It still seems bizarre to say this, but West Ham’s Jesse Lingard is in scintillating form whilst Leicester’s Kelechi Iheanacho is also banging them in. And whilst they are a far cry from their recent glories, Liverpool certainly have the fixtures on their side to mount a late charge back into the top four. Despite bombing them all out a few months ago, Mo and Trent et al could see you rise up the rankings in the final few weeks…

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