The Hardware Journal November/December 2021

November/December 2021

The Official Magazine of Hardware Association Ireland

COUNTDOWN TO THE HARDWARE SHOW 2022

www.thehardwarejournal.ie

COLOUR OF THE YEAR 2022

BRIGHT ™ SKIES Colour Code 14BB 55 /113

Bright Skies™ is a light and airy blue. It’s a colour that feels vibrant, optimistic and good for the soul.

It’s a shade that can open up and revitalize our homes.

Around it, we’ve created four easy-to-use colour palettes, so you and your customers can refresh your living spaces in any way you choose.

Explore the palettes on Dulux.ie

ge sa es m Brexit looks like it has gone up the agenda.

There has been a huge increase in NorthSouth trade – up 60%.

Despite the political posturing of some, it looks like business is simply getting on with it.

Preparations for The Hardware Show 2022 are well underway. Practically sold out we are delighted to announce SOLUS as the title sponsor. There is a handy checklist of how to get the best from it from Sean Loughney on Pages 42 & 43.

It is good to see so many members investing in their people. This autumn’s online training programme was well attended and the Spring schedule is on page 49 so book early.

In September we launched the Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting- we have an interim report on page 50. HAI are delighted to have the sponsorship of Octabuild which underlines the commitment of Octabuild members to the sector.

Also, our members continue to be recognised as winners.

Mannok, Stakelums, Sonas, Joseph Murphy Ballina Ltd, and Topline Murtaghs are each deserved winners of various prestigious awards.

In this edition we conclude our series of a home under renovation with Shane and Amy Kenneally. They will celebrate their first Christmas in their renovated home in Galley Head.

Recently the executive of the board of HAI met with Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien TD. We discussed the ‘Housing for All’ plan and how HAI members are key stakeholders in delivering on both housing and climate action targets (see page 8).

I would like to take this opportunity to wish each of you a successful Winter and Christmas Trading period and to thank you for your support throughout 2021.

EO eC th

November/December 2021

m fro

Blue skies - the Central Bank’s growth figure for this year is 5% and according to the Business Index- the value of our market is up 24% for the first 6 months compared with 2019. Even allowing for high inflation - this denotes a very strong market place.

In the Octabuild Webinar reported on Page 19 the Economist Colm McCarthy sounded a note of cautious optimism.

According to the CSO compared to this time last year, consumers have an additional ¤15 billion euros in their bank accounts bringing their total savings to almost ¤140 billion.

That’s a lot of spending power. Savings in the SSIA scheme some years back totaled ¤12 billion.

Home improvements were the story of 2021. If we look at the growth in our marketplace in 2021, with little growth in new builds – business has come from this sector. And women have a huge role in the decision making in home improvements. When women became involved, the paint sector evolved from pure hardware to fashion. And there is a difference in when men and women paint – men don’t paint until the walls are peeling, women will do it when they, not the walls need a change. And so it goes for radiators, bathroom suites etc. Those who can adapt their offer and their message to appeal to women will fare well.

While it is welcomed that demand is high, there are still many challenges in managing business day to day. At present, judging from conversations and meetings with members the most confronting challenge facing members is that of staff.

Staff morale, recruitment and retention and also the sensitive subject of succession planning are uppermost in the minds of many members. This is a very live issue.

The board of HAI have tasked the Membership Services Subcommittee (MSS) to examine the issue and report back with solutions. Bearing in mind that the MSS were key to delivering the Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting expectations are high. In this edition JPA Brenson Lawlor on Page 53 look at some interesting ways of attracting and keeping staff.

Supply chain and price increases are also putting strains on businesses. Having worked in a just in time delivery flow, many are now having to adjust and get used to serious planning.

Martin Markey Chief Executive Officer - HAI

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contents FRONT COVER: Countdown to The Hardware Show 2022.

Blackchurch Business Park, Naas Road, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin, D24 C796 t +353 1 298 0969 e info@hardwareassociation.ie w www.hardwareassociation.ie

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@hardwareassoc ISSN 2009-5481

Published by: Hardware Association Ireland Editor: Jim Copeland, editor@hardwareassociation.ie Editorial/Feature Contributor: Aoife Kinsella, Aoife@hardwareassociation.ie Advertising Manager: Jim Copeland, jim@hardwareassociation.ie Design and Production: Stephen Broad, ConceptRoom, stephen@conceptroom.co.uk Printers: GPS Colour Graphics Ltd, Belfast.

Distribution: MMS Mailing Services, Dublin.

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: To advertise in The Hardware Journal and reach the key decision makers in the industry please contact Jim Copeland at 01-298 0969; email jim@hardwareassociation.ie

© 2021 All editorial contents and all advertisments prepared by the publishers and Hardware Association Ireland HAI can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributors’ articles or statements appearing in this publication and any view or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of HAI, save where indicated. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by HAI, authors, contributors, editor or publishers. The publication of advertisements does not constitute any endorsement

by HAI, authors, contributors, editor or publishers of the products advertised. Readers should take specific advice when dealing with specific situations.

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news 8

Solus announced as The Hardware Show title sponsor and Minister Darragh O’Brien meets Hardware Association Ireland.

10

Topline Murtaghs listed as one of the top 30 stores in Ireland.

12 Chadwicks Group launches free national tradesperson check.

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Mannok announced as one of Ireland’s best managed companies 2021.

15 Sonas Bathrooms launch TUD Student Design Award.

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How AMBA has grown over 10 years to one of Ireland’s largest merchant buying groups.

18 Pipelife Ireland launches new commercial website.

20 Uppercross hold a day of Inspiration.

23 Tec7 continue to develop their new waterproofing range.

24 MEDITE – Creating with sustainability in mind.

25 Hycraft celebrates 50 years in business.

26 Scottish Empty Homes Partnership.

28 Cash lodging solutions from Brinks.

33 The results of the latest Customer Experience (CX) report.

November/December 2021

regulars 3

A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO Martin Markey introduces the latest issue of The Hardware Journal.

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36 CORPORATE PARTNERS A look at HAI’s corporate

partners and the services they offer.

features

profiles

40 RETROFITTING In the final part of our series looking at

a live retrofit project, Cork homeowner Shane Kenneally reveals his finished home and reflects on his experience.

38 STORE PROFILE: FERDIA HOMEVALUE

42 THE HARDWARE SHOW 2022 Talent Support Specialist

Sean McLoughney advises exhibitors on how they can start preparing to get the most out of The Hardware Show.

44 STEVE COLLINGE Insight DIY’s Steve Collinge explores how the industry can reach out to and connect with younger consumers.

46 A VIEW FROM EUROPE Thierry Coeman reports on the

recent Virtual DIY Summit, giving his own perspective on the presentations.

business support 51 MOIRA GRASSICK Peninsula Business Services Ireland,

talks about restructuring a business – what it is, why you should know about it, and why it may be necessary.

52 ALICE RYAN Irish Green Building Council, reminds readers that now is the time to upskill in how to achieve nZEB.

53

DEBORAH DROUGHT JPA Brenson Lawlor, outlines how employee ownership options can be an effective way to secure and keep the best employees.

Eamonn Kerr Manager of Ferdia Homevalue, Ardee, talks to The Hardware Journal about the store’s impressive growth in its three years history.

market intelligence 6

BUSINESS INDEX The results of HAI’s Business Index for Q2 2021.

classified ads 68

COMMERCIAL FEATURES 54 HAND AND POWER TOOLS

training

A SELECTION OF CLASSIFIED ADS

New product launches and innovations that are contributing to the growth in the Hand & Power Tool sector.

63 IRONMONGERY AND SECURITY

48 ROUND-UP 2021 A summary of HAI’s virtual training and webinar activities in 2021.

49 SPRING 2022 SCHEDULE HAI launches its Spring 2022 virtual training schedule.

The latest trends and insights in the ironmongery and security sector.

65 FASTENERS AND FIXINGS

A look at the latest industry news and developments affecting the Fasteners & Fixings sector.

50 HAI CERTIFICATE Octabuild announced as the official

sponsor of the HAI Certificate and how the students are progressing to date.

November/December 2021

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Business Index

BUSINESS INDEX Q2 2021 RESULTS Monthly Business Index 2021 Year on Year Comparisons Versus same month 2020 Jan 2021

101

Feb 2021

102

Mar 2021

114 216

Apr 2021 May 2021

145 114

Jun 2021 Versus same Qtr 2020 Qtr 1

106

Qtr 2

158 Six months to end of June

Vs 2020 YTD

129

Vs 2019 YTD

124

As from Quarter 1 2021 the Business Index is collecting and analysing data at category level.

If members would like to contribute and benefit from category data please contact Martin at 087 2226532.

Business Index Qtr 2 2021 Year on Year Comparisons 158%

162%

The Q2 year on year comparisons illustrate the strong rebound from Covid disrupted Q2 of 2020 with a year on year increase of 58%. For the first six months of the year the market increased in value by 29% compared to 2021 and 24% compared to 2019. Even allowing for an element of inflation this is a huge increase in demand.

175% 154%

160%

158%

137%

170%

165%

154%

151% 140%

The positive Q2 year on year comparisons are evident across all member groups peaking among urban members.

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November/December 2021

6

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Designers and artists with broad imaginations, architects and specifiers across all of the nations, from wardrobes to beds our quality can’t be denied, one of our innovative products can even be used outside. Outdoor kitchens and games, a summerhouse withstands all kinds of weather all the year round.

Through the heat of the summer into cold winter chill, still a half century later MEDITE makes it real.

Join the MEDITE MDF community online to receive the latest updates. Upload your project images to be entered into a prize draw. Sign up to receive a free gift.

Visit meditemakesitreal.com for more information.

Dreamers welcome!

News & Products

HAI IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE SOLUS AS THE TITLE SPONSOR OF THE HARDWARE SHOW 2022 Commenting on the announcement, Gary Butler, National Key Accounts Manager, Solus, said: “We are delighted to be title sponsor for The Hardware Show 2022 which has become one of the largest and most important events for our sector. Solus has been at the forefront of technology and lighting in Irish homes since electricity was first introduced in 1935. We will be showcasing our very popular modular Solus Lighting Centres at the show which are already delivering double digit growth for our customers. We will also showcase our comprehensive range of the most energy efficient LED lines on the market and our exciting new Smart LEDs. Sustainability is top of our agenda, so we look forward to sharing our Planet First Sustainability Programme. It has never been more important to support Irish innovation and Irish businesses. Solus is a proud Irish company with over 80 years of building customer trust, recognition and reliability. We very much look forward to meeting our customers and friends at the show and working with HAI.” Taking place over two days, on the 20-21st of February 2022, at the Citywest Convention Centre in Dublin, plans for the premier Show of the Irish hardware industry are well underway!

Exhibitor spaces are now full, and visitor registrations will be launching next month, so watch this space. You can see the full list of exhibitors here: www.thehardwareshow.ie/2022-exhibitors/ The Hardware Show has become one of the largest and most important events for the sector, both in Ireland and the wider UK/ Ireland marketplace.

The 2019 Show was quoted as “the best show ever!” with over 3,250 sqm of space sold, 2,000 visitors, and 160+ exhibitors over the two days. With rapid and continuing growth in the renovation, maintenance and improvement of buildings and homes, and the recovery and growth of the sector following the effects of the pandemic, the 2022 Hardware Show will continue to be the leading show for retailers and merchants across Ireland to visit for Home, Garden, Build and DIY inspiration and to connect with current suppliers, discover new ones and find innovative products.

For more information about The Hardware Show 2022, visit www.thehardwareshow.ie.

MINISTER DARRAGH O’BRIEN MEETS HARDWARE ASSOCIATION IRELAND MEMBERS ON VISIT TO WAVIN Members of the Board of Hardware Association Ireland met with Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD on 12th November to discuss a number of critical issues facing the sector.

In particular the HAI Board members discussed the Government’s `Housing for All` plan and how HAI are key stakeholders in the Government’s plans to deliver on their housing and climate action targets. Central to the discussion were HAI’s proposals on retrofitting homes to improve energy efficiency and the need for a new home renovation incentive scheme.

There was also a discussion on the urgent need for Government support and training to increase the numbers of staff in the sector, particularly in the area of retrofitting.

Commenting on the meeting, Hardware Association Ireland Chief Executive, Martin Markey, said; ‘’We had a very positive and constructive discussion with Minister O’Brien. We raised a number of issues that are very keenly felt by members of Hardware Association Ireland and outlined some ways in which we think they could be resolved. Minister O’Brien was very receptive about these and we are looking forward to maintaining a good relationship with him and his office.’’

Martin went on to say; ‘’Among the key issues that were discussed at the meeting were the Climate Action Plan and Carbon Budgets as our sector will be crucial to this. We also discussed the `Housing for All plan`, which is going to be hugely important in the next two years.

Minister O’Brien was also brought up to speed on many of the urgent 8

issues facing the sector, including supply chain issues, Brexit and Materials and Timber shortages.’’

The meeting took place at the Wavin Ireland factory in Balbriggan, Co. Dublin and Minister O’Brien was given a guided tour of the facility.

After the meeting, HAI presented Minister O’Brien with an original copy of a 1963 Time magazine which featured the then Taoiseach Sean Lemass. Sean Lemass was pivotal in the creation of Wavin Ireland and later became Chairman of the Board.

L to R, Hardware Association Ireland CEO, Martin Markey, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien, Hardware Association Ireland, Immediate Past President & Group CEO, Home Project Centre Ltd, Sean Moran, Hardware Association Ireland President & Managing Director of Wavin, Michael O’Donohoe and Hardware Association Ireland Honorary Treasurer Mark Lohan.

November/December 2021

10 REASONS

TO BUILD WITH MANNOK AIRCRETE THERMAL BLOCKS

Building with Aircrete blocks is on the rise in Ireland, and the outlook tells us demand will continue to grow both nationally and globally, with recently published research forecasting the continued surge of the autoclaved aerated concrete market: “Rising demand for sustainable building materials and eco-friendly nature of AAC material are key factors driving industry growth,” says Emergen Research.

1 SUPERIOR COMFORT

There is no substitute for a comfortable home, and Aircrete’s unique properties ensures greater comfort for the homeowner.

2 REDUCED ENERGY BILLS

Reduced energy usage means reduced energy bills.

It’s all down to the unique properties of Aircrete and their superior thermal performance.

3 THERMAL PERFORMANCE

Aircrete blocks offer superb thermal performance, insulating up to ten times better than dense concrete blocks. With the walls of the house traditionally the biggest source of heat loss, the blocks can significantly reduce this and easily achieve better U-Values whilst maintaining an optimal thermal mass. The blocks’ thermal performance is undoubtedly one of its most appealing properties.

4 ELIMINATES DAMP & MOULD RISK

It’s unsightly and unhealthy, and quite frankly, damp and mould should not be a problem in modern homes, but unless the potential cold spots in a new build are dealt with effectively, it can still be a risk. With Aircrete, the risk is eliminated.

5 SUPERIOR FIRE PERFORMANCE

Aircrete blocks far outperform some of the other alternatives on the market when it comes to fire performance, with timber frame only providing 30 minutes fire resistance and Aircrete up to 4 hours for the 215mm block and 2 hours for the 100mm block.

6 FASTER HEATING RESPONSE

Aircrete walls respond quicker when heating is turned on. So rooms heat faster and the heating is on for a shorter period with less energy usage.

7 SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION

Made from up to 80% recycled materials, an A+ Green Guide rating and one of the first construction products to have an Environmental Product Declaration published by the Irish Green Building Council.

But it’s not just the block that’s more sustainable, it’s the building. Aircrete’s superior performance means new builds are much more energy efficient, with passive house or net zero standards much easier to achieve.

8 REDUCE HEAT LOSS THROUGH THERMAL BRIDGING

Aircrete reduces heat loss through thermal bridging by up to 80%. As thermal bridging occurs at every junction where there is a break in the insulation fabric, it is one of the largest sources of heat loss and important to address correctly.

9 INTERNATIONAL BEST PRACTICE Aircrete is tried and tested as a strong and durable construction material.

It’s been established for decades as the material of choice in wall construction in countries right across Europe and beyond, including Germany, Italy, France, the Netherlands, Poland and the UK.

10 COST EFFECTIVE

Aircrete built is not only better built, but also a very cost-effective way to achieve a superior home.

For example, the cost of upgrading from using Aircrete in all key junctions of a house to building the entire inner leaf with Aircrete is typically only a very small percentage of the overall build cost. This is then offset quickly by the resulting energy savings, and well worth it for the added performance benefits. In many cases the net result can be cost neutral.

DISCUSS USING AIRCRETE IN YOUR NEXT PROJECT WITH OUR TECHNICAL EXPERTS: E: technical@mannokbuild.com T: 08000 322 122 (NI & UK) 1800 322 122 (ROI)

News & Products

TOPLINE MURTAGHS LISTED AS ONE OF THE TOP 30 STORES IN IRELAND

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Topline Murtaghs in Ashbourne are delighted with the news that they have been named as one of the Top 30 stores in Ireland.

The Top 30 Stores are part of the AIB Merchant Services Retail Excellence Awards which are about recognising innovation, exceptional performance, and resilience in Irish retail.

The Store of the Year competition was established in 1997 to promote best practice and encourage the highest standards in the Irish retail industry. It is now one of the largest and most prestigious of its kind in Ireland. Former “National Store of the Year” winners include Avoca, Tilestyle, Applegreen, Arboretum, O’Briens Wines, Galvin For Men, Willow and Green Acres.

Commenting on the announcement, Duncan Graham, Managing Director, Retail Excellence, said: “I am delighted to announce the finalists for these national awards. We all know the

hardships that retailers have gone through since the emergence of the pandemic, and as such we must celebrate the positives even more so now. Even though there are just 30 finalists, the reality is that the entire industry has worked so hard to emerge even stronger after the pandemic and we are proud to be there to support them in every way we can.”

Topline Murtaghs’ Managing Director Colin Murtagh and the team were thrilled with the announcement, he said “To think we’ve made it to the final and are considered one of the Top 30 stores in Ireland is just amazing. We are the only hardware store to have made it to the final which is such an achievement for our whole team. This award is a testimony to the hard work and commitment each member of our team gives to being the best in the business and I couldn’t be prouder!”

Topline Murtaghs.

Display Innovation at Murtaghs.

Murtaghs entrance visually impresses.

Murtaghs seasonal offerings.

November/December 2021

create your perfect bathroom Inspired by AVANTI Coloured Ceramics

AVANTI Forest Green round basin and wall hung wc [available in 7 colours] shown with the CONTOUR Black freestanding basin mixer, ASTRID Black Matt framed mirror and the STOCKHOLM Arctic Grey Matt 60cm countertop vanity unit

To book your trade visit to our SHOWROOM visit: www.sonasbathrooms.com Download the NEW 2021 2nd Edition SONAS Bathrooms brochure or pick up in store from your local SONAS stockist

News & Products

THE DULUX COLOUR OF THE YEAR 2022, ‘BRIGHT SKIES’ Each year a team of international designers, architects, colour creatives and trend experts from the world of design work alongside Dulux to forecast the following years colour. The 2022 key trend indicators pointed to solidarity, positivity and new horizons for the future.

Introducing a breath of fresh air, The Dulux Colour of the Year 2022, ‘Bright SkiesTM’, which is an airy light blue that’s fresh, open and good for the soul. Reflecting the limitless skies around us, it brings a hint of the natural world inside the home, breathing new life into a space.

Dulux Colour of the Year 2022 - Bright Skies™ Officially launched on 14th September 2021, Bright Skies™ is a light and airy blue; it’s a colour that feels vibrant, optimistic and good for the soul. It’s a shade that can open up and revitalise our homes.

Around it, Dulux have created four easy-to-use colour palettes, so your customers can refresh their living spaces in any way they choose.

Trend #1 The Home Re-Imagined … The Workshop Colours When home has become the office, the gym and the school your customer may need to rethink how they live in it. When it switches roles from one moment to the next it needs to be a versatile space. Cue the multi-coloured Workshop Palette with

hard working tones of yellow, pink and green that are used in eclectic combinations through colour blocking to redefine zones of a multi-purpose space.

Trend #2 Necessity of Nature … The Greenhouse Colours Nature is the spark of life, the source of everything, the future.

Somewhere your customers can live sustainably and can let the outside in with a glint of sunlight, an array of plants and a blast of fresh air. Revitalise and soothe by working Mama Nature’s tones into their home. The Greenhouse Colours include natural tones of green grey and blue.

Trend #3 Soul Food … The Studio Colours Pale pinks, reds and oranges, these warm, consoling shades can help turn any space into a soothing sanctuary. Subtle and inspiring, they can help homeowners recharge and escape the everyday.

The Studio Palette comprises of airy pinks, reds and oranges which console and soothe.

Trend #4 New Narratives … The Salon Colours Comprising airy soft whites and light neutrals, this palette can help create the perfect blank canvas without being bland. Fresh and unifying tones, they can help create an open space and a home that’s ready for anything.

CHADWICKS GROUP LAUNCHES FREE NATIONAL TRADESPERSON CHECK Three quarters of tradespeople have made changes to lead a healthier lifestyle over the last year and 73% say that COVID-19 has made them more health conscious. That’s according to new research from Chadwicks Group*.

The research of over 600 tradespeople examining attitudes to health and wellness finds that while many are trying to be healthier, there is still room for improvement. Half say they don’t go for a regular health check-up and one in five admit to working through illness so they don’t fall behind on a job.

The survey was carried out to launch Chadwicks Group’s annual National Tradesperson Check (NTC) which provides customers with a free health check in branch in partnership with HealthWatch. The health screenings cover; BMI, blood pressure, and a finger-prick test gauging the total cholesterol and glucose of the patient.

Now in its second year, the NTC took place in 18 Chadwicks Group’s locations nationwide including Chadwicks, The Panelling Centre, Cork Builders Providers and Telfords for the month of October.

According to the Chadwicks Group research, a fifth of tradespeople work a minimum of 60 hours a week and three quarters (76%) consider their occupation physically demanding.

Given the long hours and the physical nature of the job, it’s perhaps no surprise that half (49%) regularly suffer from aches and pains as a result. 77% say they have had to attend a physio

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for work related pain and just over two thirds (69%) have missed a day of work due to joint pain. Of those that suffer with aches and pains over half (55%) say they don’t do anything to address the issue.

To help tradespeople across Ireland manage their aches and pains, as part of this year’s NTC campaign, Chadwicks Group has teamed up with Sports Physio Ireland to create ‘Chadwicks Flexi-Time’ a short stretching routine designed specifically for tradespeople.

Chadwicks Flexi-Time consists of five bitesize videos which are available on the Chadwicks Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages. Each video has been designed specifically to address the issues tradespeople face and can be done at any time of the day to help alleviate muscle tension. Patrick Atkinson, CEO of Chadwicks Group said: “This is the second year of our National Tradesperson Check and we are delighted to expand these health checks to 18 locations across the country during the month of October. At Chadwicks Group, we understand that tradespeople are working extremely long hours and finding time to look after their health can be a challenge. That’s why we have designed the NTC with the tradesperson in mind.” * Online survey of 629 tradespeople in Ireland aged 18+. 56% of whom are self-employed.

November/December 2021

News & Products

MANNOK ANNOUNCED AS ONE OF IRELAND’S BEST MANAGED COMPANIES 2021 Mannok has recently been named one of Ireland’s Best Managed Companies at a virtual awards ceremony. The prestigious awards programme, led by Deloitte Ireland in association with Bank of Ireland, are renowned as the premier business management awards across the island of Ireland and are part of the global Best Managed standard.

Mannok was recognised for the first time at this year’s awards, having demonstrated superior business performance, strong leadership and resilience, organisational excellence, and an entrepreneurial approach.

Ireland’s Best Managed Companies Awards programme promotes and recognises excellence in Irish/Northern Irish owned and managed companies and is the only awards scheme on the island of Ireland that considers a business’ performance from every perspective. Entrants to the programme compete for the designation in a rigorous process that evaluates the calibre of their management abilities and practices in addition to the strategy, capability, innovation, culture and financial performance of their companies.

Commenting on the award, Liam McCaffrey, Mannok CEO said: “We are very proud to be recognised as one of Ireland’s Best Managed Companies, particularly given the unprecedented challenges of Covid and Brexit over the last eighteen months.

Our agility in dealing with such trials has undoubtedly contributed to our awards success, and this is down to the excellence of our team of 830. With their resilience and innovative spirit, they continually demonstrate that our people are our greatest strength, and we are extremely thankful to each and every one of them.”

Mannok has also been awarded silver accreditation in the Business and Biodiversity Charter, a biodiversity engagement programme from Business in the Community NI (BITCNI) in partnership with Ulster Wildlife. The company received the award in recognition of its responsible business practice and commitment to improve biodiversity conservation, benefiting people, nature, and animals in the local area.

Mannok CEO Liam McCaffrey, Operations Director Kevin Lunney and Chief Financial Director Dara O’Reilly.

Action Plan (NAAP). Presenting the award, BITCNI’s Deputy MD, Dr Lisa McIlveen, recognised the widely available evidence to demonstrate Mannok as a responsible and sustainable business committed to biodiversity.

Mannok`s forward thinking biodiversity report, its Natural Assets Action Plan (NAAP), was completed by Ulster Wildlife in partnership with the Mannok Environmental Team.

The report, which has taken over 12 months to complete, examines every area of Mannok’s landholdings, which spans almost 2,000 acres in 47 separate locations both north and south. The aim was to measure and record the environmental status and biodiversity of each area. It also provides a roadmap for the conservation, restoration and enhancement of every piece of land to help meet Mannok’s ambitious sustainability targets.

Mannok commissioned the report in order to understand its natural assets to provide a baseline for the enhancement of the local environment and varieties of wildlife in the short, medium, and long term.

Mannok’s Environmental Team were commended for their many biodiversity initiatives, in particular the company’s recently launched biodiversity roadmap, its Natural Assets

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November/December 2021

News & Products

SONAS BATHROOMS LAUNCH TUD STUDENT DESIGN AWARD SONAS Bathrooms and TUD (Technological University Dublin) have recently announced details of a new student design award to find the 2022 Bathroom Design of the Year. Students of the Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Design, led by one of Ireland’s best known Interior Designers Neville Knott, will be tasked with creating a luxury bathroom for a contemporary hotel. One lucky student will have the opportunity to see their winning bathroom design brought to life in the SONAS showrooms along with a cash prize. Neville Knott said “This is an exciting competition for our students. As SONAS are one of the largest suppliers of bathroom products in Ireland, there will be the opportunity to explore a variety of themes and styles in bathroom design with products from their extensive range.

Working on real life projects is always a great experience for tomorrow’s designers. I know they will rise to the occasion, and I expect the standard of competition to be high.”

Richard Sloan, MD of SONAS Bathrooms said “We are looking forward to seeing the creativity of design students from TUD and see this as an opportunity to support the next generation of designers. Sustainability, wellness and technology all have a role to play in the modern bathroom. For this brief the focus is on the perfect hotel bathroom so I’m really looking forward to seeing the different designs that the students come up with.” SONAS Bathrooms are one of Ireland’s leading bathroom brands and suppliers of bathroom products.

STAKELUMS ANNOUNCED AS EXPERT ELECTRICAL DEPARTMENT STORE OF THE YEAR Stakelums Expert Electrical are delighted to have been announced as National Winner of the Expert Electrical Department Store of the Year 2020.

This fantastic accolade comes a year late due to Covid but is none the less great recognition for all the hard work, attention to detail and excellent customer service the Stakelums Expert team provides both in-store and online.

Last year was a challenging time for all businesses, especially during lockdown, but the dedicated Stakelums team continued to work behind closed doors to provide their customers with essential items when they needed them most.

Whether it was a broken fridge or washing machine, IT accessories to enable their customers to work from home or hair clippers to keep them groomed the team did their best to accommodate all requests and delivered promptly to their November/December 2021

SONAS Bathrooms has also recently been named as one of Ireland’s `Best Managed Companies`.

The awards programme is led

by Deloitte Ireland, in association with Bank of Ireland. SONAS Bathrooms Interior Designer Neville Knott with Richard Sloan, were recognised MD of SONAS Bathrooms. Image courtesy of for their Fennell Photography. demonstration of superior business performance for the third year in a row. Commenting on the award, Richard Sloan said: “At SONAS Bathrooms, we have an exceptional team whose ambition and dedication made receiving the Deloitte Best Managed award possible. I am very grateful to the team here who consistently go above and beyond for our customers.”

For more information, please visit www.sonasbathrooms.com. customers.

As lockdown eased, the team saw people’s shopping habits change, with many customers purchasing online for the first time as they were understandably Photographed L to R in group shot: Liam Kearns, cautious about Colm Fitzgibbon, Martin O’Neill, Aileen Minihan & coming in store.

Jason Forrestal.

The relaunch of their new website late last year enabled them to display a huge array of products online with the option to ‘Click & Collect’ or have their customers’ orders delivered fast anywhere in the country at a very reasonable price.

Joe Connolly, General Manager of Stakelums Home & Hardware, comments: “Colm Fitzgibbon and our Expert Electrical team have been amazing in the last year and their efforts have been rewarded with this award which is a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the high standards we continually strive for every day.

We encourage people to continue to support local businesses like our own whether it’s in store and online. We offer a wide range of household and electrical appliances from top brands at competitive prices and our friendly team are always on hand to answer any queries or enquiries in person, by phone or email.”

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News & Products

10 YEARS FROM A ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION TO ONE OF IRELAND’S LARGEST MERCHANT BUYING GROUPS A round table discussion of six like-minded people ten years ago led to the formation of Allied Merchants Buying Association (AMBA). Today they are one of the largest merchant buying groups in Ireland. The simplicity of the mission, to make members more profitable, was core to these initial discussions with the five founding members.

Fast forward ten years and this same mission, combined with the philosophy and culture of ‘together we achieve more’ underpins a group of 22 members with negotiated turnover in excess of 260 million Euros with partnered suppliers.

Keith Giblin began working with the founding members in 2011 to form Allied Merchants Buying Association.

He became CEO in 2014. We spoke to Keith about the formation of the group, and more importantly why there was a need for something different.

“In 2011, when the group was formed, the marketplace was highly competitive. We believed in a business model that would drive our aims of growing the market share of partnered suppliers while improving the net profitability of our members. This is still the model we use today. We wanted to collectively negotiate with partnered suppliers but maintain a low-cost base and allow members maintain their independence. Members would keep control of their businesses with the support of a member focussed group created to improve profitability through structured purchasing. We wanted to provide a structured and coordinated platform by leveraging collective negotiation power with suppliers on behalf of members with our commercial belief that we enable members and suppliers to achieve incomparable numbers by utilising our merchants and the quality of their stores. How we achieve our mission has evolved over the years, but this remains the core of any undertaking we engage in and is our principal purpose”.

“Since 2011 we have grown from five members with 15 stores to 22 members with 193 stores nationwide. Our growth strategy ensures that we grow by adding suitably qualified members that add turnover, volume and expertise to product categories across the range. New members join our group based on shared values and being a strategic fit for each other”.

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Speaking about the main functions of the group Keith continues: “There are two main core functions that have contributed to the success of the group: category management and the compliance of members in dealing with partnered suppliers”.

“We negotiated ¤22m purchases with approved suppliers in 2012 and this year our negotiated purchases will be in excess of ¤260m. These are excellent numbers but we also believe operating costs are a measure that are just as important. As an organisation we are committed to running a lean yet highly effective organisation”.

“We have seen huge improvements in the process of our Category Management, and we now have 30 Category Managers across 10 Categories. Our structure remains that our members make up our Category Management Committees. Because members are involved in Category Management, the people negotiating terms on behalf of Allied Merchants Buying Association are improving terms for their own businesses and for all other members.

November/December 2021

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Our compliance rate in purchasing from partnered suppliers for 2020 was 95%, which is significant in that members see the benefit in supporting our group deals as do suppliers. We have continually increased the return to members year on year.

“Two further elements we embrace are preservation of our core values and always stimulating progress.

We do this by committing to challenging goals and projects which challenge our efforts, ensuring we are always in a process of relentless self-improvement”.

Over the past ten years many things have changed including the introduction of Brexit, a Pandemic that no-one could plan for, escalating prices, shipping issues, shortages of raw materials and increasing pressure on the supply chain. Allied Merchants strongly believe that now, more than ever it is vitally important to continue to work together as a group and work even closer with partnered suppliers.

Looking forward to the next ten years Keith commented “All our members have an influential voice and play an integral role in ensuring the long-term growth and success of Allied Merchants Buying Association”.

“By building on our success we will continue to affirm our progressive approach, dedication and strategic intent as a leading low cost highly professional group with strategically placed members that work with partnered suppliers. Allied Merchants Buying Association is a group we are all proud to be part of”.

November/December 2021

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News & Products

PIPELIFE IRELAND LAUNCHES NEW COMMERCIAL WEBSITE WWW.PIPELIFEECO.IE Pipelife is one of Ireland’s leading designers and suppliers of of Home Heating Solutions, supplying thousands each year.

Drawing on 50 years of manufacturing experience from their production plant in Cork, Pipelife has been to the forefront in developing innovative products for many years. These include their Qual-PEX Eco Pipe and Pipelife Eco Underfloor Heating, engineered with energy conservation and waste water renewal in mind.

In conjunction with the new website going live, Pipelife have also launched Continuous Personal Development (CPD) training for Architects, Engineers, Energy Assessors and similarly minded professionals. These certified courses are available in many technologies such as Underfloor Heating, Smart Controls and Heat Pumps and give the attendees an insight and knowledge of the principles of heating and system design and control considerations.

Compliance is becoming more and more prevalent within the industry. Pipelife wanted to offer a one stop shop website where Architects, Engineers, Consultant Engineers, BER Assessors, Contractors and Builders Merchants could have a knowledge base that contains all the relevant information, documentation and certification that is regularly requested.

The purpose of the website is to give all parties a point of reference to learn about the different heating systems available and the necessary compliance documents that go with each product.

Padjoe continued, “These are certainly exciting times for Pipelife. While Covid has had an impact on many businesses including our own we have continued to invest and expand.

We have recently opened our new Distribution Centre and Training Academy in Dublin which has proven to be very popular. We are also expanding our manufacturing process at our factory in Cork installing a new pipe production line to meet the demand for our Qual-Pex Plus+ ‘Easy-Lay’ pipe. We will also have some new faces joining the Pipelife team in the coming months as well as some new product lines that will be launched soon. All of this coupled with the launch of this new website really puts us in a strong position both for the rest of 2021 and also going into 2022!”

Padjoe Barry, National Sales Manager, commented “This is something that we have been working on for the last few months. In conjunction with the website launch we have also produced a detailed Engineers brochure pack which outlines the full range of stock that we provide and the relevant certificates and documentation that go with that. We hope that this will give those who require this information a simple one stop shop that they can refer to at any time and be confident that when they specify a product from Pipelife that it is certified to the highest standards”.

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For more information and to talk to their team call 021 488 4700 or e-mail ireland@pipelife.com and check out their website www.pipelifeeco.ie.

November/December 2021

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POSITIVE OUTLOOK FOR CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY IN SHORT TERM BUT CAUTION URGED IN LONG TERM BY ECONOMIST AT OCTABUILD WEBINAR A few weeks before the recent Budget, leading economist, academic and media commentator, Colm McCarthy, predicted that consumer spending on private residences would auger well for the building/construction industry in the short term.

In addition, he said ambitious targets in the Housing for All plan announced prior to the Budget would suggest a positive short and medium-term future for the sector and its suppliers.

The Budget subsequently included ¤202m for 22,000 home energy upgrades.

Colm McCarthy was speaking at a webinar organised by Octabuild on 21st September. The webinar was introduced by Octabuild chairperson Ray Molyneaux of Irish Cement on behalf of the other Octabuild companies: Dulux Paints Ireland, Etex Ireland, Glennon Brothers, Gyproc, Instantor, Kingspan Insulation and Wavin Ireland.

Budget 2022 has been described as a ‘one for everyone in the audience’ event but even before it was delivered McCarthy warned that this would be the last ‘soft’ budget for some time.

“Unless there is a sustained take-off in economic growth, the budget position could quickly become difficult. Permanent spending, as well as emergency spending, has risen sharply.

Permanent revenue has not,” he said.

In terms of the National Development Plan (NDP), which was due to be published shortly after the Octabuild webinar took place, McCarthy warned that based on previous experience of NDPs, its long-term benefit might not transpire.

“It would be prudent for the construction industry to discount over-ambitious targets in the next version of the NDP as they could be sacrificed from 2023 or 2024 onwards,” he said.

He continued, “Construction is greatly assisted by a stable capital programme and if there is a retrenchment in budget policy, on past form the capital budget will suffer.

Far from acting to stabilise economic activity as the textbooks recommend, the public capital programme has been an independent source of macro-economic instability in Ireland. The stop-start pattern delivers poor value – bad projects already commenced get completed and better ones get cancelled or deferred.

There have been three over-shoot debacles recently, the national broadband plan, the maternity hospital and the children’s hospital.

The new NDP will be ambitious, and the ambitions may not be realistic. When the public finances get into trouble, Irish governments follow tradition. They slash the capital programme,” said McCarthy.

He believed that this time the ‘nice to have’ projects may be deferred.

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“The housing budget will get precedence and local authorities will be funded to increase output for housing for rent and given money, for a while, to improve services. Perhaps Irish Water will also get a decent capital budget.

Whatever has to be done to bring about climate transition, there is a big bill coming in the energy sector. Those things are priority,” he said.

It subsequently emerged in the NDP that Irish Water is projected to invest in the region of ¤6 billion in our water services infrastructure over the period 2021-2030 with ¤4.5 billion in relation to investment in domestic water services, which supports future housing delivery.

On the question of a shortage of labour in the construction industry, Colm McCarthy said that labour supply shortages in Ireland could prove to be temporary. He believes that in the longer term there could be a reflow of people from other countries in part as the UK is not as accessible. “In the bubble period of 2003-2008 inflows of workers to Ireland was higher than to the UK,” he said.

Colm also said that there are numerous other uncertainties – especially the stance of Eurozone monetary policy and the path of borrowing costs. ECB support for sovereign bond markets will be run down in time and European Commission limits for debt and deficits will be re-invoked from 2023.

Overall Colm McCarthy provided a very interesting analysis of the current and future economic landscape. Largely positive in the short and medium term as private deposit balances have risen sharply and will support spending and as the state capital budget is also expanding. At the same time Colm was urging caution in the longer term in the event of a retrenchment in budget policy.

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News & Products

NIKO BATHROOMS, INNOVATES, INFORMS, AND INSPIRES THROUGH AN INSIGHTFUL EVENT Niko Bathrooms is one of the fastest growing bathroom product brands in Ireland. Part of Uppercross Enterprises, already a leading plumbing and heating supplier to the trade, they reinforced their status as a valuable business partner through an inspiring event on the 12th November, that showcased and brought together industry leaders in retail and interior design.

Over 250 people within the sector came together to view, network, reconnect and get inspired by Niko Bathrooms full range on display at their premises in Tallaght.

and professional approach. We have provided an inspiring environment through our showroom facilities and today have brought you some innovative insights from thought leaders within the sector. These events are testaments to our committed staff members . Our doors are open, and we welcome our customers to visit us, but also to use our resources as a competitive advantage.”

The day started with four informative 30-minute talks by Aoife Rhattigan of Restless Design and DIY SOS. Those in attendance were delighted by the unique insights and inspiration gathered just by attending this thought leader’s presentations.

Those looking to renew their bathroom could attend two talks by Niko Bathrooms own Showroom manager, Keith Nolan, on how to plan a bathroom renovation.

The event was a success to be repeated and a truly inspirational day to those in attendance. It brought together retail experts, renowned interior designers and self-builders, commercial architects, thought leaders and influencers, celebrities, and members of the press. A great showcasing of what Niko Bathrooms can offer to their customers in the shape of a state-ofthe-art showroom and facilities, a can-do attitude, and friendly staff.

Customer Engagement on the day.

Dublin based interior designer George O. said: “This event was fantastic, I’ve never been in such an environment where I could gather all the information and inspiration I needed to plan, and execute a bathroom project.”

Mary J. a retail shop owner said: “I think it is great that Niko opened their doors to all within the industry but also as a resource for their stockists to use and avail of.”

John M. from Kildare said: “It is the first time in my experience that one of our partners and suppliers has invested in informing and inspiring the market in this way, for us it is great and we value the connections made here.”

Managing Director of Uppercross Enterprises, Paul Thompson, said, “The goals of this event are to support all those involved in the sector, showcase our showroom as a valuable resource to our customers and validate Niko as a serious player in the sector. Those that work with and supported us on the day, did so because they know what we are made of and the commitment we put behind every effort to please and support our customers. We want to serve our customers well and our customers ` customers even better. We can only achieve this by providing the most accurate information, innovative product

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Aoife Rhattigan, Restless Design and DIY SOS.

Niko Premises.

November/December 2021

News & Products

SECURE YOUR SHREDDING, REDUCE YOUR COSTS & ENSURE PEACE OF MIND! Thorntons Security Shredding provide the most secure on-site and off-site data and material destruction system available. Their Confidential Shredding Service offers clients both outstanding value for money and guaranteed security for all their shredding needs. All businesses have sensitive and confidential data, documented and electronic, that must be periodically destroyed to protect employees and clients who have a legal right to have their data protected.

Thorntons offer a no obligation quotation for all jobs, big or small, from a single filing cabinet to a large warehouse clearance. Whether you require weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or just an occasional clear-out, they perform an economical, efficient, and secure service.

If you have accumulated volumes of files or confidential material their `Purge Service` is for you. Call them for a free site visit and estimate. After evaluating your requirements, they will agree a plan that suits you and your budget. All work will be carried out by their trained staff in a cost effective, safe, and environmentally friendly manner.

Thorntons trained team remove your documents or materials from your premises and bring it in secured vehicles directly to their state-of-the-art secure facility at Parkwest, Dublin 12.

Thorntons ‘Double Shred’ all documents beyond recognition.

They then bale the shredded paper and ship it under seal to paper mills in the UK for recycling into new paper products.

Thorntons will then issue a Certificate of Destruction providing

Shredding Process at Thornton’s Facility.

you with a full audit trail and documented proof of the secured destruction of your confidential data.

Thorntons are so confident you will be pleased with their scheduled regular service that they are offering Hardware Association Ireland members the first month FREE, when they sign up to a Secure Shredding annual account.

Call them now on 01 623 5133 or 086 854 3071 or email shredding@thorntons-recycling.ie.

OHRA - WE WILL RACK YOU! For more than 40 years, OHRA has been one of the leading manufacturers of storage equipment in Europe. It offers a broad range from which to choose, from small racking systems up to a full automatic warehouse operation, including storage and retrieval machines and warehouse software. Ideally suited to builder’s merchants and timber stores, OHRA provides bespoke products for many applications, custom made for goods to be stored and for the available handling devices. In accordance with these requirements, OHRA plan, produce and install storage systems such as cantilever racking for long goods, pallet racking for heavy loads or mezzanine floors for an ideal use of the existing storage space. All racking systems are made of high-quality solid hot-rolled steel and are available in high-quality powder coating or a hot-dipped galvanized finish for outdoor installation.

News Sales Manager for OHRA in Ireland Since the beginning of the 1990’s OHRA has provided additional services to Irish customers such as site visits, assembly by their Irish fitter teams, static calculations and drawings. For the last 10 years their sales representative, Klaus Raaf has been in charge of sales in Ireland. Since July 2021 Seamus Coyle took over this role as Sales Manager for

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Ireland. He is a professional in the storage business based Ireland and can look back on many years of experience in the racking industry. In previous employment, Seamus has completed many large and small projects for customers in the builder’s merchants sector and has extensive knowledge of this market throughout Ireland.

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Seamus Coyle, Ireland Sales Manager, OHRA.

We will be happy to meet you personally at The Hardware Show 2022, 20th – 21st of February in Citywest, you can find us on stand F23. We will focus on some of our standard products such as cantilever racks and many more options for optimising your storage areas.

For further information, contact Seamus Coyle, coyle@ohra.de, +44 28 8224 7858 and visit www.ohra.ie.

November/December 2021

News & Products

TEC7 CONTINUE TO DEVELOP THEIR NEW WATERPROOFING RANGE For almost 20 years, the Tec7 name has been synonymous with quality, service and product innovation. Today, Tec7 continues to develop game-changing products, and 2021 saw the introduction of its new, cutting-edge Waterproofing range. Tec7 Waterproofing (WP7 for short) is an easy-to-use professional and effective range of seven products suitable for use by both tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts alike. The range covers hundreds of applications - from permanently sealing leaking roofs to resolving dampness issues in walls and basements.

TEC7 Waterproofing products can be divided into two subgroups: “Roof” and “Wall & Basement”.

The four WP7 Roof and Wall products focus on effective waterproofing, ease of use and long-term UV resistance: • WP7-101 Liquaseal: An innovative liquid MS polymer roof sealer that is completely UV-resistant from a layer thickness of 1 mm.

• WP7-201 Spray + Seal: A high quality rubber spray coating that quickly and efficiently waterproofs and protects. Suitable for use on hundreds of domestic and industrial applications.

• WP7-202 Roof Tape: Top quality butyl rubber roof sealing tape. Never tears, never sags and can withstand wind and weather for years.

• WP7-301 Roof Waterproof: All-weather repair product for roofing, asphalt and other bituminous materials, that can even be applied in to wet surfaces.

WP7 Basement & Wall is comprised of three products that have been tested on the most difficult wet (basement) walls.

They are effective and efficient even with very high levels of harmful wall salts.

• WP7-401 Facade Waterproof: The simple permanent solution to stop and protect against water penetrating exterior walls. Easy to apply with a brush, roller or spray gun. Facade Waterproof goes on white but dries clear and deeply penetrates the surface making it water repellent and vapour permeable for up to 25 years.

• WP7-402 Damp Stop: Professional injection cream for a lifelong waterproof barrier against rising groundwater.

The preferred solution for one of the most difficult renovation problems.

• WP7-501 Wall + Basement Waterproof: The simplest solution for the trickiest basement walls. A high-quality polymer cement coating that also works on wet, weak walls and floors with a high saltpetre content.

For more information, contact your local representative or their sales team on 01 6292963 or visit www.tec7.ie November/December 2021

OTECTION R P G IN F O O R P R E T WA SEMENT A B O T F O O R M O R F

WP7-501

WALL + BASEMENT WATERPROOF

POLYMER CEMENT COATING

WP7-101

LIQUASEAL

LIQUID MS POLYMER SEALER

WP7-402

DAMP STOP

RISING DAMP BARRIER

WP7-202

ROOF TAPE

PERMANENT REPAIR & PROTECTION TAPE

WP7-301

ROOF WATERPROOF ROOF REPAIR PASTE

WP7-201

SPRAY & SEAL

RUBBER BASED REPAIR

WP7-401

FACADE WATERPROOF

INVISIBLE PROTECTION & SEALING OF EXTERIOR WALLS

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News & Products

CREATING WITH SUSTAINABILITY IN MIND As sustainability climbs to the top of the global agenda, the demand for environmentally friendly products is increasing. The benefits of timber are huge as it’s sustainable and renewable, and it also has the lowest embodied carbon of any mainstream building material. Its versatility also makes it a great product for fabricators to create bespoke structures and furniture.

Working with MEDITE MDF MEDITE SMARTPLY has consistently worked to develop its specialist MEDITE MDF range to provide fabricators and designers with practical solutions that strive to meet their client’s design and sustainability goals.

As part of the Coillte Group, the company prides itself on its sustainable supply chain and manufacturing processes. This means that the products are as environmentally friendly in their make up as they are in their application. MEDITE processes wood chips from the Irish sawmill sector, which accounts for around 60 per cent of the raw material input for MEDITE MDF and fulfils an important recycling element in the forestry sector.

Additionally, the MEDITE MDF product range is CARB 2 compliant, which is a regulation limit lower than the European regulation E1 formaldehyde class.

This does not mean it compromises on quality, far from it.

The extensive MDF range boasts outstanding machinability, strength, and uniformity, which gives fabricators the freedom to create standard and bespoke structures to suit their project requirements.

For example, if flame retardancy is needed, there is MEDITE PREMIER FR and MEDITE FR CLEAR - that also features no added formaldehyde. Often, MEDITE MR and MEDITE® TRICOYA® EXTREME (MTX) are specified for their moisture resistant properties.

Many more examples demonstrating what can be achieved with MDF can be found on MEDITE’s members-only, online community site: www.meditemakesitreal.com.

With ten different families of MDF products and many variants, offering over 400 possible specifications, fabricators can create sustainable and bespoke pieces.

MEDITE Makes It Real. Join the exclusive MEDITE MDF community for inspiration and showcase your projects. Register at www.meditemakesitreal.com.

MANAGING STORMWATER SUSTAINABLY IN URBAN SPACES WITH WAVIN’S NEW AQUAGRID 40 Wavin, a leading global manufacturer of stormwater solutions, has launched its innovative new pervious paving system, AquaGrid 40. Manufactured from 100% recycled plastic, the product offers a SuDS (Sustainable Drainage System) solution for source control of storm water management for fire engine access, car parks, landscaped areas and driveways.

An extension to Wavin’s Stormwater Range, AquaGrid 40 is a 330mm x 330mm square paving unit that interlinks with integrated locking lugs. These sections can be filled with grass or gravel to provide up to 90% permeable surface area.

Lightweight and easy to install, AquaGrid 40 is also ultra-reliable, with impressive strength, loading and durability credentials and is a real alternative to hard impermeable surfacing e.g., tarmac and concrete. Also, Aquagrid provides support to make loose gravel surfaces trafficable for wheelchair access, bicycles, prams and ease of walking for pedestrians.

John McPeake, Technical Sales Manager at Wavin said, “We are all aware of the increasing number of heavy rainfall events due to climate change and the greater occurrence of flash flooding due to the over loading of the aging drainage networks. Permeable surface solutions like Aquagrid 40 prevent the surface run-off 24

and reduce the risk of flooding. A key pillar for a SuDS system is source control, i.e., capture the rainfall at source, again Aquagrid ticks this box.

The call for action on climate change is now, Aquagrid 40 offers Architects, Engineers and Developers a real solution for many locations such as driveways where permeable surfaces are typically the default option. Also, Aquagrid 40 is suitable for retrofitting many existing permeable surfaces.

To find out more about AquaGrid 40 please visit: wavin.ie/ aquagrid and for the complete Wavin Stormwater management range, please visit: wavin.ie.

November/December 2021

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HYCRAFT CELEBRATES 50 YEARS IN BUSINESS Hycraft will celebrate 50 years in business in 2022. They were one of the original manufacturers of draught excluders in Ireland helping to create valuable sustainable employment.

The company are very proud of providing Builders Merchants and Hardware Stores with draught excluders, designed and manufactured to German DIN tolerances class 3, and also plastic and aluminium angles, step nosings, floor edges and electrical conduit all produced in their premises at Greencastle Parade, Clonshaugh, Dublin 17.

Having diversified over the years, Hycraft also supply products to the wider construction sector including path crack inducers, fixing strips and cores used in concrete reinforcing as well as products to the transport industry.

The company has plans to invest ¤100,000 in additional production machinery and space in 2022 allowing them to produce new product lines. This will keep them leading the

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way with innovation and employment creation for many years to come.

During the 1970‘s and 1980’s Hycraft manufactured garden benches (4ft & 6ft) exporting some to the UK and as far afield as the Gulf states.

Made from galvanized steel and PVC they came in a flat pack and were easily assembled using a unique system developed by the company.

To add some excitement to their anniversary Hycraft are offering readers a chance to win a prize of ¤300 to the first person to correctly identify the location of one of their 1970’s benches in this photograph. A clue is that it is at a bus stop in Galway!

For a chance to claim your prize contact Hycraft at 01 8470095 and hycraft@eircom.net.

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News & Products

SCOTTISH EMPTY HOMES PARTNERSHIP In the September / October issue, The Hardware Journal covered the situation of dereliction and vacant property in Cork as an example of what is evident in many Irish cities, towns and villages. A possible solution may lie in Scotland, where they have a very successful local authority run initiative, the Scottish Empty Homes Partnership (SEHP), with the remit to encourage private sector long-term empty homes back into use.

In 2020/21 the death of the previous owner was the most common reason why homes became empty, accounting for 30% of EHOs active caseload. A further 7% of homes became empty as a result of owners moving into care homes or hospitals. In contrast, only 5% of properties remained empty because of probate proceedings and a further 3% were empty for legal reasons that may include contested estates.

The SEHP was set up in 2010 to support a wide range of organisations and individuals to bring long-term private sector empty properties back into use. The SEHP is hosted by Shelter Scotland and funded by the Scottish Government.

The largest single reason for homes remaining empty was difficulty locating or engaging with the owner, which was cited as the main reason in 21% of cases. Difficulty establishing ownership was cited in 11% of cases. These will often be homes that have been empty for five years or longer, where the original owner may have died, and where a new owner may have little or no interest in bringing it back to use.

Their recent Annual Report 2020-2021 published in June 2021 acknowledges the important role that empty homes have to play in meeting the demand for housing in Scotland across all sectors over the next twenty years. The report says that the Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the numbers of homes becoming long-term empty in Scotland. Figures published in December 2020 showed a 16% rise in long-term empty homes bringing the overall number to over 47,000. The full impact is still emerging, and the figures may continue to rise. Covid-19 has amplified and added to the challenges of bringing homes back to use.

The report states that empty homes are an asset on their doorstep. They can help local authorities respond to the housing emergency in areas where there is the greatest demand for housing. Bringing empty homes back into use can also provide a vital income stream to businesses and the local economy. Where someone is repairing or renovating an empty home, they are likely to hire local builders and contractors who purchase materials from local hardware stores. This money is then further invested in the local economy. At a time when sole traders, independent businesses and local retailers have all been severely affected by Covid-19, the importance of this income stream cannot be under-estimated. Other benefits of investing in empty homes work include: • • • • • •

Restoring confidence in the property market Community Regeneration Sustaining fragile communities Town Centre Renewal Addressing mismatch in housing supply, and Contributing to delivery of housing supply and carbon emission reductions

As part of the annual survey, information is gathered from Empty Home Officers (EHOs) on why homes became empty and why they remain empty. EHOs provide this in relation to their active caseload where known.

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Compulsory Sale and Rental Orders are believed by the partnership to be needed so that councils have greater powers to take on management of these properties. The partnership are proposing Compulsory Rental Order power that could sit alongside Compulsory Purchase Orders and a proposed Compulsory Sale Orders to support local authorities work to manage local housing need and reduce the blight of empty homes. They also noted the continued role that financial reasons play in homes remaining empty. They are continuing to call for more councils to have an active policy of not applying the council tax surcharge where owners are taking active steps to return the property back to use and where the imposition of a 100% financial surcharge may affect their ability to do this and mean that the home continues to remain empty.

EHOs reported 851 properties back into use in 2021 to date, in contrast with the 1,412 homes reported in 2020. Their ambition is to see empty homes services in every local authority in Scotland. Currently, they have 25 officers across 22 councils. They know that having an officer on the ground is an effective way to bring empty homes back into use. They say that this work should be underpinned by an empty homes strategy that will allow councils to take a planned approach to bringing empty homes back into use to meet their unique challenges. 14 councils have reported that they have a specific empty homes strategy.

The Partnership says that it is heartening to see more homes that were empty for over 24 months or more, reported back into use in this period. However, they know that for many of the really “stuck” homes, more legislative options are needed. The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership Report in full is available at https://emptyhomespartnership.scot.

November/December 2021

News & Products

MEET YOUR CUSTOMERS’ DEMANDS WITH AN eCOMMERCE WEBSITE Customer shopping habits have been shifting for some time, but the past 18 months have really expedited the pace of change.

Recent research in the UK* suggests that over the past year, 46% of consumers have shopped online for a product they would previously have bought in store. The convenience that eCommerce provides is here to stay, and it’s up to your business to make sure you have a platform that is up to the task.

Kerridge Commercial Systems (KCS) has expanded its offering, by providing leading ERP solutions, and also a range of eCommerce platforms that are fully integrated with its software.

Many businesses are already reaping the benefits of B2B and B2C online trading by using these platforms, as are their own customers.

Getting online is easier than you think Setting up an eCommerce website is often much quicker and easier than you might believe. Full integration with your ERP is a good start, not least because relevant details will be pulled through directly from your software solution. This eliminates some of the manual effort needed to maintain your portal, and ensures your customers always have access to the latest information.

180mmx130mm-K8-Hardware-Journal-ie-AD-KCS Stand J16.pdf 1 02/11/2021 10:16:21 Giles Greenslade, Business Development Director for

eCommerce at KCS, said: “Many people are surprised at just how much automation there is with our websites. The core software is constantly being updated and written with the best SEO practice in mind; we have a clear roadmap of where we are going and have built ERP in the industries that are most relevant to our customers.”

Outperform the competition with your eCommerce website One of the biggest advantages of an eCommerce platform is that it opens up your business to customers 24/7. In an age where having a website is getting to be very much the norm rather than exception, it has become a necessary tool for staying competitive in a challenging market.

Discover eCommerce solutions from KCS With a diverse range of eCommerce solutions, KCS are perfectly placed to help you with the next stage of your digital transformation. Get in touch today to see how they can get you trading online, quickly and easily. Kerridge look forward to welcoming you to their Stand J16 at The Hardware Show in February at Citywest. *NatWest - New trends in online shopping (natwestbusinesshub.com)

K8: Business management solution of choice for builders’ merchants • Cloud-based software that’s affordable, flexible and scalable • Optimise your warehouse management and meet your customers’ delivery expectations • Get trading online and open up new channels to market quickly and easily • Powerful financial control – manage your rebates, automate invoice processing • Improve your team’s performance, manage your margins and boost profits

Visit us at the Hardware Show 2022 20th & 21st February Citywest Dublin

+353 (0) 1 545 7100 Your business. Your way.

Stand J16

www.kerridgecs.ie

November/December 2021

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News & Products

CASH LODGING SOLUTIONS FROM BRINKS The face of banking is changing continuously. Ireland has seen over one third of its bank branches close this year with further closures scheduled for 2022. Retailers in rural communities are often hit the hardest. Staff and employees across the country have a longer commute to the nearest bank branch to lodge cash, cheques or to collect coin and note floats. Senior staff members are spending more time than ever handling cash and travelling to the bank instead of spending time on the shop floor where their expertise is most needed.

The risk to the personal safety of employees is also a major concern. Insurance cover must be adjusted to ensure the relevant level of cover is in place whilst carrying out travel to and from banks.

In what feels like yet another blow to business owners, bank processing fees have also reached a record high in Ireland with cash processing fees of up to 0.80c per ¤100 lodged.

If recent bank closures have affected your business or if you are struggling with time, resources or are concerned about security and the high costs of lodging and withdrawing money, why not reach out to Brink’s. Hardware Association Ireland have an Affinity deal that can offer your business a secure and cost-effective solution.

Call 087 7614656 or 1890 474000 today to discuss your options or email Denise.McCarthy@Brinks.com.

GUARANTEED IRISH ANNUAL CONSTRUCTION FORUM The annual Guaranteed Irish Construction Forum took place virtually with an expert panel discussion and Q&A on the current challenges, and opportunities within the construction sector, including Project Ireland 2040.

The event was hosted by Brid O’Connell, CEO of Guaranteed Irish, with an introduction by Paddy Kelly, Managing Director at Etex Ireland and Chairperson of Guaranteed Irish. The industry expert guest panel included Paul Candon CEO of United Hardware, Tara Flynn Director at Paul Flynn Construction, and Danny Kearney Director of Technical & Marketing at Xtratherm.

The industry leading panel discussed the rapid changes needed within the construction sector, including the need to reduce greenhouse emissions, the demand for modern technology construction methods, and the importance of appealing to younger generations to consider a career in the construction industry.

The Guaranteed Irish Construction Forum also featured a message from Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien.

The webinar is now available on the Guaranteed Irish YouTube channel.

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(L-R) Michael Crowe Chair of the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland Housing Taskforce, Paddy Kelly Managing Director Etex Ireland & Chairperson of the Board of Directors Guaranteed Irish, Brid O’Connell CEO of Guaranteed Irish, Minister for Housing, Local Government & Heritage Darragh O’Brien TD and Fergal Murphy General Manager Kingspan Insulation Ireland at Custom House to launch the GuaranteedIrishHouse.ie specification listing of sustainable construction sector businesses based in Ireland.

November/December 2021

News & Products

JMBL DELIGHTED TO RECEIVE BUSINESS ALL-STAR ACCREDITATION Joseph Murphy Ballina Ltd (JMBL) have been very busy in recent months working with the All-Ireland Business Foundation to achieve their Business All-Star Accreditation Certificate. This Accreditation is an outstanding achievement and recognises the hard work and dedication of the JMBL team in providing a best-in-class service to all their customers.

The company were delighted to have received the Business All-Star Accreditation 2021/2022 and have also been awarded All Ireland Distribution Team at a virtual ceremony in recent weeks.

Business All-Star accredited companies are defined as; progressive, indigenous Irish businesses which meet the highest standards of verified performance, trust and customer centricity. Managing Director Lorraine Burnell

said, “In achieving this Accreditation our company join a unique group of businesses and we believe this continues to demonstrate our commitment to improving our service to our customers and suppliers”.

For further information please contact, +353 96 21344, www.josephmurphy.ie

ARDALE GROUP INVESTS €1 MILLION & CREATES 15 NEW JOBS WITH NEW PLANT & TOOL HIRE BUSINESS Ardale Group, the property development and investment company, has invested ¤1 million and created an initial 15 new jobs with the launch of a new chain of Plant & Tool Hire Centres. The first Core Plant & Tool Hire Centre will open in Clondakin, with plans to roll out the service across five locations over the next 18 months.

In addition to its initial capital outlay, Ardale has also indicated that it will seek to purchase independent plant hire companies in order to rapidly expand the new business. The group has also invested in extra warehouse space around its Clondalkin and Coolock depots to facilitate this expansion.

Commenting on the launch of the Core Plant & Tool Hire Centre business, Ardale’s Group CEO Emma Maye said: “The launch of Core Plant & Tool Hire Centre reflects the growth in the construction sector due to the demand for new builds, retrofitting homes for energy purposes and renovation projects as homeowners rethink their needs due to remote working. Establishing the new business alongside our existing merchant builders offer means that we can cater for the needs of a diverse customer base from building contractors to DIY enthusiasts in Leinster, giving them access to building materials and supplies, as well as tool and vehicle hire when and where they need them.”

Establishing the new company complements the overall diversification of the Ardale Group beyond its property development arm, with the group also heavily investing in its builder’s merchant’s business. Ardale’s most recent acquisition of KCR Builders Providers has further strengthened its foothold in the Dublin market. The success of Ardale’s business strategy is also reflected in the company’s recently filed accounts, which show a net profit of ¤4.9m for 2020.

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November/December 2021

Are you getting the broadest Insurance Cover at the best available price?

Log on to www.hardwarestoreinsurance.ie to arrange an alternative competitive quotation for all your Insurance Needs. www.hardwarestoreinsurance.ie is a Dolmen Insurance brand.

John Bourke ACII Direct Dial – 01 8022361 Mobile – 086 8146236 E mail johnb@dibl.ie

Dolmen Insurance Brokers Ltd. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

News & Products

SURFACE PROTECTION, WITH ECO-FRIENDLY OPTIONS Axus Decor offers an extensive range of products to protect surfaces from paint, dust, scratches and damage from impact.

The array includes various protective sheets, paper, films, and tapes.

A favourite within the range is the Gekoe Floor-Gripping Paint Barrier Sheet, a must-have for any decorating project.

Featuring an impermeable top layer, it stops paint and any other liquids from passing through. Its bottom layer comes with a rubber-embossed pattern that holds it firmly in place, preventing accidents from occurring. This elastomeric underside also absorbs impact, protecting surfaces from tools and other items. It is fully machine washable and highly reusable, making it far better for the environment than shortlife coverings.

When you need to cover large areas swiftly, such as before spraying, Static-31 and Mask-31 are highly recommended.

The first is a paint-stopping film that’s statically charged to cling effortlessly to vertical surfaces such as walls, windows, radiators, and cabinets. The second is made with eco-friendly Kraft paper. It is perfect for covering trim, including skirting,

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architraves and window frames. Both of these products will save time as they are pre-taped, enabling you to secure them in place as you unroll.

Preventing paint from bleeding through and achieving straight lines can be a challenge. Luckily, Axus Decor’s Razor tapes are up to the job. These vibrant tapes can be left applied for up to a month, then peeled off easily to reveal straight paint lines with no residue. Choose from three levels of adhesion: Razor-31 for mid-high tack (and the one that’s applied to Static-31 and Mask-31), Razor-25 for low tack, or Razor-X or ultra-low tack.

All razor tapes are made with paper from highly renewable sources, such as the bark of the Japanese mulberry tree, so they’re ecologically sound.

To learn more about Axus Decor’s full range of painting and decorating tools and accessories, visit www.axusdecor.com or contact National Sales Manager, Anthony White, 087 3818356, anthony.white@axusdecor.com

November/December 2021

News & Products

IRISH CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE REPORT SHOWS IRELAND’S CX SCORE HAS FALLEN TO A SEVEN YEAR LOW AS COVID CASTS LONG SHADOW While many companies Customer Experience (CX) scores benefitted from something of a Covid bounce last year, this year it’s more a case of a post-Covid hangover as the country’s overall CX score fell by a record 4.4% according to the latest annual CX survey of Irish brands.

Despite this pharmacies and coffee companies continued to enjoy a strong CX performance through Covid – they make up seven of the Top Ten companies. However, the Entertainment, Logistics & Delivery and Telecoms sectors were among the worst performers in the survey which was carried out by Amárach Research on behalf of The CX Company. The 4.4% fall is the biggest decline recorded since the survey began and Ireland’s CX score is now at a seven year low having recorded a cumulative decline of 10.8% since 2015.

Hickeys, McCabes, Lloyds, McCauleys and Boots all make the Top Ten this year which is testament to the key role pharmacies played in keeping customers well.

Smyths Toys moved up 30 places to claim second this year thanks in the main to an innovative customer training programme and a highly efficient pick, pack and ship operation that they created in record time.

Supermarkets continue to perform well – this year they are represented in the Top Ten by Aldi, which replaced Lidl indicating the important role they have played in the past year.

However, Ireland’s undisputed CX Champion remains the Irish Credit Union which has claimed pole position for an amazing seventh year in a row. It is also the only brand to have maintained a constant presence in the Top Ten since the survey began, a testament to the consistency of its CX excellence.

Report author Cathy Summers said it wasn’t a surprise to see that the companies that scored the highest for exceeding customers’ expectations during Covid included the Credit Union and several other organisations such as Specsavers, Laya Healthcare and An Post, all of whom have strong CX records.

“Providing customers with personal care, reassuring them during a difficult time, exceeding their expectations by going the extra mile, that is what CX excellence is all about.

Companies where a proactive CX culture is imbued in the staff will do this day in day out, without even realising they are doing it. That’s what happens in the Credit Union and that’s why it’s not just an Irish CX Champion, but a global leader in CX excellence.”

Cathy Summers says our low score is a concern and that while companies have been battling the effects of Covid they now need to refocus their efforts on enhancing the customer journey and overall experience. “Post Covid indecision and fatigue appear to be taking a toll on companies and their November/December 2021

approach to CX. As a result, customers are losing out.

Whereas these very customers were quite forgiving during Covid as organisations struggled to adapt to new processes and procedures, that goodwill is fading fast and customers have a lot less tolerance now. Especially if there are long delays answering or communicating with the organisation.”

“During Covid many companies invested in digital solutions to interact with customers as a necessity due to lockdowns.

While these can work well and yield savings, sometimes, they can be more focused on the short terms needs of the company rather than the needs of the customer. In our report we are seeing a real hunger from customers to get back to personal one on one interactions. They want empathy and reassurance; sometimes they just want to talk to a fellow human being.”

“Last year we highlighted the leading role played by companies’ front-line staff. Now challenges with retaining employees or hiring suitably qualified replacements is disrupting the delivery of CX excellence. It’s so important for companies to understand the mood, needs and pain points of their employees. If employees are not happy, it’s highly unlikely your customers will be.”

“Ensuring the health and wellbeing of your workforce is critical as we move into different long-term working models. So also, is recognising that we can’t go back to how things were preCovid. That’s a good starting point for the next stage of the CX journey” she concluded.

For more information go to www.thecxcompany.com

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New Members

HAI IS DELIGHTED TO WELCOME ITS NEWEST MEMBERS Axus Décor Ltd 30 Fitzwilliam St. Upper, Dublin 2.

Contact: Anthony White Email: Anthony.white@axusdecor.com Ph: 087 3818356 Category: Distributor of Paint/Decorating, Hardware / DIY, Workwear & Safety / Security Products.

Michael J Corkery Ltd 8 Main Street, Cahirsiveen, Co Kerry.

Contact: Ruth Corkery Email: michaeljcorkeryltd@gmail.com Ph: 066 9472336 Category: Hardware / DIY / Garden & Homewares Retailer.

Cromar Building Products Ltd Units 1,3,4,5 Northside Industrial Park, Whitley Bridge, DN14 OGH, UK. Contact: Matt O`Dell Email: matt@cromar.ie Ph: 087 2528407 Category: Distributor of building chemicals, adhesives, timber treatments, membranes and DPC`s.

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Griffon, Bolton Adhesives Adriaan Volker Huis – 14th Floor, Oostmaaslaan 67, 3063 Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

Contact: Hans van der Linden Email: hvanderlinden@boltonadhesives.com Ph: +31 623 976 755 Category: Manufacturer & Distributor of quality solutions involving assembling, bonding, sealing and protection.

Igoe International Ltd 135 Slaney Road, Glasnevin, Dublin 11.

Contact: Brendan Igoe Email: info@igoe.ie Ph: 01 8302250 Category: Distributor of solutions for waterproofing, condensation, insulation, cleaning, and restoration.

ProtectiT SP Ltd Unit 1, Glenascaul Business Park, Oranmore, Galway.

Contact: Mark Kelly Email: mark@protectitsp.ie Ph: 087 9079290 Category: Distributor of sealers, cleaners, aero-abrasive cleaning systems and protective devices.

PVC Fabrications Ltd Briar Hill, Waterfall, Co. Cork T12 R239 Contact: Glen O`Callaghan Email: info@pvcfabrications.ie Ph: 021 4885881 Category: Distributor of drain, waste, vent and mains pipes & fittings.

Solv-X Products Ltd 20 Park Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth.

Contact: Eddie Dale Email: sales@solv-x.com Ph: 1890 207 207 / 086 7969511 Category: Distributor of non-food retail brands and retail solutions.

Soudal Ireland Unit 243 Blanchardstown Corporate Park 2 Dublin 15 D15PH24 Contact: David Farrell Email: David.farrell@soudal.com Ph: 01 8855555 Category: Manufacturer & Distributor of Sealants, Adhesives and PU Foams.

November/December 2021

HAI Corporate Partners

C O R P O R AT E PA R T N E R

CASH MANAGEMENT

Intact Software

Mark Gurney

042 933 1742 mark.gurney@intactsoftware.com

www.intactsoftware.com

Brink’s Cash Services

Denise McCarthy

1890 474 000 denise.mccarthy@brinks.com www.brinks.com

.IE

Alan Finneran

01 236 5400 afinneran@weare.ie

www.weare.ie

CREDIT & FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Credit Risk Brokers

James Riordan

01 491 6007 james.riordan@creditriskbrokers.com

www.creditriskbrokers.com

JPA Brenson Lawlor

Ian Lawlor

01 668 9760 ian@brensonlawlor.ie

www.brensonlawlor.ie

LCMS Ltd

Billy Nolan

087 2604625 billy@lcms2.com

www.lcms.ie

Kerridge Commercial Systems

Noel Burke

087 1405 483 noel.burke@kerridgecs.com

www.kerridgecs.com

NEW

Magico

Orla Cooney

065 6864580 ocooney@magico.com www.magico.com

Monsoon Consulting

Ed Wyeth

01 4750066 ed.wyeth@monsoonconsulting.com

www.monsoonconsulting.com

ECOMMERCE AND IT SUPPORT

NEW

Agility Software Ltd

David Malcolm

+353 (0) 1253 0282 david@agility-software.com www.agility-software.com 36

Sales-i

Sam Cannon

0044 121 4891070 scannon@sales-i.com

www.sales-i.com

November/December 2021

HAI Corporate Partners HR SUPPORT

PAYMENT SERVICES

AIB Merchant Services

Owen Ball

087 7715973 owen.ball@aibms.com www.aibms.com

TSA Consultants

Tommy Smyth

021 4634154 tommy@tsaconsultants.ie

www.tsaconsultants.ie

INSURANCE

PRINT MANAGEMENT

Dolmen Insurance Brokers Ltd

John Bourke

01 8022361 info@hardwarestoreinsurance.ie

www.hardwarestoreinsurance.ie

W&G Baird

Sam Sharpe

+44 (0) 75 8311 9846 sales@wgbaird.com www.wgbaird.com

LOGISTICS

RECYCLING SOLUTIONS

Woodland Group

Lee McMullen

01 8111500 lee.mcmullen@woodlandgroup.com

www.woodlandgroup.com

European Recycling Platform Martin Tobin 01 6624040 ireland@erp-recycling.org

www.erp-recycling.ie

MATERIALS HANDLING

Henley Forklift Group Ltd

Mark Kenny

01 6209200 sales@henley.ie www.henley.ie

SHOPFITTERS / RACKING SYSTEMS

Why become a HAI Corporate Partner?

By becoming a Corporate Partner, you can link your organisation to the pursuit of excellence and quality in the Hardware, Building Materials & DIY sector.

• A preferential member rate for advertising in The Hardware Journal, plus three free classified advertisements

Hardware Association Ireland will help you to promote your company to all key decision makers in the sector with;

• Preferential rates and early access to event sponsorship and networking opportunities

• A listing on the HAI website • The use of the widely recognised HAI Corporate Partner logo and a Corporate Partnership Certificate • A free listing with logo and contact details on The Corporate Partners Page in each issue of The Hardware Journal

Mil-tek Total Recycling Solutions Cliff Power 083 0044858 ireland@mil-tek.com www.mil-tek.com

tRetail

#WeGe

Johnston Shopfitters

Shane Brennan

01 4190419 sales@johnston-shopfitters.com

www.johnston-shopfitters.com

OHRA Racking Solutions Seamus Coyle + 44 28 8224 7858 coyle@ohra.de www.ohra.ie

• A preferential rate for exhibitor space at The Hardware Show • Positioning your company as a solution-provider for the hardware, building materials and DIY sectors • Access to all the latest industry news via regular emails and updates.

November/December 2021

Want to find out more?

Contact us today to become a HAI Corporate Partner info@hardwareassociation.ie or phone 01 2980969 37

Store Profile

Eamonn Kerr with the Louth Girls U16 GAA Team.

From 0-60 in three years for Ferdia Homevalue Aoife Kinsella talks to Eamonn Kerr, Manager of Ferdia Homevalue, Ardee, about the phenomenal growth and success of this ambitious threeand-a-half-year-old business, now thriving in a spacious new premises.

For Ardee, the last eighteen months has brought a positive major development; a brand-new, appealing and exciting hardware and homeware retail destination, expansive in size, selection and welcome. Ferdia Homevalues’ purpose-built premises opened in August 2020 and has been going like gangbusters ever since.

As Store Manager Eamonn Kerr tells it, Ardee’s newest landmark accelerated from 0-60 in record time. Hard to believe, from a tour of the impressive retail space, that Ferdia Homevalue first opened their doors as recently as March 2018.

No toddler steps here. Just two years on and they had moved to their extensive new location in the Ardee Enterprise Centre, just outside town and handy for the M1.

Through pandemic and Brexit, Ferdia Homevalue has seen exponential growth, a testament to the devotion of their team and loyalty of their customers.

But it takes an extra measure of confidence and foresight to plan and build a large-scale new store in the middle of a pandemic. Now this vision is paying off.

Faith in the future Ferdia Homevalue started out in Ardee’s old Catholic Church in John Street and this unique location served as the store for the initial couple of years.

The new site, comprising 18,000 square feet of a shop and yard, gave the team the space and scope to realise ambitious growth plans.

Because it was purpose-built, they could design every aspect to make the retail experience as attractive and convenient as possible

38

for customers, both trade and DIY, to fully realise the potential of their investment.

As Eamonn recounts: “Once we moved into the new store, we were able to increase our variety of stock, and we soon opened the heavy-end side of our business”.

The move has reaped results with a healthy growth in sales.

Best products at the best prices The appeal is obvious. A very shoppable store layout, and a huge selection, invitingly presented.

The team made the most of the available space with a wide array of products, encompassing: gardening, household, furniture, carpets and wooden floors, vinyl, paint and wallpaper, hardware, sanitaryware, plumbing, DIY, and heavy hardware.

“All our product displays are kept well maintained and stock is regularly replenished.” Window displays are frequently changed and updated, while all departments are clearly defined for easy access by customers.

Ferdia Homevalue also provides useful services including keycutting, paint mixing and prompt delivery.

Eamonn maintains that strong relationships with suppliers are the foundation of the product range on offer, which includes trusted brands and quality Irish-made goods. “We can get the best products at the best prices for our customers.”

Good supplier partnerships also enable Ferdia Homevalue to go the extra mile for their customers. “If a customer is looking for something in particular, we will do our best to source that product.”

November/December 2021

Store Profile

Lighting display.

Homewears display.

Ask the experts

mouth is invaluable for attracting sales and building reputation.

Ferdia Homevalue also maintains a website, www.ferdiastore.ie, which highlights all the products and services on offer. eCommerce is next on the agenda. “We will be further developing the website so it can be a platform for selling products. We want to give our customers yet another way of doing business with us, with all the convenience of buying from their home, office or phone.”

The plan is to finish the website in the coming year. “We hope this will bring customers from further afield. As we are a new store, not everyone knows the extent of our product range.”

The store’s team comprises twenty full-time and part time employees, all of whom, Eamonn is proud to say, come with the background and specialist expertise needed to meet their trade and DIY customers’ needs and give them informed help and support.

“All our staff know their products and their customers.”

Eamonn himself brings extensive know-how in plumbing and building products. Niall and Sylvia, who have been with Ferdia Homevalue since Day One, have a wealth of experience in paint, gardening, ironmongery, household and seasonal goods.

Training is regularly undertaken to keep product knowledge fresh and up to date. Customer feedback and trends in consumer tastes and habits are also highly valued and followed.

“Keeping an eye on pricing, as well as new products entering the market is imperative to our success. We stay competitive by listening to what customers are looking for and watching market trends, so we can respond and fulfil their requirements.”

It’s this combination of friendly, knowledgeable employees with a flair for customer service that Eamonn claims has helped Ferdia Homevalue become the ‘one-stop-shop’ for the local and surrounding area.

Reaching out The pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on business and society worldwide, but Tara Mullarkey, who manages Ferdia Homevalue’ marketing and administration, was particularly wellplaced to observe how Covid changed their customers’ behaviour.

The store was able to adapt quickly, she explains. “A growing number of people are using Facebook to communicate with us and other shops, especially through the pandemic when many people were not venturing out but still wanted products to maintain or enhance their home and property.”

The team uses a regularly updated Facebook page to showcase all their latest products, special offers, instore activities and other key points of interest for customers and the community alike.

Ferdia Homevalue got onto Facebook at just the right time, putting them in an advantageous position to stay connected with customers throughout the last eighteen months.

“Having that Facebook presence, launching our page in February 2018, it has now become very popular among our customer base, giving us an efficient way to reach out to them and promote our products, services and brand.”

Tara works with Krystal to update the page regularly and keep communications going with loyal customers.

“We are able to quickly publish posts with all the news, and we also respond to all comments or queries sent through Messenger in a very timely basis. It’s great to see how our customers tag their friends and relatives on products.” This digital version of word of November/December 2021

Today and tomorrow Ferdia Homevalue’ ongoing growth and resilience continues to help them through the challenges stemming from Covid and Brexit that have impacted the sector, such as rising product prices.

Eamonn notes that while changing customer trends have been welcome, ushering in new opportunities, supply continues to be a concern.

“Covid-19 brought more house repairs and home and garden DIY projects and renovations. However, we are still contending with constant increases in prices and supply issues in the current climate.”

To support and promote their growth into the future, Eamonn and his team remain open to new product developments, allowing them to maintain strong relationships with both suppliers and customers.

“We are always on the lookout for new products or ranges that come on to the market.” And with eCommerce on the horizon, more channels for selling them.

Winning associations Eamonn and the staff are proud to be associated with professional industry groups, starting with joining United Hardware in 2020.

“They have helped us become more competitive in the market by introducing us to new suppliers and providing training and marketing tools”, says Eamonn.

In 2019, Ferdia Homevalue joined Hardware Association Ireland and have greatly benefited from the information, services and advice available.

Success starts with…

When asked about the secret of their success, Eamonn’s answer was simple and succinct. “A good range at a competitive price, and staff members who know their products.”

Eamonn also attributes impressive growth in a difficult and uncertain climate to the store move, along with being part of United Hardware and Hardware Association Ireland.

With the backing of a dedicated team and a prime location the only way is up for Ferdia Homevalue.

39

Home Retrofit

Home Retrofit The Final Reveal!

In the last issue Shane Kenneally shared the latest stages of his Cork home retrofit, having completed works on the extension, windows and insulation throughout the house. In this issue Aoife Kinsella finally meets the Kenneally family in person to see the final reveal of their home now that (nearly) all their works are complete!

After months of communicating by phone and email and seeing photos on a PC screen, it was finally time for the HAI team to meet Shane in person. Before visiting the house Aoife got one final update from Shane on the last stages of works on his house before he, his wife and two children could finally move in.

May/June Upstairs: • • • •

At this stage Shane’s dad was busy painting the walls, doors and skirting boards/architraves.

The bathroom was fully fitted out with just some minor panelling left for Shane to complete.

One messy job Shane opted to leave till last was the attic.

He insulated the attic with 300mm rolls of insulation.

Shane’s carpenter uncle Ben then finished the rest of the stairs and that was upstairs complete.

Completed new stairs.

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Completed bathroom.

One of the finished bedrooms.

November/December 2021

Home Retrofit Downstairs: • •

•

The 2nd fix plumbing and electrical was completed The next big job was the kitchen, utility and other units – this was completed with an impressive grey motif of an L-shaped work counter and cabinets with built-in appliances.

“Once these were done we were pretty much ready to move in.”, explains Shane. “I installed pocket doors between the kitchen and extension, and that was us ready to move in with the rest of the long list of small jobs on the long finger.”

Shane and Amy Kenneally in their new home with a hamper presented

by HAI.

After presenting Shane and Amy with their well-deserved housewarming gift Aoife got a chance to sit down with Shane, Amy and Shane’s parents and chat with them about the eightmonth process, which, even with Covid-19 and Brexit rearing its head, was only delayed by two months!

Completed kitchen.

Q. What part of the renovation are you proudest of?

It’s hard to pick one part. It’s nice to sit back and look at what we have now and what was there before, thinking of all the work that went into it by the team (including Shane, his dad and his uncle Ben).

New living area.

On arrival at Dundeady House on a drizzly October afternoon even the rain couldn’t get hide the rugged beauty of the rolling sea-beaten hills of Galley Head.

The house shares a wide space of land which also houses the Kenneally’s growing family of farm animals including hens and pigs, along with their resident dog and cat.

Q. What were the biggest challenges you faced with your home renovation amid Covid and Brexit restrictions?

Luckily we weren’t affected too much with Covid. We renovated at the right time so we were very lucky to escape all the price hikes.

Trying to balance the project was my biggest challenge.

Working full-time shift work in a pharmaceutical company in Cork City while doing an online college course as well as having two small kids, it was fairly full on for a few months!

Q. Looking back on the entire process, what, if anything, would you have done differently?

I don’t think we would have done much differently.

Probably small things here and there but overall we were happy with the project as a whole.

Q. Any other plans for the future?

Now that we’re in we have a small list of jobs to try to get through that now that we’re in keeps getting left on the long finger. This includes things like the footpath around the house, some landscaping around the garden and to fix the driveway.

First things first I’ll enjoy my days off between shifts!

The team at Hardware Association Ireland would like to thank the Kenneally family for sharing their experiences, and wish them the best of luck in their new home.

House outside complete.

November/December 2021

41

The Hardware Show

A great time to start your planning for The Hardware Show 2022 Next year The Hardware Show on 20th and 21st February 2022 is likely to become the most important and exciting show for your business in terms of promoting your brand, getting in front of the right target audience, and energising your team. Exhibitors will have the platform to showcase their existing product range while also launching new products or services. It is the ideal time to interact in person with your customers and potential new customers. Many businesses see the show as a great opportunity to run live demos that will highlight key features and benefits of their products.

The Hardware Show should be a key element of your business plans for 2022. Therefore, now would be a good time to encourage your team to focus on how they can showcase your business and achieve the maximum benefit from the show.

Here are some tips for your team:

1 Vision: Explain your vision for the show and what success will look like. Agree on the main purpose for exhibiting; Is it about generating leads, a new product launch or to showcase an important product. Ensure everyone is engaged and fully understands why this event is important to the business and your customers. As early as possible involve people who will be representing the company at the show and ask them for their ideas and suggestions for ensuring a successful event. They will be your brand ambassadors throughout the show.

2 Best practice: Review all government guidelines about Covid-19 to ensure best practice for a safe environment during the show.

The safety of your team and customers is paramount.

Follow the recommendations issued by event organisers EventHaus and Hardware Association Ireland. In the run up to the show ensure everyone is updated on the latest guidelines.

3 Awareness: Think about how you can leverage some positive PR. Enter the Innovation Awards so that you can place a new product in front of some key industry people. Write an article for The Hardware Journal or put an advertisement in The Hardware Show Guide. Start to outline your social media campaign for the lead up to the show. It will create awareness and interest in your stand. Link this campaign

42

November/December 2021

The Hardware Show

to your vision and purpose. Agree what special offers you will have, what discounts customers can avail of and your promotional materials. Ensure you get the maximum return from these offers.

4 Networking: Compile a list of people who you would like to invite to the show. Decide what products you want them to see and what is the purpose of their visit to your stand. The show is an excellent opportunity to showcase your range of products to key customers and potential new customers.

It is also a great time to meet people face to face and reconnect in person with many of your customers while also growing your network. People who are attending the show want to find out more about your company and what you can offer them so be proactive and set up meetings.

Send out your invitations early and attach some of your offers to guarantee a great take-up.

5 Checklists: Plan for success by creating three checklists for the show. The first list should include all the tasks that must be completed in the planning stage. Then you need a checklist for the event itself including Covid-19 work safely protocols. Finally, and importantly, design a checklist for your post-show strategy. Involve your team in building these checklists so that every detail is covered. The success of any show is a team effort.

8 Debrief: Two days after the exhibition you should set up a meeting with everyone involved with the show. Review your initial plan and the outcomes achieved from start to finish. Key questions to ask include what went well, what you as a team were not happy with and what you would like to do differently or better next time. Ensure this meeting is positive, refrain from focusing on a few small problems.

The purpose of the debrief meeting is to close off the event and prepare people for the post show actions and building momentum. It is important to celebrate the success of The Hardware Show with your team, it’s a team effort.

The Hardware Show is on 20th and 21st February 2022, but it is more than these two days. The success of the show for you is based on what you do before, during and after the show. Plan for success and then reap the rewards of your hard work.

Sean McLoughney founder of LearningCurve, is a soughtafter talent support specialist, author and speaker. He provides Talent Support for organisations that drives Improved Performance by utilising the latest in learning thinking and technology.

For more you can contact Sean at Sean@learningcurve.ie.

6 Engage: Organise a pre-show meeting to ensure everyone is fully engaged and ready for these two days that will have a significant impact on your business. Emphasise the purpose of the show, describe what success will look like and outline everyone’s role and responsibility. Inject real energy into the team. During the show it is a good idea to run through your onsite checklist each morning. Also, ensure your stand is picture perfect, safe and ready to support your brand.

7 Momentum: Turn your vision and purpose into actions and momentum.

Ensure you have a robust post show plan ready so that everyone can leverage on the positivity that you created during the show. Once the show is over then it is time to start making those phone calls and set up as many meetings as possible. The leads generated are hot, so capitalise immediately. Send out a thank you note to your invited guests and use social media to stay connected. This is when all your hard work starts to pay dividends.

Sean McLoughney founder of LearningCurve.

November/December 2021

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Steve Collinge

Reaching out to our

younger consumers

Written by Steve Collinge - International speaker, thought leader, retail influencer and commentator, MD Insight Retail Group & Executive Editor Insight DIY. Our industry has a huge challenge ahead of us.

As retailers and manufacturers, we’ve been riding on a wave of increased expenditure and interest in our Homes and Gardens, generated by the COVID - enforced lockdowns and spare cash to invest.

If like me, you’ve probably read numerous articles talking about the ‘new consumers’ entering the market, the Generation Z and Millennials who appear to have discovered a new love for picking up a paint brush and transforming their living spaces, investing in house plants to improve their mental health and growing their own vegetables.

Earlier this year, as I began to reflect on 2020, I felt really encouraged by this surprising new trend, thinking this was going to fuel growth for the established Home & Garden retailers across the globe for decades to come. As this generation then move from being renters to first time homeowners they will probably invest more and more in their homes and gardens, remembering how important their homes have become during the dark days of lockdown.

So, what’s the problem then, what is the huge challenge ahead of us? The industry is in a great place, many of the retailers and merchants are full of confidence, trialling new format stores, dramatically increasing their online ranges, experimenting with new product categories - all designed to inspire us, make our homes and gardens beautiful and our lives easier?

The issue and challenge is ultimately one of brand loyalty. We believe we know our customers and where they prefer to buy their home and garden products and why they make their purchasing decisions. We also think that these same customers have a fairly good idea of what they are doing with the products when they get home.

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However, particularly in the UK, the new consumers who have entered the market during lockdown and played a role in boosting our sales and profit numbers do not have the experience and knowledge that we do. They have no loyalty for any of the retailers, or quite frankly any of the brands, with them we’re starting from ground zero. Our combined investment in advertising over the years has had little or no impact on them and even today, it’s highly likely that the places we’re advertising and promoting our brands and products are not focused on the younger generation and their needs.

I recently spoke with a Head of Insight for a global Home Improvement retailer and she told me, ‘the real problem is we don’t know who these younger consumers are, we’re struggling to understand their motivations, needs and behaviour and we don’t know how to reach them’.

Understanding and reaching out to this new generation of consumers is a real challenge for almost all retailers and most brands in our industry.

To help, a new report by youth marketing experts YPulse titled ‘No Place like Home’ provides some helpful insights on how the Covid pandemic has changed how Gen-Z and Millennials view their homes.

In summary the report states “As young people look to their spaces as mental health retreats, at-home items and services that comfort, declutter, or foster a feeling of escape from the outside world will resonate.”

YPulse observed that millennials have homebody tendencies, with a majority preferring to go to a café or watch Netflix at home as opposed to going to a party on a Saturday night. A recent survey confirms that this sentiment was present even prior to the pandemic with, “67% of 19–37-year-olds telling YPulse in January 2021 that they would rather stay in on the weekends than go out.”

November/December 2021

Steve Collinge The Role of Socials We are all aware that Gen Z and Millennials grew up on social media and as a result it influences so many aspects of their lives. Fifty-six percent of 13-39-year-olds say everything in their home should be beautiful so it looks good in pictures for social media. Social media is also where Gen Z and Millennials are finding home décor for their spaces, with Instagram and Pinterest the top social media platforms for inspiration.

So, what’s happening in our industry, which brands have taken the first, brave steps to engage with a generation who hasn’t grown up with big box or traditional home improvement retailers.

I’ve watched the campaign and it really wasn’t something that would motivate me to go and buy from Wickes, but of course that is the whole point!

B&Q and Zara Home B&Q have also recognised the importance of engaging with a completely new, younger audience. Following the launch of a tasteful collection of DIY tools by Zara Home, it was great to see B&Q showing some real personality and a sense of humour.

Lick Paint & Instagram

A business that only launched in the UK at the end of March 2020, Lick Home has taken social media by storm. Employing an aggressive Instagram strategy, they’ve engaged with the coolest lifestyle influencers to help spread the word about their new brand.

Younger and more approachable than the established competition, Lick have showcased modern paint trends, utilising user-generated content (UGC) and their IGTV (Instagram TV) series ‘Decorating Diaries’ is a must view for anyone after a splash of inspiration. They are one of the best examples of a brand in our industry reaching out to the younger consumers, with another great example being how responsive they are to customer queries, answering many questions daily, such as ‘What colour would match with Pink 04?’.

Wickes & TikTok “Shout out to Zara Home on their new tool range, we hope we did you justice. Zara x B&Q collab?”

– Tweet by @BandQ - Sept 2021

In November 2020, Wickes became the first brand in the Home Improvement industry to launch a campaign on TikTok. Partnering with Takumi, a global influencer marketing agency, the #MyWickesMyWay campaign, involved seven content creators each producing a video on the social media platform. The objective was to drive awareness of Wickes’ range of products and reach a completely new audience with authentic and creative content.

Working with Takumi, the TikTok creators were tasked with adapting existing trends including DIY tips and transformation hacks to create cultural moments and increase product usage. Supporting Wickes’ vision to increase home projects and to be the partner of choice for younger home improvers. The innovative campaign has delivered over 612,600 views and 120,000 likes as well as a combined reach of 442,000 and an engagement rate of 18%.

November/December 2021

Conclusion According to a recent whitepaper from Takumi ‘Into the Mainstream: Influencer Marketing in Society’ during the next year, 35% of marketers are considering working with influencers on TikTok and almost three quarters are now allocating a greater proportion of their resources to influencer marketing than they were a year ago, including sectors less traditionally associated such as architecture, engineering & building.

The future of our industry is in the hands of the younger generations, it will be these individuals who will decide whether our brands and our businesses survive the next ten years. Understanding their motivations and needs when it comes to caring for and transforming their homes and gardens and reaching out to them in ways that meets those needs, is critically important.

If we don’t, we risk being irrelevant to these consumers and missing out as they continue to invest in their homes and gardens in the decades ahead.

Steve Collinge is an international speaker, influencer, retail commentator and is Managing Director of Insight Retail Group Ltd and executive editor of Insight DIY. You can follow Steve on LinkedIn and Twitter and contact him via DM on LinkedIn. 45

A View From Europe

The future of home The 1st Virtual DIY-Summit 2021 took place on 9th & 10th September. The theme was “The Roadmap to Recovery, Business after Covid 19”. Our European colleague Thierry Coeman attended on behalf of The Hardware Journal and gives us his own unique perspective on the presentations.

Day 1 For the very first Virtual DIY Summit, over 1,000 participants were registered on Day 1 of the two-part event. Opening the presentations, Tim Chuah, Head of Global Consumer Appliances Research at Euromonitor, appeared on the virtual stage in Cologne and immediately raised the bar to olympic heights with his vigorous presentation entitled ‘The Future of Home’.

Tim shared with the participants a brilliant analysis of the postpandemic situation and its impact on Home Improvement.

Relooking the Future Home Tim Chuah immediately shook the audience awake with the statement: “Homes have become a ‘hygienic sanctuary’. He converted his statement into an action plan: everyone in our industry must now clearly understand, that ‘a house` has made way for ‘a home’ and it is precisely this insight that offers countless opportunities for our sector. He stated that all their figures confirm that consumers will invest more and more in their homes.

Four drivers from House to Home Tim underpinned his conviction with four drivers: The housing stock: Homes will always need to be renovated, especially now as we have spent time doing them up, it`s just a matter of when.

The number of households is increasing worldwide, despite the stabilisation of the population Work and living habits have changed fundamentally, working at home has increased globaly by + 53%.

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“Time” has been redefined, more and more time is being invested at home for relaxation, hobbies and preserving the “hygienic sanctuary”.

Tim also mentioned the impact of an ageing population with the baby boomer generation gradually reaching the age at which they have to leave their familiar homes in order to be cared for, but ideally many will be remaining at home. In other words, the functional design of homes will have to change drastically in order to provide self-sufficient home care and assistance.

This will be a huge challenge and opportunity for the Home Improvement Industry.

Tim introduced five multi-dimensional functions for the home of the future that will require five unavoidable necessities: • • • • •

creating a sanctuary, creating living conditions for later on in life, considering a 360° automated environment, a sustainable home interior and an optimal harmony between the concept of space whilst spending more time at home.

In this regard he sees eight priorities which together will offer the sector a golden future: Connectivity: The need to accelerate further investment in Smart Homes; not only with ‘smart technology’ but mainly as vigilant platforms. In the near future, homes will be ‘connected’ with Local Government Health Services or Local Authorities providing information, care or assistance 24 hours a day as appropriate.

November/December 2021

A View From Europe

Automation: The trend of automation is fully extended to all parameters of the ‘home experience’: easing the burden of housekeeping, maintenance, security and safety, climate control and healthcare.

Hygiene: In the aftermath of the pandemic, extra vigilance for hygiene has become a daily habit. In the near future, technologies and equipment are foreseen that will both automatically clean and also disinfect our living spaces.

Sustainability: Climate change is suddenly not only close at hand, but also at home. The house of the future will be equipped with efficient energy systems, recyclable processes, water purification/saving. In this context, the principle of repairing instead of throwing away becomes crucial.

Space: The home of the future will be increasingly multifunctional and by definition multi-modular, with furnishings that are constantly adapted to changing living needs. There are great opportunities for companies that will offer home services to provide ‘made-to-measure’ furniture. The future home will have to be adaptive to not only the scale of all these transformations, but the pace at which they arrive.

Time: Time and Space collide in the future home as lifestyles are changing rapidly. The organisation of home interiors knows no compromise: it’s all about convenience. The balance between domestic and working lives requires new adaptations.

Health: The home of the future - taking into account the ageing of the population - will be designed as a self-contained nursing and care space; not only for physical, but also for psychological purposes.

Supportive Care: All the conditions must be in place for people to be able to stay at home as much as possible from now on, even with a disability. Studies show that recovering from illness or accidents at home increases life expectancy. The future home must therefore be designed to offer comfort and support throughout its entire life cycle.

Breakthrough Retailing Day Two The Keynote speaker at the Virtual DIY Summit on Day 2 was Jim Inglis a former top executive at Home Depot. Jim Inglis`s presentation focused on what can we all learn from a best in class retailer over a period of four decades when it comes to business strategy in our Home Improvement, DIY and Trade Stores.

Many of the answers can also be found in his no-nonsense book “Breakthrough Retailing” recently published.

November/December 2021

Jim Inglis likes to be called a ‘street fighter’ and he has no qualms about doing so with more than a half a century of operational expertise under his belt. He served in executive positions with Home Depot, the dominant world market leader, from 1983 till 1996, first as VP Merchandising and later on as VP Strategic Development.

“Breakthrough Retailing” is definitely a blueprint and operating manual for a business owner or manager running a home improvement or DIY store anywhere in the world. Through 10 guidelines, Jim explains in a very accessible way, what the secrets are to performing exceptionally in a highly competitive world. He masters the unique art of backing up each one of these guidelines with a concrete action plan.

Jim`s presentation and his book defines the distinctive character of a company’s culture and also illustrates how a change at the top of an organisation can undermine its success story, even if only temporarily. Jim literally tells the story of a change process through trial and error - and substantiates the transformation with numerous examples that can be applied regardless of the size of the store. What’s more, he clearly has a single mission: to show, through his unique storytelling ability, how anyone can become ‘best of class’ in a world of constant transformation, especially in our DIY and Trade business during this uncertain post Covid period.

10 Guidelines about Leadership and Culture 10 core principles that drive a high productivity retailing business, from a ‘Disrupter’ to a ‘Leader’: • • • • • • • • • •

Merchandising is an art Your brand is your most valuable asset The right price is solely determined by Customer Perception Success is measured by Gross Margin Return on Inventory Management Every day low prices demands every day low cost Advertising is an investment, not an expense Self-Service is the best service Retailing must transition from product orientation to a service agenda Hire, train and keep the right people Culture drives performance

Culture drives Performance The key takeaway of Jim Inglis’ argument is that he turns the fundamental beliefs of Home Depot’s management strategies - across the different management styles - into ‘achievable’ action plans.

His quotes are striking: “people are not blind or stupid, they are always looking for value” “Don’t give the customer any reason to ever shop anywhere else” “Educate people on the WHY instead of the HOW” The key message of the presentation and the book is that retailing is all about getting the focus right. And guess what: It’s all about the customer!

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Training

HAI Training and Development Round-up 2021 Amid ongoing challenges and restrictions impacting the sector, HAI continued its training offerings for employees, managers and new recruits with a series of webinars and virtual classroom workshops.

Due to ongoing restrictions all of HAI’s training remained on Zoom, but it didn’t stop over 190 participants tuning in across the last year to 11 Eco-Product webinars, 10 Business Support webinars and seven virtual classroom workshops.

All workshops and webinars were designed, in collaboration with HAI’s tutors, Corporate Partners and Suppliers to help attendees revitalise their skills, product knowledge, and strategies to keep their businesses thriving.

Eco-Product Webinars: In February HAI launched a new webinar series focusing on Ecological and Sustainable Products.

A number of key players including Ecological Building Systems, Helske Energysave, Kingspan, Kore Insulation, Mannok, Partel, St. Gobain, Tec-7, Velux, and Waterford Stanley presented their product solutions in a ‘shop-floor’ format, presenting best use and application, giving retailers and builders merchants the information they need for their customers.

Business Support Webinars: Throughout 2021 HAI collaborated with its Corporate Partners (see page 36) and other partners to present webinars to HAI members on key business challenges such as limitations caused

by Brexit and Covid, offering practical solutions on how to overcome them: • • • • • • • • •

Eugene F Collins – Debt Recovery and Commercial Leases Google – eCommerce webinars Healthy Ireland - Workplace Wellness James Burke, Sales Consultant - Strengthening Your Sales Process in an Online World Kerridge Commercial Systems – Streamlining Your Sales Process Magico eCommerce – Getting Your Business Online and Maximising Results Michael Neary, Retail Fraud Consultant – Protecting Your Business Against Online Fraud Sales-i - Using Tech to Improve Your Sales Woodland Group – Navigating Increasing Costs in Your Supply Chain

All Eco-Product Webinars and most of the above Business Support webinars were recorded and are available for HAI members to view on The Hardware Education Hub. Contact aoife@hardwareassociation.ie for access.

Virtual Classroom Training: In Autumn HAI made a return to the virtual classroom with a series of half-day Zoom-based, highly interactive, workshops designed to update employees in their skills and strategies in key parts of their roles such as: • Credit Control • Sales • Stock Control • Merchandising • Digital Marketing HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting: In September HAI launched its inaugural Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting, a new a new mentor-based programme for new employees in hardware retail/builders merchanting.

Over 20 students are actively enrolled and are underway in their learnings in topics including Sales, Customer Service, Basic Instore Finances and Stock Control.

Read more about this on page 50.

Company-Specific Virtual Training: If your organisation is looking for company-specific training we have a number of instructors available to deliver tailored workshops for your team in topics including Stock Control, Sales, Customer Service, Credit Control, and more! eLearning – Hardware Education Hub: As always, the Hardware Education Hub, our e-learning portal, is available to HAI members on www.hardware-educationhub.ie for access to a suite of modules in topics including: Social Media Fundamentals – video courses in topics including Google Analytics, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and more.

IT and Desktop Skills - including Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint and Word, and Cyber Security.

Personal Skills - including Assertiveness, Conflict Handling and Negotiating Skills.

Commercial Skills - including Telephone Skills, Handling Customer Complaints and Remote Working.

We look forward to welcoming back participants to our virtual classroom in 2022. You can find our Spring 2022 Schedule on page 49.

For queries about any of our training opportunities, contact Aoife Kinsella at aoife@hardwareassociation.ie or call 01 2980969.

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November/December 2021

Training

Virtual Classroom Training Schedule HAI is pleased to launch its Spring 2022 virtual classroom training schedule, with half-day workshops in topics including Credit Control, Selling Skills for hardware retailers/builders merchants, customer service, digital marketing and more.

Due to ongoing public health advice, until further notice HAI workshops will take place via Zoom.

Date

Course Title

Tutor

Course Duration

Cost (HAI Member)

Cost (Non-Member)

January 25th

Credit Control – Basic Collections

Declan Flood

Half Day

¤120*

¤150*

January 27th

Advanced Credit Control

Declan Flood

Half Day

¤120*

¤150*

February 2nd

Creating a Selling Environment In-store

Terry Harmer

Half Day

¤120

¤150

February 9th

Customer Service Excellence

Terry Harmer

Half Day

¤120

¤150

March 2nd

Performance Managing the Sales Team

Terry Harmer

Half Day

¤120

¤150

March 9th

Stock Control

Keith Harford

Half Day

¤120

¤150

March 23rd

Merchandising Essentials

Keith Harford

Half Day

¤120

¤150

* For anyone who wishes to attend both Credit Control workshops, you can avail of the full-day rate of ¤210 (HAI Member) or ¤270 (Non-Member).

For more information about all our courses visit www.hardwareassociation.ie/training-and-development.

To book places or for queries about any of our upcoming training courses please contact Aoife Kinsella at aoife@hardwareassociation.ie or call 01 2980969.

November/December 2021

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Training

Octabuild announced as sponsor of HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting In a previous issue of The Hardware Journal we announced the launch of the Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting. Sponsored by Octabuild, the programme is now well underway with the 2021/2022 class progressing well in their learnings.

The mentor-based programme commenced in September this year with 20 students (new hires and current employees in the sector looking for more formal training) having completed the first three of their nine modules via interactive workshops on Zoom.

Modules completed to date are Communications Essentials, Selling Skills and Customer Service, with Instore Finances and Credit Control up next. The tutors in the Certificate come with years of experience in the hardware sector, and have been demonstrating the key strategies the students should know through discussion, role-play and break-out sessions.

After each module the students are given weekly and monthly assignments where they self-assess their own learnings and document how they will apply that learning in the workplace.

CERTIFICATE HARDWARE RETAIL AND MERCHANTING The students mentors are also heavily engaged at this stage, working closely with their students to monitor their progress in the workplace.

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Upcoming Modules: • Finance for Non-Financials: Basic instore finances and Credit Control • In-store Operations: Stock Control and Merchandising • In-store Promotion: Digital Marketing and Social Media • Management Development: Team Work and TeamBuilding The students are also preparing for a number of Product Knowledge tutorials, where tutors will provide key product information on sectors such as Heating and Plumbing, Building Materials and General DIY Products.

OCTABUILD ANNOUNCED AS SPONSOR HAI is pleased to welcome Octabuild as the official sponsor of the HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting 2021/2022. As a group of major Irish building material suppliers Dulux Paints Ireland, Etex Ireland, Glennon Brothers, Gyproc, Instantor, Irish Cement, Kingspan Insulation and Wavin Ireland - Octabuild is committed to promoting the benefits of high quality, Irish manufactured products for the building, construction and DIY sectors.

Octabuild Chairman, Ray Molyneaux of Irish Cement said: “Octabuild is delighted to sponsor the HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting. Partnership and consultation have always been a feature of Octabuild’s relationship with the merchant trade and we see this programme as adding significant value in the development of skills and expertise in the industry. We look forward to seeing how participants progress over the coming months.”

For more information about this certificate in terms of pricing and how to enrol your employees, contact aoife@hardwareassociation.ie or call 01 2980969.

November/December 2021

Business Support IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

MOIRA GRASSICK Peninsula Business Services Ireland

Restructuring: Workforce planning, employee upskilling, and redundancy Restructuring…what is it, why should you know about it, and why may it be necessary?

Restructuring is a HR term used to describe an internal change in a business to respond to evolving circumstances. It usually involves the reallocation of human resources or a reduction in headcount. Or both.

At present, however, restructuring is best thought of as a situation arising when a business is working to return to regular operating levels following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. To do that, this business may consider hiring more staff, upskilling current employees, or perhaps letting some people go.

Other reasons why a restructure may be necessary include: • • • • •

Business relocation Changes in management To incorporate new technology To concentrate on key products or accounts To merge with another company

Risks of restructuring When undertaking a restructure, focus on the business case.

Ensure that you are crystal clear on why the business needs to restructure. This involves examining the reasons why the business needs to change and the options that will allow the business to adapt to the evolving pressures.

There are three main risks when undertaking a restructure: 1. Redundancy risks: If considering redundancies, you must follow correct procedure before confirming any dismissals. Employees are well protected under redundancy legislation and there are multiple redundancy-related risks that could lead to an unfair dismissal claim.

2. Constructive dismissal risks: A contract of employment can only be changed by agreement with the employee. You should never change an employee’s contract without first consulting them or seeking their consent.

Doing so runs the risk of incurring an unfair or constructive dismissal claim.

November/December 2021

3. Discrimination risks: Employers have a legal duty to avoid discrimination under the Employment Equality Acts 1998 - 2015. You’ll need to bear this in mind during a restructure as any decisions you take with regard to reallocation of staff or termination of employment must not favour one cohort of employees over another.

Post-restructure challenges The business risks of a restructure are far-reaching and can have a long-lasting impact. The morale and motivation of staff who continue on with your business are likely to dip if the restructuring process is not handled in a fair and transparent manner.

Effective communication during the transition is vital. Providing relevant supports to staff who leave should also be part of your reorganisation planning. Your employees who continue on with your business may even suffer from “survivor” guilt.

What’s the difference between restructuring and making redundancies?

Restructuring usually means that the same people remain employed but do different jobs. Sometimes a restructure does lead to redundancies if the requirement for people to do a particular job is eliminated and they cannot do another job instead.

Lay-off and short-time working are two alternative options to redundancy to consider. Employers can place employees on a period of unpaid lay-off where there’s a contractual provision to do so or established custom and practice of laying employees off within your workplace. Rules do apply, however, including: •

• •

•

Where the employment contract allows or with the employee’s agreement, a person can be placed on temporary unpaid lay-off.

The reason for the lay-off must be clearly communicated.

When selecting employees for lay-off or short-time working, you should apply the same criteria for selection as for redundancy.

Under equality legislation, the selection must not discriminate on any of the nine grounds: gender, civil status, family status, age, disability, sexual orientation, race, religion, and membership of the Traveller community.

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Business Support IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Now is the time to upskill in nZEB! Buildings can use and waste a lot of energy. A nearly zero energy building (nZEB) is a high-performance building that needs only a small amount of energy use. The nZEB standard is mandatory and will shape the future of construction. Now is the time for everyone across the building supply chain to upskill in how to achieve nZEB. Under the revised building regulations, all new residential buildings must have a Building Energy Rating (BER) of A2. Consequently, new homes will be warmer and more comfortable. nZEB will also help reduce our carbon emissions.

So, making buildings more energy efficient is a big part of the national effort to tackle climate change.

However, energy efficiency doesn’t just apply to new builds, if we want to renovate our existing homes, they need to perform better. The majority of houses in Ireland are wasting energy with 78% having a C2 Building Energy Rating (BER) or lower. Under the new regulations, if a major renovation is carried out on a home the entire building must achieve an improved energy rating, typically a B2 BER. A major renovation means the renovation of a building where more than 25% of the surface of the building envelope undergoes renovation.

In addition, the Government’s Climate Action Plan (CAP) has a target to renovate half a million Irish homes to a B2 BER by 2030. This commitment will generate a huge increase in renovation activity in the coming years and it is important for everyone in the sector, including builders’ merchants, to get up to speed on the principles of achieving low energy buildings.

There are a number of training courses available for upskilling in nZEB. A good place to start, is the nZEB Fundamental Awareness course and the nZEB Retrofit Course which are now being delivered online and face to face by Waterford Wexford Educational Training Board (WWETB) and other ETBs. These courses demonstrate how to achieve a high quality nZEB building using a number of best practice case studies, looking at the building fabric (envelope and detailing) first and then looking at building services (heating, ventilation, smart controls etc).

Using the first principle “Build tight, Ventilate right”. They explain the importance of how a correctly insulated building will reduce heat loss, where common gaps and detailing defects occur, how these can affect the building performance and best-case examples on how to resolve them. The benefits

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ALICE RYAN Irish Green Building Council

and importance of airtightness for buildings are also presented and explained, requiring the necessity for controlled ventilation systems in nZEB buildings.

There are a number of other nZEB training courses available at WWETB, specifically for craft workers – plasterers, carpenters, bricklayers, electricians, plumbers, and ventilation providers, as well as site managers. These provide an in depth understanding of nZEB related to their specific trade and role on site, with certification through City and Guilds.

Training incorporating and demonstrating how Building Information Modelling (BIM) and other Digital Tools can assist with achieving nZEB compliance are also available through Technological University of the Shannon (TUS). It is important to understand how to manage and streamline work on site, address and provide solutions, ensure nZEB compliance and work as a team using digital tools, especially when renovating an existing building.

The BIMzeED programme consists of a number of short learning-units that let you do the training in a blended format (online and face-to face). Early next year all learning units will be available online.

The Irish Green Building Council have launched the #WaterMatters campaign, which calls for retailers to communicate the importance of water efficiency to consumers. As part of this Water Efficiency Awareness Campaign, IGBC are currently developing a training course for Hardware Stores & Retailers in water efficiency and the requirements of sustainability certification systems such as HPI and LEED. To find out more about the project and how we can help you contact Alice Ryan, Alice@igbc.ie and Benny McDonagh, benny.mcdonagh@lit.ie. nZEB Awareness Courses http://nzeb.wwetbtraining.ie.

November/December 2021

Business Support IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Want to hire or keep the best Employees? Give them a share of the action DEBORAH DROUGHT JPA Brenson Lawlor, Director - Taxation Services

There are always challenges in business. How do you hire or keep the best talent? How can you invest in top-class training and then make sure your newly skilled employees don’t walk straight out the door to other companies?

One recent report* shows that companies with employee ownership options were 3.63 times more likely to retain nonmanagerial staff and 3.95 times more likely to retain managers than traditionally held companies. Other studies have shown that employee participation in the ownership of a company can contribute to a much greater than average growth of a business, because of the employee involvement in the company.

It’s a way of rewarding employees in addition to their salary, and other than the initial setup and running of the scheme; there is usually no cost to the employer. So that’s good. There are many types of schemes, ‘Revenue approved’ or ‘Revenue unapproved’ so it’s always best to have a chat with your financial advisers about which is the right one for your company. Here’s a simple checklist of the types of schemes:• • • • • • • •

Share awards (free or discounted shares) Share Options – option to buy shares in future at an agreed price Employee Share Purchase Plan Key Employment Engagement Programme (“KEEP”) Restricted shares Convertible securities Forfeitable shares Growth shares

For the employee that gets shares in an employer company, he or she is liable to income tax, PRSI and USC on the value of the shares received like any other benefit arising as part of their employment. Depending on the scheme, the tax is collected through the operation of payroll deductions by the employer although there may be no Employers PRSI to be paid on the benefit. The tax, PRSI and USC due could be up to 52% of the value and a formal valuation should be carried out. The schemes above do not need Revenue approval. However, there is a Revenue reporting obligation for the employer.

Then there are the ‘Revenue approved’ schemes of which there are four:• Approved Share Option Scheme • Approved Profit-Sharing Schemes • Employee Share Ownership Trusts • Save As You Earn November/December 2021

For employees, the value of the shares received may be exempt from income tax (T&Cs apply, of course!) however again, for the employee USC & PRSI is payable on the value of the shares as well as CGT 33% on any future sale.

One scheme business owners are opting more and more for is the ‘Restricted Share’ scheme. This is an ‘unapproved’ but tax efficient scheme for shares acquired by employees with a period of restriction imposed on their sale. Because of this restriction the value of the shares is reduced for the purposes of tax assessment.

However, if restrictions are subsequently lifted, say on a sale of the shares, the tax has to be recalculated at that time.

The shares must be held in trust (organised by employer) for a specified time (minimum of one year), and there are other restrictions during this time, including around the assigning, transferring, pledging and selling of the shares.

In broad terms, the market value of shares issued in a company is derived from the value of the business and assets owned by the company. Usually, there’s no ‘ready market’ for these shares so they have to be valued formally by an accountant. That valuation looks at the company’s profits, the value of similar companies and any historic share transactions within the company. Value discounts are applied for issues such as the size of the shareholding (lack of control etc.) as well as the lack of lack of marketability of the shares (not easily sold, if required). In the case of Restricted Shares, the value of shares reached using the above parameters is reduced further to recognise the period of restriction. This could be up to 60% if the restriction is in place for five years.

A further requirement is that employers with these kinds of schemes have to complete an “Employer’s Share Awards” return by 31st of March following the end of the relevant tax year, that includes details of share awards made and disposals. Employees within such schemes are also required to file a return.

These schemes my look on paper to be complicated, but in reality, once established, are very easy to operate. Once in place they are unquestionably an excellent way of attracting the right staff that will identify the potential in your business and help you both achieve it.

For further information, please contact your financial advisor, or Deborah Drought, Director, Taxation Services, JPA Brenson Lawlor Ltd. Email deborah@brensonlawlor.ie. * ESOP companies outperform other firms during Covid-19 pandemic - The Menke Group

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

Hand and power tool market globally A recent report* states that the size of the “Hand and Power Tools Market” is expected to grow by 5.2% globally.

The base year considered for the study is 2020, and the forecast period is between 2021 and 2026.

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There has been an increase in the adoption of Hand and Power Tools in various industries such as Residential, Construction, Industrial and Gardening. The return of trade shows and expos internationally have and will help Hand and Power Tools manufacturing companies to expand their customer base and contribute significantly to the growth of the Hand and Power Tools market.

affecting production and demand, by creating supply chain and market disruption, and by its financial impact on firms and financial markets. Recent analysis monitoring the situation across the globe indicated that the market will generate remunerative prospects for producers post the COVID-19 crisis. https://www.marketwatch.com/ Nov 01, 2021 (The Expresswire).*

The sudden outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the implementation of stringent lockdown regulations across several markets resulting in disruptions in import and export activities of Hand and Power Tools. This can affect the global economy in three main ways: by directly

This year the power tools market in Europe is expected to grow by a rate of 3.25%. Factors such as the growing popularity of cordless power tools will drive the growth of the market. https://www.prnewswire.com/

November/December 2021

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

After 75 years many customers become friends!

John Stafford & Sons celebrates the key milestone of 75 years in business in 2022. Current owner Brendan Stafford says “We owe a very special thanks to our founder and former managing director, the late John Stafford (Senior)”.

Well known for his generosity and down-to-earth nature within the industry, John (Senior) worked very hard to develop the business which survived many national and international events. The business has never moved out of family hands and is owned and run today by his son Brendan.

“After 75 years many customers become friends”, this builds a strong recognition of what you do and they want to join in your success” says Brendan.

Established in 1947 as a small family owned business in Dublin, the company has grown to become a key supplier in the hand tool, power tool, hardware, agriculture, motor and gardening sectors.

Over the years it has been said on many occasions by customers: “They wish they had started doing business with us sooner” - which is taken as a real endorsement and compliment for the company and our staff “ says Brendan.

The company`s commitment to local communities and sponsorship around Ireland has given them a reputation for giving back. The success and continued growth of the business is down to the hard work and dedication of the staff and the continued support of a large loyal customer base throughout Ireland. The simple formula of offering quality products, delivered by a dedicated team of professionals with value for money and above average margin opportunity for their retail partners is key to their continued expansion and strong growth.

The Stafford company motto of ‘quality brands trusted service’, can be experienced in their new showrooms in Blackwater, County Wexford. The company are rightly proud of the friendly atmosphere customers experience on their visit - here they will find 2,000 products, many of which are manufactured and sold under the company’s own brands Protool and AC Brooklyn. The company also has exclusive distribution of other well-known strong selling brands.

November/December 2021

The key principles of hard work, integrity, innovation, and care for nature are as important today as they were 75 years ago! These core values are still the cornerstone of what the business does today. Now in their ninth decade the company has a strong and deeply rooted presence as a key supplier to almost all retail customers throughout Ireland.

Brendan says “As we look towards the next 75 years our responsibility is clear, to keep the business relevant and listen to our customers at all times. It’s also important to embrace best practice to reduce the impact the business has on the environment”.

Stafford’s are proud to support and sponsor their local tidy towns. In 2021 they have also set aside almost one acre of their site as a bee sanctuary and eight acres of natural forest for birds and wildlife. Sometimes little things make a big difference!

The company has a firm eye on the future with an extensive investment program involving infrastructure, it’s online and off-line marketing programs plus new quality product launches.

The company look forward with excitement to the years ahead to commemorate their 75th anniversary. It plans to roll out a number of exciting initiatives under the theme “With you 75 years” starting in Spring 2022 and running for the whole year. They will keep you posted about the celebrations and hope you will celebrate with them.

John Stafford & Sons are delighted to launch their fantastic Black Friday offers. Contact your local sales representative for more information or visit www.stafford.ie

Contacts your local sales representative. For more details see stafford.ie

Staffords are delighted to launch their fantastic Black Friday offers 55

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

Cats® out of the bag: AEF launch Caterpillar Products AEF have been in business for over 50 years in Ireland and are the main distributors for world class brands - Metabo, RIDGID, SIGNET, Starrett and Irwin Hilmor. As a business they have not stood still and have continued to add new brands to their portfolio over the last 12 months, one being a globally recognisable name – Caterpillar. Over the past three years Caterpillar has revised its licensee program, putting a major focus on premium level quality, and also looking at innovation in the product areas they entered.

standards, is one in which every retailer/ merchant craves product differentiation. AEF felt that a brand like Cat® would allow merchants to have a highly recognisable brand that is synonymous with quality, and also partnering with the stores would allow them a form of exclusivity. How the company achieve this is through working with what they call `Cat® Partners’, who buy into the concept and allow those partners to have these products on a regionally exclusive basis.

As part of the portfolio, AEF has added Cat® licensed products in multiple categories including Site Storage, Tool Bags, Gloves, Torches, and Inverter Welders. Tom Finn, MD at AEF, told The Hardware Journal that “Having Cat® as a partner allows our resell partners to have products that are recognisable and that they are very comfortable in selling.”

For further information contact AEF Limited, +353 (1) 626 7516, sales@aef.ie, www.aef.ie.

Over the coming months AEF will be adding more products to bolster Cat® as a complete category offering in the Irish market. The Irish market, although small by international

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November/December 2021

Design that will last The new range of ergonomic, colour-coded screwdrivers from Hultafors (Snickers Workwear) Hultafors’ new range of screwdrivers feature an optimal grip for precision work and maximal transmission of power, plus colour-coded handles with durable marking.

The assortment includes over 100 new articles ranging from single models to complete sets, including a VDE range featuring an isolated blade, certified according to IEC 60900 for safe operation up to 1000V. Designed in Sweden, manufactured in Germany.

www.hultafors.ie

Hultafors Tools is part of the Snickers Workwear family

HULTAFORS GROUP IRELAND Unit B5, Calmount Business Park, Dublin 12 Tel: +353 (0)1 409 8400 E-mail: info@hultaforsgroup.ie www.hultaforsgroup.ie

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

Draper Tools launches the next generation of mobile lighting As the darker months set in, it’s an ideal time of year to update your lighting offering. Draper is launching a new Wireless Rechargeable Lighting range, offering ultimate convenience.

Hand Torch offers an ultra-bright 1000 lumens with six brightness settings, including a 5 lumen eco-setting.

The long distance beam goes as far as 250M and has an impressive approximate runtime up to 200 hours depending on the setting.

For handsfree working, the comfortable Head Torch gives 400 lumens of bright LED light with four brightness settings, ideal for inspecting engines and other enclosed areas.

Contact your Draper Area Sales Manager or visit www.drapertools.com for more details.

Draper Wireless Rechargeable Lighting range.

No charging cable, No problem This next generation of lighting features three handy lights that can be easily charged, in the garage or on-the-go in the van. Choose from a Mini Flood Light, Compact Hand Torch or a Head Torch, with fast wireless charging pads available for quick, convenient re-charging. These wireless charging pads have strong magnets, allowing them to be mounted to magnetic surfaces. They can also be mounted to nonmetallic surfaces like walls and van panelling, using built-in screw holes. Plus, the wireless changing pads will charge other devices too - there’s even a pull-out phone holder for securing QI enabled mobile phones. There are single and dual charging pads available, so a mobile phone can charge at the same time as a light.

Draper Wireless Rechargeable Lighting - Head Torch & Charging Pad.

The whole range is robust and durable, with the Mini Flood Light and Head Torch being IP65 rated, while the Compact Hand Torch offers IP68 waterproof protection. Designed for the trade environment, it features and ultra-tough nylon, aluminium and TPR construction as well as being IK07 dust and shock resistant.

Three versatile lights to choose from The compact but bright Mini Flood Light will illuminate dark corners, it’ll deliver a powerful 670 lumens of LED light and includes three brightness settings.

For anyone investigating hard to reach areas, the robust

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Draper Wireless Rechargeable Lighting - Torch.

November/December 2021

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

ITI report excellent trading conditions As International Tool Industries (ITI) close in on their third successful year in business and having overcome the tribulations of 2020 and the lockdowns, they can report excellent trading conditions, since commencing business in late 2018.

Through pure determination and hard work, the whole ITI team stayed focused on realising what they set out to achieve to become a recognised supplier of Makita Power Tools and Benman Hand Tools, into Hardware and Builders Merchants nationwide.

Their objective was and still is to offer their wide customer base a reliable and dependable service, each day. This effort was acknowledged when ITI received a highly commended award by Expert Hardware in 2020 at their annual awards, in recognition of outstanding customer service to the group.

General Manager, Don O’Toole says, “As well as the team of people we have working for us, we couldn’t have achieved the results we have without the commitment from our dedicated and loyal customer base. There is strength in numbers and this has proven to be the fact, now with over 350 active accounts on our books, all looking to build on their relationship and place orders even more regularly than before. One of the keys to making a success of any business is stock availability and if you have that right, you are going in the right direction.”

Even though 2021 has been a challenging year, with price increases and endless logistical problems, ITI have managed to keep control of their day-to-day activities. Their biggest commitment this year was to invest in stock, and they continue to do so. They are proud to say that their pick rate in the current times is running at 95%, offering total customer satisfaction.

They are now looking forward to 2022 and meeting a long list of customers at The Hardware Show, on February 20th & 21st at Citywest.

The new XGT 40v Battery range, available now.

For further information please, Tel: +353 (0)47 30650, e-mail: sales@internationaltoolindustries.com, www.internationaltoolindustries.com

Your Number One Tool Supplier

Killyleen, Ballinode, Co.Monaghan Tel: +353 (0)47 30650 e-mail: sales@internationaltoolindustries.com www.internationaltoolindustries.com COME VISIT US AT THE HARDWARE SHOW ON THE 20TH & 21ST OF FEBRUARY 2022 (STAND NO: C13) November/December 2021

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

Jefferson Tools are heating up & powering forward this Winter Don’t get caught out in the cold this Winter! The Jefferson Tools team have brought you the most efficient heating and power generation solutions for your workspace.

The Jefferson heater range includes electric and fuel powered options suitable for domestic and industrial applications. From 2.0kW up to 44.0kW, the range offers customers a variety of robust heating options for indoor and outdoor environments.

With three direct oil space heaters providing 60,000, 105,000 or 150,000 BTU, one brand new infrared iR75 heater and two electric fan heaters providing 2.0kW and 2.8kW of heat, Jefferson Tools have the perfect heater for any setting.

Jefferson generators are available from 2.8kVA up to 25kVA. The range includes petrol and diesel generators, as well as a 5.7kVA welder generator. With most people unsure of what power supply they require for their particular application, Jefferson Tools can also provide customers with the advice they require to make the perfect choice.

Working with top brands John Murphy (Castlerea) Ltd work with top brands in supplying power tools (1st & 2nd fix) to complement their supply of fasteners and fixings. Shortage of supply of tools and batteries in particular has been an issue in the past year, but some recent improvements have been identified. They are currently running an offer on their GT90i first fix Senco Tool which includes two batteries and a free set of safety googles and ear plugs. They also supply a large range of Paslode tools.

The company offer display and merchandising stands to support instore display of their Allgrip Tools and Wire Netting Ranges.

Their Allgrip tools range covers Agri, Construction and Garden sectors.

Global supply chain issues have been challenging over the past 12-18 months. However, they are delighted to have excellent stock levels of both Tools and Wire Netting.

Readers can avail of an offer on a Conmetall Meister German made 156 piece tool kit that converts into a trolley, selling in big numbers currently.

For further information and next day service nationwide contact, John Murphy (Castlerea) Ltd, 094 9620182, info@jmcallgrip.ie, or www.jmcallgrip.ie

To find out what’s new with Jefferson Tools, visit the website www.jeffersontools.com.

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November/December 2021

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

Why product lifecycle matters in Ironmongery With COP26 having taken place this November all eyes are on sustainability in the built environment. For Ironmongers this means that they are increasingly asked about product lifecycle.

The quest for environmental sustainability has become widespread. A recent report from Karen Trigg in the UK`s Architectural Ironmongery Journal states that a 2019 survey found 47% of internet users worldwide had stopped consuming products and services that opposed their personal values – protecting the environment topped the list as a reason for switching that product or service. With expectations on corporate responsibility also growing, it is clear that meeting environmental obligations – whether as an individual or organisation – is growing in importance.

For Ironmongery, this is no different. Building environments account for around 40% of the UK’s carbon footprint, and

the products used within are contributing to this total. With architectural ironmongery constructed of iron, steel, aluminium and timber, this subset of the construction industry would also have an impact on the environment and contribute to these statistics.

To combat this, decision makers can look to ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’ in a bid to improve their sustainability. Much of this is achieved by eliminating product and packaging waste, repurposing excess or discarded materials and creating innovative products and solutions that are better placed to meet environmental regulations.

Source: https://aijmagazine.co.uk/cop26-why-product-lifecycle-matters/

New Kasp Combination Locking Bolt convenient keyless security Kasp, a leading brand in safety and security from Carl Kammerling International, is expanding its popular range of combination security products, which offer high quality, cost-effective security solutions for a multitude of domestic and industrial environments.

The new Kasp Combination Locking Bolt is no exception, offering convenient, keyless security for a number of applications.

This premium, easy to use combination locking bolt features a die cast matt black weatherproof body for durability and superior corrosion resistance. The bolt can be fixed in a horizontal or vertical position. With its 10mm hardened steel bolt and black tamper-proof and stainless-steel clutch head screws, it offers the perfect high security solution for gates, sheds and lockers.

A 4-dial combination is resettable, and offers a choice of 10,000 settings, which can be set quickly and easily.

The Kasp Combination Locking Bolt measures 120mm x 48mm with a 10mm bolt, with a large black slider button for ease of use in all locations. The bolt is lockable in both open and closed positions for added security and safety. A handy door frame fixing plate is also supplied with the combination locking bolt.

November/December 2021

By offering a complete range of quality combination security products that are growing in demand, Kasp provides the ideal one stop shop for customers looking to maximise sales. The Kasp Combination Locking Bolt is featured, along with other Kasp products, in the exciting new CKI Magnetic Winter Sales promotion which runs from 1st September to 21st December 2021. Simply contact your local sales representative or telephone CKI customer services on +44 (0) 1758 704704 or email sales@cki.uk.com for details of the fantastic savings on offer.

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

Newest trend in Door Ironmongery are premium finishes The newest trend in Door Ironmongery are premium finishes.

These finishes help boost the designer look of your customers` door and in turn their home. This trend can also be seen in other areas of the home such as bathroom fittings, wiring accessories and cabinet furniture. Pat O`Donovan from Locks & Hardware says “Since the start of the pandemic people are willing to invest more on their homes than they may have been previously. Earlier this year Locks & Hardware launched our Luxury Collection door packs to cater for this growing demand. The premium finishes are Matt Black, Satin Brass, Antique Brass and Matt Bronze. The Luxury Collection door packs are building regulations compliant with our component matching suited finish door lock and 3 Grade 13 hinges. To distinguish the Luxury Collection door pack from our Standard Ultimate door pack we came up with a new sleek white box to show the matching finishes more clearly. Our new shop displays can be seen in this image from Morris’s Builders Providers & DIY in Waterford.”

Seamus Reynolds, CEO Morris Builders Providers & DIY, says, “Locks & Hardware have given us eye catching Carlisle Brass displays and with their extensive range it gives us a complete

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offering in our doors and floors section. The Luxury Collection door pack is the latest addition to our range which gives us something that the change in customer tastes requires. The finishes in the Luxury Collection are exactly what the consumer is looking for today. Locks & Hardware back this up with their knowledgeable staff and quality service.”

Morris`s Builders Providers & DIY in Waterford.

November/December 2021

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

Fair global market for screws The industry is currently confronted with two independent challenges in parallel. The raw materials commonly used for the production of screws made of iron and steel have risen sharply in price, and an EU procedure to reintroduce antidumping duties on the import of certain screws and washers made of iron and steel from the far east is up for decision regarding fair competition.

The scarcity of raw materials is a current problem which, in addition to many other materials, such as timber or certain plastics, is driving the price of steel into unimagined heights worldwide. It is hoped also that the decision in Brussels to reintroduce anti-dumping tariffs in the screw industry will enable fair action in the world market.

Source: https://www.schraubenverband.de/post/pressemitteilungdes-dsv

John Murphy (Castlerea) Ltd continue to expand the Unifix prepack range John Murphy (Castlerea) Ltd continue to expand the Unifix prepack range of Fasteners and Fixings. Smaller packs hold typically 5 -10 nuts or bolts per pack while they also stock larger trade pouches. Many customers go with a combination of both.

The company believes that selling fasteners in loose format is here to stay for some stores as selling through the tilt bins allows customers to select the exact quantities that they require.

The past 18 months have shown huge growth in the sale of screws. The company`s RapierStar Screws have supported that growth and customers continue to repurchase because of the excellent quality.

John Murphy (Castlerea) have worked for many years with Conmetall in Germany to supply the hardware and builders merchant trade. Prepack Fasteners, Timber Connectors, Chain and Rope Stands are the main solutions provided. They are now expanding this range into Garden and General Hardware. Their products are individually bar coded and the German quality is visible throughout the range.

Drill Bits, Chisels and Cutting Blades are an area that continue to perform very well. Again, the German quality seems to be very popular with customers over and over again. The company are currently offering special deals for new stand installs in stores nationwide.

John Murphy (Castlerea) Ltd are also delighted to announce on an exclusive basis the introduction of the CAMO screw system which enables the screws to be hidden in wooden, composite or PVC decking. The solution creates an aesthetic fastener-free deck surface and reduces the risk of splinters. The screws come in a protech coating or stainless steel. We look forward to sharing this exciting new range with customers in the coming months.

For further information and next day delivery service nationwide contact, John Murphy (Castlerea) Ltd, 094 9620182, info@jmcallgrip.ie.

November/December 2021

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

The Olympic Torch continues to shine bright in Ireland The past two years have transformed nearly every aspect of the world. Seemingly overnight, living through the Covid-19 global pandemic and Brexit has driven dramatic shifts in jobs and requirements. Virtually no one has been left untouched.

Olympic Fixings had to adapt to the current conditions because they are committed to serving their Irish customers. They are a genuine Irish business with a long-term link through their Distribution Centre in Bangor, great staff and over 3,000 SKUs held in stock for delivery throughout Ireland.

To continue offering their seamless service whilst transitioning through Brexit, they have maintained stock levels on the ground with help from their British Distribution Centre to augment supplies. Jenny Ferris, Bangor Customer Services Team Head, has continued to take good care of customers, preserving longheld relationships. They have also continued to innovate with a succession of new product launches.

From late 2019 through Brexit and the pandemic, they launched their ever-popular Beaverscrews range and added Beavertape, Beaverdiscs and BeaverSand to the Beaver Family. They have extended the 4fire range of products with clip4fire (rated metal cable clips) and fix4fire (fire-rated screws). They have also created a ‘Next Generation’ TradeTub range, with a fantastic bright new look, sitting well in-store and helping consumers to quickly identify the products whilst in use, and take a look at their social media.

Not only have Olympic Fixings been working on their product range, but they’ve also taken a look at operational requirements.

Fuelled by Covid-19 restrictions, they have introduced their online trading platform, www.beaverscrews.com. However, they’ve kept their telephone order lines open. Customer choice is king!

Finally, Ade Solomon, Group Sales Director says “I would like to express our gratitude to the customers who have continued their relationship with Olympic Fixings, Bangor, during these difficult years. Committed to our Irish customers, we remain steadfast and move towards a brighter future together.”

Ade Solomon, outside Olympic Fixings Bangor Depot.

TIMCO reports 14% turnover increase TIMCO, a leading supplier of essential construction products based in Monaghan, reports an increase in turnover of 14%. The rapid growth, which occurs in the run up to the company’s 50 years in business has necessitated a company investment in both its Ireland and UK facilities.

The TIMCO website, www.timco.co.uk, re-launched before the pandemic, has undergone a period of continual development and enhancement. Online sales have increased from 20% to over 50% of all sales within the last 12 months. This has been accompanied by extensive rebranding to align all the products under the TIMCO brand, all of which are featured in the company’s Autumn/Winter Product Catalogue. This year, TIMCO has already launched over 750 new lines including a new range of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and a forthcoming range of hand tools in 2022. John Mackin, Ireland’s General Manager comments “We are delighted that, despite a challenging year with the pandemic and shortages of raw materials, we have been able to grow the Irish business significantly.”

New Products from TIMCO include a new CE Approved PPE Range which has all been designed, tested and certified to protect the user against health and safety risks in the workplace.

Totalling almost 100 lines, the introductory selection includes Eye and Ear Protection, Face Shields as well as Gloves, Knee Pads and Coveralls.

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TIMCO is also delighted to partner with another industry leading company to launch Talon Pipe Clips and Accessories.

An introductory offering provides best-selling lines within their respective ranges including Hinged Pipe Clips, EZ Joist Clips, Nail In Pipe Clip and Pipe Collars.

Also new to the market, the company is excited to launch a new range of Industry Packs across key TIMCO screw ranges. The chosen lines represent the best-selling sizes from each respective range within cleverly designed boxes; the first of which is the TIMCO Solo Woodscrews Industry Pack. Containing a minimum of 1000 screws, each box is robust and re-usable with a secure ‘click shut’ lid.

Finally, TIMCO has rebranded and refreshed its Diamond Core range of bits and accessories to reflect changing customers’ needs. The enhanced range now features a professional grade 10mm segment for better performance with a rifled body for improved dust extraction.

It has also rebranded the company’s full range of Diamond Blades. All blades are now TIMCO red and clearly graded as General Purposes, Trade and Professional for ease of choice as well as being differentiated by their hole patterns. The Trade and Professional options are available in both segmented and continuous segments.

For more information visit www.timco.co.uk.

November/December 2021

DAM BEAVER Dam good products!

Good Products

. . . m o r f y l e v i s u l Exc Available exclusively through Olympic Fixings Ireland and stocked in Bangor, all Beaver products are created with reliability in mind - only the best products make it into -

The Beavercrew!

FIX | CUT | SEAL | SAND

www.beaverscrews.com

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November/December 2021

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November/December 2021

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Professional & Efficient Credit Control & Overdue Account Collections Professionally designed overdue account collection Letters

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Bring your business online & grow fast

Legal and Litigation Services

Targeted Credit Control Procedures and Techniques LCMS will tailor a package to suit your individual needs.

Turnkey Solution for Hardware Industry Dual B2C | B2B Functionality ERP | ePos Integrations

Certified Compliant to International Standards ISO27001 and ISO9001

www.lcms.ie 045 431143

CONTACT ocooney@magico.com | www.magico.com

To advertise to key decision makers in the industry, contact Jim Copeland at 01-298 0969 or email jim@hardwareassociation.ie Classified advertisements (text plus logo) can be emailed to: jim@hardwareassociation.ie and are to be prepaid, at least two weeks prior to publication.

70

November/December 2021

pipelife.com

TRAINING ACADEMY TO BOOK YOUR PLACE CALL 021 488 4700 E-MAIL – IRELAND@PIPELIFE.COM

TRAINING AVAILABLE FOR –

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• Heat Pumps • Underfloor Heating • Smart Controls • Heat Recovery Units • Qual-Pex Plus+ Pipe & Fittings • Courses can also be structured to suit your requirements

PIPELIFE Ireland Limited, White’s Cross, Cork.

1B Damastown Way, Mulhuddart, Dublin 15 T +353 21 488 4700 E ireland@pipelife.com , pipelife.com

SAINT-GOBAIN ARENZDRUCK

1. Proof

THE HOME OF THE ORANGE DISC

8.2.2011

Article-No. 510023584 Silver 010 100% Colours Red 110 100% Orange 121 100% Bar-Code Black Cutting size Ø 229 x 23 mm Ok for print Approval Ok to print after correction Further proof need

View size

80%

95g white crepe paper orange background yes no Slots Signature: Date:

OUR CUTTING DISC RANGE SQ1

SQ2

SQ3

SQ4

300mm €9.84

300mm €4.52

300mmx €3.25

300mm TIN €2.50

230mm €8.14

230mm €3.88

230mm €1.94

230mm TIN €1.62

115mm TIN €2.98

115mm €1.25

115mm €0.60

115mm TIN €0.67

Retail Prices Ex Vat

Don’t forget to request our discount structure.

21 Western Parkway Business Centre Lower Ballymount Road Walkinstown, Dublin 12

info@irishabrasives

www.irishabrasives.ie

Sales +353 87 2595884 / 87 1242102 / 086 8400535 / 87 2554003