Professional Builders Merchant June 2024

BUILDE RS MERCHANT

TIMBER & JOINERY

Versatility and sustainability

ROOFING, FLOORING & INSULATION

Innovation and elevation

BUILDING BOARDS, PLASTERS & RENDERS

Raising the standard

Plus: News, Jewson brand identity, NMBS Conference, industry comment, marketing support and more.

Photo finish! Fantasy F ootball

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3 3 A I R A P PA R E N T

M E D I T E S M A RT P LY e xp l a i n h o w t o a c h i e v e

“ e ff or t l e s s a i r t i g h t n e s s a n d v a p o u r c o n t r ol ”

3 6 A B O V E B O A RD

T h e v e r s a t i l i t y o f O S B , fr om e ffe c t i v e re t ro f i t

p ro j e c t s t o t h e ma t e r i a l ’s u s e i n mu l t i p l e n e w b u i l d

a p p l i c a t i o n s i n c l u d i n g b r a n d e d s i t e h oa rd i n g s .

3 8 P R O D U C T S & S E RV I C E S

ROOFING, FLOORING & INSULATION

4 0 T H E N E X T L E V E L

E G G E R U K ’s S c ot t Wo l t e r s d i s c u s s e s c u s t o me r

c o n s i d e r a t i on s re g a r d i n g s t r u c t u r a l f l o o r i n g

s o l u t i o n s .

4 2 F LY I N G T H E FL A G

M a r l e y ’s e x p a n d e d r a n g e o f L i n c o l n c l a y p a n t i l e s ,

o n e o f t h e o n l y c l a y p a n t i l e s ma n u fa c t u re d i n

B r i t a i n

4 5 P R O D U C T S & S E RV I C E S

BUILDING BOARDS, PLASTERS & RENDERS

4 6 TA K E B A C K C O N TR O L

K n a u f ou t l i n e s i

r u l y s u s t a i n a b l e s o l u t i o n f or p l a s t e r b o

SPECIAL REPORTS

10 PROFILE BUILDING

A new ‘sector awareness’ initiative from the Builders Merchants Federation is designed to raise the profile of the building materials industry whilst also providing a platform for recruiting the best talent 13 ALL FOR ONE

Looking ahead to the NMBS All-Industry Conference in Cyprus. 16 DOWN TO BUSINESS

Looking back to the recent Fortis Building & Timber Conference, with a focus on the buying group’s annual awards 21 START YOUR ENGINES

Official confirmation of the 2025 Pavestone Rally! 24 SHOW OF STRENGTH

InstallerSHOW is branching out this month, providing visitors with even more from a visit to the NEC. And, despite its name, the event promises much for merchants as well

Raising the profile

Despite the current contraction of activity in the sector, it is a universal truth that construction continues to face a ‘recruitment challenge’, fuelled in significant part by an older demographic leaving the industry with insufficient numbers of new and, especially, younger entrants taking their place

The latest industr y forecast from the C onstruction Industr y Training B oard delves into the issue (see page 6), setting out the current challenges and proposing solutions to tackle them And while the notion of building a career requiring often physically demanding work in sometimes unpleasant conditions on site can be off-putting for many, at least even the most cossetted of our (unfairly?) maligned ‘snowf lake generation’ already grasp what being a builder, carpenter or plumber might entail

As we have discussed many times before, the merchant sector also faces its own recruitment challenge Yet compounding the issue on this side of the trade counter, can we be confident that jobseekers and talented, young individuals actually know what a builders’ merchant is? And more precisely, what it means to work for one?

The name itself is a rather grand old term and as we have previously ruminated, it is arguably easier in many ways to explain what a builders’ merchant isn’t than define what it is And in recent years, a precise description has become even more tricky as the sector has evolved to encompass elements like retail showrooms and online trading

Of course, those already in the sector know what it means and will patiently correct friends and acquaintances by explaining: “ no, it’s not like B&Q” or politely applauding the

umpteenth industr y awards host who misread the brief and thinks he or she is addressing a room full of builders

All of this adds up to a ver y real problem when it comes to securing the future of the sector. Talk about a career in construction and young people, schools, careers advisers and even older job switchers typically picture a building site Specifically talk about working for a merchant, and they don’t really understand what it can offer them

Against this backdrop, I’d urge you to support the BMF’s new ‘sector awareness ’ initiative (see our feature on pages 10-11) The comprehensive, long-term programme has been designed to raise the profile of the ‘building materials industry’ itself among the public and the nation’s decision makers, whilst also providing a platform for recruiting the best talent how it can be a career of choice, and not just something you either fall into or are born into

To quote BMF CEO John Newcomb: “By working together, we can shape and strengthen the future of our industr y Aimed at career starters and career switchers, as well those already working in the sector, this is a long-term programme that will make our

industr y an employment destination rather than an after-thought ”

Ahead of a full, national launch later in the year, the BMF is now looking for member feedback and engagement to “drive recruitment in our industr y and compete harder for talent,” with John also adding: “If we are to attract, retain and grow talent we must build pride in our sector ”

This also speaks to the programme ’ s underlying aim of boosting the profile of the sector more generally We hear all-too-often about the power and influence of other industries, but the vitally important building materials sector is still misunderstood in terms of its importance to UK plc from newbuild development and infrastructure to the deliver y of substantive domestic retrofit

Indeed, we ’ ve seen with the many failed green initiatives of recent years that when the sector is overlooked, such programmes simply collapse and yet the pandemic showed just how central (literally ) the building materials sector is in keeping so much of the countr y ’ s economy moving

It is now time to fully recognise just how it makes a material difference

N E W S U P D AT E

IBMG expands ProRange private-label

Having unveiled its first foray into private-label products at the beginning of 2024 with ProRange underfloor heating (UFH), IBMG has now launched ProRange Plywood across its branch network with the aim of ensuring “consistency in quality, improved deliver y times and uniform competitive pricing” for one of the most versatile and affordable building materials used by the merchant’s customers

IBMG’s ProRange Plywood has durable eucalyptus throughout with phenolic resin and an E1 formaldehyde rating Available in Class 2 and Class 3, the new addition to the ProRange product line is FSC certified and ethically sourced

NBG delivers on new fuel deals

National Buying Group has signed “trailblazing deals” with BP and UK Fuels, designed to provide highly competitive pump prices for its Partners The deals will give NBG’s network of independent merchant Partners access to the full BP network of more than 1,200 forecourts and, in locations where there is no BP site, fuel will be available through the UK Fuels network of over 7,200 sites

The deals were negotiated by Joe Beale, Group Purchasing Director at Frank Key, a long-time NBG Partner, with the support of the NBG central team. He commented: “Fuel cards have been tried before by buying groups, but we believe this is the first time such deals have been pinned to the Platts Wholesale rate, which will be published weekly on the NBG Hub

“Some of our Partners are making a saving of 10-20p per litre at the pump which equates to a considerable annual saving In many cases, this beats the savings of bulk tanker fuel prices ”

Bridging the gap

The annual industr y forecast from the Construction Industr y Training Board highlights the “continuing persistent gap between what the UK needs to keep up with demand and the workforce available to meet the challenge ” According to the CITB’s Construction Skills Network 2024-28 report, the UK’s construction output rose by 2% in 2023 This was the third consecutive year of growth, and the sector is forecast to grow by an average 2 4% a year between now and 2028

And to meet this growth, an equivalent of more than 251,500 extra construction workers are said to be needed over the next five years with construction employment rising to 2 75m by 2028

Despite the industr y already managing to recruit around 200,000 people ever y year, it still saw the loss of a larger number (210,000 workers) whilst in 2023, an average of 38,000 vacancies were advertised per month. For almost a third (31%) of construction employers, finding suitably skilled staff remains their key challenge, particularly with more older workers retiring and not being replaced

With this ongoing difference between the predicted need for construction work and the available workforce, CITB’s forecast shows how important it is for the industr y to tackle the issues This, it contends, requires effective recruitment and training to replace those leaving and better prepare for the future, as well as to take advantage of key opportunities such as productivity improvements and meeting net

ze g In response to the challenges, CITB has invested £267m to help the industr y improve diversity, quality and productivity as well as making construction a more attractive career choice for future generations

CITB Chief Executive Tim Balcon said: “ The UK construction industr y will continue to grow, but needs more people in the workforce with the right skills There has always been a demand for workers, and CITB’s CSN report drives home how many are leaving the sector compared to those joining, and the opportunities for employers to address this challenge by recruiting and developing a skilled, competent, and diverse workforce that is able to meet current and future needs ” To view the report, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe001

Hansgrohe opens new UK HQ

Boasting enhanced facilities including bespoke installer suites, extended product showrooms and an expanded stock distribution capability, Hansgrohe has formally unveiled its new War wick-based UK headquarters to key stakeholders and customers. The bespoke facility was officially opened by Group CEO Hans Juergen Kalmbach and UK & Ireland MD Jay Phillips as part of an overall £5m investment and a key landmark in the company ’ s strategic growth plans

Part of strengthening its offering to the trade, which includes working closely with merchant partners, the new head office

provides 40,000 sq ft of capacity more than doubling that of its previous base in Surrey and also houses a purpose-built Installer Academy training centre, designed to deliver hands-on training for trade professionals

Housing registrations

Indicative of the challenges confronting house building in first quarter, figures from the National House Building Council show 21,967 new homes were registered to be built in Q1 2024, down 20% on Q1 2023 (27,619) 26,240 new homes were completed in the same period, 13% down on Q1 2023 (30,071).

Despite the fall which NHBC attributes to “continued economic challenges, skills shortages and the eighth wettest winter on record” the organisation asserts that there are “tentative signs of growth,” with new home registrations increasing month-on-month in the first quarter 8,320 new homes were registered to be built in March compared to 6,557 in January and 7,090 in February Q1 2024 registrations were also higher than Q3 and Q4 2023

NHBC CEO Steve Wood commented: “Our Q1 2024 figures reflect prevailing market conditions Rises in the Bank of England’s base rate have driven mortgage rates higher, leading to a drop in new home purchases and a slowdown in house price growth

“Prolonged wet weather has also hampered house building output in Q1, with the south of England experiencing its wettest Februar y since 1836, according to the Met Office, and many parts of southern England recording well over twice the average rainfall.”

However, Steve continued: “House builders are cautiously optimistic and it is encouraging

to see signs of growth, with a month-on-month increase in registrations since Januar y This is despite a cumbersome planning system that continues to impede output and a national skills gap that means almost 225,000 extra workers will be required to meet expected UK construction demand by 2027 ”

In terms of house types, there were declines of 43% in bungalows, 26% in terraced properties and 24% in detached homes. Apartment registrations saw the lowest fall (-12%) due to the relative strength of the rental and affordable sector

Steve added: “Build volumes are anticipated to rise in the second half of the year as economic conditions begin to improve and consumer confidence starts to recover We are seeing early signs of growth returning to the private sector, and affordable house building is holding up well, but skills and planning challenges must be addressed to truly accelerate market recovery. ”

TG Lynes goes electric

Heating, plumbing and air movement materials supplier TG Lynes has become one of the first businesses to operate a 7 5 tonne electric truck on the streets of London with the Enfield-based firm investing in a UKmanufactured Tevva batter y-electric truck to carr y out local deliveries around the capital

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CT1 reports that its “enduring partnership” with the Fortis buying group is now embarking on a new chapter, which it says is “characterised by a deepened commitment to supporting independent trades ” The renewed focus is described as signifying a strategic shift towards a more collaborative and customer-centric approach.

By aligning their efforts, CT1 and Fortis “aim to not only meet but exceed the expectations of the independent trades who form the bedrock of their customer base ”

Embracing an ethos of understanding and empowering local trades, and by actively engaging with tradespeople on the ground, the partners say they can gain invaluable insights into the challenges they face and the solutions they seek

This hands-on approach will enable them to tailor their offerings more effectively, ensuring they remain relevant and responsive to evolving market demands Moreover, the supplier says it will be announcing a number of introductor y offers for Fortis members on all CT1 products

On the road

Continuing the long partnership the familyrun firms have built over the last 25 years, FVTH has recently handed over an initial four DAF CF320 26t vehicles to Raven Roofing Supplies Built to a FVTH specification, the DAFs have rearmount HIAB remote control cranes, Bevan dropside bodies, and are fully DVS compliant, through Spillards 4-way recordable cameras and human detection system

The vehicles will be supporting three of the roofing merchant’s locations in Hawkhurst, Thatcham and Basingstoke Continual investment in its fleet means that Raven Roofing Supplies can ensure that it delivers to its customers and remain one of the leading independent roofing merchants in the south of England from its total of five depots

M A R K ET M O N I T O R

in association with

Reasons to be cheer ful

Published in mid-May, the latest report from the co-chairs of the Construction Leadership Council’s Material Supply Chain Group (formerly Product Availability Group) BMF CEO John Newcomb and Peter Caplehor n, CEO of the Construction Products Association — “continues to show good levels of product availability across the board.”

The statement however notes “reports of price volatility affecting two specific product areas, timber related products and PIR insulation boards, feeding into housing projects.” It contends that while a steady increase in timber prices was predicted last year and is the result of reduced production and stock in a slowing market, the main concer n relates to PIR insulation “where prices have increased significantly due to issues around the supply of chemicals used in their manufacture and a continued rise in demand could drive further price increases ”

Taking a wider view of building materials supply, the briefing continues: “As stated in our previous report (19 March), supply lines via the Red Sea continue to be managed with only slight delays, although there are reports of increased container costs on this route The group is also aware that hostilities in the region have the potential to widen and are monitoring this to assess the potential impact on other routes. In addition, the Asia/UK route is seeing further bottlenecks caused by the

prolonged drought reducing traffic through the Panama Canal.”

“Optimism is increasing as we move into the summer. Many say they are now planning for an uptick at the year end and into 2025, which will necessitate careful planning to ensure adequate lines of supply.”

It continues: “Throughout the year sales through builders’ merchants have shown a direct relationship between the weather and construction activity. Inclement weather dampened demand for landscaping and groundworks throughout the first quarter, but more recent spring-like conditions have driven an improvement in demand.”

While the group does not anticipate a dramatic uplift in activity, “optimism is increasing as we move into the summer. Many say they are now planning for an uptick at the year end and into 2025, which will necessitate careful planning to ensure adequate lines of supply.”

The CLC’s key advice to everyone involved, particularly SME contractors and housebuilders, is to “plan in advance, work closely with your supply chain and communicate your requirements early with suppliers, distributors and builders’ merchants ”

The statement concludes: “As we lear ned during the pandemic, collaborative, ongoing communication throughout the whole supply chain is mutually beneficial and essential to a healthy, productive UK construction industry ”

n The full statement was published on the Construction Leadership Council website on 14 May 2024 For more information and further updates, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe002

Launched to members in a special briefing at JCB’s stunning headquarters in Rocester, a new ‘sector awareness’ initiative from the Builders Merchants Federation is designed to raise the profile of the building materials industry whilst also providing a platform for recruiting the best talent.

Prof ile building

The BMF has set the wheels in motion for a long-term communications programme to raise the public’s knowledge and understanding of the building materials industr y, positioning it as a “vital, varied, vibrant sector with a wide range of career opportunities for school and college leavers as well as for those looking to change career or to transfer their skills into a new area ”

With the strapline “Materially Different” and messaging encouraging people to join the sector to help “Make a Material Difference”, the campaign is designed to appeal to a diverse audience across all age brackets and will highlight why a career in building materials is different from a role in other industries. A key aspect will be showcasing the huge variety of careers it can offer

Perhaps for the first time, the programme offers a clear and precise definition of the ‘building materials’ sector itself, explaining it as involving the “manufacture, import, distribution and sale of building materials and products, through merchants, for the construction, infrastructure, house building, property and RMI markets ”

The main elements of the programme will include a dynamic new careers website which will highlight details of ever y BMF member and a central Toolkit providing

guidance and assets for members to strengthen their employer brands These have been trailed to BMF members in advance of a national launch at BMF Members’ Day in September

Developed by brand specialists CMDi and the BMF executive alongside a working group of BMF members, the programme is designed to be a fully cohesive campaign that ever y member can get behind and benefit from

BMF Chairman Richard Hill commented: “We work in a fantastic sector that offers excellent opportunities to the talented people working here. However, when it

comes to attracting new talent, we are competing with many other sectors It is time that we championed the building materials sector to the rest of the construction industr y and the public at large “By initiating this campaign, and investing in the future of building materials, the BMF Board seeks to help and support our members in attracting the best recruits possible and ensure that our sector continues to develop and grow long into the future ” John Newcomb, BMF CEO, added: “By working together, we can shape and strengthen the future of our industr y This is a long-term programme that will make our

industr y an employment destination rather than an after-thought. It is aimed at career starters and career switchers, as well those already working in the sector If we are to attract, retain and grow talent we must build pride in our sector

“We have had incredible input from those on the working team to get to this stage, but it’s time for ever y member to get on board to make this happen The BMF Team is here to support members to make the most of the programme, but we need members’ help if we are to drive recruitment in our industr y and compete harder for talent.”

The BMF is calling on each member to appoint a designated ‘Campaign O wner ’ to manage the programme within their business and to download the Toolkit so they can prepare and plan for the national launch Accordingly, it will be holding a series of webinars between May and August (see panel) to help members utilise the available resources to get the most benefit from the campaign

Members are also urged to submit company details, images and the career opportunities they offer to form an ‘Employer Profile’ on the new building careers website, which will function as a key pathway for those seeking information about the industr y. In addition to details of

building materials employers across the countr y, the site will feature inter views with people working at ever y level within the industr y, together with selfie videos and news content

The website will launch in August for members to test ahead of a full national launch in the Autumn

Di anne Luc as, MD of CMDi, s aid: “ This not just a c amp aig n but a f u l ly integ rate d prog ramme desig ne d to def ine, shap e and l aunch bui lding mater i a ls as a

n Following reports that members were finding it more difficult to obtain trade credit insurance, the BMF has been working with members, the Department of Business and Trade and the Association of British Insurers (ABI) to uncover the extent of the issues and provide guidance to help ameliorate their effect

A survey of BMF members revealed a number of notable trends such as “an inevitable hardening of the market over the past 12 months,” with significant changes including increased insolvency activity and related business concerns for the year ahead However, despite the impact of bad debts due to insolvency, more than half of respondents say they have not experienced credit limit reductions

The insights provided valuable context on the current landscape in the building materials sector and informed the BMF’s detailed discussions with the ABI, which has led it to produce a guidance document specifically for the construction industry, fully supported by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC)

nat iona l ly re cog nis e d s e c tor We’ve appro ache d t his as t he bui lding of ‘ brand Bui lding Mater i a ls’, a £45bn brand, v it a l to const r uc t ion and t he UK e conomy A brand t hat is ‘Mater i a l ly Dif ferent’”

Working group member Siobhan Lewis, Marketing Manager at Jewson, added: “Building material providers are the backbone of the construction industry, supplying materials that form the foundation of every project It’s been great to witness colleagues from various organisations unite in a common goal of raising awareness of our significant contributions to the wider industry, highlighting the vital role we play in building communities and positioning the sector to attract the talent we need for future growth ”

n The BMF will be hosting a series of webinars to ensure that members can derive the maximum benefit from the initiative by completing their Employer Profile and using the resources in the campaign Toolkit. Webinars take place on the following dates:

29th May

26th June

31st

For further information, to provide contact details for their Campaign Owner or to access the Toolkit, BMF members should contact Jeremy Harris at jeremy.harris@bmf.org.uk

NMBS CONFERENCE

All for one

Looking ahead to this year ’ s All-Industry Conference, NMBS Commercial Director Andy Hextall said: “e theme of the conference is One Industry As part of this, we will be exploring the role of collaboration in propelling our sector forward, particularly off the back of a difficult 2023 and uncertain 2024 for construction

“Our members and suppliers alike are keen to learn about the wider industr y issues impacting businesses and the potential opportunities this presents the building materials sector, and we always aim to produce a well-rounded agenda that will both educate and inspire

He continued: “Across the two-day conference, attendees will hear from experts from across the industr y as well as business specialists who will be giving exclusive insight into construction forecasts, trends and opportunities impacting our sector, the retrofit agenda, adaptability in a changing market, digitalisation and AI, and improving productivity and performance ”

e event will be held at the newly-opened City of Dreams Resort on the outskirts of Limassol, the second-largest city in Cyprus, and proceedings will be marshalled by professional host, keynote speaker, magician and digital illusionist Keelan Leyser with Andy explaining that NMBS wanted a host that “ can keep the audience on their toes, and understands the digital transformation our sector is currently going through ”

Equally, the full agenda for this year ’ s conference has been designed to inspire those operating within the building materials sector to “think beyond this year and embrace the chance to future-proof their business ” For example, kicking off the conference will be Professor Noble Francis, Economics Director at the Construction Products Association,

and he will be drawing on his extensive experience to share the latest updates on the changing economics of the UK construction industry and the wider UK economy

“We will be exploring the role of collaboration in propelling our sector for ward, particularly off the back of a difficult 2023 and uncertain 2024 for construction.”

Steve Collinge, MD of the Insight Retail Group and Executive Editor of Insight DIY, will then provide further business-led insights to identify key trends and their impact on the sector and how merchants and manufacturers can respond Bradfords Group CEO David Young, meanwhile, will discuss how merchants can grow and remain relevant in the years ahead by reflecting on the firm’s 254-year heritage and how, in David’s words, it has “ sur vived world wars, epidemics, pandemics, floods and famines ”

Looking ahead to his session, David said: “I firmly believe that there will be more change and disruption in our market in the

The 2024 NMBS All-Industry Conference takes place in early June, with a packed agenda promising to tackle a number of the key issues facing the building materials

next 10 years than there has been in the last thirty It’s a huge challenge and standing still is just not an option It is an exciting time to be in the industr y be that in terms of diversity and inclusion, decarbonisation, national retrofit, planning reform, data standardisation, electrification, apprenticeships and sector awareness. ” Further industr y speakers will include Glenn Paddison, Commercial Director of h&b Buying Group LLP, who will update delegates on the retrofit landscape and the challenges and opportunities it offers the sector. NMBS’ Head of Sales and Marketing Dean Hayward and Marketing Coordinator Charlie Smith will also present on the benefit of apprenticeships (with Charlie a former apprentice herself ) and what NMBS will be doing next to help independent merchants attract new talent.

Further speakers will tackle issues such as c y ber security, artificial intelligence and the psycholog y behind performance, leadership and teamwork whilst the ever popular ‘meet the merchant’ sessions will reinforce the all-important networking opportunities for delegates

n The 2024 NMBS All-Industr y Conference takes place in Limassol, Cyprus from 6-9 June.

n For more information, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe004

NMBS Commercial Director Andy Hextall at the 2022 All-Industr y Conference in Sorrento

Down to business

Held in mid-April, the recent Fortis Building & Timber Conference brought together merchant and supplier members for two days of concentrated meetings and networking sessions. The buying group’s Dinner and Awards Ceremony also recognised excellence and achievement amongst suppliers – and revealed its most engaged merchant member of the last 12 months. PBM reports.

Featuring a total of 3,502 meetings scheduled between merchant members and suppliers across 34 ‘speed-dating’ rounds over two days, delegates to the recent Fortis Building & Timber Conference held from 17-18 April at the Celtic Manor Hotel in South Wales participated in what can only be described as one of the sector’s most focused and intensive networking events.

With the purchasing deals already in place, the format affords merchants and suppliers the opportunity to take their discussions “to the next level” in the most efficient way possible, with the carefully structured match-ups designed to provide maximum mutual benefit for merchants and suppliers alike Indeed, when taking the group ’ s parallel Lightside Conference into consideration, Fortis facilitates almost 6,000 highly focused meetings in total for its full pool of 40 merchant members.

Collectively trading from 479 branches and encompassing businesses such as C&W Berr y, Covers, EH Smith, LBS, MP Moran and JT Atkinson, the group boasts a combined turnover of £2 36bn Celebrating its tenth anniversar y in 2023, when placed in the context of the overall merchant market size, Fortis can now be viewed as cumulatively being the second-largest entity in the sector

Making a break from the formal proceedings, a key element of the event lies in recognising the ser vice and support

provided by some of the buying group ’ s leading suppliers with Awards presented across nine product categor y groups, in addition to announcing the overall Fortis Building & Timber Supplier of the Year from the categor y winners Furthermore, the organisation presents an accolade to the Supplier Account Manager of the Year alongside announcing the winner of the Most Engaged Fortis Building & Timber Member, as voted by the suppliers

The Fortis Building & Timber Awards Winners for 2023 were:

Bricks & Blocks

Winner : Wienerberger

Nominees: Forterra, H+H, Ibstock

Civils & Groundworks

Winner : ACO

Nominees: Brett Martin, Fernco, Keystone Lintels

L andscaping & Cement

Winner : Pavestone

Nominees: Aggregate Industries, Heidelberg Materials, Tobermore

Timber & Sheet Materials

Winner : Kronospan

Nominees: ECC Timber Products, W.Howard, International Plywood

Insulation & Plasterboard

Winner : Siniat

Nominees: Isover, Rockwool, Unilin Insulation

Tools, Clothing & Ironmonger y

Winner : Toolbank

Nominees: Frisco, Timco, Sterling Safetywear

Roofing

Winner : Flex-R

Nominees: Freefoam, Restec, Wonderbuilds

Joiner y & Flooring

Winner : Deanta

Nominees: Cheshire Mouldings, Keylite, LPD Doors

Decorating & Chemicals

Winner : Azpects

Nominees: Rodo, Bostik, Tembe

Supplier Account Manager of the Year

Winner : Andy Fletcher, Isover

Nominees: Matt Woods, Deanta; Nick Brinsford, International Plywood; Krystall Willaims, Pavestone; Stephen O’Brien, Timco; Ben Davies, Bostik; Dina Vaisman, Wonderbuilds; Martin Burge, Wienerberger

Most Engaged Fortis Building & Timber Member

Winner : C&W Berr y

Nominees: JT Atkinson, Sydenhams, Howarth

Timber & Building Supplies

Overall Supplier of the Year

Winner : ACO

n Use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe005 for more information on Fortis and its solutions for merchant members.

The Fortis Building & Timber Awards Winners

Merchant makeover

The national merchant introduced the refreshed visual identity, website, branch signage and truck branding at Jewson Live On Tour in Birmingham on Friday 26 April the inaugural event of a new series which takes the merchant’s proven supplier exhibition and industry forum ‘ on the road’ to a number of venues across the UK e new look also adopts ‘Anton’ the STARK Group mascot, described as a visual personification of the hard-working builder

A new colour palette showcases dark and sky blue, said to “underpin the company ’ s commitment to nurturing high-quality customer relationships,” while a vibrant coral accent “reflects Jewson’s fresh and innovative approach to merchanting ”

Jewson’s new brand identity also forms part of STARK UK’s ‘ Trust in Better’ strateg y, and the company asserts that this symbolises the improvements it has been making to its “value proposition for customers,” including range, availability, price and distribution enhancements At the outset of the refresh, customers will see the new brand reflected on the Jewson website along with regular communications such as deliver y notes and invoices

As part of a phased roll out, the new brand will be coming to life in branches, from promotional materials and bulk bags to property refurbishments and deliver y trucks. And in a commitment by the company to recognise and celebrate its valued colleagues,

the new truck design was voted for by 70% of Jewson’s drivers

Overall, the merchant’s branches are benefiting from a “comprehensive investment programme ” which ranges from “light-touch improvements” to substantial refurbishments and new purpose-built ‘Branches of the Future’ which the firm describes as presenting a “fundamentally different builders’ merchant offering” to the UK’s tradespeople

Opened in May, Jewson’s Bridg water branch in Somerset is the first to benefit from such a refurbishment and includes several elements of the full concept including customer meeting area, drive-in material pick-up bays, a food offering and specialist product ser vices

Commenting on the rebrand, STARK UK CEO John Carter said: “For any business that starts a new journey, just as Jewson did 12 months ago, there is always a reset and a new call to action e rebrand allows us to demonstrate clearly that we are taking positive steps to be different We have a new mindset that is centred on our customers, investment, ambition, and building pride in the industry

“ e rebrand represents part of the transformation journey, but there is a bigger picture to consider. Jewson is proud to partner the trades, and our Trust in Better strateg y is a framework we ’ re using to become the most trusted builders’ merchant for UK tradespeople at involves investing in our branches, product range, availability,

As a marker of its development since its acquisition last year by STARK Group, Jewson has revealed a dramatic corporate rebranding as it builds towards its “vision to be the most trusted builders’ merchant for UK tradespeople.”

our people, technolog y and above all else, the quality of ser vice we ’ re able to offer ”

He continued: “We have more than 450 branches across the UK, giving us a huge opportunity to put merchant relationships at the centre of tradespeople’s businesses at’s what we aim to achieve, and we believe we ’ re on the path to transforming not only the Jewson business, but the entire customer-merchant experience

“ is is just the beginning ”

A mocked up trade counter at the recent Jewson Live On Tour in Brimingham

MERCHANT FOCUS

PBM takes a look at some of the latest news stories from across the merchant sector.

HUWS GRAY GROUP TRAINING SUCCESS

12 colleagues from PDM and Huws Gray have recently completed the Aspiring Managers course, part of the Huws Gray Academy, which encourages participants to examine the principles of team leadership, effective communication and managing workplace conflict, as well as successfully developing their own individual management style The course commenced at the start of March and saw the cohort complete a series of e-learning modules, attend virtual training sessions, and meet as a group on three occasions to share experiences and complete challenges together

On successfully completing the course, Vicki McKenzie commented: “It was great to be part of the first Aspiring Managers course, and it’s very encouraging to see the training investment being made by the company and its commitment to promoting from within ”

DULUX DECORATOR CENTRE ‘CANMESTY’ RECYCLING INITIATIVE

With an ambitious goal to triple the amount of paint cans it recycles by 2025, Dulux Decorator Centre announced a special ‘Canmesty’ throughout May to raise awareness of its free can recycling service, encourage customers to recycle as many paint cans as possible, and inspire them to make can recycling part of their daily routine throughout the year.

Part of the company’s wider sustainability commitments to reduce waste, the scheme allows customers to drop off or arrange collection for their empty paint cans from any brand to be recycled.

The Canmesty initiative saw the specialist decorators’ merchant running a competition for customers returning empty cans, offering a host of prizes

Duncan Lochhead, Commercial Sustainability Manager, said: “Practical issues should never be a barrier to being environmentally friendly and that’s why we expanded our service last year to be able to recycle all paint cans We are proud to be able to support our customers in making responsible choices at every stage of their project and maximising their environmental credentials ”

ROBERT PRICE NEW KITCHEN & BATHROOM SHOWROOM

The independent builders’ merchant has recently opened its new Tudors Kitchen & Bathroom Showroom, located in the heart of Hereford Showcasing the latest in design trends, the grand opening was scheduled to take place on 18th May (as this issue of PBM went to press) with a host of special guests, demonstrations, competitions and giveaways

CITY PLUMBING PLASTICS SUPERCENTRES

City Plumbing says it is solving a “longterm problem for housebuilders, regional developers and large subcontractors” by launching 10 new Plastics Supercentres across the country Inspired by feedback from customers, the facilities will hold large volumes of soil, waste and plastic plumbing products to facilitate “quick and efficient building projects ”

National Sales Director Maxine Frost said: “It is vital that the contractor community has confidence in us to stock the products they need, when they need it and in the volumes that are required Our research suggests they want to order everything from one place rather than having to go elsewhere, and they want to order in bulk with quick delivery

“The new Plastics Supercentres will meet that need and we are delighted to work in conjunction with Wavin for the launch, which is renowned for its high-quality and sustainable plastic pipe and drainage solutions for above and below ground ”

Featuring the latest Laura Ashley kitchen collections and over twenty luxurious bathroom setups, Robert Price Marketing Manager Emma Parkes said of the launch: “We are thrilled to officially open the doors of our new showroom and invite the community to discover the possibilities of modern kitchen and bathroom design with us Our goal is always to inspire our clients and help them transform their homes into spaces that reflect their personality and lifestyle this showroom and its launch event reflects that ”

Star t your engines…

Justifiably billed as “the industry’s most fun and largest charity fundraising event,” the 2025 Pavestone Rally offers the prospect of an exhilarating four-day journey through Northern Europe, venturing from Dusseldorf to Amsterdam via Berlin, Malmo and Hamburg in September next year

All in customised cars and wearing fancy dress, teams complete madcap challenges along the way all in aid of charity Plus, to ensure that the carbon produced by the rally is 100% offset, the event organisers are working with Tree-nation’s carbon offsetting scheme

Last year, the Rally raised £217,824 for its nominated charities, and the target for 2025 is an ambitious but achievable £250,000! 100% of the money raised will be divided equally amongst the Teenage Cancer Trust, Variety Children’s Charity, CRASH, Lighthouse Construction Charity and a charity of each team’s choice.

Some 32 teams from across the building materials sector participated in the 2023 Pavestone Rally, and the organisers are looking to make the next one the biggest and best yet The entry fee is from £749 per person which

Following the huge successes of the previous events, the organisers are delighted to announce the official confirmation of the 2025 Pavestone Rally!

includes five nights’ hotel accommodation, ferry crossings, tolls, euro car kit, car decals, a pre-rally goody box and presentation meal

n Taking place from Wednesday 3rd to Sunday 7th September 2025, more details about this trip of a lifetime can be found via www rdr link/mbe006 Alternatively, email pavestonerally@pavestone co uk or contact Aaron Frogley on 07826 867888.

n Use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe007 to watch a fantastic video of 2023 Pavestone Rally highlights.

FACE TO FACE

Founded in 1976, Ultratape (Bruce Douglas Marketing) is a family-run business which lays claim to being the largest adhesive tape supplier in the UK Its broad portfolio can be found in a range of outlets from small arts & craft stores through to DIY multiples, whilst in the building materials sector, its numerous solutions for builders, decorators, plasterers, plumbers and electricians are distributed via national and independent merchants alike

A member of organisations such as BMF and NMBS, the supplier holds substantial stock levels in its 120,000 sq. ft warehouse in Dundee to service merchant requirements nationwide, whilst further support is offered by an expanded field sales team and a host of marketing and POS materials

PBM speaks with Ultratape’s Commercial Manager, Craig Laing.

QHow did you get into the building materials sector and to your current position?

AI’d spent 16 years in Education including middle management, but with no desire to go further and in need of a new challenge I’d done a lot of DIY & house developments, including sizeable extensions, so I had a good understanding of the phases of construction and quite simply thought “Why not?”

I started at Ultratape in October 2014 as an Area Sales Manager For those of us coming from outside of a supply industry, we take for granted goods on shelves I worked hard to understand the routes to market, the intricacies of the supply chain and the construction industry more generally

It’s safe to say I still have a lot to learn!

QHow do you feel the industry has changed in recent years?

AChange is one of the constants in life, with construction and the materials supply sector continually evolving with new technologies, products and also becoming more ‘retail’ orientated And of course, Covid meant the supply chain had to go through rapid and significant change, which we all benefit from today

Supply companies are now much more flexible in the way they work, and are continually making life easier for the merchant to do business In turn, merchants are making life easier for their customers and have streamlined the way products reach the market including Click & Collect, 2-hour order guarantees and more

The implementation of technology where companies are using automated picking technology once belonged

only to Amazon and was a dream for the rest of us but it’s now a reality in our industry

QWhat are the current challenges facing your company?

AThe general slowdown in the construction and RMI markets means competition is becoming price sensitive whilst global issues and a forthcoming general election add to the economic uncertainty

However, we are optimistic as we traditionally do well in hard times due to our stock holding and ability to ride out the short-term price increases others suffer from The last few years have given us all an experience that makes us more resilient and stronger than ever

“We are optimistic as we traditionally do well in hard times due to our stock holding and ability to ride out the short-term price increases others suffer from.”

Q Which individual has influenced you most in your career?

ASage advice has come to me from various people in my past and present career I know it sounds clichéd, but it’s true I am incredibly grateful for having met and worked with some amazing people and I’ll never be able to thank them enough

The people within Ultratape are

fabulous and work incredibly hard to deliver to our merchant customers And I truly believe we work in the very best of industries because of the collective of amazing people For example, I met someone at the NMBS show who spoke to our youngest salesperson who, although ‘ green, ’ was passionate about our industry, with that same seasoned vet spending quite a lot of time with him to aid his development

QWhat has been the highlight of your career to date?

AThere have been a number of highlights, including joining and then leading our sales team, but seeing the Ultratape team grow in the last two years has given me the greatest pleasure by far We have some exciting plans and seeing our team develop and implement them is a highlight yet to come

Q And finally, where do you see yourself in five years’ time?

AI love working in our industry and at Ultratape, so my career future is here I’ve worked hard to get to my current position and am relishing the challenge of both leading and listening to progressive change for our future

Like all businesses, we have plans to grow our range and market share, adapt new marketing strategies and make changes within our infrastructure to help our merchant customers develop their sales and I look forward to seeing it happen W

n For more information on Ultratape’s product range and its support ser vices for merchants, use the shortcode www rdr link/mbe008

Keylite Roof Windows has appointed James Malkin as Sales Director to boost sales and growth at the awardwinning brand With 25 years ’ experience in the sector including more than 20 years with Aliaxis and, most recently, a six-month stint as Trading Director for a John Nicholls Group merchant-based business James says he is keen to share his extensive knowledge and skills and get stuck into a new challenge

Undertaking a ‘top to bottom’ restructure of its sales team, specialist civil engineering products provider Wrekin has made a series of strategic role changes and new hires to “better respond to ndustry and merchant demand ” Working alongside Sales Director Ricky Hasprey and leading the team of RSMs Carolyn Cleaver, David Mitchell, Haydn Probert and Jamie Keleher, Sean Lanagan has joined the company as National Sales Manager Further supporting the iron and steel divisions is Head of Technical Sales, Dave Sanders, who works particularly closely with local authorities and water companies across the country Wrekin has also invested in its geosynthetics division by appointing Martin Gilbert as the new Technical Sales Manager for the Midlands and South whilst Holly Sharpe has also been promoted to geosynthetics team leader

Having previously served as the UK & Ireland Sales Director since May 2022 for the supplier’s then newly founded sales subsidiary, Oliver Partington now takes up the reins as Managing Director of STABILA UK

STABILA CEO Ulrich Dähne commented: “We are delighted to have an experienced and highly professional manager like Oliver Partington leading our team in the UK His clear customer focus and inspirational leadership combined with hi strategic thinking make him the perfect fit for this role

“We are confident that STABILA’s success story in the UK and Ireland will continue to flourish under our new set up ”

Leading plumbing equipment distributor Navigator MSL has recruited two new Area Sales Managers David Corr and Mark Mayes With more than a decade in the plumbing and heating sector working for merchants across Scotland, David joins as ASM for Scotland and the North East of England

Taking responsibility for the South East of England (Kent, Sussex, Surrey and South London), Mark joins the business with more than twenty years ’ experience in the sector working for the likes of Advanced Water, Williams, Drakes and All Plumbing Kent

ett Landscaping has added five new appointments across its sales ams with the majority in the south of England, as it looks to extend its eographic coverage and improve its service to merchants and ontractors Firstly, James Bridge has been appointed as the National ales Manager (Merchants) and assumes responsibility for the team of SMs focused on products for the domestic market

James Burgess also joins the Merchant Sales team as Area Sales anager covering the South and South West regions of England, and both ring extensive experience of the landscaping industry to their new roles In addition, Rachel Deal joins as Brett Approved Installer Development Manager for the South East whilst Jo Wallace-Blaker is the new Civils Sales Manager for the South West and, finally, Sam Sherwood becomes he new Specification Sales Manager for London and the South region

James Bridge

David Corr

Mark Mayes

James Burgess

INSTALLER SHOW PREVIEW

Show of strength

Taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 25-27 June, InstallerSHOW promises to be bigger and better than ever this year with brand-new additions, 50% more floorspace across two halls and over 600 exhibitors showcasing their latest products and innovations More than 20,000 visitors from the plumbing & heating and renewables sectors and beyond will be attending the show, ready to interact with manufacturers and suppliers to discover the latest new technologies, benefit from expert industr y insight and learn more about the opportunities and challenges facing the sector

Many of the exhibitors will be hosting dedicated events on their stands, including live demos and competitions, but beyond the exhibition element, InstallerSHOW 2024 includes a comprehensive schedule of free-to-attend live debates and seminars over ten content streams

For example, visitors can hear from industr y leaders in a range of panel discussions, keynote talks, Q&As and interactive seminars in the elemental Arena They can get the view from the frontline of heating and plumbing on InstallerPLAZA or learn about all things water efficiency in BMA Theatre: the future of water Plus, visitors will be able to participate in the retrofit debate and learn more about decarbonising homes in the Housing Hub

Expanded focus

In 2024 not only is the show bigger, it is also broader in focus One area of note is the new Installer Kitchens & Bathrooms Promising a blend of technolog y, tools, innovation and inspiration, this new addition is set to include a content programme across two theatres covering topics such as water and energ y efficiency, design and innovation, sustainable and smart technolog y, and changing legislation.

It is backed by a number of organisations including the BMA, BIKBBI, NKBA, AMDEA UK and the Unified Water Label, as well as a host of leading manufacturers

InstallerTRADES, meanwhile, is an all-new, dedicated tools & workwear zone which is designed to give visitors the chance to see the latest products in action, and to hear from tradespeople tr ying them out live at the show Aimed at ever yone working in the trades from heating engineers and renewables installers to electricians and general builders and those supplying them, InstallerTRADES will feature some of social media’s best-known tradespeople getting hands-on with new products from top brands.

This area of the event will even feature a spectacular runway show, with tradespeople modelling a range of workwear designed to look great while working hard, giving visitors the chance to see the latest

Already known as a key event in the heating and plumbing sector, InstallerSHOW is branching out this June to provide visitors with even more from a visit to the NEC. And don’t let the name dissuade you, as the exhibition promises much for merchants as well…

collections from the biggest names in the industr y and to learn more about the safety and sustainability aspects of modern clothing for the trades.

Content streams

InstallerSHOW 2024 will incorporate 10 live content areas to offer an informative and engaging timetable, featuring a roster of compelling hosts and speakers including:

l Get connected: Engage in informative sessions on the electrification of heat and smart buildings

l Elemental Housing hub: A packed programme for those working in the supply chain delivering energ y efficiency to homes

l Solar innovations: Outlining the opportunities and the latest technological developments in a resurgent solar sector

l Climate solutions theatre: New for 2024, focusing on decarbonising bigger buildings

Confirmed speakers include Greg Jackson from Octopus Energ y, Dragons’ Den’s Deborah Meaden, Jordan Brompton of Myenergi, Anna Scothern of the National Home Improvement Council and Lord

Callanan, Minister for Energ y Efficiency and Green Finance at the Department for Energ y Security and Net Zero

Overall, the enlarged event promises much for the merchant sector, with a

number of merchant businesses exhibiting themselves with City Plumbing, Plumb Centre and the IPG all having a presence at the show. Furthermore, speakers from the ‘merchant side’ of the trade counter include Toolstation MD Angela Rushforth in the Women in Heating spotlight, whilst Plumb Centre’s Jason Field will be participating in a session on the steps needed to identify and recycle waste plastic throughout the construction supply chain, touching on manufacturing, merchanting, contracting and new house build.

n InstallerSHOW 2024 runs from 25 – 27 June at the NEC in Birmingham. For more details and to book a free ticket, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe009

n Visitors can also check out the timetable for the content streams and discussions via www.rdr.link/mbe010

Build your timber knowledge

Timber Development UK is working tirelessly to introduce new timber resources for merchants, builders and everyone involved in the timber supply chain. CEO David Hopkins explores the latest additions.

Timber Development UK (TDUK) believes that providing merchants and their customers with access to valuable information about building with timber is fundamental to driving innovation and fostering sustainable practices in the timber supply chain Part of our remit is to support the industr y by building the largest, most comprehensive online librar y of technical specification and design guidance for our members that’s why we are constantly working to create new resources support merchants on their timber journey

The latest addition to www.timberdevelopment.uk is our Wood Species Librar y, which has been upgraded with the introduction of downloadable PDFs for each wood species page The resource introduces 139 timber species, detailing their characteristics, uses, aesthetic qualities, durability, density and much more

The new PDFs make this information even easier to access in a format that’s easy to share, print and read Whether you ’ re compiling research for a customer, training other colleagues, or seeking answers to common customer queries, the PDFs provide a portable solution

A database of products

Also new to TDUK’s website is our Wood Products Database, which offers an in-depth look at the most common timber products that can be used across ever y area of the built environment The fully searchable database includes a wide array of information across a number of different wood product categories, including:

l Wood for construction

l Wood for interiors

l Wood for exteriors

l Wood packaging and pallets

l Wood for fuel

l Timber ancillaries

Within these categories, you can find information on common types of timber, dimensions, standards and certifications, appearance grading, treatments, availability, species, and much more, all in a

straightfor ward, easily readable format

You’ll find the database online via www.rdr.link/mbe011

Find your timber partner

Available as an exclusive benefit to merchants who join TDUK is our new ‘Find Your Timber Partner’ business director y a one-stop shop for anyone wishing to build with timber This brings together the largest collection of timber suppliers, designers, builders, merchants and other specialists in the UK, helping to connect TDUK members with each other

Find Your Timber Partner allows you to update, create and add your own content, which will appear throughout the TDUK website. It is a valuable platform for you to promote your product, your business and your ser vices directly to both existing and new customers.

TDUK is already the industr y ' s primar y source for all things timber, and this

director y will be the go-to source for anyone seeking to connect with other businesses in the timber supply chain, including developers, housing associations or homeowners seeking to initiate a project using timber, as well as those seeking products for their projects.

We can link case studies back to contributing members, articles to companies, and books or other knowledge back through to the organisations who supported them The visibility and design of these profiles pages is focused on attracting attention and sales; acting as a product, knowledge, and design showcase becoming a shop window into your business.

All TDUK’s members can use the Director y to better market your expertise across our channels to more than 1,500 other TDUK members through www.rdr.link/mbe012

Merchant Guide to Selling Timber

Created specifically for timber and builders’ merchants, the Merchant Guide to Selling Timber is a comprehensive new resource from TDUK to help merchants maximise their sales of timber and timber products

The Guide includes an over view of the benefits of timber as a construction material, as well as separate sections dedicated to all the different types of timber, including:

l Plywoods

l Hardwoods

l Panel and sheet products

l Structural and framing timbers

l Machined softwoods

l MDF mouldings

n The latest statistics from TDUK show that imports of the main timber and panel products for the first two months of 2024 are “fractionally ahead” of the same period in 2023, up by 0.2% (3,000m3) following improvements in Februar y after a disappointing Januar y start. Overall, however, volumes remain subdued in line with weaker construction output and a generally lacklustre economy

With two months of data now available for 2024, we can see a more realistic reflection of the performance in the various timber product groups Softwood, hardwood, particleboard and MDF have all experienced lower volumes compared to the first two months of 2023, whereas plywood, OSB and engineered wood products are currently ahead of last year.

Solid wood imports were 2% lower than in the first two months of 2023, while imports of panel products were nearly 5% higher, largely due to big increases in imported hardwood plywood driven by imports of eucalyptus-faced plywood from China

According to the most recently released HMRC statistics, softwood plywood imports have experienced a 23 8% fall compared with Januar y-Februar y 2023 Indeed, these statistics suggest the first two months of 2024 have been the worst start to a year for softwood plywoods since 2012 mainly due to a poor Januar y.

l Modified woods

l Decking, fencing and landscaping products

Within each section you’ll find an outline of the main product types and uses, as well as details of the common timber species used for different applications Key facts around sustainability, safety and quality are included for each product type, along with details of the relevant certifications and British and European standards

You will also find top tips around availability and lead times, as well as key questions you may wish to ask your customers. Crucially for merchants, each section also includes suggestions on how to upsell different timber products, as well as complementar y products you may wish to consider stocking, such as the fixings, adhesives, paints and PPE that could add significant value to any timber sale.

n The Merchant Guide is free to download from TDUK’s website via www.rdr.link/mbe013

n Timber Development UK was formed by the merger of the Timber Trade Federation (TTF) and the Timber Research and Development Association (TRADA).

n Merchants can find all the resources referenced abo ve along with all the latest timber industr y news and up-to-date market statistics on the TDUK website, via the shortcode www rdr link/mbe014

Branching out

The UK timber market faced many challenges throughout 2023 Prices rose throughout 2022 and started to fall in early 2023 And as the price of timber dropped, merchants were left with the unenviable task of having to devalue their stock The impact of high interest and mortgage rates also put the brakes on new build housing which has had a knock-on effect on timber orders

But despite these difficulties, market shifts across the construction industr y point to a brighter future for timber merchants Prices are beginning to stabilise, the demand for renovation is holding its own and as this

year progresses, research signals a potential uptick in new build housing

The move towards more sustainable building is creating further opportunities The Government’s recently released Timber in Construction Policy Roadmap aims to boost timber use in construction to help reduce emissions and reach net zero This includes promoting the safe, sustainable use of timber as a construction material in homes and other buildings

Investing in the future

At Beesley & Fildes, timber has always been a core part of our offer. This has seen

James Beesley, Commercial Director at Beesley & Fildes, discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by the timber market — including the potential for strategic investment.

ongoing investment into our facilities in response to market change and customer demand. In 2022 for example, we ploughed £1 2m into our timber mill in Widnes to create more efficiency and throughput for timber stock items as well as bespoke orders from our branches and customers

In 2023, we had to carefully consider the impact of falling timber prices and industr y challenges on our investment strateg y Rather than holding back, we opted to further enhance our ser vices recognising the potential for growth in the year ahead This has seen us invest £300,000 in a new timber treatment plant at our Chester branch.

Replacing an existing facility, the fully-automated plant can operate all year round and for the first time enables us to treat timbers in green and brown from our Chester site This means we can better ser vice customers across Cheshire, Merseyside and Manchester as each region tends to have different design requirements

Timber for decking, fencing and posts can all be treated at the plant, which uses pressure to reach the centre of the wood to preser ve it A blend of copper and organic co-biocides is used in the process to ensure long-lasting protection against wood decay and pests As well as the treatment area, the new plant comprises a secure storage facility

and is fully bunded throughout to maximise health and safety.

The biggest benefit of the facility is speed With no need for manual equipment, up to 38 cubic metres of timber can be treated per day, more than tripling output. Thanks to new technolog y, dr ying time, which previously could take between 24 and 48 hours, has also been reduced so treated timber can be collected on the same day.

Strategically, this investment is expected to benefit other timber merchants across Cheshire and North Wales From our own experience and research, we know that most have to travel out of the region as far as Manchester to treat timbers Now, they have an option closer to home helping them to save time, money and carbon emissions

New avenues

Difficult trading conditions have inevitably had a negative impact on the operations of some timber merchants We have seen insolvencies across the countr y driven by falling orders and cash flow difficulties Although this is a sad and unfortunate situation, it can lead to opportunity

Silva Timber Products is a case in point. The Widnes-based firm appointed administrators in October 2023 and ceased trading Its product offer comprised a range of specialised timber, composite decking, cladding, timber fencing and roof shingles.

As a business local to us, we identified synergies which could help both parties We felt the company ’ s products could complement our own, helping us to bolster our range. As a result, we have now acquired its stock and have recruited some of its team members to help further develop our timber offer through their expert knowledge. These new products will be manufactured at our timber mill which already has the capacity and technolog y needed to produce them

Building resilience

Against a backdrop of ongoing economic uncertainty, there is still room for optimism across the timber merchant industr y As trading conditions continue to change, a willingness to adapt and an eye on the future will be key Alongside potential challenges are opportunities to enhance timber products and ser vices paving the way for profitable growth and sustainability

n For more information on Beesley & Fildes’ expanded timber offer, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe015

ROOFING REWARDS

Made in Br itain

been popular, especially in the East and South of England. And now, merchants can support installers by promoting an all-new, UK-manufactured clay pantile option.

Marley has recently re-launched a new range of its long-standing Lincoln Clay Pantiles, which will become one of the only clay pantiles manufactured in Britain The Lincoln Clay Interlocking Pantile extends design-led product options to enhance roofing projects, supports greater product availability and further strengthens the British roofing sector.

With an s-cur ve profile and thin leading edge, the new range offers a series of design enhancements to further improve the product’s traditional appearance and reputation for robust performance

Production for the new Lincoln is located at Marley’s production in Keele, with the clay used for its manufacture sourced from nearby quarries This makes Marley one of the only providers of a British-made clay pantile, delivering an additional sales boost for merchants who rely on product availability to help contractors plan and meet project timescales

From an aesthetic perspective, the new Lincoln Clay Interlocking Pantile range is available in single coloured Red Smooth, and Rustic Red, which incorporates a flash of black dusting to create a more weathered appearance and enhanced attractiveness

Changes have also been made to the texture of the new Lincoln pantile, so that it offers a marked heritage aesthetic This will help to open up business opportunity for merchants and installers looking to delight clients by supplying a striking roof solution that combines traditional looks with long-term performance

The new Lincoln is an ideal roofing solution that merchants can recommend for a wide range of projects, such as new builds, existing refurbishments and extensions

n For more information, use the shortcode www rdr link/mbe016

Air apparent

In the UK and Ireland, the quest for energy-efficient buildings is challenged by an ageing housing stock According to the English Housing Survey (2021 to 2022), 62% of dwellings in England were constructed before 1968, and only 47 5% have an Energy Performance Certificate rating of C or above, which is considered efficient

The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy highlights that the residential sector accounted for 19% of the UK’s total final energy consumption in 2021 Similarly, in Ireland, data from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland shows that about 50% of homes were built before 1990, with only 38% achieving a Building Energy Rating of B3 or above in 2021

At the same time, over half (58%) of privately rented households in England are dealing with damp, mould and/or excessive cold in their homes, affecting approximately 2 7 million households These conditions degrade living quality and highlight the inefficiencies in building envelopes that fail to control moisture and retain heat

These statistics underscore the critical need for modern construction practices that prioritise airtightness to minimise energ y loss while ensuring proper vapour control and ventilation to combat moisture-related issues The balance between airtight construction and adequate moisture

management is essential, not only for energ y conser vation but also to maintain healthy living conditions within these structures

Moreover, the rising popularity of the Passivhaus concept, which does not require traditional heating or cooling systems, further emphasises the importance of robust air barrier properties in building materials

A balancing act

Airtightness refers to the building shell’s ability to prevent uncontrolled air leakage, a vital factor for thermal comfort and significant energ y savings by reducing a building’s heating and cooling demands Vapour control, on the other hand, manages the diffusion of moisture vapour within the building envelope, preventing the accumulation of interstitial condensation and mould This is imperative for protecting the structural integrity of the building

The push towards tighter building envelopes has led to a better understanding while airtightness is essential for energ y efficiency, it must be

Becci Goldsmith, Product Manager at MEDITE SMARTPLY

explains how to achieve “effortless airtightness and vapour control.”

balanced with ventilation to prevent surface damp and mould issues, which are prevalent in poorly ventilated spaces, and lead to poor indoor air conditions. This balance is critical in avoiding the pitfalls of condensation, which can lead to structural and health issues.

Innovations and applications

Innovative building solutions such as wood panels with integrated vapour control and air barrier properties are addressing these needs effectively. These products simplify the construction process while contributing to more energy-efficient buildings For instance, the use of Oriented Strand Board (OSB) panels such as SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT, that

SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT is a structural OSB panel with integrated vapour control and air barrier

Max Fordham House in Camden is a contemporary three-bedroom ‘Passivhaus’ which has been completed to the highest energysaving standards with SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT

has airtightness engineered into the panel substrate, provides an integrated vapour barrier with consistently high vapour resistance over the entire surface

Used as structural sheathing in timber frame structures, such panels also enhance the buildings’ environmental credentials by reducing their overall carbon footprint The

integrated vapour control layer and air barrier properties eliminate the need for additional Air and Vapour Control Layout (AVCL) membranes. The coating also provides a smooth, durable surface for superior bonding of airtight tape at panel joints, simplifying both new build and renovation projects and shortening the installation time.

It is easy to handle and can be readily cut and fixed using standard timber frame fixings.

B eing robust, there is minimal risk of damage during assembly, transport or erection, which means the airtightness is not compromised

What does the future hold?

The trajector y for future building practices is clear : energ y-efficient buildings that provide

healthy spaces for occupants This involves a deeper focus on the materials and technologies used in construction, particularly those that offer comprehensive solutions to the challenges of airtightness and vapour control

As we look towards a future of sustainable buildings in the truest sense economically, environmentally and socially the principles of airtightness and vapour control become critical.

Ensuring these standards will not only mitigate the sector’s extensive energ y use but also elevate the living and working environments of millions, ultimately contributing to the broader goals of energ y efficiency and sustainability.

n For more information on the MEDITE MDF range and the SMARTPLY portfolio of OSB solutions, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe017

Outlining the versatility of OSB, West Fraser’s Marketing Manager David Connacher discusses the importance of effective retrofit action whilst developers use the material in multiple applications for new build projects — even including as safe, secure and branded site hoardings.

Above board

The eyes of the specifier and builder have to be wide open for the best products for a project cutting corners and selecting poor replacements does not work in the long run. Performance, safety and the environment remain some of the toughest, and most important, considerations.

Choosing panel products that satisfy building standards, have sound environmental credentials and are quick and easy to use when battling the elements in the UK, is one tough

task too, but West Fraser argues that its SterlingOSB Zero range makes the job a whole lot easier The portfolio comprises of SterlingOSB Zero OSB3 and SterlingOSB Zero Tongue & Groove which are both variants of the precision-engineered OSB3 board BBA-approved, the board contains zero added formaldehyde and is produced in Scotland from forest thinnings taken from sustainably-managed forests It is also certified according to the guidelines of the FSC (C012533) and is CE-certified

Among its multiple uses, SterlingOSB Zero is said to be ideal for timber frame construction The boards are designed to speed up the build process and are available in a wide range of thicknesses and sheet sizes For structural use in dr y or humid load bearing situations, the manufacturer says that SterlingOSB Zero OSB3 is the board of choice

Flooring and roofing applications, meanwhile, are ser ved by SterlingOSB Zero OSB3 and SterlingOSB Zero Tongue & Groove The panels are easy to saw, drill, nail or plane, whilst SterlingOSB Zero’s smooth surface gives improved adhesion qualities for all flat roofing applications with no sanding required, even for GRP finishes.

Furthermore, West Fraser states that it delivers a net carbon benefit in all its products Produced in the UK, more CO2e is locked up in the products (and their lifetime of use) than is emitted in their manufacture According to the company, that accounts for ever ything from forest to customer, including har vesting, production, sales and logistics

Indeed, in terms of sustainability, Marketing Manager David Connacher argues that “the need to retrofit our buildings through improvements that make

them energ y efficient and sustainable into the future is necessar y and urgent ” With buildings contributing around 40% of global energ y-related carbon emissions and, in the UK, it is estimated that 80% of buildings that will be in use in 2050 already exist, he asserts that “in many cases, replacing buildings is neither practical nor environmentally sound so, rather than being seen as a problem, they should be viewed as a resource. ”

David notes that many developers are now seeing that a “retrofit-first approach that prioritises upgrading and modifying buildings over demolition and rebuilding is increasingly the way for ward (with) the potential to cut carbon, costs and waste while increasing market value and rental returns ”

This will, he explains, provide architects and designers with “stimulating opportunities to transform existing structures into comfortable and useful homes, offices and retail spaces ” whilst requiring “imaginative reuse, adaptation, innovative solutions and opportunities for exciting new design ”

And the creative use of materials such as OSB is also seeing practical new applications such as ensuring safety and security around construction sites For example, INCO Construction & Development Consultants (part of The Berr y Group) in the East Midlands has recently used West Fraser’s SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus for the hoardings around one of its latest residential projects, close to Derby city centre in Slack Lane.

Lewis Sloan, the company ’ s Procurement & Estimating Manager, said: “ The Berr y Group is the client for a student accommodation project with 44 study bedrooms across ground, first and second floors, while Berr y Construction is carr ying out the work and INCO providing all the construction management and consultancy ser vices in which we specialise. The site itself was derelict land flanked by houses and some commercial properties

“Over the years, we have purchased standard OSB and rollered it white before spraying on our logos using stencils or applying transfers Then, our Travis Perkins representative brought the West Fraser product to our attention ”

With a 30-metre stretch along the main elevation and returning around two of the other sides to the site, the boards were screw-fixed to a timber frame braced off the scaffold rails during a three-day installation.

Lewis continued: “We regard hoardings as an important part of our branding: not just for the impression it creates with the local public, but also the trade contractors and other parties who visit the site during the build programme Not only does the SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus present a smarter finish, but from a visual perspective it does what the company claims and stays smart for longer and we expect we will be able to reuse most of the panels on other jobs without any redecoration unless, for example, the project sponsors change ”

n For more information on the many uses of OSB from West Fraser along with the company’s support package for merchants, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe018

There are no others like us…

Customer support matter s

Jason Smith, Managing Director at Okarno, looks at how it is going the extra mile for merchants.

Having a reliable supplier that can consistently deliver products when you need them is crucial for any merchant. Timely deliver y ensures that the business can meet demand from customers and avoid any potential delays or disruptions in their operations It allows merchants to maintain a smooth and efficient supply chain, which in turn enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty

It’s the reason we ’ ve always been clear about our offering: Okarno provides a unique ser vice by combining market-leading trade brands and delivering them in a sustainable way directly through three ser vice offerings: Customers can choose from single pallets, mixed pallet loads, through to small parcels

They can order as little as a single pallet, whether that’s a full pallet of a single product, or a mixed pallet of products from across the range. The Okarno Gyproc Express service also allows customers to order a single parcel of product for small and speedy orders

To stay ahead of competition, merchants also require support with point of sale (POS) and merchandising Our POS displays can significantly impact sales by attracting customers and showcasing existing and new products in an appealing way.

Marketing support, too, is essential as we look to help merchants target growing market sectors For example, we recently introduced Dalapro Roll Nova, a ready-mixed roller filler that provides contractors with a fast and easy way of creating a perfect plastered finish

Another important aspect is online product training This ensures that our merchant customers have the knowledge and skills necessary to sell products effectively They are available on our YouTube channel

Personal interaction has always been crucial and still is, which is why we remain committed to it We like to think that our team provide valuable insights to merchants, helping them make informed buying decisions. It’s a great way to share knowledge and expertise.

Our rebrand to Okarno brings all these essential support ser vices together

n For more on Okarno’s support for merchants, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe112

TIMBER FOCUS

PAINTED FEATHEREDGE TIMBER CLADDINGS

At the recent NMBS Exhibition, Timber Focus showcased the most extensive selection of Painted Timber Cladding in the SertiWOOD range Featheredge

Available in a wide range of painted colours, featuring the classic trio of Black, Grey and White plus over 20 different colours in total, the company states that with such a diverse palette, merchants are sure to find the perfect match for their stock line

Further variations include choosing from the standard 7” (175mm) size, opting for the “sophisticated rebated profile”, or elevating the design with the premium Dutch profile at 8” (200mm)

Indicating the wide range of products in the firm’s portfolio, also on display at the NMBS Exhibition were:

l Siberian Larch

l Austrian Larch

l Kebony

l Accoya

l Thermowood

l Fire Retardant Treated Claddings, etc

n For more information from Timber Focus, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe019

SAMAC FIXINGS TEK SCREW RANGE

W.HOWARD LAMINATE WOODGRAIN WINDOW BOARD

W Howard has expanded its Window Board range with a new White Woodgrain Laminate option

Offering users the look of finished woodgrain with all the benefits of an MDF core, this is said to mean no warping, splitting or knots to deal with on site, reducing waste and installation time Instead, the product can be fitted quickly and easily, with no need to paint or stain the product once it has been installed

The boards are designed to be hardwearing, stain resistant and easy to clean, giving property owners the “premium look of natural timber at a cost-effective price ” They are available in width options of 219, 244 and 295mm to suit all requirements, and measure 25mm thick. Each 2,440mm length is supplied individually shrinkwrapped for maximum protection while in transit and on site.

n To discover more about the full W.Howard range of quality MDF profiles, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe020

TECTIES

TIMBER FRAME TIES FOR LARGER CAVITIES

Tecties says it has unveiled a new alternative to helical ties specifically tailored for housebuilders seeking a safe and cost-effective solution in timber frame construction Alongside its existing 50, 75, and 100mm cavity ties, its traditional timber frame tie is engineered for 125 – 150mm cavities and this is said to be the first-of-its-kind to offer a “reliable alternative to helical ties without compromising on quality or performance, with no need for specialised installation tools ” Certified to meet BS EN standards including BS EN 846-6:2012 and BS EN 8451:2013 Type 6 tie requirements, the ties have undergone extensive testing and are endorsed by NHBC technical standards for ultimate performance and reliability.

n Visit www.rdr.link/mbe021

Samac has launched its new TEK Screw range, engineered for a wide range of applications where materials such as wood and metal need to be screwed together without the need for pre-drilling The screws feature a self-tapping thread, allowing them to cut their own thread into the material they are fastening, along with a drilling point. This dual functionality is said to offer a quick and effective way to join two materials seamlessly

Understanding the rigorous challenges that outdoor and extreme environments pose, this comprehensive collection has been developed with an emphasis on resilience Each screw is treated with an advanced 1500-hour Ruspert Coating, providing “outstanding resistance to corrosion” and ensuring these fasteners stand up to the elements with unprecedented toughness

The range includes the Countersunk Self Drilling Screw with Wings, which is said to excel in joining timber to light or heavy section steel. Its unique wings carve out cavities in the timber, preserving structural integrity even while the timber expands and contracts When the screw reaches steel, the wings snap off so the screw thread can engage with the material

The full range features a wide array of sizes, available in packs of 100.

n Use www.rdr.link/mbe022 for further information.

FLOORING & INSULATION

The next level

Scott

Wolters, Building Products Sales Director at EGGER UK, discusses the considerations your customers need to explore when it comes to structural flooring solutions.

Whilst there are many options available when it comes to structural flooring systems, including beam and block, concrete slabs and suspended timber floors, chipboard-based structural flooring boards remain a popular choice and are often seen on housing developments This form of structural flooring comes with numerous benefits, from durability and ease of installation (which we’ll explore in more detail later) to sustainability, with wood being an inherently renewable material.

There are numerous advantages to flooring manufactured from P5 chipboard, including moisture-resistance and load bearing capabilities Chipboard is also a sustainable choice, often containing a large portion of recycled content. As well as

prolonging the lifespan of waste wood that would other wise be burnt or sent to landfill, this locks in the CO2 that is captured during the growth of the tree for longer.

Applications

You’ ll know all to o well the wide range of installation and c ustomer requirements that can b e encountered on a projec t For tunately, there are a numb er of str uc tural f lo oring options available that can meet thes e requirements, with P5 chipb oard at their core.

Standard uncoated P5 chipboard is ideal for internal applications, from structural DIY projects to refurbishments and loft extensions However, it is important to remember that uncoated P5 chipboard should be laid in dr y conditions only.

For projects where structural flooring will be left exposed to the elements, there are particleboards available, such as EGGER Peel Clean Xtra, with a slip-resistant, peelable film top layer This easy-to-peel film helps prevent moisture ingress from inclement weather and provides protection from second fix and finishing trades, such as painting or plastering Once work is completed, the peelable layer can be easily removed, leaving behind a clean flooring surface

For customers who want the highest product specification, a structural flooring board that incorporates a permanent, thermally bonded and hard-wearing surface layer on both sides can be installed. For example, our EGGER Protect boards can be left exposed to the elements for up to 60 days and provide an anti-slip and hard-wearing

surface that also protects against wear and tear from site traffic

As well as preventing moisture ingress from wet weather during the build, this product also offers protection against leaking pipes once construction is complete In addition, these boards are ideal for new-build or timber frame homes where the roof is yet to be installed, and are even suitable for use with underfloor heating systems

Sustainability

We all want to do our bit for the environment and be mindful of our carbon footprint By considering the green credentials of building products installed on site, you are able to demonstrate this awareness to customers and clients

And while some wood-based structural flooring boards are manufactured from 100% virgin wood, consider looking for more sustainable options that incorporate recycled material and sawmill by-products too, such as hackchips and sawdust

Ensuring the correct installation of structural flooring is a key priority on any build. Your customers need to ensure they follow the recommended fitting guidance provided with the boards, as these are critical to the validity of performance guarantees

For the best quality install, we always recommend using a combination of joint and joist adhesive and mechanical fixings, with the adhesive applied to all edges of the first row of boards and joists, with one mechanical fixing used per joist along the perimeter edge. Moving across the floor, adhesive should continue to be applied in the tongue and groove of each board, as well as following the fixing pattern every 1,200mm using mechanical fixings.

We recommend that one bottle of adhesive is used per six boards, with it visibly foaming out between the boards Once the adhesive has dried and the building is made fully watertight, any excess adhesive can be removed with a scraper

To give optimum strength and longevity to the overall floor, boards should be staggered, with a configuration similar to a brick bond laying pattern, and expansion gaps left against all walls Boards with a tongue and groove profile can help to ensure a consistent joint, with the boards locking together, providing enhanced structural integrity

At EGGER, we are also proud to offer a lifetime guarantee that covers the structural integrity of our Advanced Structural Flooring Boards, when installed using our recommended fitting method

n For more information on EGGER’s Advanced Structural Flooring Boards, use the shortcode www rdr link/mbe023

Marley has launched a newly invigorated range of its popular and longstanding Lincoln clay pantiles, which the manufacturer says makes it one of the only clay pantiles manufactured in Britain.

Flying the f lag

The ne w L incoln C l ay Interlo ck ing

Pant i le w it h an s-c ur ve prof i le and t hin le ading e dge is now avai l able f rom Marle y, of fer ing merchants, ro of ing cont rac tors and t heir c ustomers a s er ies of desig n en hancements t hat “under pin t he pro duc t’s t radit iona l app e arance and robust p er for mance ”

Production for the new Lincoln has moved from Germany to Keele in Staffordshire with the clay used for its manufacture sourced from nearby quarries, meaning that the manufacturer is now able to offer the same colour way found on its Red Smooth Single Camber Clay Plain Tiles. This, the company asserts, makes it one of the only providers of a British-made clay pantile which it says will “deliver an additional confidence boost to the region’s manufacturing capacity”

The decision to transition production to the UK is also intended to deliver environmental benefits through a reduction in shipping and transport requirements, and subsequent reductions in associated carbon emissions Moreover, Marley states that this will further “provide additional versatility and assurance of product supply for the UK roofing sector.”

New colour ways

The new range is available in single coloured Red Smooth in addition to Rustic Red, which incorporates a flash of dusting to

create a more weathered appearance and enhanced kerb-side appeal The two colours can also be combined across the roof, creating more options for a unique and traditional appearance

Changes have also been made to the texture of the pantile so that it offers a “marked heritage aesthetic,” which Marley contends will open up “business opportunity for installers, ensure greater design choice for specifiers, and delight homeowners.”

The Lincoln is said to offer simple installation for roofing contractors with its open gauge design and 22.5° minimum pitch Furthermore, combining the traditional look and feel of a clay pantile with longevity of performance is designed to make the range a suitable ideal roofing solution for new builds, refurbishments and extensions alike

Stuart Nicholson, the manufacturer’s Roof Systems Director, commented: “As part of our ongoing commitment to support the UK roofing industr y, Marley has taken the strategic decision to move the production of the Lincoln Interlocking Clay Pantile to our site in Keele which makes us one of the only providers of a clay pantile here in Britain.

“Using locally sourced materials will ensure the environmental impact of the new

“The decision to transition production to the UK will provide additional versatility and assurance of product supply for the UK roofing sector.”

Lincoln is minimised, while the subtle changes we have made to the colour and texture of the pantile will maintain its attractive aesthetic appeal and popularity, which have underpinned its past success ”

n For more information on the new range and Marley’s support ser vices for merchants, use the shortcode www rdr link/mbe024

ROOFING, FLOORING & INSULATION

SUPERGLASS COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

Superglass has been manufacturing glass mineral wool insulation in Stirling for more than 30 years and places sustainability at the core of its business Its products are made from up to 84% recycled glass which reduces waste and saves valuable resources whilst over its lifetime, glass mineral wool insulation typically saves up to 200 times the energy used in its manufacture and transport making it extremely effective from an environmental point of view

As well as sustainability, giving back to the local area is deemed paramount for the company and both elements are being delivered through a new partnership with the local Braehead

Primary The school’s grounds are now said to be flourishing after volunteers from its insulation-manufacturing neighbour helped pupils, parents and teachers to upgrade its green spaces The business, which was acquired by Etex in June 2023, will also be providing funding for ongoing improvement projects

n For more information on the Superglass product range and its support services for merchants, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe025

PERMAGROUP

SUSTAINABLE REUSE INITIATIVE

RUSSELL ROOF TILES SOLAR PV

Said to the offer the same quality credentials and easy installation as its concrete products, Russell Roof Tiles has launched its first solar PV offer as part of its continued commitment to sustainability The launch follows 18 months of R&D and the new in-roof RussFast Solar PV system has been designed to be compatible with most of the manufacturer’s profiles to provide “a quality roof aesthetic for both commercial and domestic specifications.”

Described as an extensive range of in-roof solar kits with a market leading power output of 455W per panel, the system features “every element needed” for a comprehensive in-roof array Designed specifically to work with all Russell Roof Tiles interlocking tile profiles, it can be laid in a variety of configurations and sits within the roof covering for excellent aesthetics and flexibility In addition, combining high panel efficiency and the latest solar cell technology means fewer panels need to be installed per square metre, saving both labour and materials

KNAUF INSULATION

CCPI MARK FOR ROCKSILK RAINSCREEN SLABS

Knauf Insulation states that its Rocksilk RainScreen Slabs have become the first sheathing insulation products to carry the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) verification mark, providing greater confidence that the information given for these products is “clear, accurate, access unambiguous and up to date.”

The range of non-combustible rock mineral wool slabs are designed as sheathing insulation for external walls of any height, as well as partially-filled or reinforced concrete cavity walls. They are manufactured with ECOSE Technology, the manufacturer’s bio-based binder which contains no added formaldehyde or phenol

In addition, Rocksilk RainScreen Slabs now form part of a tested system with Knauf Insulation’s recently launched Rocksilk RainScreen Cavity Barriers, designed to simplify specification and support compliance in cladding and masonry façades

PermaGroup says it is tackling a significant industry problem with a simple yet effective solution The supplier has launched a new initiative through which it is offering to collect the cardboard tubes used to deliver EPDM from stockists, clients and even competitors as part of its team’s usual van routes

The firm will then reuse the tubes for future EPDM deliveries, supporting a more sustainable model, with MD Adrian Buttress commenting: “EPDM is delivered in this way to avoid creases and folds, however, due to the talc on the tubes from the rubber sheets they can’t be recycled easily and as such end up in landfill

“As we’re already transporting products across the country, it’s easy enough to pick up used tubes without adding additional miles We’re not claiming to have solved the industry’s sustainability problems with this scheme, however this relatively small and simple idea will ensure we’re reusing materials far more effectively and working together as an industry to do so ”

More information is available via www.rdr.link/mbe027 n Enter www.rdr.link/mbe028 for

BUILDING BOARDS, PLASTERS & RENDERS

Take back control

Formally launched late last year in a pilot project with contractor Manchester Design and Build at its Piccadilly Warehouse renovation, the Knauf Take Back Scheme is billed as a truly sustainable solution for plasterboard waste, and could help your customers boost their environmental credentials whilst allowing the sector to take a further step towards a circular economy.

In the construction industr y, managing waste responsibly is a critical challenge, especially when it comes to materials like plasterboard For professionals involved in purchasing and utilising plasterboard, finding effective disposal methods can be a complex issue However, Knauf is stepping up to offer a sustainable solution with its new ‘ Take Back Scheme’.

By working with Encore, a waste management and environmental consultanc y, ‘ Take B ack’ is said to of fer a total s olution to a pressing waste management issue that repur p os es a passive material.

The Scheme is a pioneering programme designed to facilitate the recycling and responsible disposal of plasterboard waste It allows contractors, builders and project managers to efficiently manage their plasterboard waste by returning unused materials directly to Knauf via its sustainable partners Encore, or the plasterboard industr y as recycled content

Moreover, the data collected from the initiative provides information that helps promote a more circular industr y which participating companies can use to promote

their own sustainability programmes through waste reduction

Understanding the plasterboard waste issue

Plasterboard, commonly used in construction projects for wall linings and ceilings, often generates significant waste during installation and renovation processes. Disposing of unused or surplus plasterboard can be problematic due to its composition, which includes g ypsum and paper liners.

Landfilling waste is not environmentally friendly and can contribute to resource depletion thorough lessening the impact on basic raw materials needed when manufacturing new

To address these challenges, the launch of the Knauf Take Back Scheme provides an initiative that is specifically designed to tackle plasterboard waste sustainably This scheme enables trade professionals to return unused plasterboard to Knauf, ensuring that it is recycled and repurposed instead of ending up in landfills

By p ar t icip at ing in t his s cheme, const r uc t ion business es not on ly cont r ibute to re ducing env ironment a l

imp ac t but a ls o ad here to resp onsible waste management prac t ices

How does it work?

The process is straightfor ward Firstly, trade professionals simply need to register for the Take Back Scheme via Knauf ’ s website to allow them to access its full benefits Once registered, participants can arrange for the collection of their unused plasterboard waste via the manufacturer’s dedicated ser vice

Knauf then ensures that the collected plasterboard is recycled efficiently. This involves separating g ypsum from paper liners and processing it for reuse in new plasterboard production or other applications

Key benefits of the scheme

l Environmental Responsibility : Reduce a project’s carbon footprint by diverting plasterboard waste from landfills Data sharing and reporting that offers a more transparent approach to waste and recycling within the industr y

l Cost-Efficienc y : Disposal costs associated with traditional waste management methods are often at the mercy of local authorities who operate schemes which ultimately “do nothing to reduce waste or actually deal with the issue of waste ” This is especially important, not just within the realms of the circular economy but corporate social responsibility and Environmental Social Governance protocol

l Compliance: Meet sustainability standards and contribute to a circular economy.

Jon Watts, Knauf UK & Ireland’s National Client Development Manager, said: “I am excited to introduce the Knauf Take Back Scheme to the trade community This initiative underscores our commitment to sustainability and provides a practical solution for managing plasterboard waste.

“Our Take Back Scheme is a testament to our dedication to environmental responsibility We are committed to supporting our customers in adopting eco-friendly practices and providing them with practical solutions to manage plasterboard waste effectively Join us in making a positive impact on the environment while streamlining your construction processes ”

Presenting a sustainable and responsible solution for dealing with plasterboard waste, Knauf is confident that its Take Back Scheme well help professionals to streamline their waste management processes and contribute to a greener future playing a vital role in advancing sustainability within the construction sector

n For more information on the Knauf Take Back Scheme, in addition to the company’s wider range of products and support services for merchants, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe029

BUILDING BOARDS, PLASTERS & RENDERS

Speed is of the essence

When your profession is in high demand, booking in a full day’s work, keeping customers happy and still getting home at a reasonable time can be difficult to juggle. For plasterers, balancing time is essential, but in the pursuit of speed, some look to increase their efficiency for small repair and patching jobs by turning to off-the-shelf ‘accelerator’ sachet packets in powder form that can be added to finishing plaster to create quicker dr ying times

Even homemade remedies are being used, such as adding cement, and dirty or warm water However, such methods can invalidate product warranties, especially for British Gypsum, as they have not been tested and are not standardised It is for such reasons that British Gypsum developed ThistlePro FastSet Finish, as this quicker setting finishing plaster offers an all-in-one bag that removes the gamble of adding unapproved accelerators or additives

Indeed, one 25kg bag will cover approximately 10m2 and set in 60-70 minutes when used in accordance with the installation guidance

When using the same mix for the first and second coats, working in normal temperatures, British Gypsum’s on-site trials

have shown the product will set at approximately 60 minutes when being applied to wallboard The final trowel will be around the 70-minute mark Of course, on-site practices can var y, and finishing times are reduced by suction and temperature conditions

The product gives a smooth finish and is suitable for patch work and repair jobs as well as smaller internal walls and ceilings, electrical patching, chimney breasts and more, as well as providing a durable base for applying decorative finishes In comparison, Thistle MultiFinish plaster takes between 90 to 120 minutes to set and can therefore mean additional waiting on smaller jobs

Putting the product to the test, British Gypsum enlisted Certified Plasterers, a group of experienced plasterers who have been in the trade for many years, to have had their work assessed at one of its training academies, asking what they really thought about ThistlePro FastSet Finish

A sur vey posed questions including:

l How often do you use ThistlePro FastSet Finish?

l What sort of jobs do you use it on?

l How would you rate the product’s performance?

l Has anything changed about how you

work, day-to-day, now that you use this product?

l Does it really save you time? If so, what benefits has that brought to you?

l How likely are you to recommend this product to others?

l Do you think the product is good value for money?

The majority said they either used the product weekly or monthly and that it was especially useful for patching, small walls, ceilings, electrical chases, small and ‘ on the way home’ jobs Most of the plasterers rated the product’s performance as excellent and also felt it provided good value for money Most agreed that it had improved their day-to-day work life, as smaller jobs were completed more quickly

Moreover, many stated they were able to fit in extra jobs and have earlier finishes with less time waiting around, while smaller projects were quick and easy to complete

Using the right product, in the right way, for the right job can help to make life’s juggling act a little more straightfor ward

n For more information on British Gypsum’s ThistlePro FastSet Finish, use the shortcode www rdr link/mbe030

BUILDING BOARDS, PLASTERS & RENDERS

Essential informat ion

Siniat is among a growing list of manufacturers to have a number of its product sets and systems verified by the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) mark, as the business endorses the initiative to drive standards and increase building safety.

Developed by the Construction Products Association’s (CPA) Marketing Integrity Group, the Code for Construction Product Information was launched to provide the necessary confirmation throughout the supply chain that building product information is “clear, accurate, accessible, up-to-date and unambiguous” in terms of the applications and scenarios in which materials can be safely used.

The administration of the Code has been handed over to the not-for-profit Construction Product Information and increasing numbers of manufacturers (as well as certain merchants and distributors) are now detailing their products and systems to have been assessed under the criteria For example, at the start of the year, Siniat announced that four product sets its partition systems with 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes of fire resistance have now been verified against the CCPI, covering all of the partition systems published on Siniat’s website and in its Dr ywall Manual.

This recognition comes as part of a number of initiatives that Siniat has recently invested in to drive standards and increase fire safety competency Technical Director Nigel Morrey commented: “ The effective

management of product information is essential to ensuring the performance and safety of our buildings So, we warmly welcome the CCPI’s initiatives and it has been great to see manufacturers, merchants, and distributors signing up to the scheme

“At Siniat, driving fire safety is and always has been a central focus for our team This meant that acquiring CCPI verification for these sets was a natural step following the work we have already been doing to ensure the provision of high-quality performance data.”

Nigel continued: “However, we know that simply providing data is not enough We need to drive competencies across the supply chain to ensure that the data provided can be received, interpreted, and understood with minimal complications That’s why, alongside our investment in data provision, we have also been investing in external training for our supply chain partners while upskilling our internal teams to take them to IFE (Institution of Fire Engineers) Level 3 in passive fire protection, which gives our customers the assurance they need to know that they are being supported by experts.”

Since the publication of the Hackitt Report, and subsequent revisions to building

safety legislation, Siniat has also invested heavily in acquiring digitally accessible third party EX AP classification reports for its portfolio of systems. This investment means that third party fire classification reports are now provided as standard in project packs, and that all of its systems are compliant with the legislation laid out in the Building Safety Act and coinciding Approved documents

To further support the provision of performance data throughout the supply chain, the firm has also launched the MySiniat platform which grants its partners real time access to CAD files, fire classification reports, acoustic reports and datasheets to enable a smooth specification process while ensuring the provision of a ‘Golden Thread’ of information that can be accessed for “ any project, from anywhere, at any time ”

n For more information on Siniat’s range of products and its support ser vices for merchants, use the shortcode www rdr link/mbe031

n Use www.rdr.link/mbe032 for further details on the Code for Construction Product Information.

BUILDING BOARDS, PLASTERS & RENDERS

KILWAUGHTER MINERALS K REND GP MIX

Boasting a cutting-edge new formula with reduced drying times and improved workability, GP Mix is a premium general-purpose render suitable for use as a float coat, scratch coat and masonry mortar The product replaces its existing GP Mortar product which has been a successful part of the portfolio for several years.

Part of the K Rend Eco range that utilises cement replacement technology and delivers a fine texture finish, the product is said to deliver a number of major benefits For example, it gives the same final appearance as traditional sand and cement render mix while being suitable for internal and external use, as well as being suitable for hand or machine application

The arrival of GP Mix to the market comes less than two years after Kilwaughter Minerals’ K Rend brand launched K Mono a one-coat, onepass through-coloured render product that the manufacturer says has “revolutionised the UK and Ireland housebuilder market ”

n Head to www.rdr.link/mbe033 to learn more.

SIG

CCPI ASSESSMENT FOR SPEEDLINE

RENDERPLAS

SHADOW GAP BEADS

When looking to create that perfect aesthetic, the details matter For those looking to avoid traditional skirting boards, architraves and cornices, Renderplas offers a range of PVC plasterboard shadow gap beads for dry lining systems which combine durability and futuristic looks to ensure a striking selection for any commercial or residential project Shadow gap beads can be installed where interior wall dry lining systems meet floors, ceilings, windows, doorframes and staircases A type of skim bead, they draw a clean line unimpeded by skirting boards, architraves and cornices enabling a minimalist aesthetic that matches the design language of current developments.

n More information awaits via www.rdr.link/mbe034

HIKOKI

CORDLESS 18V DRYWALL SCREWDRIVERS

Described as setting a new standard for fast, mobile and precise work, HiKOKI Power Tools has announced two new additions to its cordless range the W18DB and W18DA Cordless Drywall Screwdrivers Fitted with a collated screw magazine, the18V Screwdrivers can drive screws precisely and in series, saving time, money and a huge increase in efficiency. With its 18V power and 10 Nm of torque, the W18DB is said to be a great tool for heavier-duty work, providing considerable power without compromising on precision The W18DA, meanwhile, is also at 18V but with 6 Nm of torque and is optimised for speed with a no-load speed reaching 5,000 rotations per minute to make it ideal for tasks requiring quick operation

n For more on the new range from HiKOKI, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe035

ROLLINS

MARSHALLTOWN CURRY-STYLE PLASTERING TROWELS

Distributed by Rollins, the new range of Marshalltown Curry-Sty trowels are designed to stay stiff and remain flat, holding their o shape for longer to help plasterers achieve a professional quali finish The proprietary 5” wide golden stainless steel blade is securely fastened to an Xtralite aluminium alloy mounting which is lightweight and durable, and features a smooth wooden handle for user comfort

Available in 13”, 14” and 16” lengths, the trowels are made in the USA and are said to be perfect for plastering, rendering and general building work

n Use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe036 to discover more.

SIG is pleased to announce its Speedline Partition Systems have passed the assessment against the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) The assessment covers all non-load bearing metal stud partition systems, including shaft wall, with 30-, 60-, 90-, and 120-minute fire resistance

One of the first drywall systems to pass this assessment, the achievement is just one example of the Group’s continued commitment to demonstrating quality product and system information across own-brand products SIG has also made significant investment in its compliance team, SIG Assured, which works and supports manufacturers to ensure products are fully compliant with current industry requirements

Speedline systems comprise metal stud partitions supplied with performance plasterboard from major UK manufacturers The products are combined to create a system which provides the performance levels customers need, with the flexibility of working with major plasterboard suppliers

n Use www.rdr.link/mbe037 for further details.

Easy Innovations

Campaign news

Hedgehog Jumbo Brush / Easy Air Wedge

From a company that offers such a wide range of innovative property maintenance and home improvement products, we have two ads in the latest issue of Professional Builder The Hedgehog jumbo Brush is designed for large commercial gutter applications, boasting easy installation and off-the-shelf availability without the need for costly bespoke solutions

The Hedgehog easy Air Wedge, meanwhile, will help installers and fitters save time and money by making lifting and levelling easy in a whole host of applications

Use the shortcode www rdr link/mbe038 to discover more about a host of clever, problem-solving solutions

Marshalls

Infinia concrete paving

The result of “technology perfected over a decade,” Marshalls says that its innovative new concrete paving solution combines premium aesthetics with durability and ease of installation to deliver a solution that “looks amazing, stands up to constant use and defies the elements ”

Discover more via www rdr link/mbe039

Garador

The Garage Door People

Offering precision engineered up & over garage doors, with a host of additional benefits, customers can choose from a full range of colours and sizes

Go to www rdr link/mbe040 for more information.

T-T Pumps

Drainage & Effluent pumping stations you can trust

Designed and manufactured by T-T and approved by the BDA, the company ’ s Planet range is said to cater for everything from small single dwellings up to larger multi-dwelling applications In addition to highlighting the line-up’s key features and benefits, the ad also announces the latest additions to the range the Mercury and Venus Package Pumping Stations

Use www.rdr.link/mbe041 to find out more

In print via merchant trade counters and through an ever-increasing digital reach, Professional Builder and Professional Heating & Plumbing Installer magazines seek to inform and engage with over 200,000 industry professionals every month.

PBM considers a selection of the advertising campaigns featuring in the latest issues of PB and PHPI, which are helping to create awareness and pull-through sales opportunities at merchant branches nationwide.

Saniflo

When space matters…

An interesting ad from Saniflo, which looks beyond domestic applications to potentially open up greater opportunities for new business For cafes, offices and healthcare facilities, adding extra loos becomes “impossibly easy ” with Saniflo’s range of macerators and pumps

Discover more via www rdr link/mbe042

Derblaue

Liquid collection systems

Diversitech

ASHP Floor Mounting

A fraction of the weight of a traditional concrete slab, the Flexi Lite slab and foot kit is billed as an innovative solution for floor mounting heat pumps without the time and cost associated with constructing a concrete base

See the firm at Installer Show on stand 5H56, or use www rdr link/mbe043 to find out more

Teasing that Derblaue offers “the must-have system for everyday plumbing,” further information can be found via a quick scan of the advert’s handy QR code The business offers a host of products that will make dealing with leaks and spillages far less messy and much easier to handle with its range of flexible, fold-away tubs, pumps and slides that can help speed up jobs and minimise damage on site

Take a look at the full portfolio via www rdr link/mbe045

RA Tech Hotun Detect

Instantor Superior plumbing products… since 1926

A quick scan of the company ’ s website reveals that it offers a whole host of solutions to plumbing professionals, including compression fittings, copper and stainless steel press fittings, motorised valves, expansion vessels, chemical treatments and an extensive range of plumbing and heating accessories And we ’ ve not even mentioned Tucson Pumps yet With its products “conforming and certified to the most stringent quality standards,” visitors to Stand 4D18 at this month’s Installer Show will be able to get the full lowdown Further information can be found via www rdr link/mbe044

The hotun detect is described as being “the world’s first in-tundish, water detection, temperature sensing, audible and visual alarm system ” Offering early warning of relief valve discharge and helping to stop late night or unsociable call outs to boiler faults (due to low pressure boiler lockouts), the clever device can help installers to advertise the benefits of regular maintenance to their customers enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe046 for the full picture

In t he bag

Having made their debut with a special pre-launch offer for merchants at the NMBS Exhibition at the Coventry Building Society Arena back in April, the new Hultafors tool carrier range is now available with a host of POS and literature to support sales in store.

Featuring a total of ten new SKUs, the new range of tool carriers from Hultafors is just the latest in a series of recent new product additions as the company which is part of a wider group that includes Snickers Workwear and Solid Gear safety footwear in addition to Telesteps telescopic ladders, Fisco measuring tapes and the Scangrip lighting brand expands its presence in the UK

Indeed, Hultafors can trace its heritage in hand tools and accessories back to 1883 and even more is to follow Discussing the launch of the new range, Product Manager Johan Wijkmark said: “Our tools have stood the test of time for more than 140 years Now, we are introducing the perfect companions tool carriers designed for a modern and demanding work life

“We are launching, in total, ten new products, developed for a wide range of users such as construction workers, electricians and ser vice technicians The focus during the design process has been on ergonomics, organisation and accessibility we want to make it easy to find, carr y and organise your tools ”

The Ergonomic Tool Carrier, for example, is described as one of the most eye-catching bags in the range It has a cur ved back which is designed to give the leg more space to move while it is being carried and it also features an extra high handle that makes it easier to pick up. Additionally, the handle has a wide rubbercovering that provides for a comfortable grip even far from the centre if users need to balance an unevenly loaded bag

with a Nordic winter” and all large bags have been tested with a 60 kg static load to ensure they can withstand even the toughest conditions (and probably more than most people can carr y!).

Hultafors tool carriers are made from heavy-duty 1680D polyester fabric that is water-repellent, stain-resistant, and durable In a nod to the firm’s origins, the robust material is “perfectly suited to cope

The new tool-carr ying range is now available to order either via Toolbank or directly for merchants with existing accounts A comprehensive campaign is supporting the launch, with special buy-in promotions linked to Snickers workwear alongside dedicated point-of-sale packages for stockists, trade press advertising and digital marketing via the company ’ s social media channels

n For more information on the expanding range from Hultafors, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mbe047

NUIE PRODUCT BROCHURE

Designed specifically to help support brickand-mortar stories, the collection of high-quality products available in the new nuie choice brochure are exclusively available to retailers and merchants with no online sellers able to access the range

Inside the brochure, the company says stockists will “discover a curated range of modern brassware, whirlpool baths, freestanding baths, and innovative heating products that will set their store apart from the competition, with a comprehensive selection for any type of customer ”

Merchants can get their exclusive copy via www rdr link/mbe048

SOUDAL FIX ALL REWARDS

The nationwide loyalty scheme gives Fix ALL end users access to a whole host of exclusive gifts and competitions throughout the year By purchasing promotional product packs at participating stockists, trade customers can earn points for prizes, whilst a current ‘Beat the Keeper’ gamification offers them the chance to win tickets to euro 2024 in Germany!

Merchants can benefit from a range of complimentary point-of-sale material and display stands to drive sales in-store

Use www.rdr.link/mbe049 to find out more.

ARCTIC HAYES PRODUCT CATALOGUE

Arctic Hayes has launched its new product catalogue, the company ’ s first in three years With over 550 products now listed across 270 pages, the catalogue features popular items such as the Pipe Freeze, Vortex and SleepSafe ranges, as well as covering the 100+ new products recently introduced to meet the growing demands of customers

C K TOOLS RENEWABLES PROMOTION

As the demand for renewable energy increases, so does the demand for professionals equipped with the right tools for the project Running until 28 june 2024, the Renewables Highlight Promotion will see CKI support its retail partners by providing fantastic savings on popular products

The promo incudes a mix of fresh displays and will see many of the premium tools the brand is known for available at discounts of over 60%, including Range Deals, Single SKus and complete Kits optimised for both eV and Solar installations

Use www rdr link/mbe050 to find out more

CeO Lee Parsons said: “Our exciting new product catalogue will further enhance our support for our partner merchants And through our online portal, partners can view pricing, order online, view stock availability, and gain technical information, empowering them to make informed decisions and efficiently manage their offerings ”

For further info and to download the catalogue, use www.rdr.link/mbe051

VISTA ENGINEERING NEW WEBSITE

The independent manufacturer of builders’ metalwork has launched its brand-new website, designed to provide customers with comprehensive product information that’s easy to find and clearly laid out

In addition to a fresh new look, the website has two new features aimed at enhancing the overall experience Firstly, an online ‘chat support’ feature means that customers can now access the sales support team with just a click whilst a streamlined quoting tool allows customers to select products, add them to their quote basket, and submit enquiries with ease

See the new site via www rdr link/mbe052

For more examples of supplier support for merchants on the PBM website, enter the shortcode www rdr link/mbe053

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

BRITON ACCUFIT SYSTEM

Briton has launched an enhanced version of popular self-adhesive Accufit template, designed to aid easy and accurate installation of the supplier’s trusted door closers For 25 years, the unique ‘peel and stick’ Accufit system has provided installers with the means to fit closers quickly and accurately at the first attempt, improving efficiency and helping to drive better installation standards across the built environment.

The self-adhesive templates are designed to be stuck to the door and its frame, allowing all fixing points to be accurately predrilled and helping ensure the closer is correctly positioned in all applications The updated templates include the fixing dimensions of the door closer alongside user-friendly images to provide additional illustrative guidance whilst the fixing instructions have also been simplified to assist positioning the template, with the edge, face and inside edge frame of the door clearly marked

Pete Hancox, Country Manager at Allegion UK, commented: “An appropriately specified, installed and maintained door closer is a prerequisite when it comes to fire door safety With changes to fire safety legislation, and a renewed focus on competency, ensuring accurate installation is now more significant than ever, and as such, it’s an opportune time to launch our enhanced Accufit system ”

Updated versions of the Accufit template are now available with Briton 2003 and 2003V door closers, with the launch expanding across the door closer range in the coming months.

CARHARTT GRAPHIC TEES

As the weather warms, Carhartt says its range of sturdy-but-stylish graphic TShirts are “designed for the working day and your downtime chill ” The C Graphic Tee (106151) and the Camo C Graphic Tee (106155), for example, both have the muscle of heavyweight cotton but with a breezy fit for all-day ease

The Logo Graphic T-Shirt (103361), meanwhile, is available in a range of shades including the cool new hues of fog blue and loden frost while the Pocket Stripe T-Shirt (106145) is made from comfy heavyweight cotton and decked with malt/apple butter stripes with the classic Carhartt logo on the chest pocket.

SYMPHONY

NEW COLOURS

As the trend for lighter blues and neutral greys continues into 2024, Symphony has added two new colours to its modern Shaker-style Harvard and Linear Finesse kitchen collections Alby Blue and Platinum are described as being the “perfect balance between trend-leading and timeless,” complementing both classic and contemporary fixtures and fittings

Both ranges are said to be a truly sustainable choice too, using a foil finish that contains 70% rPET which is made using recycled plastic bottles

STUART TURNER STORMBOOST

Designed for domestic properties, Stuart Turner says that its new STORMBOOST water boosting pump will increase mains water pressure by up to 2 5 bar Complementing its popular MONSOON water pump which can boost water outlets by up to 4 5 bar across the home by feeding from tank and cylinder systems, STORMBOOST connects directly to the mains water supply and offers a maximum output flow rate of 12 litres per minute for improved water performance

Compact in size, it has automatic on/off switching, anti-vibration hoses, anti-vibration foot for quiet operation, an on/off power indicator light and a five-year extended warranty.

SNICKERS WORKWEAR KNEEGUARD PRO

Combining its trademarked Kneeguard pads with the Kneeguard PRO positioning system in its work trousers, Snickers says it offers one of the most ergonomic solutions for effective knee protection

The company has a range of eight Kneepads to fit different types of trousers and suit different jobs on site, for example the specialist Squarefit Kneepads for the Floorlayer trousers and the slim-fit Kneepads for street-smart slim-fit trousers

The combinations are ideal for tradespeople who spend a lot of time working on and off their knees and want to ensure maximum long-term comfort and wellbeing

SHOWERWALL NEW PANEL DESIGNS

A brand-new collection of wall panelling designs is available for 2024, with 23 new decors covering tile-effects, marbles and murals across its popular Laminate and Acrylic ranges Inspired by the latest interiors trends, the collection includes 12 new Laminate Tile designs, one new Laminate design and 10 new Acrylic designs, giving merchants even greater choice for their customers in this growing bathroom category.

For example, for the first time, a brand-new Tile Collection has been added to Showerwall’s Laminate T&G Click panel range, featuring contemporary Herringbone and large format tile designs, plus woodgraineffect plank and panel decors The Tile Collection benefits from a realistic grout line, offering a time and cost-saving alternative to traditional tiling, while maintaining the look and feel

MARSHALLS GRANITE PAVING ALTERNATIVE

Modal X is described as a lower-cost, lower-carbon alternative to granite paving, and the first new product range to be produced by the company’s innovative dual block plant. Building on its popular Modal collection, which launched in 2020, the new range features eight colourways, smooth and textured finishes, fifteen plan sizes and five depths, including three complementary sett sizes with a textured riven surface. In addition, Marshalls’ Priora paving is incorporated in the range to provide permeable options

WORCESTER BOSCH CS5800I HYBRID HEAT PUMP

Billed as “the quickest and simplest way to embrace year-round, low-carbon comfort” the new CS5800i Hybrid Heat Pump from Worcester Bosch is said to offer homeowners the instant heat, control and comfort they are used to by allowing a heat pump and boiler to work seamlessly together with the aim to increase adoption of the low-carbon technology

Co-created with installers’ input and built for speed and simplicity, the product pairs the CS5800i Heat Pump with the intelligent CS5800i Hybrid Unit, ensuring that homes remain cosy and comfortable, adapting effortlessly to customers’ needs By harnessing natural energy for everyday heating needs and seamlessly switching to a boiler for extra warmth during chilly spells or the colder months, the CS5800i Hybrid Heat Pump delivers electrified heating without losing convenience.

Different paving formats such as modern linear units are included in the range, while smaller elements can be used for finer detailing and edging to create character and design elements Equally, Modal X offers a broad palette of warm, neutral and complementary colours including a “captivating pink granite,” silver grey and light cream granite to enable landscapers to create a contemporary finish that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also hard-wearing

Aanco (UK) Ltd t/a Made For Trade page 18 www rdr link/mbe100

Alltruck page 17 www.rdr.link/mbe101

Bond It page 44 www rdr link/mbe102

BSW Timber Ltd page 8 www rdr link/mbe103

Buckbootz page 44 www.rdr.link/mbe104

Builders Merchants Federation ..................................page 29 www rdr link/mbe105

Centurion Europe Ltd page 35 www rdr link/mbe106

C-Tec N.I. Ltd inside front cover www.rdr.link/mbe107

Hultafors Group UK Ltd ..........................................pages 39, 41 www rdr link/mbe108

Ibstock Plc page 21 www rdr link/mbe109

Long Rake Spar Company Ltd page 35 www.rdr.link/mbe110

Marsh Industries Ltd ................................................pages 14, 15 www rdr link/mbe111

Okarno Ltd (formerly Artex Ltd) page 37 www rdr link/mbe112

Okarno Ltd page 49 www.rdr.link/mbe113

Owlett-Jaton page 25

www rdr link/mbe114

professionalbuildersmerchant.co.uk page 35 www.rdr.link/mbe115

Setcrete page 4 www rdr link/mbe116

SFA Saniflo UK Ltd page 26 www rdr link/mbe117

Simpson Strong-Tie page 34 www.rdr.link/mbe118

Soudal (UK) Ltd ..........................................................loose insert www rdr link/mbe119

Superglass Insulation Ltd page 9

www rdr link/mbe120

Tarmac page 12 www.rdr.link/mbe121

TOOLFAIR and Professional BUILDER LIVE ............page 32 www rdr link/mbe122

Ultratape outside back cover www rdr link/mbe123

Whitesales Ltd page 39 www.rdr.link/mbe124

Wickens Engineering Ltd ................................................page 47

www rdr link/mbe125

YBS Insulation page 43 www rdr link/mbe126

With Paul Davies

A N D R E L A X …

Well, my hopes for a Game Week 38 threeway shootout faded away as Liverpool took a collective Gerrard stumble a short distance from the line, but that wasn’t a bad way to finish, was it?

Not quite an Aguerooooo moment or a full-on split screen shooting match, but Man City and Arsenal gave us a worthy final day in what after a fairly slow and stuttering start tur ned into a pretty exciting campaign overall The Gunners are to be applauded for running them all the way and I loved the engine room of Rice and Ødegaard, but you just can’t bet against City

An unprecedented four in a row, and they will clearly be leading the charge again next year

S U M M E R D R E A M S

Fortunately, the football doesn’t stop for summer as Euro 2024 kicks off in just a few short weeks! The tournament gets underway on June 14th as hosts Germany take on Scotland in Munich, and I can’t tell you how much I’m looking forward to it all England are right up there with the favourites (France seem to be top with the bookies to go one step further than the last World Cup, with Spain, Portugal and the Germans all heavily backed), but I’ve seen enough tournament football to not get caught up in all that hope nonsense

Enjoy the Euros, have a great summer and see you next season!

T E A M O F T H E Y E A R

There are one or two differences in my personal picks from the actual FPL top scorers, but I love that this season’s list is a great mix of superstars hitting the levels you’d expect, a couple of real overperformers and one or two “where on earth did that come from?!” choices Equally, there’s no room for a few of the long-term fantasy favourites (Salah and Son especially ), which is a good sign for keeping things interesting

So, with honourable mentions to Jarrod Bowen, Dominic Solanke, Rodri and William Saliba, the PBM team of the year is: