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Following the procession… Fantasy Football
2
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i t i e s p re s e n t e d b y l o w e r-
c a r b o n c o n c r e t e a n d c o n c re t e c e m e n t
2 7 FA C I N G FA C T S
T h e c a r b o n s a v i n g a d v a n t a g e s o f c o n c r e t e fa c i n g
b ri c k s
2 8 P R O D U C T S & S E RV I C E S
TOOLS, FIXINGS & ADHESIVES
3 1 M A D E T O M E A S U R E
T h e l o w d ow n on F o rge F i x’s l a t e s t b r a n d p ro m ot i on ,
‘ M e a s u r e U p w i t h S p e c t re ’
3 4 A T U R N I N G P O I N T F O R T O O L S
S t r i k i n g a b a l a n c e b e t w e e n e c om m e rc e a n d b r i c ks
a n d m or t a r s t o r e s
3 7 S T I C K I N G T O T H E L A W
E n s u r i n g y o u r s e l e c t i o n o f s e a l a n t s , a d h e s i v e s a n d
b u i l d i n g c h e m i c a l s i s a b o v e b o a r d a n d c o m p l i e s
w i t h t h e l a t e s t r e g u l a t i o n s
4 0 S E A S O N A L S O L U TI O N S
F i x i n g s o l u t i o n s d e s i g n e d s p e c i fi c a l l y t o m e e t t h e
c h a l l e n g e s o f o u t d o o r t i m b e r i n s t a l l a t i o n s
4 1 P R O D U C T S & S E RV I C E S
PAINTS & WOODCARE
4 2 TA P E RE - O RD E R
P re s e n t i n g c u s t o me r s w i t h a ‘ o n e - s t o p - s ol u t i on ’ f o r
d e c or a t i n g a c c e s s o r i e s s u c h a s s p e c i a l i s t t a p e s
4 5 F R E E F O R A L L
W h y t h e gr ow i n g a w a r e n e s s a ro u n d t h e i m p o r t
l e a d i n g t o e x t r a s a l e s f o r me rc h a n t s
4 6 I N T E RI O R I N S I G H T S D r a w i n g i n s p i r a t i o n f ro m C
I n s i g h t s 2 0 2 5 / 2 6
4 7 P RO D U C T S & S E RV I C E S
SPECIAL REPORTS
14 EXTRACTING SALES
Domus Ventilation describres how merchants can capitalise on the opportunities in the residential ventilation market, supporting their customers and growing sales.
15 LEADING THE INDUSTRY FOR 70+ YEARS
Garage door innovation with Garador
18 IMPROVING EFFICIENCIES
How push-fit plumbing technology is now lending itself to faster valve installation.
Chaos theory
Well, it’s been quite the few weeks
The dust had barely settled from the fallout of the Chancellor’s Spring Statement when President Trump announced his policy of reciprocal tariffs, sending markets and political commentators alike into meltdown.
As to the impact on the UK construction sector? I’ll defer to the wiser minds at the Construction Products Association, who stated: “ The U S reciprocal tariffs announced recently were not a surprise, as the President has made changing trade terms and negotiating deals to leverage changes in other countries’ tariffs a priority since his inauguration
“ The CPA has been briefing members and Government about how these policy changes may damage UK manufacturers and construction. The quick answer is that it all is complicated ”
Its response continued: “ The short-term issues associated with reciprocal tariffs include increased uncertainty over global trade and global economic growth prospects The rise in uncertainty means increased risk, which must be factored into the pricing of firms worldwide, leading to further inflation, and this is already bad news ”
The true implications, of course, will only be realised in the coming weeks and months, as Governments and individual business fine tune their response and develop new strategies to mitigate the upheaval
Turning back to the Spring Statement which honestly feels like it took place in
another lifetime and some further crumbs of comfort for the sector could be found. For instance, the allocation of an additional £2 billion for social and affordable housing in 2026 27 alongside a commitment of £625m over four years to support the creation of 60,000 new construction workers
While a welcome measure, it was one cited by the Federation of Master Builders and others as not going far enough especially given the Construction Industr y Training Board estimate the countr y “will need 250,000 more construction workers by 2028 to even get close to the Government's targets ”
Moreover, there was a tacit admission that the Government’s much vaunted 1 5 million new homes target was overly optimistic, with the Office for Budget Responsibility now forecasting that housebuilding in the UK over the five-year parliament will reach only 1 3 million net additional dwellings
And of course, the last month has also seen the implementation of measures such as the heavily critiqued increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions and the rise in the national minimum wage, as initially announced in the Autumn Budget The impact is being felt instantly by business but, once
Editor Paul Davies
Group Advertisement Manager
Craig Jowsey craig@hamerville co uk Tel: 07900 248102
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Design Adeel Qadri
Digital Manager
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Group Production Manager
Carol Padgett
Production Assistant
Kerri Smith
Circulation Manager Kirstie Day
again, the broader consequences will only become apparent in time.
Tr ying to draw these strands together and the only conclusion one can make is that perpetual instability is the new status quo Just on a moment’s thought, the last decade has seen the Brexit vote and the ensuing parliamentar y log jam, the pandemic, the actual departure from the EU, further political upheaval as the Tories burned through three prime ministers in a year, the war in Ukraine, global supply issues, rising material and energ y costs, the end of Conser vative rule after 14 years, and now the fallout from America’s improbably named ‘Liberation Day’…
It's an epic understatement to say this is all far from ideal, especially considering the seemingly essential ingredient for delivering the government’s abstract mantra of ‘growth’ namely, stability is missing in action
Yet here we are
Echoing Trump’s fondness for drawing analogies to card games, this is the hand UK merchant businesses will have to play As we so often say, the opportunities for business growth are still out there Navigating the challenges will not be easy, but the rewards remain for those who persevere
After nearly 10 years in the role, the Rainy Day Trust’s CEO Br yan Clover is to retire at the end of June, with recruitment now under way to fill the post. Br yan has become a welcome fixture at countless events and exhibitions throughout the builders’ merchant and wider home improvement industr y and during his time at the helm, the Charity has undoubtedly broadened its scope of support as well as its profile among employees and businesses
Br yan said: “It has been an incredible journey, and I have made a lot of new friends along the way. I must thank the Trustees whose support for the Rainy Day Trust and me as CEO has been fabulous and I am grateful for their trust The time is right for someone else, someone with natural fundraising skills, to take over ”
Richard Campbell-Drew from Akzo Nobel, Chair of Rainy Day Trust trustees, discussed how Br yan had worked tirelessly to get the Charity in front of businesses, not only to raise funds but also to spread the word of how their employees could benefit. He explained: “Br yan ’ s skill has been to recognise the hidden nature of many problems that employees and retirees in our industr y face, and he has also been responsible for expanding our remit into supporting young people at the start of their careers with our apprenticeship packages
“He will be sorely missed Thank you Br yan and we wish you all the best!”
Data gathering
The Builders Merchants Federation and National Merchant Buying Society have come together to create an ‘Industr y Data Pool’ which will “revolutionise product data exchange in the building materials sector ” The industr y-owned resource will contain highquality, ecommerce-friendly information on hundreds of thousands of products, with the groundbreaking initiative creating a centralised, digital platform for seamless product data exchange
The initiative will deliver a range of benefits, including:
● Centralised product data management for improved accuracy, consistency and accessibility
● Enhanced supply chain efficiency through seamless data exchange
● Increased regulator y compliance and transparency
The joint venture will be managed by Building Materials Digital Ser vices Ltd, a nonprofit entity equally owned by the BMF and NMBS, and the structure provides an immediate opportunity to invest in the company ’ s success as shareholders, helping to create a product data pool by the industr y, for the industr y Other key financial elements of the project include a tiered subscription model for manufacturers and suppliers.
John Newcomb, BMF CEO, said: “We are excited about the potential of the Industr y Data Pool to transform our sector This collaborative, scalable platform will not only improve product data integrity but also drive overall industr y efficiency.
“It is a major step for ward in the drive to achieve consistent, digitised product data throughout the building materials supply chain, which the BMF has been working towards through our support and promotion of the ETIM standard and the introduction of BMF Product Data Templates ”
Chris Hayward, NMBS CEO, added: “ The Industr y Data Pool represents a significant advancement in how we manage data and interact as an industr y A digital solution is key, and by working together, we can leverage our combined expertise to deliver a solution that meets the needs of all parties involved ”
Gareth Thomas has been appointed as Managing Director of the start-up business Gareth has extensive experience in data management and business change and previously spearheaded the UK launch of the product data management data pool solution at EZ-base
Anniversary celebrations
SR Timber is marking a significant milestone in 2025 as it celebrates 20 years in business Trading Director Shaun Revill and the “SR” in SR Timber co-founded the company in 2005, drawing on his background in the industr y which began by working on the tools in roofing for his late father, a thirdgeneration slater and tiler Shaun expanded his knowledge of the industr y and learnt about timber production and distribution by working for a Swedish timber exporter Following a spell as a timber agent, he partnered with a leading UK roofing contractor at the time to establish SR Timber along with its sister business, a Latvian timber sawmill, which has continued to be its only source of roofing batten, procuring logs and
boards, producing batten that is qualitychecked and third-party certified to BS5534
With a guiding principle of promoting the importance of using only certified, graded, high-quality battens in the UK roofing market, the business today operates from offices in Huthwaite, North Nottinghamshire, with a sizeable import terminal at Immingham where it stocks significant volumes of its flagship Premium Gold BS5534 graded batten brand
Over the years, the business has expanded its product range to include various roofing timbers whilst “ a number of celebrator y activities over the year ” are being planned to mark its special achievement.
Improved access
National Buying Group (NBG) reports that it has become the first buying group to update its online Hub to Version 3 in a move said to make business-critical data more accessible for its Partners Allowing users to access accurate, upto-date information on products, price changes and promotions, the NBG Hub which also houses NBG’s Product Information Management (PIM) system is an online platform created by specialist Buying Group developer eBiz for the organisation’s Partners and Suppliers
Having undergone several updates since its launch in 2021, Hub V3 makes critical pricing and product information more prominent, with the data and insights it carries easier for
independent merchants to use to strengthen their businesses. With price files managed by NBG, Partners using the platform benefit from greater data accuracy and scope for automation
As a result of an underlying technological change, the latest version of the Hub also features a cleaner interface for easier interaction
Les Boyle, Head of Technolog y and Systems at NBG, commented: “ Thanks to our collaboration with eBiz, we ’ ve become the first buying group to transition from V2 to V3 of the Hub. This technological advancement is set to provide our Partners with a significant competitive edge.
“Our team processes an average of 205,000 product updates per month, totalling 2 4 million updates over the past year This level of automation significantly reduces the risk of errors and enhances the efficiency of managing pricing changes and product updates, which is a significant gain for all Partners ”
Looking ahead, NBG’s Hub V3 will also offer “greater flexibility for integration with other systems using APIs, enabling Partners’ pricing systems to update automatically without manual inter vention ”
Plasterboard capacity
Etex has officially opened its £170m expansion of its plasterboard production facility in Bristol Reportedly the company ’ s largest ever production investment, the expansion which produces plasterboard for the Siniat brand has also created Etex’ most efficient plasterboard production line in Europe when considering its line size, speed and complexity
The c ap acit y a l lows Sini at to pro duce over 98% of its p or t folio of b o ards in t he ne w st ate-of-t he-ar t UK faci lit y, and incre asing lo c a l pro duc t ion g ives Etex g re ater f lexibi lit y w hi lst a ls o a l low ing for sig nif ic ant c arb on s av ings by de cre asing t he ne e d to t ransp or t b o ards f rom ot her count r ies Fur t her sust ainabi lit y me asures, for ming p ar t of Etex’ st rateg ic sust ainabi lit y ro admap, include incre asing t he us e of cer t if ie d re c ycle d content in ne w pro duc ts (t hroug h SCS cer t if ic at ion), w it h re c ycle d content in UK pro duc ts rang ing
f rom 23% up to 45% in ne w pl asterb o ards. John Sinf ield, UK & Irel and C ount r y Manager, s aid: “ The ne w Br istol pl ant exp ansion is pro of of Etex’ st rong fo otpr int in Europ e and its commit ment to cont inu a l ly invest ing in innovat ion This invest ment w i l l g ive our UK c ustomers addit iona l conf idence t hat we are re ady for market re cover y and able resp ond to any incre as es in demand, in-line w it h w ider G over nment a l dr ives ”
The Worshipful Company of Builders’ Merchants has announced that six new Freemen have joined the Company, taking the total number of Freemen and Liver ymen to 259 the highest figure the Company has ever had.
The ceremony took place ahead of the recent annual City & Awards luncheon at Painters’ Hall, London with the new Freemen being John Bampkin, NP Group; Jamie Herd, Lords Group Trading; Lee Jones, FAKRO GB; Cameron McLellan, Strata Products; Kate Tinsley OBE, MKM Building Supplies and Kevin Tolson, Etex Insulation
Master Steve Boyer said: “Being invited to join the WCoBM is recognition of your dedication and hard work both in your own careers and in the way you have given back to the wider building materials industry I’m particularly pleased to see that our membership numbers are now higher than they have ever been something that I hope we can continue to build on in the coming years. ”
Following 20 years as a UK-based subsidiar y of Holcim Group, Aggregate Industries has rebranded to Holcim UK as part of a “strategic shift to provide the construction industr y with seamless access to the latest sustainable building solutions ” With over 200 sites and 4,000 employees across the UK, the organisation’s 25 brands* are uniting under Holcim UK to drive this growth
Lee Sleight, CEO of Holcim UK, said: “Our evolution from Aggregate Industries to Holcim UK is much more than a rebrand It represents a commitment to leading the sector towards a more sustainable future through a commitment to innovation and collaboration ”
*Of the 25 brands, 18 will be fully migrating to Holcim UK, three additional brands will be endorsed by Holcim UK and two will continue operating under their own name, including Bradstone which will see two further brands migrate under its name
New
A R K ET M O
Bridging the gap
TrustMark has published a new report with views from frontline micro and small businesses on the factors contributing to the skills gap in the UK construction and home repair, maintenance and improvement (RMI) sectors.
Despite gover nment and industry having implemented multiple initiatives to fund career pathways in these sectors, the skills gap is a crucial problem for the industry with TrustMark highlighting that 39,000 businesses are at risk of disappearing from the sector in the next 10 years. Its report goes on to provide practical recommendations to affect change and build a skilled and competent workforce.
The TrustMark report, entitled ‘Skilled to Build’, highlights the operational challenges faced by small and micro businesses around recruitment, training, funding and retention and creates actionable and comprehensive solutions to address the identified gaps. The research, which was commissioned from Eureka! Research and Oxford Economics, includes evidence collected from 1,233 small and micro businesses who provided an ‘on the ground’ perspective of the challenges and comprehensive solutions required to help identify and alleviate the skills gap
And while clearly focusing on the issues directly impacting upon the building trades, there is plenty of food for thought for the merchant sector as well, with respondents referencing the provision of materials at construction colleges in addition to apprenticeship support as areas where stockists can
assist in the development of what would constitute their next generation of customers
The key findings of the report show a “strong desire” amongst micro and small businesses to recruit, with nearly half (45%) of those surveyed reporting at least one vacancy. Indeed, recruitment appears to be a much larger issue than retention for these businesses with specific challenges to fill the vacancies including the “amount of paperwork and bureaucracy required”, a “lack of joined up processes to find and fund suitable talent / training” and “low awareness amongst younger employees about the potential ear nings in the sector.”
and long-term competent and skilled workforce
Echoing the BMF initiative for the merchant and supplier sector, to help drive this national campaign, TrustMark has proposed four practical recommendations on how the skills challenge can be addressed:
Also outlining the ‘demographic challenges’ facing the industry where 44% of the workforce in the RMI sector are older than 55 years (compared to 21% of the UK workforce overall) and a quarter of those plan to stop or semi-retire within the next three years, TrustMark “is committed to helping to address the chronic skills situation” and is looking to collaborate with gover nment and industry to enhance the current infrastructures and build a resilient
• Developing and delivering fit-forpurpose training and curricula
• Strengthening the navigation system for businesses to find recruits
• Unlocking and raising awareness of the financial incentives available
• Training and encouraging businesses into renewables and clean heat technologies.
■
MERCHANT FOCUS
LAWSONS FAIR TAX MARK ACCREDITATION
Lawsons has become the first builders’ merchant group to be awarded the Fair Tax Mark, signalling that it has reached “the gold standard of responsible tax conduct ” Issued by not-for-profit social enterprise The Fair Tax Foundation, the accreditation certifies that a business “seeks to follow the spirit, as well as the letter of the law, shuns corporate tax avoidance such as the artificial use of tax havens and is transparent about profits made and taxes paid ”
Group Finance Director Chris Harrison commented: “We have a culture of transparency across our entire business, whether in our dealings with customers, suppliers or our people. As a significant player in the builders’ merchant sector, which is a key sector for the UK economy, it is only right that we should publicly demonstrate our approach to paying our fair share of tax in full and at the right time ”
Jeremy Norris, Group Managing Director, added: “The Fair Tax Mark is another way we demonstrate our values and best practices to our customers, suppliers and people We also believe that this inspires confidence and trust in our goods and services, and I would not be surprised to see this accreditation becoming a mandatory requirement for all public construction contracts ”
CITY PLUMBING DONCASTER BRANCH ANNIVERSARY
City Plumbing has marked the first anniversary of its Doncaster York Road branch with a week-long supplier event programme Welcoming such leading brands as Worcester Bosch, Mira, Baxi, Ideal Standard, ESI Controls and Salus Smart Controls, Branch Manager Nigel Walker said: “We’ve had a fantastic first year since opening the branch, establishing ourselves within the community and becoming the go-to merchant for many installers across the region ”
DUQUEMIN & OZANNE NBG MEMBERSHIP
Guernsey-based plumbing and heating specialist Duquemin & Ozanne has joined NBG Servicing the Bailiwick of Guernsey with a wide portfolio of products, the firm also offers full in-house design services working with architects, plumbing engineers and homeowners to provide bespoke heating systems and bathrooms
Having worked with another buying group while in a previous role, MD Martyn Duquemin investigated joining NBG after several conversations with existing NBG Partners Martyn said:
“It’s good to be in a group where we can have our say on the deals and get a more informed understanding of the industry We now have a large network of new connections, all facing the same challenges we are, that we can share ideas with and learn what’s working for others in our sector. We’re looking forward to growing those relationships and hope that the other Partners will be able to help us as much as we can help them ”
BURTON ROOFING MARLEY BATTEN CAMPAIGN
Battens are often the foundation of roofing jobs but in recent years, the market has been flooded with poor quality, non-compliant battens which have the potential to cause roof failures and accidents The issue has become a real problem for the industry with poor quality, noncompliant battens even being sold falsely stamped as meeting British Standards Independent merchant Burton Roofing has launched an awareness campaign in association with Marley, the manufacturer of the leading JB Red battens, which includes a series of short videos that detail all aspects of the issue Contributors include the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) and roofing contractor On Top Roofing to provide insights from across the industry Martin Armour, Commercial Director at Burton, explained: “Compliance and competence have been talked about increasingly over recent years, and we want to support roofers to make it as easy as possible for them to purchase high quality, complaint products It is one less thing for them to worry about and means they can focus on the job in hand ”
DULUX DECORATOR CENTRE 20-YEAR NECTAR360 PARTNERSHIP
One of the loyalty programme’s longeststanding partners, Dulux Decorator Centre is celebrating 20 years in partnership with Nectar360 The specialist decorating merchant was an early member of the Nectar concept, joining just three years after its launch in 2002 as part of the Nectar Business offering that enables small businesses in the UK to earn points and value back on their business spend
Sarah Atkins, Managing Director at DDC said: “The Nectar programme plays an integral role in providing added value to our customers, alongside the wider benefits an account with Dulux Decorator Centre offers Over the 20 years of the partnership, we’ve provided millions of points to customers to use for purchasing supplies for their business or to treat themselves.
“We have evolved the programme over time, developing a greater level of personalisation to reward shopping across our stores, website and with our Account Teams This has led to an increase in our customers’ engagement with the programme, demonstrating how they value the added benefits Nectar provides.”
Radstock-based builders’ merchant A J Champion & Sons has strengthened its fleet with the addition of a new Renault Trucks C280, continuing a trusted partnership that has spanned over 12 years.
AJ Champion first transitioned to the marque in 2013, starting with a pair of Premium 8×4 tippers following recommendations With a diverse Renault Trucks-exclusive fleet now comprising a 26-tonne grab lorry, 18T grab lorries, 8-wheel tippers, a 44-tonne tractor unit and a recovery van, the merchant is supported by the vehicle brand in terms of “reliability and strong aftermarket parts support ”
Fast forward to 2025 and the latest addition, a C280 supplied by Elliot Tratt at Sparks Commercial Services, was specifically chosen for its “compact design, excellent payload capacity and ability to navigate tight-access sites with ease.” The new grab lorry will be used to deliver blocks, dumpy bags and other heavyside construction materials across Bath, Bristol and the surrounding areas.
Elaine Champion, Transport Manager at the family-run firm, commented: “Our long-standing relationship with Renault Trucks and Sparks is built on reliability,
On the road again
ensuring that running our fleet remains a smooth and efficient process The C280 is the ideal choice for our operations, offering the perfect balance of performance and accessibility ”
The new vehicle features a bespoke alloy dropside body by Palfinger and is equipped with a front-mounted PK 11 001 SLD 3 Palfinger Solid Range loading crane, offering a maximum carrying capacity of 5 7t and reach of 5 6m AJ Champion has also specified the C280 with parabolic rear suspension and four-point cab air suspension with ride-height control to enhance driver comfort while improving vehicle stability and safety, even on rough terrain and tight-access sites
shows and takes great pride in his work His feedback has been overwhelmingly positive; he loves driving the C280 and has noticed significant improvements over the previous model ”
Additionally, the truck is fitted with a passenger-side vision door with lower tinted window to improve the driver’s visibility and to protect vulnerable road users For added driver appeal, AJ Champion also opted for Dura-Bright alloy wheels and roof-mounted twin air horns.
Elaine added: “The new C280 doesn’t just work hard it looks the part too We’ve chosen these optional extras because the driver enjoys taking the vehicle to truck
Beyond confidence in the vehicle itself, AJ Champion values the ongoing support from Sparks Commercial Services Elaine explained: “The service from Sparks Commercials and Elliot is excellent whether it’s ordering a new truck, making changes to specifications or handling parts queries, nothing is ever too much trouble ”
She concluded: “With a total of 22 Renault Trucks now in operation, we continue to benefit from the durability and dependability of the brand, ensuring our fleet is well-equipped to meet the demands of the construction sector.”
■ For more information on Renault Trucks vehicles for the merchant sector, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq002
T R A I N I N G Z O N E
Tried and tested training
Product knowledge and margin management are two key training areas that builders’ merchants should seek out for every new cohort of colleagues joining their business.
The f irst is not at all sur prising as many employees come into merchanting without prior know ledge of how building pro duc ts and materials are us ed on site The BMF ’ s f lagship 1-day pro duc t know ledge cours e
How a House is Built is ideal for them
The p opularity of the s econd cours e Maximising Marg in ref lec ts the continuous pressure merchants are under to maintain and improve margins This cours e will equip delegates with the know ledge and skills to maximis e prof itability
How a Hous e is Bui lt
Why product knowledge training matters For many ne w star ters, pro duc t names and sp ecif ications mean little without realworld context, s o how can the y b e exp ec ted to advis e c ustomers ef fec tively? This cours e has proved its elf as the quickest way to bridge that know ledge gap.
It provides a s olid understanding of the constr uc tion pro cess and how dif ferent materials f it into that pro cess know ledge that can transform the way teams interac t with c ustomers, helping them to improve s er vice, build stronger client relationships and b o ost sales
Throug h str uc tured learning, dis c ussions and real-world examples, the cours e ensures delegates de velop the conf idence to explain pro duc t applications, b enef its and b est prac tices By enhancing their pro duc t know ledge, the y can guide c ustomers towards the most suitable s olutions for their projec ts.
Des crib ed by recent delegates as “full of detail” and “really interesting and us eful for
my job,” it will help anyone in a c ustomerfacing role understand each constr uc tion phas e and pro duc t options c ustomers mig ht consider, including “add-on” sales opp or tunities
“Building a team of trusted advisors rather than order-takers is a great way to strengthen customer loyalty, as well as boosting sales.”
In the longer term, the cours e provides a fur ther b enef it for sales team memb ers. Customers appreciate know ledgeable staf f w ho can provide informed advice rather than just pro cess transac tions Building a team of tr usted advis ors rather than ordertakers is a great way to strengthen c ustomer loyalty, as well as b o osting sales
Maximising Margin
Training in prof itability
In a comp etitive market, protec ting and increasing margins is critical for builders’ merchants Yet many business es leave mone y on the table due to pricing misunderstandings, a lack of conf idence in value-bas ed s elling, or a fo c us on volume over prof itability
This is w here training plays a vital role
Equipping teams with the rig ht skills can make the dif ference b etween strong margins and s queezed prof its
Understanding the dif ference b etween margin and mark-up is cr ucial Many sales teams inadver tently underc ut their pricing strateg y simply by mis calc ulating Training ensures staf f understand the correc t application of margin principles, helping them to price pro duc ts more ef fec tively.
The cours e als o provides a springb oard for value-bas ed s elling If sales teams can conf idently communicate the value of a pro duc t the y will stop defaulting to dis counting as a sales tac tic
Fur thermore, c ustomers may p erceive price as the biggest fac tor in their purchasing decision, but ef fec tive training helps teams shift the conversation towards value rather than cost for example by demonstrating how a hig her upf ront investment can save mone y in the long r un
To find out more, or to book a place on either of these popular courses, contact your BMF Regional Manager or email Marianna Peet, BMF L&D and Apprenticeship Manager at marianna.peet@bmf.org.uk
For fur ther information, v isit w w w bmf org u k
n BMF training ranges from formal Apprenticeships and, with leading British universities, sector-specific Diplomas, Degrees and a Masters Degree in Merchant Leadership and Strategy, to online product knowledge and other specialist skills training
Paul Williams, Product
Manager
at Domus
Ventilation,
explains how merchants can capitalise on the opportunities in the residential ventilation market, supporting their customers and growing sales.
Extracting sales
For years ventilation in our homes has been mostly an afterthought or confined to kitchens and bathrooms where it has been largely reactive to the activities taking place in those rooms But now, with our increased understanding of the importance of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), plus revised Building Regulations Part F Ventilation which increased minimum ventilation rates across all sizes of properties, ventilation has become an industr y in itself Moreover, it is one that is still under valued and frequently misunderstood but has excellent potential sales opportunities for merchants who take the time to look for them.
Here we look at the top four ventilation products that can provide you and, in many cases, your customer with added income:
1
Intermittent Extract Fans:
As mentioned, changes to Building Regulations requires higher ventilation rates, regardless of the size of the property, and has removed natural ventilation (e g background vents) as an option in all but the least airtight homes (those with a design air permeability of ≥5) This will inevitably mean more powerful extract fans will be required
Domus Ventilation’s latest high performance axial fans have been designed to ensure compliance with Building Regulations with the DKF150, for example, providing extract volume rates up to 48.8 l/s
to easily meet the new minimum rate for a 5-bed property (which changed from 29 l/s to 43 l/s). Even existing properties, which don’t fall under the auspices Building Regulations, can benefit from more powerful fans in removing damp, stale air.
As well as encouraging customers to buy more powerful fans, control options provide a further opportunity to add value. Whilst the lowest cost option the basic timer and pull cord model is one of the most popular options, you might be surprised to hear that our research has shown the other most popular control option to be a humidistat or combined humidistat & timer that react to a significant change in humidity.
These versions are at the top end of the market financially but are hugely popular, so be sure to offer this to customers as an alternative PIR based controls that activate the fan on the detection of movement are also available, but are less popular
“As well as encouraging customers to buy more power ful fans, control options provide a fur ther opportunity to add value.”
2 Ducting:
Even if it’s just a simple extract fan in a bathroom, a ventilation system is only as good as its ducting If a customer is looking to buy flexible ducting, steer them away and towards rigid ducting. Yes, it is an upsell for you, but it really will make a positive difference to their ventilation system because flexible duct work causes a lot more air resistance and can be easily damaged or crushed, impeding the work of the fan and making it noisy
Furthermore, the larger, more complex the ventilation system, the more important
the ducting becomes Promoting the use quality ducting that has exacting tolerances and connects together for minimal air and moisture loss and maximum system efficiency makes a big difference to the ventilation system and can have a positive difference to your income.
Here, Domus Ventilation rigid ducting has been designed to work in harmony as part of a system and has been third party tested for end-to-end system performance.
3. Ducting accessories:
Good quality ducting also comes with accessories and useful products designed to assist installers with site related constraints, such as the Domus Greenline Bend which has been engineered to reduce duct bend resistance by up to 60% These all represent great opportunities to add value to an order, whilst also benefiting your customer
Top extras include ducting insulation (recommend specific duct insulation rather than standard building insulation materials) and firestopping products, both of which are required by Building Regulations Also required by Building Regulations are non-combustible air bricks, such as our award-winning Solis Air Brick (pictured, opposite page), where ductwork penetrates through the external cavity when above 18m in England and 11m in Scotland Lastly, a popular add on is sound attenuators to absorb noise travelling through ductwork.
4. Pollution filters:
When it comes to whole house Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recover y (MVHR) systems, pre-filters are available that fit into the ducting supply leg to filter potentially dangerous pollutants from entering the home. If you are in an urban area, or your customer is working on a property in an urban area or by a busy road, recommend they consider adding these to the scheme Domus Ventilation’s NOX-FILT, for example, prevents up to 99 5% of NO2 pollution
■ For more information on Domus Ventilation’s range of products and support services for merchants, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq003
Garador leading the industr y for over 70 year s
With more than seven decades of experience in garage door manufacturing, Garador has been at the forefront of the industry for years. Thanks to continuous investment in its British factory, cuttingedge design and advanced engineering, Garador remains a leader in innovation.
Its great-looking Up & O ver, Roller, and Se ctional doors c an all incorporate the full range of Garamatic electric door openers, meaning they can be controlled by secure remotes or even by smartphone or home hub. Fingerprint-controlled operation is also available
Insulation and Security have become a must-have for garages, and Garador was among the first manufacturers to offer high-insulation doors For example, Garador’s Premium Sectional garage doors provide exceptional thermal insulation with U-values down to 1 30 W/m²K Garador was also the first garage door manufacturer to adopt Secured by Design and now offers its highly engineered Guardian range of garage doors designed with security in mind
“ There is so much more to a garage door than looks and colour,” said Jon Watson, Garador’s Managing Director. “Of course, we cover the latest trends in style, but equally important is choosing the best material, design, and functionality for individual requirements ”
He continued: “Our huge range of doors is available in the widest variety of materials, including steel, timber effect, real timber and GRP, each offering unique advantages for different locations and builds ” Today, choosing a garage door is a complex business, but help is on hand
■ Call Garador’s team of friendly advisors on 01935 443 700 or visit www.garador.co.uk
FACE TO FACE
Klipboard, formerly known as Kerridge Commercial Systems, offers ERP and business management solutions that are said to exceed expectations and “provide the digital tools to help you grow your business with confidence ” With real-time stock visibility, fast quoting and integrations with NMBS OnePlace, its solutions are designed to address the unique needs of the industry by offering a “future-proof and robust platform” that enables merchants to integrate their operations, increase market opportunities and boost profitability “for a smarter and more synchronised way of doing business ”
PBM speaks with James Mitchell, CEO Europe at Klipboard.
QHow do you feel the world of business management solutions has changed in recent years?
AThe industry has really come a long way If I think back to 2003, when I was at Kerridge Computer Systems, we were working on developing on-prem solutions and moving toward data services Fast forward to 2025, and now we can just buy data services straight from the public cloud it’s been an incredible journey
First, it was the growth of network bandwidth Back in the day, a businessgrade line would cost around £120K Now, you can get 50 to 100 Mbps at home without blinking an eye That’s a huge shift
The second big catalyst was virtualised computing It allowed us to securely share data, memory and processing power across multiple customers This shift is really what helped build the SaaS industry, and we ’ ve been right there, growing with it
Today, everything’s more centralised and that brings major benefits For example, customers can now check stock across stores, from Aberdeen to Eastbourne, all securely
QWhat would you say are the current challenges facing your merchant sector customers?
ARight now, there’s definitely some caution about what the next few years could bring But honestly? I’m still feeling optimistic about the future
We’ve weathered a lot already, and there’s plenty of potential for growth moving forward
One of our main priorities is making
sure we keep our customers happy, but we must ensure there’s a clear roadmap for them Specifically, we need to help them transition from their current ERP ecosystem to something more modern and integrated, which can be a big task
“We must ensure there’s a clear roadmap for our customers. Specifically, we need to help them transition from their current ERP ecosystem to something more modern and integrated.”
Securing new business is always tough, so we put a lot of effort into maintaining strong relationships with the ones we already have
QYou’ve previously spoken about the sustainability benefits that come into play with digitisation What are the advantages?
ASustainability is becoming a huge focus for us, and we really see it tied to digitisation and profitability The merchant industry is still pretty paper-
heavy think invoices, dispatch notes, picking lists and each A4 page we print produces about 6 grams of carbon and costs around 7p
It’s a small, hidden expense, but when you add it up, it becomes significant the average builders’ merchant prints something like 85,000 pages a year, so digitisation presents a massive opportunity to cut that down
By moving to iOS or Android devices, we can streamline workflows Invoices can be sent via email or EDI, and delivery notes can be shared electronically through a POD tool
Drivers can instantly capture and send images of any damage or issues via 4G/5G, which not only boosts efficiency but also helps with sustainability
And then there’s accurate cataloguing, which has legal and fiscal benefits too When we get it right, the right products reach the customers the first time, which helps both the supply chain and boosts customer satisfaction
Q Finally, what words of advice would you offer those considering a career in the building materials sector?
ACome and join us! It is a great sector to work in To date, the sector as a career choice has been a little hidden, however the BMF ‘Making a Material Difference’ campaign will change this and shine a light on this industry
What is clear is that, when they are in this sector, people love it and enjoy their roles
■ For more information on Klipboard, use the shortcode www rdr link/mbq004
The IBC Buying Group has named Paul Hetherington as its new Non-Executive Chairman Paul’s vast leadership experience and strategic insights will play a pivotal role in driving IBC’s mission to deliver growth, value and influence for its members and suppliers
Paul said: “In my new role, I am looking forward to working with the team to put our members at the heart of everything we do as we continue to evolve and meet the needs of an ever-changing ind y committed to driving a strategy that truly prioritises our members’ interests and helps to bring them growth and success ”
The new Group Business Development manager for Scotland and Northern Ireland, Gail Burns has joined Salamander Pumps from Gripsure where she most recently held the position of merchant account manager In her new role, Gail is responsible for developing and implementing plans to generate new business with merchants, buying groups and independent contractors across her territories and she will Scotland and Northern Ireland She is also tasked with generating sales opportunities for fellow Davidson Holdings businesses, Talon, Cistermiser and Keraflo
Following the retirement of Ernie McDonald, Fernox has announced the appointment of Charel Marais as its new General manager With a total of over 21 years of experience in senior roles within the HVaC industry, Charel joined the leading water treatment manufacturer in 2021 and has spent the past four years successfully leading the European commercial organisation, and more recently, overseeing global supply chain and while Ernie will be retiring from his current role, he will continue to support Charel and the team as a Senior advisor
James Hardie has appointed Waheeza Tegally as Head of marketing for the UK in a newly created role which includes an additional remit as Head of European Dealer Events, working closely with the Central European marketing team With over 15 years of sector marketing experience including senior roles at Travis Perkins and Howdens, Waheeza has been with James Hardie since 2021 and was previously marketing manager
Frank Elkins, CEO of Selco and GB Distribution at Grafton Group plc, has been elected to the Board of the Builders Merchants Federation for a second term having previously served for two years (april 2021 to april 2023) while he was Group COO at Travis Perkins Plc Frank will take specific responsibility for “People and Skills”, one of four strategic themes in the BmF’s strategy roadmap, each with its own Board owner
Richard Sharp is joining NMBS as its new Finance and Operations Director in may, taking over from Julie Langford, who leaves at the end of September after 17 years ’ service
Chris Hayward, NmBS CEO, said: “Richard brings with him decades’ of relevant experience and outstanding financial expertise within businesses of all sizes and across numerous business sectors, including building distribution, manufacturing, off-site manufacturing, FmCG and services He will be a key part of our senior leadership team to guide NmBS, our members and suppliers, through the significant growth opportunities ahead ”
BmF CEO John Newcomb, meanwhile, has been elected as the first Treasurer of FEST the European Federation of the Sanitary and Heating Wholesale Trade which represents national trade associations and major merchant groups across Europe John commented: “The appointment not only recognises the importance of the Plumbing & Heating sector within BmF’s membership but also the work we are undertaking to promote the sustainability and decarbonisation of building materials, an area where many P&H manufacturers are leading the way ”
Improving efficiency
It is no secret that plumbing and heating installers’ schedules are busy
Whether they’re carr ying out maintenance work on ageing systems, installing new fixtures, fittings and appliances, or supporting their own customers with larger scale renovation works, their days are varied and, typically, long
To reduce the complexity of ever yday tasks, installers need solutions that are reliable, easy to use, readily available and deliver the same high levels of quality that they pride themselves on
For years, this is where push-fit technolog y has played a huge role and, at some point, almost ever y installer will have used it on a job It’s technolog y that simplifies installations by removing the need for tools and hot works, speeds up installation times and delivers consistently high levels of quality, durability and reliability.
As the pioneer of plastic push-fit technolog y, JG Speedfit has engineered an extensive range of plumbing solutions that professionals can depend on By reducing complexity on the job, installers can save up to 40% of their time on installations compared to traditional techniques, while delivering safe and secure connections ever y time
Now, with the Extended JG Speedfit
R ange, the role of push-fit technolog y extends beyond pipes, fittings and connections offering installers the ease of push-fit technolog y with the essential valves used on ever yday systems
The value of valves
Water control valves are vital to the work of installers and the systems they create As well as supporting the control of water around a system and ensuring ever y outlet and appliance can draw on the water pressure required to deliver, valves can enhance the efficienc y of systems
Pairing these essential plumbing solutions with push-fit technolog y makes it even simpler to create reliable, efficient and long-lasting systems all while reducing complexity on the job Indeed, within the Extended R ange, there are solutions that prioritise fuss-free installation, enhance water safety, and even lay the groundworks for straightfor ward future maintenance
Re ducing complexity
From carr ying out maintenance work to installing new appliances, installers will regularly need to control the f low of water within a system Of course, valves make it possible to isolate specific parts of a system, as well as individual appliances However, many systems particularly
Richard Bateman,
Product Marketing Manager at RWC,
explores the essential role of push-fit plumbing solutions and details how the technology is now lending itself to valve installation.
older installations won’t have these essential control valves installed
Push-fit technolog y makes it possible to quickly and easily introduce these valves to systems, reducing complexity and disruption on jobs.
S olutions such as the JG Speedfit Appliance Tap make it possible to isolate appliances quickly and easily When working with existing pipework for example, but replacing appliances, the tap can be pushed onto the pipe to allow for easy installation even in tight spaces where pipework is tricky to reach
Similarly, the JG Speedfit Tool-free
S er vice Valve simplifies the connection of appliances to the water supply, while a tool-free open/close ser vice valve makes isolation easy with the turn of a handle
E le vate water safety
On ever y system, installers need to consider and prioritise safety for end users Backf low prevention is an essential part of this, and having the right solutions to hand can make all the difference.
Backf low typically stems from a sudden drop in pressure within a system In a domestic environment, this could be as a result of a burst pipe or a malfunctioning appliance and when it occurs, contaminated water can be drawn back into the system, creating unwanted backf low.
ROOFING REWARDS
“ N o w, t h e r o l e o f p u s h - f i t
t e c h n o l o g y
u s e d o n e v e r y d a y s y s t e m s . ”
The good news is that contamination from backf low can be prevented with the right solutions installed by professionals The Double Check Valve from the Extended R ange prevents backf low, ensuring the consistent f low of water in one direction to stop any contamination of the system
Planning for maintenance
All good plumbing systems should stand the test of time, giving users complete peace of mind that they’ ll be able to access water reliably and safely for years to come. To make this possible, maintenance is key and the right solutions help installers to plan for future maintenance from the ver y beginning
Accordingly, the Extended R ange offers a variety of solutions that support future maintenance Whether it’s the Emergenc y Shut-off Tap or Stop Valve to ensure the easy isolation of appliances from the water supply, or the S er vice Valve which can be used on copper and plastic pipework to support future maintenance, there is a solution for ever y installation.
With ever y solution in the range built around tried and trusted push-fit technolog y, plumbing and heating installers can be confident in their ability to deliver on ever y job.
■ For more information on the JG Speedfit Extended Range, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq005
MEnsur ing compliance and quality
Kevin Taylor, T g pp g at Marley, shares key insights into selecting and stocking compliant roofing battens that meet industry regulations and exceed customer expectations.
erchants should only stock compliant battens These should be indelibly marked to show the supplier, origin, BS 5534 and the size Where applicable, it should also include any third part accreditation Key indicators of a compliant batten include:
● Graded to BS 5534: Only battens graded to BS 5534 the British Standard for Slating and Tiling can be used as roofing battens to ensure durability, strength and compliance for slating and tiling BS 5534 sets comprehensive guidance for the installation of pitched roofs and is an assurance that the battens selected meet all necessar y performance criteria
● Third party accreditation: Battens marked with BBA accreditation have undergone rigorous testing to meet the highest quality standards Third party accreditation is not a compulsor y requirement of BS 5534, but adds another layer of reassurance that materials are reliable and fit for purpose
● Supplier name and batch number: Clear visibility of supplier markings and batch numbers gives merchants and builders full traceability
The difference between visual and machine grading Battens can be graded either by machine or visually by eye However, visual grading techniques can lead to inconsistencies and errors as issues like knots, wane or distortion may not always be spotted, potentially impacting the roof installation
To help merchants advise customers, Marley has produced a useful Batten Grading Guide to help roofers know what they should look for in graded battens
Machine-graded battens, like Marley’s JB Red, eliminate variability in the grading process Using advanced Goldeneye technolog y, these battens undergo intensive scanning with lasers and cameras to ensure ever y piece meets strict quality and strength criteria to offer merchants and their customers consistency and reliability
Why the red colour matters
Marley’s PEFC certified JB Red battens are instantly recognisable, with their distinctive colour also signifying:
● Treatment with Kopper’s MicroPro preser vative to meet BS 8417 Usage Class 2 requirements, offering long-term protection against insect attack and wood rotting fungi
● Ease of on-site identification making site inspections quicker as compliance grading standards can be quickly confirmed
■ For more on Marley’s JB Red battens, use the shortcode www rdr link/mbq006
Mission: Impossible?
Labour’s ambition to drive a new era of housebuilding is clear, with bold targets aiming to tackle the UK’s housing shortage head-on During this parliament, they have devised a plan to build 1 5m homes across England However, from the perspective of merchants, manufacturers and installers, the question remains: is this goal actually achievable?
At Bradstone, we are acutely aware of the complexities behind housebuilding While increased construction presents opportunities, it also highlights significant challenges that must be addressed if Labour’s vision is to be realised
Bridging the gap: targets vs reality
The Government’s housebuilding targets are ambitious, particularly against the backdrop of current industry performance. Between September 2023 and September 2024, gov uk stats indicated that England saw only 98,560 new build dwelling starts a 41% drop compared to the previous year This stark decline underscores the enormous gap
between present construction rates and future aspirations, whilst presenting a huge question mark on whether the targets can be met.
For the supply chain, this disparity is telling A rapid acceleration in housebuilding would require not only increased materials and resources, but also a robust workforce and streamlined processes Yet, the reality suggests the sector is not yet primed for such a sharp uplift.
One of the most pressing constraints is the shortage of skilled labour Across the construction industry, the scarcity of trained professionals is already impacting project timelines and output Scaling up to meet these targets without addressing this shortage risks overburdening the existing workforce and could lead to compromised quality a concern echoed by industry experts
A rushed approach to meet volume targets would result in a significant rise of subpar outcomes, undermining the longterm sustainability of new developments, typically resulting in a never-ending snag list and an unimpressed homeowner At
“Beyond bricks and mor tar, housebuilding success relies on the integration of outdoor environments that are functional, sustainable and aesthetically pleasing.”
The Labour Government’s housebuilding targets are ambitious, but is the industry ready to meet them? Successful developments rely on more than just bricks, but supply chain pressures, planning constraints, and skills shortages pose significant challenges. Neil Bills, Director of Landscaping Products at Bradstone explores what must change to turn ambition into reality.
Bradstone, we are committed to maintaining quality in ever y product and installation
Hard landscaping and sustainable drainage: essential components
Beyond bricks and mortar, housebuilding success relies on the integration of outdoor environments that are functional, sustainable and aesthetically pleasing Hard landscaping, such as driveways, patios and pathways are vital to creating liveable spaces These elements are more than just a finishing touch they provide essential functionality and contribute to long-term value and success of a development
What’s more, they help to create good first impressions and boost kerb appeal with potential buyers Indeed, a YouGov survey revealed that a staggering 68% of homebuyers prioritise kerb appeal when searching for their dream home, whilst research by Evolution Money revealed that 30% of buyers are willing to pay an extra £5,000 or more for a property that looks good on the outside
Furthermore, the need for effective Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) has never been more urgent According to the Institution of Civil Engineers, planning applications in England are twice as likely to be delayed or blocked due to SuDS design compared to
BRICKS, BLOCKS & HARD LANDSCAPING
Wales (60% vs 30%), underlining the importance of early and integrated planning Products, much like the ones in Bradstone’s range, are designed with sustainability in mind, supporting the deliver y of SuDScompliant solutions that can ease planning hurdles and futureproof developments.
Economic headwinds
Economic uncertainty also casts a shadow over the sector The ONS shows that construction output fell by 0 2% in Januar y 2025, following a similar dip in December 2024 Although output grew by 0 4% over the quarter, it was driven by a modest 1 4% increase in new work, indicating fragile momentum.
Price volatility adds to the strain As of Januar y 2025, The Department for Business
& Trade suggested that material costs were expected to rise between 3% and 8%, putting further pressure on margins across the supply chain For merchants, installers and manufacturers, this means careful cost management and planning are essential, especially if housing demand increases rapidly this year
The planning system is another critical factor. Recent government stats indicate that less than one-third of local authorities have adopted a local plan in the past five years, creating a bottleneck that hinders development Even with political will, meaningful reform takes a considerable amount of time, whilst Labour’s targets hinge on accelerating these processes swiftly and effectively.
Local authorities themselves are sceptical, with some describing the targets as “absolutely
impossible ” Without consensus and collaboration across all levels of governance, the plan risks stalling before it starts.
A call for pragmatism and partnership
At Bradstone, we support the drive for more homes, but we recognise that ambition must be balanced with pragmatism Achieving Labour’s housebuilding targets requires more than political resolve, as it demands a coordinated effort across the supply chain, investment in skills, streamlined planning and a commitment to quality and sustainability.
As suppliers, we are ready to play our part But for these targets to become a reality, the groundwork must be laid today Only then can we build not just more houses, but better communities with lasting value for homeowners, developers and society alike
■ For more information on Bradstone, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq007
BRICKS, BLOCKS & HARD LANDSCAPING
Ruck and roll
As the supply chain embraces circularity, reducing waste and carbon emissions, recent changes to product standards have meant that cement manufacturers are now able to supply a broader range of lower carbon cements in place of their traditional products Amongst all the additional noise this has created when it comes to helping customers make more practical and informed choices on all things lower-carbon cement, mortar and concrete, we ’ re keen to join the scrum with some straight-talking advice
Manufacturing large volumes of high-quality British cement, using locally quarried materials, we uphold a robust commitment to ser ve our important merchant communities through a dedicated programme of branch level support New this year, our Premium Rugby Cement and Cementitious branded products and lower carbon solutions sold by the pallet, are now available in mixed loads and single bag purchases for optimum flexibility and choice, with 12 month’s shelf life
In addition, our new southern stock storage site at Shepton Mallet has recently come on board to enable an additional 3kt capacity With locations at Rugby, Buxton
and Shepton Mallet alongside a national distribution and logistics solution, Cemex can meet the needs of our merchant customers across all regions
We’re also keeping a constant eye on different options to continuously improve our packaging For example, our plastic cement bags are now made with 50% recycled content Without compromising product quality, we have a close watching brief on increasing the use of recycled materials, in line with our circular mindset and the company ’ s Future in Action Climate Action strateg y to deliver net zero carbon emissions in concrete by 2050.
Tackling lower-carbon cement
In the Midlands, Rugby is synonymous with cement, as well as scrums With a rich heritage, cement has been produced onsite at Rugby since the middle of the 19th centur y. And anyone who has attended our popular Rugby Heritage Open Days will know how passionate we are about our industrial legacy and how it has continuously evolved to meet the market needs of the day
Five years ago, following an intensive programme of R&D, C emex ’ s Readymix business launched the company ’ s first-ever net-zero CO2 concrete, Vertua This is now part of an extensive family of products that includes lower carbon cements and concrete, as well as aggregates, admixtures and mortar products.
Commonly used by the trade, our bagged Premium Rugby cement incorporates a range of factor y-produced composite cements, sometimes referred to by their
technical classifications of ‘CEMII or CEMIII’ Consisting of finely ground clinker, these are mixed with other materials (additions) that often impart additional properties to the cement. This helps with improved workability and enhanced resistance to chemical attack, for example from salts used for road de-icing and sulfates in certain ground conditions
Vertua for net-zero goals
The Vertua brand covers five sustainability attributes: lower carbon emissions, increasing energy efficiency, saving water, incorporating recycled materials and optimising design. Any products that bear the Vertua brand must meet requirements for at least one of these sustainable attributes, with the benefits clearly and transparently presented for customers on a fact label Our top of the range, high quality Rugby Premium Cement carries the Vertua label to reflect its lower-carbon status in this categor y
Vertua Cement products are split into three groups based on the amount of reduced carbon compared to traditional To qualify under the Vertua brand, Rugby Cement products must reduce CO2 emissions by over 25% compared to traditional Portland cements CEM I
This is achieved using high quality additions in the manufacture of cement and by reducing emissions through the manufacturing process. In our Portland Cements range, Vertua Plus offers 25% to 39% reduced carbon emissions, Vertua Ultra 40% to 55% and Vertua Supreme, over 55% reduced carbon emissions.
Victoria Elliott, National Commercial Manager at Cemex, discusses how to take advantage of the opportunities presented by lower-carbon concrete and concrete cement.
“Manufacturing large volumes of high-quality British cement, using locally quarried materials, we uphold a robust commitment to ser ve our impor tant merchant communities through a dedicated programme of branch level support.”
High-strength lower carbon blocks
We have also recently achieved a milestone in our concrete product decarbonisation journey by successfully reducing the embodied CO2 across our ReadyBlock concrete range by an average of 44% Our dense blocks have values of 6 71CO2e/m2 whilst our medium lightweight blocks have achieved a value of 11.9 CO2e/m2, which enables us to offer one of the lowest carbon blocks on the UK market
The two main drivers for our CO2 reduction over recent years have been the switch from CEM I to CEM II A/L, and the move to pumice as the sole source of lightweight aggregate Our dense blocks are now significantly lower than the MPA’s proposed EPD industr y average
Furthermore, ReadyBlock products carr y a Vertua logo, making them easier to identify when customers are looking for lower carbon alternatives in branch The low CO2 values coupled with our thermal conductivity of 0.3 all assist in meeting the new changes for part L on our journey to a more sustainable future
Void packs to reduce timber
Heading south from Rugby’s heartland to our Northfleet operation, we have saved over 100 tonnes of timber, roughly the equivalent of 100 ten-foot oak trees over a 24-month period This is a direct result of increasing the volume of void packs, which in turn reduces the number of timber palleted products
This initiative is run in conjunction with our pallet recover y scheme, which works with national merchants and distributors to recycle and reduce timber waste across the supply chain, to make greater environmental efficiencies Following the success at Northfleet, Cemex’s Concrete Products division has introduced void packs for its Buxton plant products range too Further environmental savings have also been achieved at Northfleet by eradicating 6 1 tonnes of plastic, the equivalent of over 65,000 plastic water bottles, per year from the site’s traditional plastic packaging process
■ For more information on Cemex, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq008
Facing facts
Calculations by Marshalls have found that the UK’s housebuilding sector could dramatically reduce its carbon footprint by switching from clay facing bricks to concrete facing bricks, with the manufacturer stating that the saving is “equivalent to taking over 100,000 diesel cars off the road for a year. ”
Following the publishing of a new Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for its Concrete Facing Brick, the business “has uncovered that for ever y tonne of concrete facing bricks used instead of more traditional clay facing bricks, housebuilders could cut the total carbon lifetime footprint by almost half (49 1%) ” is, it contends, equates to 116 50 kilograms of CO2e per tonne of bricks.
When scaled to the total number of bricks used to construct homes during 2023 approximately 1 1 billion (with the calculation based on devolved government statistics for dwellings built in 2023, multiplied by the average square footage of UK homes and an average width to length ratio for walls and floors applied) the carbon footprint savings are substantial
Marshalls contends that if all dwellings built in the UK during 2023 were constructed using concrete facing bricks, the UK could have saved 214,057 tonnes of CO2e is is, it says, equivalent to removing 105,663 diesel cars off the road for a year a reduction that could make a real difference in the fight against climate change.
Mike Edwards, Group Head of Sustainability for Marshalls, explained: “Housebuilders are under immense pressure to reduce the carbon footprint of the construction process and the homes they build under net zero targets But one of the challenges for the sector is that many meaningful improvements oen require a massive overhaul of house designs that can
“Changing to concrete facing bricks is an achievable swap that won’t affect speed or functionality but will make a dramatic difference to the carbon footprint.”
affect aspects such as pace of build, useable square footage and saleability for example
“Changing to concrete facing bricks, however, is an achievable swap that won’t affect speed or functionality but will make a dramatic difference to the carbon footprint.”
Marshalls states that its concrete facing bricks can be used as a “direct alternative to clay facing bricks,” providing thermal performance, fire resistance with a Euroclass
A1 reaction to fire classification, and frost protection to the equivalent of a F2/S2 rating for clay bricks Furthermore, all its concrete facing bricks are tested to the BS771-3 :2011 A1: 2015 standard whilst one of the benefits of concrete is its ability to harden through its lifecycle
e supplier’s concrete facing bricks are also manufactured to be a consistent size, aiding laying, whilst its mix design is said to minimise the risk of efflorescence, shrinkage and moisture movement.
■ For more information on Marshalls’ concrete facing bricks, use the shortcode www rdr link/mbq009
BRICKS, BLOCKS & HARD LANDSCAPING
HEIDELBERG MATERIALS UK EVOBUILD EPD
Heidelberg Materials UK has a new Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for its evoBuild low carbon GGBS cement replacement product, providing clarity on the product’s environmental performance Previously known as Regen GGBS and a by-product of the steel manufacturing process, evoBuild low carbon GGBS (ground granulated blastfurnace slag) is an important supplementary cementitious material (SCM) and a “tried and tested option for reducing the CO₂ emissions associated with concrete ” evoBuild is Heidelberg Materials’ global brand for low carbon and circular products and all evoBuild products have clear sustainability credentials Low carbon products must provide a CO₂ reduction of at least 30% compared with global reference values from the Global Cement and Concrete Association, and circular products in the evoBuild range must either contain a minimum 30% recycled content or use at least 30% less material
These evoBuild standards will apply to products in cement, ready-mixed concrete, aggregates and asphalt and the manufacturer states that all UK sustainable products will be integrated into the evoBuild portfolio over the next few years
■ Use www.rdr.link/mbq010 for further information.
LIQUID WEATHER MASONRY BLENDING SOLUTIONS
FIBO COLLECT UK FIELDEN FACTORS INSTALLATION
Fielden Factors, a west-Yorkshire based builders’ merchant, has installed an automated station for concrete, mortar and screed at its branch in Todmorden
The innovative solution has transformed an underutilised corner of its site into a state-of-the-art, selfservice area that enables customers to collect small volumes of ready-mixed materials in under five minutes
The installation demonstrates a highly efficient use of limited space with the Fielden team partnering with fibo Collect UK to develop a solution that wouldn’t compromise the other aspects of its business operations The custom FS1200 setup ultimately installed includes a bulk bag silo optimised for dry building sand and a compact vertical cement silo to adhere to the site’s height restrictions while maintaining full functionality
Owner Tom Whitehead explained: “It was important for us not to compromise the benefits of the system, and we wanted to retain the mortar option for builders and brickworkers in the community, (which) the FS1200 model allows us to do.
“A good chunk of our business comes from general builders; small teams who work not only on small housebuilding projects but also repairs, extensions, renewals, landscapers Running a setup like this, where things can be collected or delivered in small quantities, is certainly going to help them with the jobs they’ve got on ”
■ To watch a video of the concrete, mortar and screed concept in action, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq011
■ For more information on fibo Collect, including brochure downloads, go to www.rdr.link/mbq012
The unique formulation of Liquid Weather is said to enable “seamless blending” to match older masonry to new extensions or repaired brickwork Alternatively, the manufacturer asserts that it can also be used to “give a new build with bright bricks and tiles more of an immediate weathered, softer look,” to blend in with the older surrounding environment as part of meeting planning requirements or guidelines in local conservation areas Available in range of sizes and designed for ease of use, the product can be applied using a brush, sponge, cloth, roller or low-pressure sprayer Described as environmentally friendly and with user-friendly application, the process is designed to be suitable for both large areas and more detailed work alike. Once treated, any new surface will age and weather at the same rate as the surrounding surfaces whilst the treated surface is said to be highly weather- and wear-resistant and will not need reapplication
■ For more information, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq013
Made to measure
As builders’ merchants seek ways to boost sales, increase customer loyalty and attract new business during the bustling Spring season, ForgeFix’s latest promotion ‘Measure Up with Spectre’ presents an exciting and well-timed opportunity The campaign is designed not only to showcase the premium products merchants are offering, but also to deliver valuable rewards which enhance the customer experience, particularly for those with a focus on tools and fixings with applications in the timber, fencing, and landscaping industries.
It’s a powerful mechanism to help merchants stand out, increase profitability, and secure repeat business
Durability and reliability
At the core of the ‘Measure Up with Spectre’ promotion are ForgeFix’s renowned Spectre TimberFix Screws and Spectre Advanced Multi-Purpose Screws These products are specifically crafted to meet the high demands of exterior timber applications like decking, fencing and landscaping where durability and reliability are paramount
Spectre TimberFix Screws feature a green multi-layered ceramic coating, offering exceptional corrosion resistance This design ensures the screws maintain their integrity even in the harshest outdoor environments, such as coastal areas or regions with high moisture levels.
Tested for up to 1,000 hours in salt-spray conditions, these screws are built for longlasting performance, making them an excellent choice for professionals in need of reliable fixings
Available in multiple sizes (6 3 x 87mm, 6.3 x 100mm, 6.3 x 125mm and 6.3 x
150mm), the screws offer versatility for a range of applications Their advanced surface-hardening technolog y also minimises the risk of stripping, ensuring smoother and more efficient installation, even in dense or tough materials
This feature enhances productivity and reduces downtime, making these screws a valuable tool for professionals seeking quick and dependable results.
Exciting rewards and enhanced sales
What sets the ‘Measure Up with Spectre’ promotion apart is its dual focus on both high-quality products and exciting customer incentives, with builders’ merchants who stock Spectre TimberFix and Spectre Advanced Multi-Purpose Screws in Megatubs able to offer their customers attractive rewards
For example, with ever y Megatub purchase, customers will receive a free Spectre-branded five metre measuring tape, a practical gift that encourages further purchases while reinforcing the Spectre brand Additionally, for ever y pallet of 50 tubs purchased, ForgeFix is providing two Stanley
Rebecca Fortescue, Head of Marketing at ForgeFix, explains why the supplier’s latest campaign — ‘Measure Up with Spectre’ — is a winning strategy for builders’ merchants.
‘FATMAX’ Combi Drills an essential tool for any professional’s toolkit and a fantastic 1-in-25 chance of winning
This mix of premium products and enticing giveaways creates a compelling proposition for merchants who want to drive sales, boost customer loyalty, and encourage repeat business It’s a unique opportunity to offer more than just products customers are incentivised with rewards that can directly enhance their work on site
For merchants, the promotion offers an
ForgeFix’s ‘Measure Up with Spectre’ promotion is intended to drive footfall by offering valuable rewards for customers
TOOLS, FIXINGS & ADHESIVES
“This mix of premium products and enticing giveaways creates a compelling proposition for merchants who want to drive sales, boost customer loyalty, and encourage repeat business.”
excellent opportunity to stand out in a competitive marketplace throughout the busy Spring season as demand increases in the timber, fencing and landscaping sectors. The opportunity to win valuable prizes like Stanley ‘FATMAX’ drills, alongside the superior performance of Spectre screws themselves, can help merchants attract new customers, encourage repeat business and ultimately boost sales
Moreover, the advanced features of the Spectre range mean that merchants can feel confident knowing that they are supplying customers with products that will perform reliably in even the harshest outdoor conditions
And of course, the promotion goes beyond simply driving sales it helps merchants build lasting relationships with their customers, positioning themselves as trusted partners and enhancing their reputation as providers of high-quality, durable fixings that meet the specific needs of timber professionals
ForgeFix’s ‘Measure Up with Spectre’ promotion presents a fantastic opportunity for builders’ merchants to differentiate themselves, increase sales and build lasting customer relationships By offering top-notch fixings and exciting rewards, merchants can not only boost sales but also become trusted partners to professionals in the timber sector
As the landscaping season ramps up, the Spectre screw range becomes an essential tool for any builder’s kit, and this campaign offers a unique chance to add extra value to your product offerings
■ To find out more about stocking ForgeFix’s specialist Spectre range and the latest promotion, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq014
A turning point for tools
While e-commerce has grown rapidly, the importance of resilience, adaptability and strong local connections cannot be overstated. Darren Binns, National Sales Manager at Jefferson Tools, discusses the crucial role independent stockists play in the industry and why supporting them is more important than ever.
Independent stockists are more than retailers they’re trusted advisers and key local partners within the supply chain. For tradespeople, these stockists offer expert advice, personalised ser vice and a tangible connection to the tools and equipment they rely on daily. Unlike online platforms, bricks and mortar businesses foster trust and immediacy, creating relationships that e-commerce platforms, no matter how sophisticated, cannot replicate
As Darren Binns explains “Independent stockists represent the heart of this industr y They provide a level of personal ser vice and community connection that online-only operations struggle to achieve That’s why Jefferson Tools is dedicated to empowering and supporting independent retailers ”
Indeed, the challenges faced by well-established businesses in recent years offer valuable lessons for the industr y Over-reliance on a single channel, such as online retail, exposes businesses to increased competition, fluctuating demand and the
pressures of high-volume fulfilment. In contrast, offline stockists operate with leaner, more agile models, focusing on sustainable inventor y management, cost control and strong customer relationships
“Success isn’t just about scale or visibility,” Darren reflects. “It’s about resilience, adaptability, and understanding your market Independent stockists embody these qualities, making them invaluable partners who deser ve robust support from suppliers ”
Why local connections still matter
For over 20 years, Jefferson Tools has prioritised partnerships with merchants and wholesalers across the UK and Northern Ireland. Operating from a state-of-the-art 120,000 ft² distribution centre, the business exclusively supplies its products through a network of over 2,000 authorised stockists.
This approach emphasises collaboration, providing not only high-quality tools but also tailored support, including marketing resources, point-of-sale materials and expert
regional sales teams.
“We don’t see stockists as just customers they’re partners,” Darren emphasises “Our goal is to equip them with the tools, resources and expertise they need to succeed, whether that’s through an ever-expanding product range or strategies to help them seize local market opportunities ”
Balancing the demands of online and offline sales remains a challenge for suppliers, but Jefferson Tools asserts that it has developed an integrated strateg y that truly benefits its stockist network. By
“Independent stockists represent the hear t of this industr y. They provide a level of personal ser vice and community connection that online-only operations struggle to achieve.”
investing in end-user marketing campaigns, the firm drives awareness and foot traffic to its retail partners
“Online and offline channels don’t have to compete,” Darren asserts “We promote our brand through sponsorships, PR, social media campaigns and in-store merchandising, creating visibility and interest that directly benefits our stockists.”
The way for ward Jefferson Tools argues that the challenges faced by well-established stockists should “ ser ve as a wake-up call, underscoring the need for resilience, adaptability and strong community ties ” As suppliers, there is a collective responsibility to support the independent businesses that form the backbone of the industr y and the company argues that its strateg y “exemplifies how this can be achieved through meaningful partnerships and sustained commitment.”
Darren concludes: “As we move for ward, let’s learn from others By investing in independent stockists and fostering strong relationships, we can build a stronger, more resilient future for ever yone in the tools industr y ”
Through its dedication to brick-and-mortar businesses, the message from Jefferson Tools is that it continues to lead by example, proving that in the tools trade, partnerships and trust are just as important as quality and innovation
■ Based in Northern Ireland and servicing the whole of the UK and Ireland from a new, state-of-the-art 120,000ft2 head office and distribution centre, Jefferson Tools provides a comprehensive range of tools and equipment for professionals including hand tools, power tools, PPE, lighting, stepladders, pressure washers, heaters, accessories and more.
■ For more information on Jefferson Tools’ range of products and support services for merchants, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq015
Want to ensure your selection of sealants, adhesives and building chemicals is above board and complies with the latest regulations?
Bond It’s Sam Birt tells PBM that the supplier can provide all the help stockists will need.
Sticking to the law
How much do you know about the latest building chemical legislation? For example, do you know your European Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 from your GB PIC regime? And how familiar are you with Biocidal Products and Chemicals (Appointment of Authorities and Enforcement) Regulations 2013?
According to Bond It, whether you class yourself as clued up or clueless, it doesn’t matter because the supplier asserts that it has your back As one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of sealants, adhesives and building chemicals, the supplier proclaims that “it concerns itself with the latest legislation so you don’t have to ”
“Building chemicals are arguably one of the most legislated of all construction product categories” comments Sam Birt, Regulator y & Technical Data Manager at Bond It. “Each of the chemical components that make up our product formulations is subject to legal requirements such as REACH.
“Standing for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and restriction of CHemicals, these regulations, which were initially implemented by the European Union, have
since been replaced by laws of the same name developed by the UK Government ”
Sam continued: “REACH applies to all businesses that import, make, sell or distribute chemicals whether that’s as raw materials or in their finished state This includes those chemicals used in sealants, adhesives, preser vers, waterproofing compounds and ever y similar building product
“ The aim of legislation like REACH is to protect human health and the environment. They’re not fixed obligations either As our understanding of the impact of different chemicals and of less harmful alternatives grows, legal requirements can and often do evolve ”
As prime example, wood preser vers are currently the focus of changes being driven by legislation known as the Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR, Regulation (EU) 528/2012). This requires the active
substances employed by wood preser vers in order to destroy, deter, or neutralise organisms like bacteria and fungi to be authorised by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).
As part of the approval process, the effectiveness of the active substance is evaluated alongside its risks. If a safer alternative can be used, even if it entails some acceptable trade off in terms of performance, then affected products may have to update their formulations or be withdrawn from the market
Acting in advance
Updating the formulation of building chemicals in line with changing legislation is only part of the challenge. And for manufacturers like Bond It, it is just as important to pre-empt these changes and to ensure its products are ready in good time.
“Continuity of supply is ever y bit as critical to Bond It as product conformity or availability. If you wait until new regulations come into effect, it’s a bit like shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted.”
TOOLS, FIXINGS & ADHESIVES
“Continuity of supply is ever y bit as critical to Bond It as product conformity or availability,” explains Sam “If you wait until new regulations come into effect, it’s a bit like shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted.
“We want to make sure there is no disruption to the trade professionals using
our products and this means implementing changes to our range and rolling them out well in advance.”
Evident examples
Reflecting its for ward-looking approach, B ond It reports it has already and proactively updated the formulation of its bitumen products Since 2024, it has employed a type of hydrocarbon that is less hazardous to environment
Significantly, the hydrocarbon that was previously used is not subject to any specific legislation yet, but it has been identified as a priority substance and so is likely to be the focus of pending review
As a result of this change, Bond It’s bitumen products no longer carr y the labels and warning symbols for ‘ Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects,” nor “Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure ”
Similarly, the business is currently developing a range of oxime silicone sealants using a MEKO-free formulation that are odourless, safer for users and environmentally friendly
Sam concludes: “ The regulations surrounding building chemicals and their ingredients continues to evolve but one thing which remains constant is Bond It’s desire to help our stockists and their customers to deal with these developments head on
“Our aim remains simple namely, to keep those trade professionals who use our products working and earning, no matter what changes there might be to the law or to the legislative frameworks around building chemical use ”
■ For more information on Bond It’s product portfolio and support ser vices for merchants, use the shortcode www rdr link/mbq016
Seasonal solutions
Timed perfectly to coincide with the start of decking season, Samac Fixings has launched its range of stainless steel Performance Decking Screws, “offering a high-quality fixing solution designed specifically to meet the challenges of outdoor timber installations.”
With outdoor projects continuing to surge in popularity, reliable fixings are critical to ensuring a high-quality, long-lasting finish The new stainless steel Performance Decking Screws from Samac are the latest addition to the company ’ s decking range, and are said to offer even more features and enhanced corrosion resistance than the supplier’s “already excellent” ACQ-coated Performance Decking screws
They feature the same “great locking thread” as the original Performance Decking screws but now come with a cylindrical head for a clean and discreet finish Manufactured from A2 grade stainless steel, the screws facilitate a “consistent, reliable performance” in both timber boards and the increasingly popular composite decking boards
Available in two sizes, 4 5 x 50mm and 4 5 x 65mm, each box also includes a free T X20 bit so installers have ever ything they need to get started right away
James Robinson, Samac Fixings’ Sales and Marketing Director, explained: “We know that decking projects are a key focus for many of our customers as we head into the spring months. Our new stainless steel Performance Decking Screws have been developed to offer trade professionals a reliable, durable and installer-friendly solution that can withstand the challenges of outdoor environments
“It’s ab out giving installers the conf idence that the f ixings the y ’ re using won’t let them down.”
Key design features include a serrated thread, which cuts efficiently into timber to
reduce splitting and lower the required torque This serration also allows for quicker insertion, helping installers complete decking jobs more efficiently without compromising on quality
A coars e lo cking thread clamps the timb er sheeting f irmly to the joists b eneath, w hich is “ par tic ularly b enef icial in outdo or s ettings w here moisture and temp erature f luc tuations can caus e timb er to expand and contrac t ” By minimising b oard shift, the s cre ws help pres er ve the integrity and aesthetic of the deck over the long term
■ For more information on Samac Fixings, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq017
TOOLS, FIXINGS & ADHESIVES
APTUS FASTENERS TIMBERFIX 360 COLLECTION
Building on the success of one of its most popular product lines, Aptus Fasteners has launched the timberfix 360 collection. Its bestselling high performance, multi-purpose woodscrew features in three innovative, new pack formats to provide “a plethora of merchandising and display opportunities” whilst ensuring maximum impact and presence at the point of sale
Containing an assortment of sizes, available as both torx and Pozidriv options and with free insert bits, the options include a 1,800-piece Grab & Go trade pack which features multiple boxes of screws contained within one larger, heavy-duty, fully recyclable cardboard box with an easy carry handle The second format is a 1,333-piece robust, metal carry case complete with spring latches to ensure more secure closing and a reduced risk of accidental spillages, while the final format is a 1,000-piece, recyclable and waterresistant plastic organiser case
■ Discover more via www.rdr.link/mbq026
HULTAFORS QUATTRO BEVEL SQUARE
ROLLINS & SONS ESTWING TITANIUM HAMMER
The new Estwing Titanium hammer is said to combine innovation, comfo performance to deliver a new flagship striking tool Featuring a patented Locking Taper permanent steel face, it ensures long-lasting durability an just 14oz, the titanium construction is designed to reduce fatigue while s packing the power of a much heavier hammer
The magnetic nail starter allows for one-handed nailing while the Shock Reduction Grip minimises vibration to provide “superior control with every s
■ Distributed in the UK by Rollins & Sons, more information is available through www.rdr.link/mbq027
DART TOOL GROUP MERCHANT SUPPORT
As featured at this year’s NMBS Exhibition, DART provides “an unrivalled range” of power tool accessories, backed by the company’s ISO9001certified processes which “set the standard for performance and reliability ” Designed for professional tradespeople, DART’s products deliver precision, durability, and efficiency across a variety of applications, and are universally compatible to make them the perfect fit for any power tool
The Exhibition stand also showcased the brand’s point-of-sale displays which ensure maximum visibility and breadth of range, whilst visitors were able to discover how its tailored in-store merchandising, marketing support and customer engagement strategies can help to drive customer sales.
■ Use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq028 for further details.
CARHARTT INTEROPERABLE KNEEPADS
Carhartt’s new certified Interoperable Kneepads offer the protection and comfort professional tradespeople need to stay on the job without injury or strain Certified to EN 14404-4:2024 and made from lightweight polyethylene foam, they are said to provide optimal pressure distribution while maintaining their shape to ensure reliable protection throughout the workday
The knee pads fit securely into a range of the brand’s certified Steel Pants (105070, 105072, 105074, 105075) and other Carhartt workwear that has knee pad pockets Easy to insert and remove, they can also be handwashed to keep them in great condition
■ Go to www.rdr.link/mbq029 for more.
Recently awarded the prestigious iF Design Award 2025, the Quattro Bevel Square from Hultafors boasts an impressive set of features The blade can be rotated and snaps into position at 45°, 90°, 135° 180°, 225° and 270° making it easier to work with the most common angles
If users turn the lever, the blade will rotate without the fixed positions and it can be used as a bevel square for copying and setting out any arbitrary angle whilst there’s also a scale to use it as an angle finder
Additionally, the blade also has scribing notches, and it’s completely foldable which makes it convenient to carry in the pocket of work trousers
■ Discover more at www.rdr.link/mbq030
Tape reorder
Merchants can improve their trade counter appeal by offering an appropriate range of decorators’ tapes, ensuring these sometimes-overlooked products drive sales whilst providing customers with a one-stop solution. Victoria Bramley, Product Manager at Okarno, looks at how to go about the process.
In the competitive decorating categor y, merchants are continually looking for ways to enhance their offer and provide trade counter customers with exactly what they need. A useful method of achieving this is with decorators’ tapes and by choosing the right tapes, merchants can pick up sales and potentially increase overall margins in their decorating categor y
Types of jointing tape
There are two types of jointing tapes: paper-based and fibreglass mesh Each type has its own properties and applications, making it important to choose the right one. This is often based on customer preference decorators tend to use “the variety that they have always used,” although the type of project can sometimes influence the choice Paper tape is easy to apply and provides a strong bond when used with jointing compounds However, it requires a certain level of skill to ensure a smooth finish, although it remains a popular choice with some decorators Paper-based tape is often less expensive and best suited to those on a
“Choosing the right decorators’ tapes is more than just stocking shelves. A well-thought-out stock profile can drive both sales growth and margin.”
budget, but with more time to achieve the desired finish
Fibreglass mesh tape, meanwhile, has gained popularity due to its ease of use and flexibility. It is self-adhesive, allowing for quick application without the need for additional compounds It is particularly effective in areas prone to cracking because of its tear strength
Here, we look at some of the common types of fibreglass tapes:
General purpose tapes: These products comprise general-purpose self-adhesive fibreglass mesh tapes, like our Gyproc FibaTape Classic Th suitable for both and square-edge and are 48mm in width x 90m in length This tape is ideal for branch customers looking for a reliable solution for general plasterboard jointing tasks wit its versatility mak suitable for variou applications, ensu g g bond and a smooth finish.
tighter weave and increased durability They are suitable for customers aiming for an ultra-smooth finish, especially on square and butt-edge joints Its thinner profile allows for easier concealment, making it a favourite among professionals
In high humidity areas: Enhanced self-adhesive fibreglass mesh tapes are designed to perform in high humidity and extreme temperatures. They are particularly suited for demanding environments such as bathrooms, ensuring a strong bond even under challenging conditions
Extra wide jointing tapes: Extra-wide lf dh i fibreglass mesh best for covering areas quickly Ours 100mm wide x 5m in length and hey are perfect for decorators looking to cover plasterboard joints and screw heads efficiently, saving ime without mpromising on lity
For a perfect finish: Thinner, self-adhesive fibreglass mesh tapes, such as Gyproc FibaTape Perfect Finish, are designed with a
corners: C orner p p y reate crisp, straight plasterboard corners. We offer strong paper tape products that feature built-in folds, which makes folding when taping angles easier and neater For reinforcing external angles, our corner tape,
which is bonded to corrosion-resistant steel strips, helps create a rigid surface and is easy to align on external corners and at any angle
Smooth operator : Offering the appropriate jointing tape is essential for helping your customers achieve a professional finish, easily
Whether you opt for the classic fibreglass mesh tape, paper joint tape or premium Perfect Finish tape, a comprehensive range in branch will help your customers get the job done And by offering a range of quality tapes, merchants can maximise cross-selling opportunities, bundle promotions and loyalty offers
Furthermore, partnering with a supplier that can meet your needs is just as important as choosing the right decorating tapes. We provide leading trade brands delivered sustainably to branches via three ser vice options: single pallets, mixed pallet loads, and small parcels
Merchants can order as little as a single pallet, whether that’s a full pallet of one product, or a mixed pallet of products from across the range The Okarno Gyproc Express ser vice also allows customers to order a single product for small and speedy orders.
Choosing the right decorators’ tapes is more than just stocking shelves A well-thought-out stock profile can drive both sales growth and margin. By offering a range of tapes, merchants can also make their trade counter a preferred destination by becoming a comprehensive, one-stop shop for all decorating needs
■ Okarno, part of Saint Gobain, is a distributor of some of the UK’s leading construction brands including Gyproc, Thistle, Weber, Dalapro and Blue Hawk For more information on Gyproc tapes, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq018
Free for all
Over the years, surface preparation has evolved from traditional hand sanding to advanced, ergonomically designed sanders that prioritise efficiency and user comfort. However, one persistent challenge remains, and that is the dust generated during the sanding process.
Laborator y tests reveal that without proper dust extraction, airborne dust levels can exceed 200 grams per kilogram of sanded material, while dust settling on surrounding surfaces can reach nearly 800 grams per kilogram
ough these numbers may not seem significant, accumulated dust poses serious health and fire hazards and so to combat this issue, Mirka developed dust-free sanding with its Abranet abrasive e company notes that “what was once a tradesperson’s dream is now the industr y standard on job sites,” and asserts that builders’ merchants therefore play a key role in not only supplying the right equipment but also in educating professionals on the benefits of dust-free sanding
Having a strong understanding of dust-free sanding, Mirka contends, is essential to be able to effectively communicate the benefits e first advantage to be communicated is in terms of compliance with health and safety regulations, as the dust that is produced during the sanding process no matter the size of the surface can cause health issues.
And with stricter workplace safety standards being enforced, dust-free sanding systems help tradespeople protect their health while improving on-site air quality is translates to a healthier, more comfortable work environment, which is beneficial for ever yone involved
With its inherent ability to minimise dust production during the sanding process, the second key advantage of dust-free sanding is how this significantly reduces clean-up time, ensuring tradespeople can complete jobs
“Builders’ merchants play a key role in not only supplying the right equipment but also in educating professionals on the benefits of dust-free sanding.”
more efficiently. Demonstrating the merchant’s commitment to adding value for their customers, such increased productivity will be a strong selling point for users purchasing these products
One further benefit comes with the reduction of contaminated surfaces. With less dust in the air, there is less chance of it settling on freshly sanded or painted surfaces, preventing imperfections and costly reworks. Once again, in an industr y
Mirka outlines how the increasing awareness of the importance of dust-free sanding among trade professionals can provide additional sales opportunities for builders’ merchants.
where profit margins are oen tight, avoiding unnecessar y touch-ups can make a significant difference
For builders’ merchants, the advantages are clear By stocking dust-free sanding equipment, merchants can differentiate themselves in the market by offering innovative solutions that promote safer and more efficient work practices In addition, by providing expert advice and demonstrations, supported by suppliers like Mirka, they can encourage repeat business and enhance their reputation as a one-stop-shop for information and expertise
As health and safety, efficiency and quality become top priorities for tradespeople, it can be argued that dust-free sanding is no longer a luxur y it is a necessity Builders’ merchants who embrace this shi will not only meet the evolving demands of their customers but also establish themselves as leaders in a safer, more productive construction industr y.
■ For more information on Mirka’s dustfree sanding solutions, use the shortcode www rdr link/mbq019
Interior insights
Any modern interior design project requires the considered use of colour, and Crown Paints has recently launched its Colour Insights 2025/2026 a collection of five palettes designed to offer a practical toolkit for understanding how colours work together.
Inspired by global trends and developed by Crown’s team of colour experts, the palettes are intended to help painters and decorators confidently guide clients with their colour choices. As C olour Specialist Jemma Saunders explained: “C olour is so much more than a decorative tool. It shapes how we feel, work and interact within spaces
“ This year ’ s Colour Insights palettes are reflective of a world that’s constantly evolving in which decorators need a framework to deliver creative, meaningful designs for their customers ”
Crow n Paints 2025/2026
Colour Insights
Co A mix of calming green and grey tones ser ves as a foundation for Co while
vibrant pops of yellow and red “inject energ y and joy” The colour palette is intentionally saturated to maintain maturity and avoid over whelming brightness, achieving a modern, neutral base that supports community and connection
Choreography Featuring warm, muted tones like soft lilacs and greens, alongside deeper shades, the palette offers a calming and cocooning effect that evolves to the individual.
Disrupt A bold mix of shades that “provokes interaction and emotion” whilst offering a bold contrast to quieter, more personal spaces, this synthetic, digital-inspired palette features clashing colours including electric blues and vibrant orange and yellow accents, combined with grounding grey tones
collaboration, pulling inspiration from a wide range of sources and perspectives ”
G-local A neutral base with subtle green and orange accents, merging tradition with modernity.
Faraway The palette features iridescent hues, with digital blues and purples balanced alongside warm greens to prevent coldness and reflect light in ways that allow each space to transform
Jemma continued: “ To create this collection, we looked at ever ything from environmental changes to digital advancements, and how people interact with spaces. It’s the result of months of
“We’re ver y proud of the collection and can’t wait to see how decorators use our insights to bring their customers’ visions to life.”
■ To see the full report on Crown’s 2025/26 Colour Insights, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq020
■ The Crown Paints Professional brand family includes Crown Trade, Sandtex Trade, Sadolin, Macpherson Trade and Crown Contract For more information, enter www.rdr.link/mbq021
RONSEAL
SHED AND FENCE PROTECTOR
An expansion of its popular One Coat range, Ronseal has launched the new One Coat Shed and Fence Protector dual-purpose outdoor paint. In line with the brand’s approach of delivering exactly what it says on the tin, the product is designed to give lasting colour for two years and protect against rain, frost, snow and sun with only one coat Furthermore, the range is also said to be shower-proof within one hour of application
The coating comes in seven natural colours including Forest Green, Charcoal Grey and Harvest Gold and can be bought in three sizes: 5L, 9L and 12L. In addition, as well as being available in pre-mixed buckets, the product will also be available in concentrated refill pouches
DIY customers are encouraged to buy one bucket and refill it by simply mixing the pouch with water as directed on the packaging One 950ml pouch of the concentrate makes five litres of paint, while also using 90% less plastic compared to the regular 5L bucket
This compact design is said to boost supply chain efficiencies by allowing a 230% increase in units per pallet whilst the pouches will be packaged in shelf-ready tear-front boxes of five units designed to take up less space on shelves
■ Enter www.rdr.link/mbq022 for further details.
DULUX TRADE AQUA UNIPRIMER
HILTON BANKS FLAG PAINTS ACQUISITION
Hilton Banks Group, the family-owned company behind the HB42 brand of adhesives, fillers, sealants and coatings has announced the acquisition of Essexbased Flag Paints Established in 1939, the specialist manufacturer has built a strong reputation for manufacturing high-quality paints, coatings, and surface finishes for various industries, including the decorative, industrial and marine sectors
The strategic acquisition is said to mark a significant milestone in Hilton Banks’ expansion and “commitment to delivering exceptional products and services to its customers” with the deal enabling the business to leverage Flag Paints’ extensive research and development and manufacturing capabilities.
Charlie Banks, Hilton Banks Group Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to welcome Flag Paints Ltd into the Hilton Banks family Its expertise in specialist coatings and waxes, combined with our existing product portfolio, will enable us to offer even more innovative and tailored solutions to our customers ”
Flag Paints’ existing operations in Burnham-on-Crouch will continue to operate under the Hilton Banks umbrella, ensuring a seamless transition for employees, customers, and partners
Said to offer decorators a one can solution for prep work, the advanced formulation of Dulux Trade Aqua UniPrimer seals and primes surfaces while also effectively blocking tough stains like water, nicotine, grease, and tannin bleed and preventing rust on metal substrates. Thanks to its high-opacity and smooth finish, the manufacturer says it can also double as an undercoat to ensure “outstanding results on any project ”
In addition, the product is designed to deliver exceptional adhesion without the need for sanding, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of interior and exterior surfaces including wood, metal, uPVC, glossy pre-painted surfaces (water-based or solvent-based), glass and tiles. Its fast-drying formula also helps to speed things up on site as Aqua UniPrimer stated as being touch dry in just 30 minutes and ready for a top coat in an hour, helping professionals to complete jobs faster
As part of Dulux Trade’s commitment to providing quality solutions, the new product has undergone the supplier’s rigorous ‘Tested & Approved’ process which means it has been trialled in the lab, then by decorators in controlled environments and finally onto real-world projects to ensure it meets the highest professional standards once released to market.
■ Further details can be found via www.rdr.link/mbq024
(L-R) Directors Andy Butler and Scarlet Banks, with Chairman Rober t Banks and Group MD Charlie Banks
Digital deliver y
In today’s competitive marketplace, agility and efficiency are key to staying ahead of market demands. Heidelberg Materials, formerly known as Hanson, has now created a new suite of digital marketing assets to help merchants maximise their sales, margins and profits.
Following a journey that commenced in October 2023, the company ’ s transition from Hanson to Heidelberg Materials is complete with its new-look packaging now fully available throughout the supply chain And with that change comes a fresh set of marketing tools with new assets to support the switchover, tailored to help merchants promote and sell the supplier’s broad range of products with greater ease and effectiveness.
The suite includes social media graphics, point-of-sale (POS) materials, posters,
advertisement templates and pack images. All of these assets are available for merchants to use on their own channels, enabling them to create tailored sales campaigns and marketing promotions quickly and easily
One of the main benefits of digital assets is the increased flexibility they provide to
“The new assets will help merchants create their own sales promotions quickly and easily, allowing them to be agile and capitalise on opportunities as they arise.”
operate more efficiently and effectively, Andy Simpson, Packed Products Director at Heidelberg Materials UK, explained: “Merchants play a vital role in distributing our products and we continue to collaborate and support them in providing the right products to their customers at the right time “ The new assets will help merchants create their own sales promotions quickly and easily, allowing them to be agile and capitalise on opportunities as they arise.”
Andy added: “ The initiative is another example of our commitment to developing digital solutions that provide added value to our customers and make working with us more efficient ”
merchants. With the ability to quickly design and implement sales promotions, merchants can capitalise on opportunities as they arise
For instance, as we enter the prime spring season, a separate landscaping campaign is available that showcases which easy-to-use packed product is right for applications such as installing fencing, laying bases for sheds or greenhouses and pointing walls
Part of the company ’ s ongoing commitment to supporting its merchant customers to
Heidelberg Materials produces a broad range of packed products, including lower carbon cement and concrete as well as base and decorative aggregates It also provides customers with high levels of ser vice, training and business advice and is committed to helping them reach their net zero carbon ambitions.
■ For more information on Heidelberg Materials’ range of support ser vices for merchants and to download the new marketing assets, enter the shortcode www rdr link/mbq025
WORCESTER BOSCH CASHBACK PROMOTION
Coinciding with the Clean Heat market mechanism coming into effect, the latest promotion from Worcester Bosch the Clean Heat Cashback will see installers receive £500 for every qualifying Bosch heat pump installed and £250 for every qualifying Bosch Hybrid System (T&Cs apply) until 31st march 2026
Sales & marketing Director Jo Shepherd said: “The promotion is part of our ongoing efforts to encourage installers to provide a diverse range of heating products to their customers We recognise that heat pumps represent a critical component of the UK’s future heating strategy, and we are committed to supporting installers as the market shifts ”
For more information, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq031
TALON NEW BROCHURE
Providing merchants and their customers with a comprehensive guide to its enhanced range of pipe clips and cover solutions, the new 2025 edition of Talon’s brochure is said to reflect its commitment to innovation, featuring the latest additions to its portfolio alongside updated merchant display boards, and presented in a “clearer, more efficient layout for easy product selection ”
The new boards have been designed to make it easier for customers to navigate Talon’s extensive range, helping merchants showcase key products with improved clarity
View the brochure on the supplier’s newly redesigned website via www.rdr.link/mbq032
BAXI
DOUBLE POINTS PROMOTION
Running until the end of June, Baxi Works heating engineers who install and register any boiler from the manufacturer’s 600 or 800 ranges will receive double points The points can then be redeemed through the platform to pay for a number of rewards, including tools and workwear, high street vouchers, tech, experience days and Baxi training courses
Residential Solutions Director Rob Pearse said: “Our 600 and 800 ranges are reliable and efficient models designed to be not only quick and easy to install, but deliver efficiency through built in dynamic range rating and compatibility with controls ” Further details await via www rdr link/mbq033
MONUMENT TOOLS
LPG/PROPYLENE BEST PRACTICE ADVICE
monument Tools has released a Best Practice Guidance booklet on the safe operation, storage, transport and disposal of Bernzomatic Propane and Pro//max Cylinders This supplements recent general guidance from trade body Liquid Gas UK on non-refillable cylinders (GS40)
With the leading american torch and fuel brand now available to customers in the UK and Ireland from monument Tools, having previously been sold into the UK under a private label for 20+ years, the supplier’s new booklet further clarifies “the rules and regulations around these products in a straightforward and easy-to-understand way ”
For a copy of the Booklet, use www.rdr.link/mbq035
GRANT UK HEAT PUMP DISPLAY VANS
Touring merchants up and down the country, two new display vans will be heading out on a nationwide aerona 290 Roadshow to showcase Grant’s fifth generation heat pump range alongside other sustainable heating technologies including the QR Smart Pre-Plumbed hot water cylinder, aerona Smart Heat Pump System Controller and afinia aluminium radiator
Providing hands-on opportunities to learn more about their core features and benefits, the Grant sales team will also be handing out branded merchandise and giveaways
Use the shortcode www rdr link/mbq034 to find out more
For more examples of supplier support for merchants on the PBM website, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbq036
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Aanco (UK) Ltd t/a Made For Trade page 9 www rdr link/mbq100
The L.S. Starrett Company Ltd page 35 www rdr link/mbq124
Ultratape outside back cover www rdr link/mbq125
With Paul Davies
O D D S A G A I N S T
At the time of writing, Southampton have just been relegated but on the bright side they do still have a shot at beating Derby’s record low points tally and avoid the ignominy of becoming officially the worst team in Premier League history (though I’m not betting on it )
Of course, both Leicester and Ipswich are near certainties to follow them through the trapdoor The Tractor Boys are at least putting up a bit of a fight, but the state of the Foxes right now is just incredible On form, they are actually worse than Southampton
You’ve got to feel for the fans because the club’s abject surrender to Newcastle means they have now lost nine games straight whilst at home, it is eight defeats on the bounce and they haven’t actually scored at the King Power Stadium since a 2-2 draw with Brighton In December!
Still, there’s always next year, right? The financial chasm is so vast between the top two tiers that what goes down often comes straight back up (and then probably back down again )
Indeed, according to the BBC, 47% of relegated sides have found their way back up again within two years over the last decade (37% make an immediate return) and this trend is tacking upwards However, 50% of sides promoted over the last ten years now go back down after only one season and whilst we’ve always
PA S S I N G T H R O U G H
It would be somewhat unjust not to mention the, ahem, passing of K e vin De Br uyn e as an FPL icon, following news the Belgian is to leave Manchester City at the end of the season. After a decade at the club, De Bruyne’s legacy will arguably be as the best passer the Premier League has ever seen
Obviously, he won the lot with City but his fantasy football stats were simply extraordinary too A tally of 70 league goals gives an impressive ratio of roughly one in four, but the killer pass was his
T H E E N D I S N E A R
…
There are just four game weeks left, so it is Hail Mary time for anyone still chasing down Mini League prizes Make sure no chips are left on the table, and perhaps even plan in some last day moves when the goals typically tend to fly in
I’m pretty sure I once won some money from a Rome l u Lu kak u
had yo-yo clubs, these numbers are also increasing
Of course, if you can somehow buck the trend, the rewards can be spectacular Just look at Forest this year, not to mention Fulham and Bournemouth who all came up together in 2021/22
And I’m sure I also remember another side in the not-so distant past that won the Championship, survived their first season and even won the Premier League the following year
real stock in trade
He is bested only by R y a n G i g g s on the all-time assist list with 118 (and Giggs’ total of 162 required way more than twice as many games ) and shares the record for the most assists in a single campaign with the great T h i e r r y H e n r y, officially registering 20 in the 2019/20 campaign. That year, he topped the FPL standings with 251 points, scoring 13 goals and serving up 23 FPL assists
hattrick for West Brom against Man Utd in Fergie’s final game in charge in 2013 (finishing 5-5!), whilst Ya kub u’s FOUR for Portsmouth against Middlesbrough in 2004 swung an old Telegraph Fantasy Football League I was in!
My shout this year? Bournemouth’s Eva nilson faces Leicester
Home sweet home? Not too many Leicester fans would say so this year
