Professional Builders Merchant October 2023

DOORS, WINDOWS & SECURITY

2 4 A B O V E A N D B E Y O N D

Product innovation and stockist support in the rooflights sector

2 6 P R O O F O F P E R FO RM A N C E

Highlighting the importance of fire door third-party certification

2 8 E X PA N D I N G H O RI Z O N S

Boosting sales into new areas

3 0 P R O D U C T S & S E RV I C E S

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

3 9 D R I V I N G I N N O VAT I O N Looking at Symphony’s role in the Energy House 2 0 project at the University of Salford

4 2 C L E A N TH I N K I N G O N TA P Sustainability through small changes

4 4 T H E D E T E C T O R I S T S Managing the risk of water damage

4 6 P R O D U C T S & S E RV I C E S

DRAINAGE & WATER MANAGEMENT

5 1 T H E P H A N TO M M E N A C E

Mitigating against the perils of ‘phantom drainage’

5 4 L O C A L H E R O Brett Martin’s commitment to the market in Scotland

5 7 A PAT H WAY T O P RO C E E D

Tackling the issue of ‘nutrient neutrality’

6 0 P R O D U C T S & S E RV I C E S

SPECIAL REPORTS

20 THE LOWDOWN ON REBATES NMBS delves into the detail behind its rebates policy.

22 INDEPENDENCE DAY

How Jefferson Tools is supporting the independent merchant sector

31 HÄFELE SUPPLEMENT

Product innovation and merchant support. 20

Cream of the crop

It was a great pleasure to have once again ser ved on the Judging Panel for the BMF Young Achiever Awards, presented recently at the trade federation’s Annual Members’ Conference. We drill down into the detail of the categor y winners and the results of the inaugural BMF Marketing Excellence Award later in the issue, but it is well worth pausing to reflect on such a positive stor y when the media landscape continues to be dominated by so much doom and gloom

The high calibre of the nominees ensured that it was far from an easy task for the Judging Panel to agree upon the winners. Reflecting the breadth and depth of the industr y, with submissions coming from businesses of all sizes and specialisms, both the Young Merchant and Young Supplier categories showcased the talents of demonstrably passionate, skilled and committed individuals and the high levels of achievement they had already attained in their burgeoning careers

Open to those under the age of 35, many of the entrants were actually still in their twenties yet could display tangible accomplishments and proof of clear progression through the endorsement of colleagues and testimonials from customers

Furthermore, the lists also demonstrated real variety in terms of job roles and titles,

many of which are often overlooked by people considering the next steps in their careers Whilst such accolades can tend to favour the more obvious, evidential success of those working in sales, plenty of the nominees instead came from account management, operations, HR, procurement, business development, technical ser vices and even mergers & acquisitions

And as well as shining a well-earned spotlight on the shortlisted candidates themselves, the Awards should also ser ve as an important reminder to all as to just what an incredible industr y this is to work in. Recruitment remains a real issue, and attracting the best talent into the sector is a particular challenge Yet irrespective of their

background or prior experience of building materials, it can offer a host of fulfilling opportunities for dedicated individuals to make the best of themselves

I’m sure that all the nominees will go far in their careers, and I’m equally certain that their employers will reap the rewards for the support they have provided along the way. Similarly, I’d encourage ever yone reading this to give serious consideration to submitting names for next year ’ s Awards.

It simply cannot be emphasised enough how much employees value the recognition of a job well done, whilst enhancing your reputation as a great company to work for will get more out of your staff and ensure that potential employees will want to seek you out

n We have thoroughly enjoyed tracking the progress on social media of those participating in this year’s Pavestone Rally Beyond its key purpose as an epic charity fundraising event, it is also another fantastic advert for the sector itself. Building camaraderie and teamwork along the way, all underpinned by a strong dose of dedication, creativity and fun, the intrepid teams have raised more than £200,000 for CRASH, the Rainy Day Trust, the British Heart Foundation and Variety Big respect to all concerned!

Editor Paul Davies

Group Advertisement Manager

Craig Jowsey craig@hamerville co uk

Tel: 07900 248102

Advertisement Manager

Ian Duff Tel: 01204 596633/ 07810 353525 probuilder@sky com

Design Adeel Qadri

Group Production Manager Carol Padgett

Production Assistant Kerri Smith

– 1 year (11 issues)

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“It simply cannot be emphasised enough how much employees value the recognition of a job well done.”

N E W S U P D AT E

Pavestone Rally

This year ’ s epic Pavestone R ally was coming to an end just as this issue of PBM was b eing s ent to press, howe ver the ne ws emerging f rom the Monte C arlo f inish line is that The Smurfs f rom Palladium Building Supplies (aka Keith, Nick and Sy lvain) have b een crowned as the 2023 Champions!

Featuring 33 teams from all quarters of the industr y, the overall event a fourday, cross-continent banger rally from Ghent to Monaco, complete with fancy dress, madcap challenges and incredibly inventive car designs had the goal of raising vital funds for the R ainy Day Trust, CRASH, Variety and the British Heart Foundation The final figure is yet to be tallied, however our spies suggest that the running total is in the region of an amazing £220,000

A plethora of incredible videos and photos can be found online tracking the teams’ adventures (search #pavestonerally across your social feeds), and it is still not too late to donate Use the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw001 to add some extra funds to that incre dible total.

REVEALS DRAMATIC SLUMP IN HOUSEBUILDING

New build decline

Despite construction output recovering to prepandemic levels in 2022, the findings from the PwC Construction and Housebuilding Outlook show that higher mortgage rates and the costof-living squeeze have significantly weakened demand, dragging the sector into contraction and leading to a forecast of a -8% decline of total new build output in 2023 primarily driven by a -21% decline in residential output

The analysis also showed that:

l Repair and Maintenance output remains more resilient than New Build activity ;

l New Build construction output expectation varies by sector, with Residential output most negatively affected, while a strong infrastructure pipeline and demand remains;

l Commercial and Industrial output was also negatively impacted during the forecast period but to a lesser extent;

l Infrastructure spend to remain strong for the long-term.

Despite the initial post lockdown bounce, the overall picture for 2019-22 presented a period of stagnant real growth of 0 8% due to reduced site access, labour shortages and high energ y and material inflation driven by the Russia-Ukraine conflict The report also predicts that 2023 will see an overall decline in construction spend of -5% before returning to growth in 2024 and 2025.

Paul Sloman, Engineering and Construction sector leader at PwC, said: “As the path to homeownership becomes even more complicated for UK consumers, (these) figures

Hydrogen trials

As part of its extensive future-proofing strateg y, Forterra has completed the first phase of hydrogen trials at its Measham brickworks factor y in North-West Leicestershire Whilst UK proposals for inclusion of hydrogen into the national grid are still in their infancy, the business has adopted a proactive approach, extensively trialling 20% hydrogen blends across its brick ranges to assess the possible effects on its products, processes and equipment, well in advance of any changes to government policy.

David Fox, Capital Engineering Manager at Forterra, said: “Our main priority is to determine whether the use of hydrogen blends would have any aesthetic or performance-related impact on the finished

prove concerning reading With the cost of borrowing for mortgages now at its highest level since 2008, it follows that fewer sales enquiries and slower decision-making among prospective homeowners would be the result.

“With a sharp fall in demand, housebuilders will logically act to preser ve cash and ensure they are building only what they could sell However, despite these headwinds, we do see green shoots and predict an overall return to strong growth in 2024 and 2025 ”

Paul continued: “We also expect housebuilders to continue to be selective on new starts on sites, focusing on areas where there is greater confidence of realisable demand We anticipate more will lean into providing alternative tenures such as affordable housing and private rental where partnerships with institutional capital are likely to continue growing ”

The report showed that commercial and industrial spend will be impacted within the forecast period, driven by tension between office utilisation uncertainty and the increasing cost of capital for landlords There may also be a reduction in warehousing new build activity due to excess capacity from a period of overbuild and subsequent reduced consumer demand Use the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw002 to read the PwC Construction and Housebuilding Outlook.

product, and whether the blend can be used with existing kiln equipment

“Our bricks are renowned for their unique range of textures and colours and for their hig h p erformance and durability We’re therefore g lad to have had our predic tions conf irmed: the 20% hydrogen blend shows no impac t on thes e criteria. Moreover, it is fully compatible with existing kiln equipment ”

PWC ANALYSIS

RESEARCH FROM KNAUF SHOWS “VARIABLE INDUSTRY PREPARATION FOR BUILDING SAFEY ACT”

Safety first

With the next stages of the Building Safety Act due to come into effect this month (October), new research from Knauf UK & Ireland suggests that thorough preparation for the new regime is variable. The manufacturer polled 150 architects and 150 contractors with the questions focused particularly on how they were preparing to meet the requirements for a Golden Thread of information throughout the construction process

The results showed that 29% of respondents are not familiar with the requirements for digital Golden Thread product information Overall, one third (37%) of organisations in the sector have either no plan at all to meet the new requirements or are not confident that their plans will be adequate.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, a greater number of smaller companies (43%) are less confident than larger organisations (35%) in their understanding of the Golden Thread requirements

However, this is not down to a lack of digital expertise as 85% of organisations are confident that they have the skills and digital competence needed to provide up to date and searchable digital information This suggests that the industry is well placed to capitalise on digital product information designed to integrate into

Merchant insights

The latest customer insights from Klober have identified price, availability and lead times as top priorities for merchants for the second year running According to the annual research from the roofing accessories company, which investigates how to better meet the needs of its merchant partners, 65% of respondents deem cost, lead times and availability to be most important when working with manufacturers.

C ost was identified as the biggest worr y for the 223 merchants sur veyed.

Anecdotally, individuals expressed concern about passing increased costs onto customers and felt that prices were prompting the trade to “shop around” more so than previously Further research from the manufacturer reinforced this feedback, with only 37% of installers now having a main supplier a 10% decrease since 2021

Pauline Munley, Group Marketing and

their working practice

Organisations also welcome technical support to help them do so, with a high number of respondents (66%) favouring face to face interaction to provide that support

Knauf conducted the research to better understand how to support the supply chain in meeting the new requirements The organisation already supplies product information in comprehensive digital formats, but is going further, offering system specification tools such as its Planner Suite software, together with technical support and robust certification and assessment regimes.

Jimmy Collins, Head of Technical at Knauf, said: “The survey results show why it’s so important that leading manufacturers like Knauf provide not only the data that architects and contractors need, but also the professional guidance and tools they can depend upon ”

A summar y of the research findings is available as a free download via www rdr link/maw003

Strateg y Director for components at Klober, said: “It’s clear that there are major concerns about economic uncertainty and customer retention With the current landscape proving challenging, it’s crucial that manufacturers do their bit to support.

“We frequently review pricing across our ranges and the latest research has highlighted why this is so important ”

Pauline added: “C ommunication is fundamental Creating a clear line of communication between merchants and our sales team is vital Particularly when it comes to availability and lead times, merchant partners need to be kept informed of any developments.”

More details from the Klober merchant sur vey can be found via www.rdr.link/maw004

TradeKart has come together with Lawsons to facilitate “rapid convenience and next level efficiency” to its trade customers by enabling them to access the merchant’s range through the TradeKart deliver y ser vice app

Jeremy Norris, Joint MD & Commercial Director at Lawsons, explained: “We are excited to be at the forefront of innovation By partnering with TradeKart, we can better ser vice customers who might not be able to make it into a store. We’re thrilled to be changing the way our industr y works and getting the materials our customers need to them, wherever they need them, quickly!”

The service will initially be available at three Lawsons branches Camden, Whetstone and Acton with a view to being rolled out to its full network of 19 branches across London and the South East. TradeKart is currently working with merchants within the M25, however it has plans to expand into cities across the UK in 2024

Lawsons teams up with TradeKart Mental Health support

The R ainy Day Trust has joined forces with the Mental Health Foundation to produce a guide aimed at helping recognise and support mental health issues in the workplace Called ‘How to support Mental Health at Work’ the 44-page guide which the R ainy Day Trust is making available to industr y businesses free-of-charge outlines how to recognise mental health issues in the workplace, whether you or colleagues, and shows ways of building a strateg y towards good mental health

Download the guide via www.rdr.link/maw005

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

in association with

On the right track?

The Gover nment recently announced it is taking steps to reform “defective” legacy EU laws on nutrient neutrality which it says are “blocking the delivery of new homes, including cases where planning permission has already been granted.” It says the move will “unlock housebuilding” and allow 100,000 more homes to be built, but the plans are unsurprisingly proving controversial.

Here, Rico Wojtulewicz, Head of Housing and Planning Policy at the House Builders Association, argues why the proposals are a necessary step.

For those who care about pollution in our waterways and on our land, it is about time this issue was looked at because currently, we are getting worse outcomes for championed protections What we need is a strategy to clean up our water, not a tax which doesn’t

Critics have said we are weakening environmental rules, but this is the wrong take the Gover nment is finally trying to fix weak environmental strategy. Its approach may not be perfect but it’s on the right track.

Blaming Housebuilders

The current strategy takes the easy option of shifting blame onto housebuilders, rather than ensuring farmers are supported to reduce their pollution levels and water companies are forced to deliver infrastructure investment, alongside the planning reforms which ensure projects are built more quickly.

The inequality between the pollution generated by housing and agriculture is striking. Six houses produce as much phosphate pollution

as 15 chickens. Housebuilders are not only disproportionately blamed for increased pollution but when they offer solutions, they have not been included in the mitigation strategy and have had to wait for mitigation taxes called ‘credits’ to become available, which in many places are still not accessible

Examples of onsite solutions could be attenuation of surface water, wetlands, water treatment or rainwater harvesting but none of these options are permitted as part of the pollution mitigation calculation and instead, credits must be bought.

In 2018, when the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling on nutrient pollution first came to light, the Gover nment should have focused on farming and water companies to ensure farmers were polluting less and water companies were able to treat sewerage more effectively. However, as they only saw the nuclear option, they were left with two choices: stopping farming or stopping housebuilding.

They obviously chose to stop

housebuilding by permitting development moratoriums in sensitive areas, which stopped up to 140,000 houses from being built.

Housebuilders really were the easy target, but without credits to purchase, localised calculators which took a while to agree, and some councils disagreeing with Natural England’s strategy, building moratoriums persist It has been a very difficult five years for a sector dependent on other industries to reduce the pollution that homeowners produce.

The Gover nment is correct to try and fix the flawed nutrient neutrality issue, (but) what we must avoid is an emotional response focusing on easy targets If we want to reduce pollution, we need a strategy which does just that There are no quick fixes as the last five years have emphatically confirmed

n The House Builders Association is the housebuilding arm of the National Federation of Builders For more information, use the shortcode www rdr link/maw006

ESTATE SAWMILLS SAVOY TIMBER ACQUISITION

After more than 70 years of trading, Lancashire-headquartered family business Savoy Timber has been acquired by Savoy Timber Holdings Ltd a new company set up by Chris Powell of Estate Sawmills, a fast-growing Bradford-based timber merchant Established in 1952 and now employing 82 people, Savoy Timber has grown into a £15m turnover timber merchant group with superstores in Preston, Blackpool and Wigan as well as an online store.

The c £10m deal follows the retirement of MD George Cornwell and the acquisition complements the operations of Estate Sawmills, another family-run business based in Heaton, Bradford The transaction was supported by a team of Yorkshire-based advisers Hitesh Tailor, Nicola Cooper and Jonathan Simms of Clarion provided legal advice to the buyer, supported by colleague Julie Evans who provided property advice; and Gavin Lamb of Azets provided financial advice.

Chris Powell said: “After acquiring Estate Sawmills in 2020, we have seen rapid expansion and the acquisition of Savoy will enable us to continue our growth journey in this dynamic sector Savoy is a long-established and wellknown business that not only broadens our presence across the North, but its strong e-commerce platform also increases our market share throughout the UK as well as expanding our product offering

“While Estate Sawmills has focused on external timber products, Savoy offers an extensive range covering all timber products, both inside and outside the house. This expanded product line will now also be available via Estate Sawmills.”

Chris added: “We have an ambitious vision and this latest acquisition marks another important milestone as we seek to press on with our expansion, having capitalised on the garden improvement boom post-Covid We are now actively looking for a complementary timber business in the South to strengthen our national coverage ”

LORDS GROUP TRADING PLC ALLOWAY TIMBER ACQUISITION

Aligned to its long-term growth strategy of increasing its customer base, broadening its product offering and enhancing its UK geographic coverage, Lords has announced the acquisition of Alloway Timber an independent timber and builders’ merchant established in 1971 by Joe Alloway which now employs 83 colleagues and operates from a network of five sites in Kingston-upon-Thames, Byfleet, Cheam, Mitcham, and Putney.

The branches will join Lords Builders Merchant network, taking the brand to 17 locations in London and the South East of England In total, this brings Lords Group Trading to 48 branches comprising 31 merchanting and 17 plumbing and heating locations

Shanker Patel, Chief Executive Officer of Lords, said: “We are delighted to announce the successful acquisition of Alloway Timber and to welcome their colleagues to the Lords Group family The acquisition is complementary to our existing Lords Builders Merchants business with strong synergies, continued strategic investment in our 3Ps and will increase our customer base along with further increasing our geographic presence in the South East ”

Joe Alloway commented: “I am delighted to be passing the business to Lords for its next chapter. There are few leaders I’ve met in my long career with such an ethical approach to business and deals The team at Lords have stuck by their word and ethos all the way It is admirable and will serve them well I wish them the very best of luck ”

TRAVIS PERKINS PLC HIAB INVESTMENT

Travis Perkins plc has announced a multi-million pound investment in 400 new truck loader cranes from Hiab Intended to improve sustainability, safety and efficiency for the merchant group and its customers, the new HIAB iX 162 HIPRO BSS-2 cranes are described as being the first of their kind and will replace the existing cranes on the Group’s heavyside delivery vehicles in the Travis Perkins merchanting and Keyline Civils Specialist businesses over a three-year period

This version of the HIAB iX 162 crane is around 150kgs lighter in weight than the previous model (HIAB X-HIDUO 162) which allows the truck to increase its payload and lower its fuel consumption. To further reduce carbon emissions, the new cranes have been developed so the engine can be stopped and restarted from the crane remote control to ensure a significant reduction in idle time emissions and noise

Despite being lighter, however, the new crane model is stronger than the previous model This gives operators more flexibility and enables them to deliver heavy loads safely and with greater accuracy

They also come with Hiab’s all-new CombiDrive 4 remote control, which has confirmed view sensors and automatically detects operator positioning to minimise accident risk and promote better safety for operators, customers and the public.

Richard Byrne, Travis Perkins Group HSE & Fleet Director, said: “These new cranes represent a significant investment They support our plans to innovate and grow, and they cement our place as a leading partner to construction by serving our customers with improved safety and efficiency

“All new cranes will come with a maintenance contract, which means they will be maintained to the highest standards by Hiab They also support our own commitment to net zero and the decarbonisation of our customers’ supply chain; a commitment we share with Hiab, whose values very much align with our own ”

The 400 new HIAB cranes will be rolled out from January 2024, and will be supplied to Travis Perkins and Keyline with HiConnect telematics in order to monitor the performance and safe operation of the crane

PBM looks at some of the latest news stories from across the merchant sector including a major fleet investment, new branch openings, acquisitions and buying group membership agreements.

(L to R): Chris Powell of Savoy Timber Holdings, Gavin Lamb of Azets (back), and Hitesh Tailor and Luke Mansfield of Clarion

LONGWATER CONSTRUCTION SUPPLIES NEW COLCHESTER BRANCH

Longwater Construction Supplies has announced the opening of an impressive new branch in Marks Tey, near Colchester, extending the company’s reach into Essex Established in 2008, the business is “truly an independent builders’ merchant”, offering a wide range of construction materials to a diverse customerbase and servicing customers throughout East Anglia from its headquarters in Norwich along with branches in Attleborough, Newmarket, Sleaford and now Colchester

The new depot, located prominently on the A12 trunk road, is a strategic addition to the h&b Buying Group member’s branch network, extending its scope towards London and throughout Essex The site boasts a spacious yard and “customer parking facilities that would be the envy of many merchants” in addition to a well laid out trade counter and shop, plus an impressive hard landscaping display area that has already proved very successful since the soft launch in early August

M D a n d o w n e r N e i l C a r t e r s a i d : “ E x p a n s i o n o f t h e b u i l d e r s’ m e r c h a n t s i d e o f t h e b u s i n e s s i n t o E s s e x h a s b e e n o n o u r r a d a r f o r a w h i l e We h a v e b e e n d e l i v e r i n g f r o m o u r d e p o t s i n N o r w i c h a n d N e w m a r ke t i n t o E s s e x f o r a w h i l e, s e r v i c i n g o u r e x i s t i n g c u s t o m e r b a s e.

“The site at Marks Tey next to the A12 makes it an ideal fit for our growth plans and securing new business in Essex and North London The help from the h&b supplier base has been key to the new branch’s opening, through its access to competitive deals and supplier support when opening new locations ”

DUFTONS PLUMBING & HEATING SUPPLIES BARNSLEY BRANCH

Expanding its operations with the opening of its 11th UK branch, the new Duftons site is based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire and has created four new jobs in the local area. The outlet joins the existing locations in Leeds, Beeston, Castleford, Halifax, Harrogate, Huddersfield, Wakefield, Bingley, Bradford and Thirsk

Duftons reportedly the largest independent plumbing & heating merchant in the Yorkshire region invited the Mayor of Barnsley, Cllr James Michael Stowe, to officially open the new branch In addition, over 60 people from the plumbing, heating and bathroom sectors attended the launch, with 25 suppliers also present from companies including EPH, Ideal Heating, Ideal Standard, Polypipe and Stelrad.

The business also specialises in bathroom mobility equipment whilst as the market moves to more environmentally friendly heating solutions, Duftons has expanded into renewables and now offers a full range including Air Source Heat Pumps, Ground Source Heat Pumps, Underfloor Heating, Solar Thermal and Solar Photovoltaic to provide more sustainable solutions

JEWSON PARTNERSHIP SOLUTIONS AVAIL HOUSING HUB

Billed as the first of its kind from Jewson Partnership Solutions (JPS), a new onestop-shop building and maintenance hub has been launched for housing providers in Newcastle City Centre, helping them to navigate the demands and challenges of supplying safe and quality social housing to local residents

The new AVAIL Housing Hub is intended to bring together all the benefits of the Jewson Partnership Solutions service including material supply, stock management technology, waste disposal and expert training to tackle the many challenges of modern social housing, such as changing legislation, health and safety, rising costs, and decarbonisation regulations

Providers of social housing in the Newcastle area will have access to the hub’s large external yard and warehouse JPS will apply its automated replenishment technology to ensure levels of stock which are selected specifically to support social landlords with their key challenges are always maintained, and materials can also be made available for customers out of hours.

A fleet of vehicles are available for materials delivery to different sites and properties, either direct to operative or to AVAIL’s Smart Collection points located at convenient spots around the city There is also an on-site ‘drop and go’ waste offer, allowing users to save valuable time in the usual waste separation process

Finally, the hub provides its own training academy, available to any AVAIL Housing Hub customer and their tenants, offering training on new product launches and construction processes Courses are also available for 16–24-year-olds looking to enter the job market, delivered in conjunction with charity YouthBuild

JPS is launching additional hubs later in the year in other major cities, with one set to officially open in Leeds in September as this issue of PBM was going to press

T R A I N I N G Z O N E

Next Gen Success

Presented during the evening of its Annual Members’ Conference, the BMF Young Achiever Awards recognise the rising stars of the industry who are making a major contribution to their company’s success. This year, the new BMF Marketing Excellence Award also shone a spotlight on those whose marketing ideas have significantly enhanced their business. PBM details the winning finalists...

Young Merchant Achiever 2023

(sponsored by Mannok)

L auren Penne y, O p er ati ons & Marke ting Manager, C hand l er Materi a ls Suppli es

Chandler’s Finance Director, Ben Chandler said: “Lauren’s growth in the company has been phenomenal Joining as a shy teenager, she has developed into a confident leading figure in the company that the rest of the staff look to for help and advice daily.”

Lauren helped set up the company ’ s first ecommerce website on a budget of £6,000 Three years later she led the project upgrade the system, which now takes annual sales of £250,000 Moving to a marketing role, Lauren developed the company ’ s first marketing strateg y, bringing accountability to the function and helping the entire business understand the purpose, objectives and outcomes of all marketing activity

Runner Up

(sponsored by E Tupling)

Cameron Smith, Group Transport & Operations Manager, Mathewson & Rosemond Cam demonstrated strong leadership as the family business transitioned from generation two to generation three Starting as a warehouse operative a decade ago, Cam displayed a natural aptitude for operational management and logistics

Subsequently becoming Warehouse Manager before adding transport management and logistic duties to his role, his innovative thinking has helped immensely in the firm’s progression to becoming a much larger commercial orientated merchant with a national supply network.

Bronze Award (sponsored by The Encon Group)

Nathan Arthur, Head of Mergers and Acquisitions, Independent Builders Merchants Group

Trained as a Chartered Accountant, Nathan joined IBMG in 2021 as Mergers & Acquisitions Accountant and swiftly rose to a senior role He spearheaded a team completing 16 acquisitions and played a pivotal role in orchestrating the opening of 17 new branches, contributing to the company ’ s expansion and market presence

Also shortlisted: Zoe Harvey, Bradfords; Charlie Smith, NMBS; Joe Smith, Haldane Group

Young Supplier Achiever 2023

(sponsored by Epicor)

Ben Farrington, Division Sales Director –Construction, Bostik

Ben joined Bostik in 2017 and won the company ’ s annual Area Sales Manager Award the following year As Key Account Manager, he grew a major account from £750K to £3m in two years and won £800k of new business in 2021 In his current role, he led the restructure of the commercial team, and a distribution project that significantly reduced haulage costs Receiving testimonials from colleagues and customers, Ben was named a BMF Top 100 Supplier Influencer earlier this year

Also shortlisted: Anneka Helgesen, Aco Technologies; Ryan Lockwood, Fernco; Laura Perrett, Wrekin.

Marketing Excellence Award 2023 (sponsored by The Worshipful Company of Marketors) Rebecca Range, Head of Marketing, Terratruck Group Head-hunted in 2022 to develop a brand identity for Terratruck Group, a company with no marketing function, formed in 2021 and growing through acquisition, Rebecca focused on three core areas clear brand marketing, differentiated customer marketing and excellence through merchandising.

CEO Stephen Brogan said: “Rebecca is passionate, innovative, works at pace and is a master influencer through the business She really has gone above and beyond to drive positive change ”

Also shor tlisted: Claire Br iars, E Tupling; Elaine Gilligan, Kilwaughter Minerals; G eorge Wr ight, Ox Tools

“Joining as a shy teenager, she has developed into a confident leading figure in the company that the rest of the staff look to for help and advice daily.”

A passion to protect

Started by two brothers in 1998, V12 Footwear is a family-run safety footwear manufacturer which has grown to become a brand “trusted globally to build boots that provide longlasting comfort and next-level protection for those working in the most demanding conditions.” PBM reports.

Having achieved its most successful year to date in 2022, the celebrations are far from over for V12 Footwear In fact, as the Wiltshire-based company marks its 25th birthday this year, the feeling from within the business is that they’re only just beginning

Charlie Turner, Head of Sales and Marketing, tells us the answer to V12’s consistent growth lies in its continuing passion for protecting people. He said: “Building a business and increasing growth is all about staying true to your purpose and your passion Starting out, V12’s mission was to protect as many people working in safety-related industries as we could by getting as many pairs of our boots on their feet as possible

“That hasn’t changed. When your passion is and remains your key driver, then success will follow for all the people involved ”

And success certainly has followed. From modest beginnings, the firm has gone on to work with a number of leading merchant chains and related businesses, including Huws Grey Buildbase, Jewson and Toolstation with Charlie explaining that being true safety footwear specialists has always helped forge strong relationships with merchants.

“Ultimately, V12 Footwear builds its boots for builders There are a lot of brands who make protective footwear along with other PPE and workwear, but we ’ re different we have an undivided focus on safety footwear,” he explains “We put all of our time, energy and expertise into producing the highest level of comfort and safety for our boots, and that always gives the merchants stocking V12 the competitive edge ”

Charlie also asserts that, through decades of experience ser ving the construction industr y, V12 also understands how important it is to give merchants much more than just a great product From display and counter boot stands through to dump stacks, the business produces “striking point of sale assets” so its stockists can highlight the safety solutions to their customers

He said: “ Tradespeople are also busy people and often don’t have time to read endless technical information We always ensure our POS works hard, so the boots and their benefits are clearly and quickly showcased in store ”

Furthermore, enabling stockists to be the trusted voice to their customers is a key priority. This year alone, it has developed an

FACT FILE

Product range: Safety footwear for tradespeople to suit a variety of working environments

Accreditations: ISO 9001, ISO 14001, BSiF, Satra gold members, LWG, SEDEX, ZeroCarbon® Company, Race to Zero Turnover (UK): £10m

D i s t r i b u t i o n / D e l i v e r y Le a d t i m e : I n d u s t r y - l e a d i n g U K s t o c k h o l d i n g w i t h a n o r d e r b e f o r e 1 6 : 0 0 r e c e i v e d n e x t d a y

Website: www v12footwear com

POS support: Its new metal display solution features a slim-line design and striking graphics to catch the customer’s eye Quick and simple to construct, and easily adjustable so boots of different height can be displayed, the durable metal boot stand showcases merchants’ V12 offering to customers in the most effective way.

Marketing: V12’s charity safety style the ‘BoB boot’ has been marketed with a campaign that has sent interest in this construction boot sky high, generating over 4 million impressions online and creating 20,000 views on the BoB boot product page

V12 has donated over £10,000 to Band of Builders through the sales of these boots

Company comment: “V12 Footwear is an industry leader in safety footwear manufacturing, and for more than 25 years, this family-run brand has put people first Our expertise enables us to recommend the right footwear based on a wearer’s working environment Using innovation and technology, we aim to improve health, safety and wellbeing at work through proven comfort footwear solutions and trusted industry knowledge keeping people safe and comfortable whilst at work to ensure they return home to their loved ones at the end of the working day ”

online Boot Finder which allows merchants to help their customers find the right safety boot based on the requirements of their role through just a few clicks In addition, it has made a series of product training videos outlining the specific applications of its safety styles, so merchants can learn the industr y-relevant features of the boots to best benefit the customer

The next steps

Giving stockists an even more diverse and inclusive safety footwear offering, V12 has just released a true women ’ s fit metatarsal boot with a patented internal met protection system whilst it is about to build on this with a range of true women ’ s fit waterproof safety hikers.

Fur t her more, t he comp any has re cent ly b e come cer t if ie d as a c arb on neut ra l

business, st raig ht on t he he els of re ceiv ing an inter nat iona l sust ainabi lit y award for its f irst c arb on neut ra l b o ot range and t his w i l l supp or t e ven more s a les le verage as consumer demand for sust ainable go o ds incre as es

n For details on bringing V12 Footwear into your branch or to grow your current range, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw007

Collaborating with long-standing director Adrian Buttress, Duncan Kirkwood has joined PermaGroup as its new MD Duncan brings more than 30 years of experience in the roofing and building products industry, having held senior positions at the likes of Marley, Icopal and, most recently, as MD of Carlisle Construction Materials

Duncan will take on much of the day-to-day activities, working with Adrian on the strategic development plans He said: “I’ve known of PermaGroup for many years and have always admired the business and Adrian’s vision for it Now is the perfect time to take on this new challenge at a business that I really believe in ”

Samac Fixings has appointed Andrew Paske as its Southwest Regional Sales Manager Joining with a background in the fixings and fastener industry, Andrew said: “My experience has taught me the importance of quality products, exceptional service and building lasting relationships with customers Samac Fixings aligns perfectly with these values a family-run business that prioritises customer service, offering a dedicated sales team that goes above and beyond to assist ”

The latest in a long line of investments made to develop its value-add solutions and services for merchants, Trade Fabrication Systems has appointed Greg Beers to the newly created role of Business Development Executive

Greg has a long track record of working in branch, sales account management and serving merchants as a supplier He said: “The solutions we can offer do genuinely deliver value to merchant ranges I’m looking forward to getting out on the road to show existing and new customers how our offsite services can help them to create and maintain competitive advantage ”

The Builders Merchants Federation has appointed Pierre Krause, Group Commercial Operations and Pricing Director of IBMG, to Chair the BMF Digital and Technology Forum He said: “This is a great opportunity to influence and hopefully increase the rate of adoption of technologies that will benefit our industry to develop smarter businesses, creating opportunities to reach new customers as well as engaging our existing customers in different ways ”

Filstorage has strengthened its presence in south east England with Mike Farrall joining as Regional Account Manager to cover an area from south London to the south coast, and west as far as Portsmouth Mike brings more than 20 years ’ experience of mezzanine flooring to the business and joins Richard Coombs in the region, who covers the area to the north of the Thames

Carvers Building Supplies

has welcomed the first of the fifth generation of the family to join its Board of Directors Having worked for the business for over four years, Jack Carver now takes on new responsibilities including the new Fibo Concrete Plant, Range Cooker Centre and Bathroom Showroom MD (and Jack’s father) Henry Carver said: “It’s an exciting time for the company We are celebrating 125 years and our plans for the future include continued expansion into new areas and investing in niche markets, including roof truss and door kit manufacture, whilst also bringing on the next generation!”

Jack’s younger brother George also entered the family business recently, joining the management team at its ETS Trusses division

MD Howard Morris with new recruit, Greg Beers

The lowdown on rebates

Rebates are pure profit on top of the negotiated price, so they are a significant member benefit And when merchants become a member, they get access to rebates on products that they buy through NMBS.

Members earned an average of 3 79% on turnover transacted via NMBS in 2022, with a total of £85.3m paid out to members. This makes rebates a lucrative feature of NMBS membership worth getting to grips with

Standard rebates

NMBS gives its members rebate payments at the earliest opportunity possible throughout the year, so members are not waiting to

benefit from their purchases Members will also often receive rebate payments from multiple suppliers at the same time, alongside a breakdown of earnings across each These rebate payments happen monthly, quarterly, twice yearly and annually, depending on the type

The timing of standard rebate payments depends on the specific negotiation between NMBS and each supplier But all members will receive rebate payments from a specific supplier at the same time.

Rebates are normally f ixed p ercentages direc tly linked to an individual merchant’s turnover with each supplier Althoug h most agreements of fer the same p ercentage

profits earned by NMBS members on turnover throughput via

of rebate, s ome adopt a tiered rebate s cheme w here the more turnover a merchant puts throug h a supplier, the hig her rebate p ercentage

Howe ver, all agreements are transparent and all NMBS memb ers have

Essentially

the buying society, understanding the benefits of rebates, how to maximise the rebates received and when to expect them can be challenging. Julie Langford, NMBS Finance and Operations Director, delves into the detail.

Merchants will benefit from additional, exclusive rebates for orders placed with suppliers at the annual NMBS Exhibition

an equal opp or tunity to earn the same p ercentages of rebate

Other rebate methods

NMBS Exhibition rebates are available if the merchant visits the annual show, scans with a certain supplier, and places an order with that same supplier The merchant will benefit from this exclusive rebate for orders placed with the supplier across the rest of the month.

S ome suppliers will give further OnePlace rebates when products are

bought through the ordering and PIM platform OnePlace is designed to make ordering, managing, maintaining, and distributing accurate product data easier for suppliers and manufacturers in the building materials sector

Residual rebate is paid once NMBS’ annual accounts are agreed and filed. It represents the balance left after calculating all guaranteed rebates, taking out operating costs and transfers to reser ves. This rebate is not guaranteed and is calculated on a case-by-case basis, determined by the suppliers a member has transacted with in the previous calendar year

NMBS rewards members who pay in advance Members can get Admin rebate by paying their account early and meeting certain conditions Merchants are required to pay by the 15th of the month rather than

Opportunities for growth alongside cash flow issues and the impact of inflation were up for discussion at the latest NMBS Lightside Committee roundtable.

Committee member merchants reported a flat market so far in 2023. Low to midend products, like screws, have experienced decreased sales but to combat these issues merchants were focusing on upselling to customers

Lightside merchants had long predicted that inflation would impact their businesses. For many around the table, opinion was that the UK economy has been in an unrealistic state for the last ten years owing to very low interest rates, and current rises were part of an uncomfortable process of getting rates back to around four or five percent Accordingly, many reported being in a process of adapting to increased costs and finding ways to improve their profit margins again

Similarly, inflation and increasing costs mean trade customers are having cash flow issues which the merchants must contend with For instance, merchants with sites in more financially impacted areas are seeing much bigger issues with credit risk, customers not paying on time and a reduction in sales

Maintaining consistent stock levels was deemed vital, as were effective personal relationships with customers Indeed, the group reflected that when times are good, engagement with customers could be lower however they are now placing a renewed focus on developing relationships with trade customers, who have the power to bring customers into the showrooms and boost cash flow.

at the end of the month, meaning a Februar y invoice would need to be paid by 15th March, for example.

Benefits of rebates

Rebates are such a prized NMBS member benefit as they are pure profit on top of the negotiated price of goods and the rebate deals members get cannot be accessed by doing deals with the suppliers directly The more merchants buy through NMBS, the more they will get back in rebates whilst in addition, supplier companies like Makita, for example, provide the best deal on the marketplace through NMBS

C ommon misunderstandings

One of the most common misunderstandings is that rebates are paid immediately. Yet the frequency of the rebate payment is part of the supplier agreement, and determines when the member will receive their rebate from NMBS

Rebates from Q1 are paid at the end of Q2 and rebates from Januar y will be paid at the end of Februar y However, all members have access to a rebate schedule which explains when they can expect payment of each type of rebate available from NMBS

Many people do not consider the cost of becoming a member alongside the rebate returns An independent builders’ merchant meeting the minimum turnover requirement of £150,000 per year for NMBS membership would receive around £2,800 in rebate payments This means members can expect to receive more than double the current £1,300 joining fee in rebates, as a minimum

These financial benefits would not be available to merchants outside NMBS, so making the most of membership benefits is just one of a whole host of ways to improve business finances by being part of the organisation

n For more information and to discover some of the other benefits of becoming a member of the NMBS, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw008

“Members earned an average of 3.79% on turnover transacted via NMBS in 2022, with a total of £85.3m paid out to members.”

REPORT: JEFFERSON TOOLS

Independence Day

QFirstly, please tell us a bit about Jefferson Tools?

ALike the many merchants we supply, Jefferson Tools is a family-run business that has been in operation for more than 20 years. Over that time, we ’ ve built up a wellearned reputation for quality products that range from hand and power tools, through air compressors, lighting gear, and electric supplies, to heating/cooling systems and access equipment We’re known to the trade for our range of products and our reliability

The company was founded by a team of professionals who had a tradesperson’s

understanding of hardware and tools Since then, we ’ ve earned a reputation as a reliable supplier in the industr y, so much so that we recently relocated to a modern, 120,000 sq. feet headquarters and shipping centre, sited close to Maghera, Northern Ireland, which ser ves all the UK and Ireland Our aim is to give merchants dependable, high-quality tools at a reasonable price, while still being modern and inventive

What really makes us stand out is the quality of our products combined with our focus on supporting independent ‘bricks and mortar’ stockists with physical branches We do not and will not supply to online retailers

Our success is built on traditional but profitable partnerships that the merchant sector was founded upon That does not mean we are not a modern business that doesn’t innovate, in fact we have done this consistently

to build the brand and produce the products that the trade use again and again

QWhatkind of products do you specialise in?

AEver ything a merchant could want to stock, and ever ything a tradesperson could want to buy We’ve introduced thousands of specialist tools and equipment to the UK and Irish markets, and we continue to introduce fresh and innovative products ever y year for example, compressors, generators, welders, hand tools, power tools, personal protection equipment, cement mixers, site electrical products, site safe security boxes, diamond blades and power tool accessories lighting, ladders,

PBM catches up with Darren Binns, National Sales Manager at Jefferson Tools, who asserts that the firm’s dedication to ‘bricks and mortar’ merchant businesses is bucking the race-to-the-bottom of online pricing.

heaters, pressure washers, platforms and access equipment

We’re always on the lookout for innovative and exciting new products with which to extend our range, and pride ourselves on developing and improving our offering But equally, there are tools (for example, hand tools) and access equipment (such as ladders) that remain firm favourites and we are always sure to have in stock

QWhatadvice would you give to independent merchants to sell more tools and equipment?

ADon’t be afraid to tr y something new, as this is how you will discover the products that work best for your business But equally, remember to always keep stock of products that sell well, and sell reliably, such as Jefferson’s range of hand and power tools and access equipment.

That always pays dividends and it’s how we treat our stockist partners!

Finally, focus on customer ser vice

QWhat

specific benefits do independent merchants gain from stocking a brand like Jefferson Tools?

AFirstly, profit is not a dirty word. Providing our stockists with access to high quality tools and equipment with a recognisable brand, combined with keen pricing and unbeatable customer ser vice, means merchants get the best possible value for money from us

Physical merchant branches are central to our business, and customer satisfaction stands as our highest priority We take the time to ‘really get’ the requirements of stockists to ensure their needs are consistently met and we are always keen to establish lasting relationships

We support all this with specific promotional activity too. Our quarterly Tool Up campaign, for example, provides discounts on a wide range of products, and with our Regional Sales Team covering the entire UK, we can provide a personalised ser vice and tailored solutions for individual merchant businesses

n

For more information on Jefferson Tools and to download the latest catalogue, enter the shortcode www rdr link/maw009

“What really makes us stand out is the quality of our products combined with our focus on suppor ting independent ‘bricks and mor tar’ stockists with physical branches.”

With a track record dating back more than 30 years, Whitesales says it goes the extra mile in supporting merchants. PBM looks at some of the rooflight specialist’s latest product innovations and additional services for stockists.

Above and beyond

The launch of several key new product lines, a revitalised website and an award-winning debut at the FIT Show glass and glazing industr y exhibition earlier in the year are among the recent highlights for Whitesales The Surrey-based company boasts considerable expertise in the design, manufacture and distribution of rooflights, overhead roof glazing and bespoke daylighting solutions, working closely with its merchant partners national group and independent stockists alike to deliver on its stated mission of helping “merchants and their customers make more money from lantern and rooflight installs ”

Making its debut at the show, for example, was the stylish new em glaze skyvu lantern Said to feature a host of fitter-friendly features, the competitively priced aluminium roof lantern is available via merchants on

short lead times of just three to five days for standard sizes and colours

Speaking at the time of the launch, Marketing Director Sioned Roberts said: “With skyvu alongside our existing em glaze flat rooflights, we now have a package of products for the merchant market which matches our package of ser vice and support. It’s got the aesthetics that buyers want, at a price point which allows for strong trade and retail margins and comes with the backing of a business with a 30+ year track record in rooflights

“We’re conf ident that merchants will love sky vu and will appreciate the b enef its that come f rom buying b oth their lanterns and their ro of lig hts f rom a sing le, dedicated supplier ”

Complying with the new requirements of Part L and incorporating high integrity seals to ensure optimum weather performance

tested to beyond BS6375, merchants can use the supplier’s popular RUFUS digital configurator to design and order their lanterns online a feature which has been developed specifically for its merchant customers “to make ordering rooflights as simple as possible ”

The f irm ass er ts that the large volumes of sto ck it holds means that merchants “ can always rely on Whitesales for deliver y on time and in full” w hilst the y can als o opt for direc t deliver y to their c ustomers’ sites “safe in the know ledge that the f rame and g lass will b e delivered together for a hassle-f ree installation ”

In September, Whitesales announced the launch of em glaze Economy billed as an entr y level, thermally broken flat glass rooflight which, at a lower price point than the existing em glaze Premium rooflight, is designed to open up new sales opportunities for merchants

Whilst the Premium version comes with CWCT Class 1 as standard, the new Economy variant features CWCT Class 3 glazing but, aesthetically, the only thing said to distinguish the two is fritted glass on the Premium which is only visible when viewed from above Internally, buyers get “the same contemporary look and the same flush glazed edge-to-edge design in both” in addition to the same

The new skyvu roof lantern launched by Whitesales at the FIT Show

The em glaze Economy rooflight fitted on the Part L compliant timber sloping kerb

compatibility with Whitesales’ range of timber and PVC-U upstands.

The new model is available in 11 sizes from stock, all fully compliant with Building Regs Part L when fitted with a proprietar y upstand The standard colour is RAL7016 anthracite grey, but it is available to order in any RAL colour and in any bespoke size up to 2100mm x 2100mm. Initially, em.glaze Economy is being launched as a fixed rooflight only, but the company says that manual and electric opening options will be added soon

As part of its ser vice commitment, Whitesales launched a major upgrade of its website in the summer to make it easier for different types of customers to locate exactly what they are looking for Merchants (along with contractors, architects, homeowners and fabricators) now just select from a drop-down menu to access the relevant

product, technical and purchasing support

Alex Gallop, Marketing Communications Manager, explained: “We’ve reorganised the website so that there’s an intuitive online journey for ever y type of customer taking them directly to the products and support they need For instance, the merchant pages feature the product catalogue, access to our merchant support package and RUFUS, our online rooflight configurator

“Visitors can obviously choose to browse the whole website; this is just the latest example of how we make it easy to work with us ”

Merchant support

Indeed, with the firm’s stated promise of “taking the hassle out of buying rooflights,” the new website presents a clear outline of the bespoke ser vice package it offers its merchant customers This includes an array

of product information, sales literature, technical support, point of sale materials including shelf wobblers, banners, brochure stands and samples in addition to the provision of in-store training to upskill the branch team and the hosting of product events at the depot

n Discover more about the Whitesales product range and download the company’s Merchant Support Pack via www.rdr.link/maw010

Proof of perfor mance

In the year after the Building Safety Act became law, awareness of the benefits of fire door third-party certification is growing. However, new research for the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Fire Door Alliance has shown the proportion of certified fire doors in use has dropped slightly. PBM reports.

The sur vey of 1,000 people with responsibility for fire door specification, installation, and maintenance across the UK found that over half (52%) now look for third party certification as opposed to other means to provide proof of performance for a fire door. This was higher than the 46% in 2022 when the same audience was sur veyed

Two t hirds (66%) s aid t he y ’ re more li kely to s e ek cer t if ic at ion as a cons e quence of t he Bui lding Safet y Ac t, and 92% now s aid t hat t he t race abi lit y of a complete f ire do or ass embly is imp or t ant, comp are d to 89% in 2022 Thes e att itudes cou ld indic ate t hat ne w leg isl at ion aime d at incre asing account abi lit y is st ar t ing to t a ke ef fe c t

Yet despite t he g row ing awareness of t hird-p ar t y cer t if ic at ion, and g re ater intent ion to sp e cif y t hird-p ar t y cer t if ie d f ire do ors e v idence d by t hes e f igures, t his hasn’t yet t ransl ate d to hig her upt a ke In fac t, w here as in 2022 resp ondents s aid t hat 56% of t he tot a l numb er of f ire do ors t he y are resp onsible for are t hird-p ar t y cer t if ie d, t his f igure was lower at 54% in 2023’s sur ve y

Helen Hewitt, Chief Executive of the BWF Fire Door Alliance, said: “It’s clear that new legislation is having an effect on

attitudes towards traceability and accountability in fire safety, which is hugely positive to see For fire doors specifically, we ’ re seeing a greater understanding of the benefits that third-party certification can deliver in aligning with the intention of new legislation

“However, the findings highlighted a disconnect between greater awareness and intent, and the number of third-party certified fire doors being specified. This is concerning and highlights that more guidance and training support is needed to increase uptake.”

Helen continued: “We do anticipate that as legislation leads to more robust systems over traceability, we will see increased demand for third-party certification

C ertification provides robust proof of performance and traceability of a fire door’s components, its manufacture and journey through the supply chain As such, it is a ready-made solution for complying with new regulations.”

While the impact of legislation over attitudes and intent appears to be significant, the research also highlighted areas where further education and guidance is needed over implementing the new laws

For example, s ome 30% of resp ondents were unsure or did not understand their

resp onsibility with regards to the ne w legislation and p ointed to the need for more supp or t

Furthermore, despite 78% having read new fire safety documents published by the Home Office to assist the Responsible Person in fulfilling their obligations, a third (33%) said more information from the Government would improve their understanding of their responsibilities Not all guidance is expected to come from the government however, as 39% wanted more input from employers and 55% said they needed better training support.

Helen adde d: “ The Bui lding Safet y Ac t is st i l l in its rel at ive infanc y and it’s natura l t hat t here’s an adjust ment p er io d in me et ing re quirements The onus isn’t just on organis at ions or indiv idu a ls t hems elves to comply, but it a ls o re quires t he gover nment, employers and t he f ire and bui lding s afet y indust r y to cont inue to prov ide e duc at ion and supp or t in nav igat ing t hes e maj or changes. On ly by doing t his c an we ma ke our bui ldings s afer for a l l ”

n For more information on the BWF Fire Door Alliance, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw011

Expanding horizons

PBM considers the recent product category expansions from two established names in the doors, windows & security sector which could help boost merchant sales into new areas:

The leading door manufacturer has expanded its product portfolio with the launch of a new laminate range.

laminate doorsets are delivered fully finished, with no painting or staining required on site, and feature colour-matched edge banding for a seamless finish.

All doorsets are available either as a solid panel or with glazing, with 11 clear glazed designs to choose from.

JELD-WEN

Said to be especially suited for larger-scale projects, the new range is intended to allow for a more consistent design scheme and can be easily incorporated into a variety of interiors The laminate finish also carries significant benefits in terms of maintenance and durability, offering resistance to water, impacts and scratches, and is described as being easy to clean and maintain with no chemical products required

The collection of internal and communal doorsets comprises seven new laminate finishes in a variety of striking colours and glazing options, and will replace the manufacturer’s existing veneer designs. In addition to ReadyFIT internal and communal doorsets, the enhanced laminates will also form part of JELD-WEN’s SecureFIT and SecureSET ranges, meaning they are dual tested to provide 30-minute fire, smoke and security protection as listed under the Certifire and CertiSecure schemes

offering customers a complete and fully certified interior doorset solution

Ruth Deardon, UK Product Line Manager at JELD-WEN, said: “With a highly durable and long-lasting finish, our new laminate collection is well-suited for commercial builds, helping to create a high-quality and consistent design scheme that is stylish as well as practical All finishes are available with a FD30 fire door rating, giving customers complete assurance in the safety and certification of ever y doorset ”

In line with the company ’ s commitment to provide high-quality, reliable and easy-to-install products,

Ruth added: “Expert craftsmanship, premium quality and exceptional design is behind ever y JELD-WEN doorset, and our new laminate collection is no exception As well as a market-leading product range, customers can also benefit from our decades of industr y knowledge and technical expertise, as well as a dedicated sales team to provide support at ever y stage of the project ”

n For more information about JELDWEN’s laminate doorset range, enter the shortcode www rdr link/maw029

Yale

The well-known home security brand has introduced an exclusive Yale Smart Motion CCTV & Door Camera Kit for professional installers.

“Exclusively available to trade members only,” the Kit is said to have been designed with installers in mind and provides ever ything required to install a “full CCT V solution on a standard residential property within one box ” In addition, the package features an exclusive five-year warranty, up from the standard two-years, which can be transferred to the end user to reduce the need for installer call backs

The box contains four Smart Motion Detection cameras to monitor the property from the front, back and side, whilst the All-in-One Camera with 2-way talk can be positioned at the front door to ensure all entr y points are covered All the necessar y cables and fixings are also included, whilst the XVR recorder has eight channels, to allow for future expansion of the security set up (which can support up to eight Yale wired cameras + two Wi-Fi cameras).

Via the Yale View app and a smartphone, users can check in on their homes from anywhere Additionally, Smart Motion Detection featuring AI technolog y focuses in on human shapes with the Dual Tech corroborating movement to limit the number of false alarms The bright white lights, meanwhile, acts as a deterrent to any potential intruders

Additional cables and connectors in the box will ensure that the majority of camera and XVR configurations and placements are catered for, meaning that installers will not need to leave site or purchase additional cables or accessories at extra cost. The kit also integrates with other smart home products in the Yale range, including the Floodlight Camera, the Pan + Tilt Indoor Camera and the HD1080 Indoor Camera.

n More information on the Yale Smart Motion CCTV & Door Camera Kit can be found via www rdr link/maw012

LIBERON SUPERIOR PROTECTION WOODSTAIN

Offering “genuine benefits” for trade users and new sales opportunities for stockists, the new Superior Protection Woodstain from Liberon is said to mark a turning point in product development for the well-respected manufacturer whilst also ushering in a whole new livery for packaging and a new logo. With other products in the range set to follow suit, the new look is the result of investment in the brand in order to modernise it

UK Marketing Manager Richard Bradley said: “We’re confident that the impactful new livery showcased by the new Liberon Superior Protection Woodstain will be warmly welcomed by stockists who will be pleased to have it on their shelves The packaging’s modern treatment places it visually way ahead of other exterior woodcare products.

“We’ll also have news shortly of how else we’re investing in the brand to differentiate it from others, and to make stocking and buying our products easier than ever Watch this space!”

The new product itself has an eight-year guarantee for “outstanding protection” and is suitable for use on outdoor cladding, window frames or doors With a quickdrying satin finish that enhances exterior timber, the water-repellent woodstain is smooth and simple to apply.

Liberon Superior Protection Woodstain is available in six colours, including Clear, Light Oak, Medium Oak, Dark Oak, Mahogany and an attractive grey shade called Charcoal Available in 750ml and 2 5L tins, the 750ml size is enough to cover 9m2 and the 2 5L tin enough to cover 30m2

FREEFOAM PVC-U SKIRTING AND DOOR SURROUND

Following extensive market research and increasing customer demand, Freefoam has added to its Internal Building Products range with the launch of a new PVC-U Skirting and Door Surround. The firm says that this high-quality ogee shape product offers stockists and installers “the ideal solution for a low maintenance, and easily finished installation for any home improvement project ”

Each available in white, the Skirting is 16mm thick and Door surround 18mm thick with a solid PVC core and skin. Both products are described as tough, durable and long-lasting whilst being designed to withstand the knocks and bumps of everyday use in home or office situations

Said to be both practical and cost effective, Freefoam notes the products offer the “ultimate fit and go option” for installers, whilst the firm has already received “very positive feedback from customers who are benefitting from a product that works alongside existing PVC ranges and creates additional sales opportunities ”

RAINCLEAR ALUMINIUM ROOF LANTERN RANGE

Rainclear says it is “on a mission to lead the way in sustainable building solutions” by continuously improving both quality and choice whilst sharing its expert knowledge to improve its customers’ business success Accordingly, the slim 38mm internal rafters of its Aluminium Roof Lantern range deliver more glass and less frame, meaning maximum daylight

Fully tested to BS6375 for maximum weather performance, the product’s key features include compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations and Low UValues for a warmer home in addition to offering “quick and simple” installation in as little as 40 minutes Furthermore, there is no delay on site once the pack arrives as the glass is included and already pre-installed in a bottom frame

A variety of glass and glazing options is available, with typical standard sizes (six stock sizes available), configurations and colours all in stock for delivery in five days However, the Roof Lantern is described as “highly customisable” and can be bespoke ordered with multiple configuration and colour options, and up to 4 5m in length to suit all projects

n For more information, and to watch an informative video, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw015 n Use www.rdr.link/maw013 to find out more.

ZOO HARDWARE ELECTRO-MAGNETIC OVERHEAD DOOR CLOSERS

The supplier has recently extended its range of high-quality door closing devices with the new VDC-EMS and VDC-EMT series Electro-Magnetic door closers Widely considered an integral part of any door closing device range, the VDC-EMS (scissor arm) and VDC-EMT (slide track) series are said to offer customers a “tested, certified and compliant” electrically powered door closing device solution for high traffic doors

Described as being ideal for installation within hotels, schools and hospitals where a more preferrable requirement would be to hold doors open during everyday use, the products can also help to maintain fire safety compliance by being wired into the building’s electrical and fire alarm system to ensure the doors close fully and completely when they are required to.

Both ranges are CE and UKCA marked with the size 3 and 4 EMS models also CERTIFIRE approved Finish options available as standard include silver or satin stainless steel effect, with further finishes such as black, satin brass and bronze available upon request

n Further details are available via www.rdr.link/maw016

n Enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw014 to find out more.

2023 marks 100 years of Häfele. Here, we chart the company’s developments from humble beginnings to global growth while continuing to remain under family ownership.

Supporting industr y for 100 years

From its origins as a single speciality joiner y shop that opened its doors in 1923 in Württemberg, Germany, Häfele has evolved to become a global, privately-owned business with more than 8,000 employees and an annual revenue of almost two billion Euros Still family-owned and operated, Sibylle Thierer was recently confirmed as chairperson of the Board of Directors, with Gregor Riekena, taking the post of CEO becoming only the second non-family CEO of the Häfele Group.

Throughout its 100-year histor y, Häfele has maintained its founders’ focus on making innovative products based on customer need Today, this mission is as true as ever as the company marks its centenar y with a series of new product introductions and ser vices all designed to enable tradespeople, architects, furniture designers and manufacturers to maximise the value of space for their customers, together.

A centur y of high-quality products

As well as distributing some of the most respected brands in the furniture, kitchen and appliances market, since 1954 Häfele has developed and manufactured its own products that are relied on by trade professionals and have had a lasting influence on how we join materials today

One such system to revolutionise the sector is the Häfele Minifix connector system Minifix and its associated bolt launched in 1983, enabling flatpack furniture to be quickly and accurately assembled, compared with a glue and dowel method Now, 3.2 million Minifix are produced in Häfele’s Berlin factor y ever y day, which on top of each other, would be taller than 100 Shard buildings

Supporting with ser vices

Häfele’s focus on supporting customer need also means the business has a keen eye on ser vice From the first Häfele exhibition bus in 1966 to creating a Technical Support Team nearly three decades ago, the business prides itself on being there for customers ever y step of the way

As part of its centenar y celebrations, Häfele created Ser vice+, which is a

multi-pronged ser vice proposition designed to add value from concept through to installation and beyond The proposition comprises:

l Ser vice+ Knowledge connecting customers with specialist Häfele product and industr y knowledge;

l Ser vice+ Planning a range of free planning and specification support;

l Ser vice+ Customised offering a wide range of custom manufactured solutions;

l Ser vice+ Assist providing ongoing technical support pre and post-sale

L ocal success

Its focus on innovation and ser vice has seen Häfele go from strength to strength in the past 100 years In the UK, Häfele has had a growing presence since 1980 when it opened its first site in Rugby Over the decades, Häfele UK has grown exponentially to an annual turnover of more than £115m and a 400-strong team of employees, including more than 60 field-based sales experts and area sales managers, offering national coverage to its 25,000 active customers Its two sites sit across 290,000 sq ft , offering more than 20,000 pallet locations which ship, on average, 2,000 orders every day

n For more information, visit www.hafele.co.uk

ive homeowner s are planning a new kitchen”

Functional Spaces: Homes for Living is a study of 2,000+ homeowners designed to help our merchant and retail partners understand changes in consumer wants and needs when it comes to their home and kitchens in particular Exploring factors including homeowners’ biggest pain points and what features would improve their space, quality of life and wellbeing, its purpose is to give retailers useful insights to help boost and focus sales and marketing activity

is year ’ s Functional Spaces: Homes for Living study revealed that almost half of UK homeowners (45%) are planning home improvements within the next two years One in ten respondents said the cost and difficulty of buying and selling will see them actively put off plans to move in favour of

home improvements and over a third (36%) of all respondents aren’t considering a move but have plans to upgrade their home

Strong opportunities in kitchens

In positive news for merchants with a strong kitchen offer, a new kitchen was one of the most popular home improvements that consumers said they are planning over the next two years Second only to interior decorating, our research found that more than one-in-five homeowners (23%) are planning to upgrade their kitchen space before 2026. Examining the findings regionally, hotspots for new kitchens include the East of England (30%), South West and Wales (both 26%), and London (25%), a close fourth

Drivers and priorities

Analysing the data, we also uncovered the critical motivators for changing a kitchen, drivers when planning a new one and reflections on a recent upgrade project.

One-quarter selected a style overhaul as the motivator for why they would or have updated their kitchen. Quality improvements (23%) and lack of storage (19%) were second and third on the list

Against a backdrop of the cost-of-living crisis and rising interest rates, it’s perhaps

unsurprising that budget and the overall cost was the most important factor for those who’ve recently bought or updated their kitchen (34%) and almost half of those who said they need to upgrade their kitchen are worried about the cost to do so is figure has increased by 6% since our 2022 study

However, the drivers were more varied for those planning a future project Almost a quarter (24%) said they would shop around to get the best functionality for their budget, and 14% said ‘function and usability’ was the second most important factor, just five percentage points behind cost and ahead of style and quality

In terms of specific features most desired, kitchen islands topped the list at 41%, closely followed by a pantr y or larder (39%) and a separate utility room or cupboard at 38% When it comes to cabinetr y internals, 31% longed for pull-out wirework, 30% for pan drawers and 28% for corner storage

We hope that through our research, merchants can get valuable insight to help capitalise on sales opportunities and support consumers in creating spaces that meet their evolving needs and balance function with budget and style

n Download Häfele’s full Functional Spaces: Homes for Living report at hafele co uk

“One-in-f

Natalie Davenport, Head of Marketing at Häfele UK, shares the findings of its latest Functional Spaces: Homes for Living research.

Highlighting some of the new and best-selling solutions available from Häfele:

THE XTRAHAND

Invented by carpenter and cabinet maker, Alan Gillett, the XtraHand is an innovative hands-free dust extraction tool for drilling, cutting and grinding available exclusively from Häfele UK The device fits onto hose-mounted vacuums and sticks to almost any flat surface, and is ideal for tradespeople, furniture manufacturers and DIYers helping to minimise airborne particles and mess

The XtraHand which appeared on BBC Dragons’ Den in March 2023 is the only tool on the market that is compatible with all drill bits, including spade, bullet, masonry and auger bits, as well as tile drills and hole saws. It also works on various surfaces such as wood, metal, plastic, concrete and brick and will even attach to ceilings

Helping professionals conform to Health & Safety Executive requirements on protecting against the risks of hazardous construction dust, The XtraHand gives ‘on-tool’ extraction and helps trades keep sites and customers’ homes tidy

STORAGE SOLUTIONS

As Häfele’s research shows, ample kitchen storage can make or break a kitchen’s functionality To support this, Häfele offers a range of storage options at a range of price points to suit client and project budgets

Highly popular with Häfele’s merchant customers, Vauth-Sagel

COR Flex, distributed by Häfele, is a great solution for corner cabinetry as its four baskets fully exit the cupboard when opened giving full access to everything inside It’s also available in classic linear silver, chrome wire baskets and solid base options giving extensive choice

Another well-performing option is Tal Gate Pro also from Vauth Sagel This swing out larder system features a mechanism that brings the entire larder system out of the cabinet, so all content is on display, and includes a back-of-the-door shelving system for additional storage

Working to a tighter budget? Häfele Swing Out Corner Storage helps maximise space in often underutilised areas but at a lower price point The wire baskets are now available in chrome linear silver, as well as white, for more design flexibility and are provided with a ten-year guarantee

ALUSPLASH

Traditionally, splashbacks are an area of the kitchen where fitters might call in a specialist subcontractor, whether that’s a tiler or a glazer But thanks to innovative products, that needn’t be the case, giving tradespeople an extra revenue stream and another string to their bow

Distributed exclusively through Häfele in the UK, AluSplash is a practical, hassle-free alternative to glass, acrylic and tiled splashbacks Simple and straightforward to fit in fact, it’s three times quicker to install than tiles AluSplash can be installed with readily available tools and minimal training. This makes it a great, value-added offer to the customer and an easy extra profit stream for all trades

AluSplash is available in three precut sizes, including up to 3050mm lengths, and 12 colourways, including new on-trend matt finishes

Innovatively designed, it allows fitters to v-groove and fold around corners without joints and cut holes for sockets with ease As well as being easy to fit, the product is constructed from a flame-resistant aluminium surface with a fire-resistant mineral core which means AluSplash can be used behind all hobs and cooktops, including gas, for a seamless run of colour that’s also easy to clean

To accompany AluSplash, Häfele offers an installation kit that includes everything needed alongside a standard fitter's toolkit and a series of YouTube videos that give step-by-step instructions from preparation to finish.

FLEX LIGHTING SYSTEM

Introduced earlier this year, Häfele's Flex Lighting System offers a simple and efficient solution for installing kitchen and furniture lighting designs The system features a flexible silicon-based ribbon that is highly flexible. It serves as a versatile lighting option for various applications and can be controlled remotely through an app.

The system comes with a new selection of profiles suitable for plinths and handleless cabinets, as well as AluSplash splashbacks Users can select the appropriate Flex Light profile and easily push-fit the ribbon to achieve their desired lighting effect The profiles can be cut to different lengths to accommodate various sizes, and users can choose between cool white and warm white lighting options

For added convenience, the Flex Lighting System can be integrated with another Häfele innovation Modu3. This combination allows customers to create custom modular shelving solutions using chipboard or MDF panels in five different finishes, paired with aluminium profiles The shelving is available in two standard sizes 600mm and 900mm

METALLA 310

The result of three years of global research and development, Häfele’s Metalla hinge range was created with quality and long-term performance firmly in mind But even better than that, customers who’ve swapped their usual hinge for the Metalla 310 have reported saving up to half of their usual spend making it one of the most valuable fittings in the toolbox Specially designed to give kitchen manufacturers and installers a high-quality choice, whatever the application, the Metalla 310 offers a large assortment hinge suitable for wide-angle openings, post hinge, and 30 or 45˚ openings It is available in a soft-close or a nonsoft-close variant and is ideal for standard installations such as common 110˚ angle openings.

The Metalla 310 hinge has been tested to at least 40,000 cycles and 48 hours against corrosion resistance in accordance with EN 15570 level 2 / LGA quality certification It also comes with a 25year guarantee, meaning joiners and installers can be confident they’re providing customers with complete reliability, ease of use and enduring quality

Supporting your business

With a heritage in trade sales and distribution, Häfele understands first-hand the challenges of making sure customers have what they need when they need it. In response, the company has developed and is continuing to build, a range of services tailored to the unique needs of merchant customers.

On tour with Vauth Sagel

n In partnership with internal storage manufacturer, Vauth-Sagel, Häfele is offering merchants the opportunity to host its newly refurbished Vauth-Sagel Van Decked with 13 of Vauth-Sagel’s high-quality system solutions for living spaces, merchant teams and their customers can get hands-on experience and training in how the products can be incorporated into designs and installed.

Speed of supply is critical for the trade As such, Häfele offers next-day delivery on thousands of products without any minimum order quantity Orders just need to be placed before 5.30 pm.

Additionally, builders’ merchants can benefit from Häfele’s standard 0% return policy, helping to minimise potentially costly admin fees

Adding value

Häfele prides itself on delivering more than just products and over its 100-year histor y, it has developed a suite of ser vices designed to save merchants money, reduce hassle, and improve efficiency

One of these is Ser vice+ Customised Through the ser vice, merchants and their customers can access Häfele’s free Lighting Design Ser vice Simply submit plans to its team of designers and they will create a bespoke lighting layout for the project.

Once okayed, Häfele will also test, cut and package the precise lighting components needed, ensuring no wastage, and making life easier during the installation process

Showroom support

Merchants can also access Häfele’s customer and colleague training ser vices, which knowing time is tight, are available without leaving the branch As well as its new Vauth-Sagel van (see panel), branches and customers can learn more about lighting on Häfele’s Loox van and additional mobile showrooms are currently being developed

Not only great for training, these standalone Renault Relay vans can also be booked for trade days and customer events

Ne e d help w it h your show ro om s et-up? G et show ro om desig n, sp e cif ic at ion and inst a l l at ion supp or t f rom Häfele Assist and its te am of exp er ience d s a les and pro duc t sp e ci a lists.

Amongst the products on board are the TAL Gate Pro 500mm in Premea Lava, a new dark grey colourway of Vauth-Sagel’s innovative swing-out pantry system It also features the SUB Larder in Saphir Platinum and Premea White baskets, ADD Flex in a sub larder in Lava Grey and the VS WASH Laundry system, all of which are new from Vauth-Sagel

n Merchants interested in hosting the Vauth-Sagel Van should get in touch with their Area Sales Manager at Häfele, or register their interest via www.hafele.co.uk

QHow

did you get into the industr y and to your current position?

AI’ve been at Häfele for over nine and a half years now I started my career in the motor industr y, so a completely different sector, but I decided I wanted to do something new I wanted a job that was going to be a challenge from day one and with over 25,000 products to learn about and a range of different customer types, I knew a career at Häfele would give me that test

I started as a Customer Support Advisor, but I’ve always loved anything technical so I eventually moved into our technical department, which is where I grew my passion for lighting. After that, I went on the road as an Area Sales Manager and also worked on national accounts, supporting the likes of Travis Perkins, Homebase and Wickes Then when a job came up as Business Development Manager for Lighting, it was an opportunity to combine the two areas I love in the business

Day to day, my job is to help our team in the field to grow lighting sales From a merchant perspective, that can range from working with head office teams to get our product listed and stocked, or shown in a branch showroom, to helping upskill branch colleagues and kitchen designers We understand that all merchants are different, and all customers are different too. Some want to tap into our Lighting Design Ser vice for example whereas others just want product, so my job is to help shape an offer to meet their needs

QHow

do you feel the industr y has changed in recent years?

AThe growth of social media and platforms like TikTok and Instagram, especially during the pandemic, becoming so influential has been a key change Daily, tradespeople are on social media looking about what other trades are doing and thinking: “I can do that ” And then they post their work, there’s a chain reaction and it continues

We see this regularly with lighting now Often, we ’ re contacted by customers to say

they’ve seen one of their peers creating something on social media using our products and they want to do it too This is something we as an industr y really need to embrace as a sales tool

There’s also even more of an appetite for products that helps tradespeople work more efficiently without sacrificing quality and the latter part is hugely important. Tradespeople want to grow their business but there’s only a number of jobs that they can fit in within a year, and they also need to protect their reputation If we can create products that help trades combine speed and quality, it’s amazing what it helps them achieve

QWhathas been the highlight of your career to date?

AOur customers! Because they are an absolutely incredible bunch of people, and they challenge you to think differently Take our new Flex Light System or our Chip on Board ribbon lighting When taking it to market, you think about its uses and applications, but seeing how creative and innovative customers are with our products only inspires you further

It’s a privilege to see it first-hand

QWhere do you see yourself in five years’ time?

AAhh, the dreaded question! In five years, hopefully, I’m still here and if I’m still Business Development Manager for Lighting, I’ll be extremely happy because I love this job

In this role in the next five years, I’d like to see Häfele be recognised as the number

one lighting manufacturer for furniture In terms of our turnover, we ’ re already there, but we ’ ve got some work to do with customers and merchants to help them truly understand our range, expertise and ability to supply, and be recognised as that first choice.

QWhich individual has influenced you most in your career?

AIt’s impossible to pick one person Ever ybody that I’ve worked with at Häfele has impacted me and influenced me to better myself in my career Matthew Lissaman, Gareth Bevan, Michael Osborne and Steve Davis are just a few I can’t pinpoint one individual, but I would say ever ybody at Häfele has impacted me and influenced me differently

QWhat has been your biggest challenge so far?

AMy biggest challenge so far on a personal level was learning a brandnew industr y Understanding “Who are the customers? What are they doing? What products do we offer to ser vice those industries? Do we have ever ything that all our customers need?” That was definitely a steep learning cur ve.

“If we can create products that help trades combine speed and quality, it’s amazing what it helps them achieve.”

Jamie McClaren is Business Development Manager for Lighting at Häfele UK, helping to promote and grow the company’s lighting portfolio, which includes the Loox plug-and-play LED lighting system.

Dr iving innovation

With environmental concerns remaining high on the agenda, manufacturers across the sector are outlining the importance of taking sustainability seriously. PBM considers the approach of Symphony Group, focusing on its collaboration with Saint-Gobain, Barratt Developments and Bellway on the Energy House 2.0 project at the University of Salford.

The building industr y reportedly accounts for 40% of the UK’s carbon footprint To achieve net zero, there must be a change in both the design of new buildings as well as a complete upgrade and retrofit programme for current housing stock

To support innovators in delivering net zero homes by 2030, Symphony Group has been involved in the Energy House 2 0 laboratory at the University of Salford in collaboration with Barratt, Bellway and SaintGobain Said to be the largest test and research facility of its kind, this environmental chamber that is partfunded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) contains two detached houses that sit within controlled

weather and temperature conditions to “drive innovation and solutions that address global and domestic energy efficiency challenges ”

Firstly, the Saint-Gobain and Barratt Developments eHome2 has been created to understand how sustainable housing can be delivered at scale using construction solutions manufactured off-site. It will also pilot the use of next generation heating and ventilation technologies as well as utilise smart technolog y to enable occupants to change the temperature and turn on the shower at the click of a button Symphony’s sustainable Hacienda Grey Driftwood kitchen is part of this scheme with doors made from 100% recycled board, cabinet legs made from 100% recycled plastic (primarily from the motor vehicle

The Symphony New York Kitchen, in Bottle Green, featured in Bellway’s Future Home

n Symphony Group, one of the UK’s largest privately-owned manufacturers of fitted furniture, explains that it already implements a number of sustainability initiatives, with its Sustainability Analyst George Burtoft stating: “We have always taken our responsibilities to the environment seriously and are committed to playing our part by learning, innovating and implementing sustainable actions to limit our impact on the planet ”

The business reports it makes its furniture using only FSC certified timber sourced from responsibly managed forests, and uses water-based paints on all paint-to-order ranges It also includes recycled content wherever possible, with cabinet chipboard made from 57% recycled materials, door and drawer fronts in options of 100%, 90% and 50% recycled content and foils made from 70% recycled PET (used plastic bottles) on several ranges.

As referenced in the main article, the manufacturing methods used by Symphony also allow products to be ‘Repaired, Not Replaced’, saving damaged cabinets from being sent to landfill. And for retailers who are updating a showroom, Symphony is also a partner with The Used Kitchen Company, who will extend the life of an ex-display kitchen by finding it a new home

industr y) and cabinets crafted from a minimum of 50% recycled material.

Symphony’s ‘Cam and Dowel’ manufacturing method also embraces the ‘Repair, Not Replace’ ethos, as it allows any component on a cabinet to be replaced so if any damage occurs over time, just a single panel can be replaced rather than the whole unit

The house also has a host of additional innovative solutions, including weber wall brick; a high-performing timber frame system from Scotframe and Pasquill’s PosiJoist floor cassettes that allow for the integration of Mechanical Ventilation & Heat Recover y Systems (MVHR)

The Bellway’s Future Home also features the Symphony New York kitchen in Bottle Green Symphony says it has been able to offer a sustainable solution for the home as its timber-based products are made of material from well-managed FSC certified forests and the cabinets are made from over 50% recycled material

The brand also uses water-based paint for all its paint to order cabinet doors. The Future Home also includes three types of heating, two air source heat pumps, mechanical ventilation, solar power with battery storage, enhanced insulation, double vs triple glazing, precast flooring, a shower tray that recaptures heat and a smart control that learns when you need to heat your home.

Testing and research at the Energ y House 2 0 began in Februar y 2023 and the first results will be published later this year.

George Burtoft, Sustainability Analyst at Symphony Group, said: “We’re delighted that Symphony was chosen to supply the kitchens for this project It is testament to our commitment to ensure sustainability runs through every aspect of our business and we are establishing an important reputation for this amongst the UK’s leading housebuilders ”

n For more information about Symphony’s sustainability commitments, its product ranges and its support for merchants, enter the shortcode www rdr link/maw017

n For more information on the Energ y House 2.0 project at the University of Salford, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/ma w018

Symphony’s Hacienda Grey Driftwood Kitchen used in the Saint-Gobain and Barratt Developments eHome2

The Turin Dark Stone range from Symphony

Clean thinking on ta p

Sustainability and our impact on the environment are having an impact on how kitchens are designed, and this is an area of the home where even seemingly small changes can help make a difference in the longer term. For merchants, this means getting clued up on the kind of solutions that your customers will perceive as quick yet effective wins. Daniel Boulton, Business & Product Development Manager at Clearwater, looks at how filtered water and kettle taps fit into this category.

Green building design has now become a major part of mainstream contemporar y design, with many briefs across all sectors including both commercial and residential striving toward meeting green building standards

While it may be tempting to focus primarily on the materials used for the construction of such buildings, to really make a sustainable difference it’s important to look at the whole picture including the fixtures and fittings specified for each room and how the way we use them can impact the wider environment

Designing a sustainable kitchen is now often an integral part of the planning process and thanks to the latest innovations, it’s less of an uphill struggle than you may think While some installers and consumers will be looking to go all-out with reclaimed

materials, others will be seeking a few simple changes to help them make conscious decisions around their day-to-day lifestyles

Filter water taps and instant hot water taps fit neatly into this latter categor y

Eco-mindedness on tap

Sustainability and our impact on the environment are having a big influence on tap sales, particularly in terms of filtered water taps, which reduce the need for single use plastic bottles. The news agenda on climate change and the rise in eco-cleaning products shows that there is a very real consumer desire to ease their plastic footprint.

Clearwater filter taps offer a range of benefits that the merchant can take advantage of to maximise on a sale Aside from not adding to the growing plastic waste epidemic

that is choking the planet, our filter taps reduce scale build up prolonging the lives of small appliances like steam irons and substantially improves the taste of water The filters are easy to switch, with no requirement for the plumber to make a return visit.

Sustainability near boiling point

Sales of taps that deliver instant near-b oiling water are on the ris e to o, and for similar reas ons A lot of the app eal around Kettle taps is around sp eed and convenience, with no more waiting around

“

W h i l e i t m a y b e t e m p t i n g t o f o c u s p r i m a r i l y o n t h e m a t e r i a l s u s e d f o r t h e c o n s t r u c t i o n o f g r e e n e r b u i l d i n g s , t o r e a l l y m a k e a s u s t a i n a b l e d i f f e r e n c e i t ’ s i m p o r t a n t t o l o o k a t t h e w h o l e p i c t u r e — i n c l u d i n g t h e f i x t u r e s a n d f i t t i n g s s p e c i f i e d f o r e a c h r o o m . ”

for b oiling hot water for making drinks or preparing meals howe ver, water saving is a huge s elling p oint for merchants sto cking this technolog y to o

By overfilling kettles and unnecessarily boiling them repeatedly, they can quickly become one of the most energ y-guzzling kitchen appliances in the home, particularly when we consider that the average UK household boils the kettle 1,500 times a year

Saving energ y and helping consumers make the switch to a sustainable alternative, Kettle taps only dispense the precise amount of water needed, saving on both water and energ y consumption. The Cold Start Valve on our Magus 3 Kettle tap, for example, saves energ y by not firing up the boiler unnecessarily a little change that can make a big difference to the consumer ’ s utility bills and, ultimately, the planet

In addition, the digital thermostatic boiler is small yet mighty, with 10 temperature settings and capable of delivering up to 60 cups per hour more than enough to satisfy our nation of tea and coffee drinkers!

Furthermore, the Magus Kettle taps offer a raft of reasons to upgrade a sale from standard brassware and add value to a kitchen sale. Indeed, the Magus 4 Electronic is the complete package, combining elegant design with intuitive controls that deliver four water options

The left-hand LED electronic control dispenses 98°C filtered water at the touch of a button whilst the right-hand lever delivers domestic hot and cold water and fresh tasting cold filtered water Plus, the WRAS approved digital thermostatic boiler is straightfor ward to install, with an ultra-compact design fitting neatly in the under-sink cupboard

Environmental issues are becoming increasingly important to the consumer and therefore always likely to present merchants with an opportunity to trade up from a standard kitchen tap to one that helps the environment, is straightfor ward to install and delivers great tasting, near-boiling water at the user ’ s convenience.

n For more information on the solutions and stockist support available from Clearwater Products, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw019

& BATHROOMS

The detectorists

Multi-layered and increasingly complex, the role of a builders’ merchant extends far beyond a faceless financial transaction Equipped to ser vice large-scale construction projects, they play an integral role in managing orders, coordinating deliveries, and providing logistical support to help streamline successful completion. As budget management, resource allocation, and sustainability credentials come into sharper focus too, strengthening the groundwork has increasingly fallen into their remit.

The potential for water loss, and therefore risk of damage, is significant during the construction phase, for example. This is particularly true during the final weeks of the project, when systems are turned on and tested. Depending on the quality of the materials that are susceptible to water damage, the progress of fitting, and occupancy conditions of the site in essence, whether or not anyone is around to spot a leak the impact of surplus water escape can be detrimental

Water loss key impacts:

l People: Water damage can halt an entire construction project, almost irrespective of its size The repercussions are far-reaching when it comes to health and safety

Structural integrity is compromised, leading to potential collapses, and standing water becomes a breeding ground for pests and mould, endangering the health of both workers and nearby residents.

l Planet: Regulator Ofwat said companies lost an average of 2 9m litres of water a day in 2021-22. This is an alarming statistic, when we consider the fact only 3% of water on Earth is fresh, and that this resource is finite. The pressure drop caused by leaks presents a significant environmental issue too As well as requiring more energ y to pump resources from reser voirs, it increases the chance of

Accounting for 30% of Builders Risk insurance claims, damage from water is one of the leading costs and energy drains for property management, particularly during the construction phase of a project. But it is not just spiralling budgets and health and safety that the sector’s professionals need to keep an eye on, as customers and stakeholders are growing more ecoconscious by the day too. So, how can builders’ merchants help their customers sharpen their green credentials and ensure all bases are covered from a risk management perspective?

Claire Mason, General Manager at leak detection firm Waterguard, offers a crucial perspective…

contaminants corrupting the supply and posing risks to human health

l Profit: Construction projects operate on tight budgets, and unexpected repairs can be financially crippling As well as restoring structures and materials, site managers will need to account for the profit lost through extending the employment terms of their contractors , or even sourcing new teams.

Offering a solution

n Acknowledging the absence of a universal fix, Waterguard is proud to offer a versatile array of sensors, each meticulously suited to distinct applications, ensuring holistic protection.

In construction, our Waterguard SiteGuard takes the lead, providing CIREG-compliant automatic water isolation beyond operational hours for temporary water supplies Empowering builders’ merchants to equip their customers with advanced leak detection solutions and unwavering support post-completion, our product portfolio extends well beyond the SiteGuard too Waterguard’s end-to-end support also includes:

l Site surveys: Our versatile product range is complemented by advice to optimise savings and minimise damage risks, with our seasoned team aiding in selecting, supplying, installing, and commissioning effective water leak detection solutions

l Installation: Partnering with approved specialist Waterguard installers, we offer a holistic solution, from specification and installation to operation and maintenance.

l Commissioning: We provide both on-site and telephone commissioning on all our systems, each managed by a dedicated engineer providing technical support and commissioning documentation to contractors

l Maintenance: Routine maintenance is crucial to sustaining your leak detection system's efficacy, guarding against unforeseen failures

l Product training: Our complimentary training service covers the entire product range, with on-site and remote options, ensuring comprehensive system understanding

L eak detection

The ripples of a water leak can escalate into a complex web of setbacks affecting people, progress, and the project's ultimate success. Providing a crucial window of opportunity to locate and rectify potential issues as they arise, technolog y assumes a pivotal role in vigilant monitoring

While not directly responsible for preventing surplus water escape, product stockists can act as a trusted advisor for customers, helping to raise awareness and ensure adequate risk management is implemented for utilities

The Construction Insurance Risk Engineers Group (CIREG) sets a strong case for incorporating water leak detection technologies on building sites from the beginning of the project right through to handover, to minimise risks.

As well as being able to monitor water flow, intuitive devices should be able to rapidly turn off systems when any abnormal patterns are detected, and promote savings in water consumption, energ y, and money

n For more information on Waterguard’s solutions, use the shortcode www rdr link/maw020

As the demand for solar PV soars in 2023, now is the time for merchants to invest in enhancing their own knowledge on the renewable solutions on offer from manufacturers, allowing them to further advise and support customers.

The news from industr y accreditation body MCS, that 17,000 UK households have installed solar PV ever y month this year, is clear evidence that there is a renewable energ y boom under way.

Merchants who work to upskill their own knowledge of solar PV can stay ahead of the cur ve and offer advice to their customers when it comes to selecting cost effective, high performing and aesthetically pleasing solar PV systems

Training provision

To support merchants, Marley has various online and in-person Solar training courses that can help merchants to build their knowledge The courses include a variety of topics, all of which can be fitted around busy work schedules:

l Understanding Solar

l Installation of Solar

l Why Solar, Why now?

l Why Sell Integrated Solar?

The short-burst training modules can easily be booked online through the Marley training hub, or available via the BMF Campus and various merchant training platforms

n For further details on the training courses and to learn more about Marley SolarTile, visit marley co uk/training

Better training equals better ser vice

BUSHBOARD OMEGA WORKTOPS

The manufacturer says it is giving merchants the opportunity to make luxury kitchen design even more accessible to a variety of customers with its reimagined Omega collection of laminate kitchen worktops The new range boasts 25 sophisticated decors, available in a variety of sizes, to maximise design flexibility and freedom.

Made in the image of real wood, marble and stone finishes, with a true square edge or slight curve, there’s an option to suit all customer needs The durable collection also features four premium finishes including the metallic emulating ‘Brushed Bronze’ and three anti-fingerprint ‘Touch’ surfaces, on which micro-scratches are repairable whilst also being easy to clean

n Go to www.rdr.link/maw035 for more on the full collection.

CISTERMISER EASYFLUSHEVO

Cistermiser has gained WRAS product approval for its EasyflushEVO water efficient toilet flushing valve This latest accreditation is a further accolade for the product, which also recently achieved Kiwa UK Regulation 4 status alongside winning multiple industry awards WRAS approval has been granted for all three variations of the flushing valve: EVO 1 5”, EVO 2” and EVO CISTERN the complete flushing cistern kit, which includes an EasyflushEVO flushing valve, a fill valve and a concealed cistern with a 1 5” flush pipe outlet and flush cone

n Discover more via the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw036

ARTICAD KPS.MAX WEB

The KBB software solutions specialist has launched KPS MAX web a cutting-edge consumer kitchen configurator, planner, and lead-generation tool which is said to transform the way kitchen retailers and merchants can engage with customers online. With an increasing number of customers initiating their kitchen buying journey online, seeking style inspiration and selecting their preferred kitchen supplier, the new lead generation tool has been created to empower retailers to actively engage, inspire, and capture potential buyers in search of their perfect kitchen.

n Entering www.rdr.link/maw037 in your browser to learn more.

PUMP TECHNOLOGY CUSTOMISED SANIFLO-PUMPSHOP LOGIN

Merchants who regularly order Saniflo products (in particular Saniflo commercial products such as SaniSpeed + , Sanibest Pro or one of the Sanicubic pumping systems) can now benefit from utilising a secure login on the successful Saniflo shop www.saniflo-pumpshop.co.uk from Pump Technology

The distributor says it can offer fast and knowledgeable technical assistance, with products held in stock for next day delivery whilst the competitive shop is tailored to the specific buying needs of merchants and offers a trading account and additional benefits with membership of the FlushMaster Club

n Enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw038 for further information.

CORAM SHOWERS STONE RESIN SHOWER TRAY EXPANSION

Part of the Coram UK brand portfolio of showering solutions along with Impey, Sealskin, Geesa and Tiger, Coram Showers has revised the manufacture of its core range of shower trays. To improve the breadth and availability of products, the brand has replaced its plastic (ABS) trays with a more sustainable and higher performance stone resin alternative.

Manufacture from solid stone resin is said to offer a range of benefits including enhanced durability, scratch and crack resistance, stain resistance, ease of cleaning and a polished, modern aesthetic The new stone resin trays are available with a large number of options covering flat top, quad, offset and upstand choices.

n To view the full selection, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw039

ABODE ACCUMULATE REWARDS PROGRAMME

The awardwinning designer and distributor of kitchen taps & sinks, Pronteau hot water taps, bathroom taps & showering solutions reports that it is delighted with the response from its UK retail and stockists network following the nationwide rollout of the company’s exclusive loyalty rewards programme, Accumulate Sales Director Pete Phelan said: “We are so proud to provide a loyalty programme where we can tangibly give back to our devoted customers, allowing them to accumulate points on every product purchase to then spend on fantastic rewards Working hand in hand with the kitchen and bathroom retail community is fundamental to our corporate vision, so to know we already have a large group of retailers benefitting as Accumulate members in just six months is why we will continue to develop and grow our customer rewards scheme ”

n For more information about the scheme, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw040

The phantom menace

Most of us learn, sometimes the hard way, that shortcuts can end in disaster. Here, Angus Crichton, Marketing Manager at ACO House & Garden discusses how taking a shortcut with channel drains will almost always turn out badly.

The basic function of a channel drain is in the name: it channels rainwater runoff from where it is not wanted to where it is. Yet installation shortcuts can result in the rainwater not being directed away from the channel’s location invariably causing problems later on.

Drainage issues

One example of this occurred not long ago to Tony and Tina Joyce, who purchased their 2019 new build in summer 2022 The property included a run of channel drain to protect the garage

threshold But once the rainwater had drained into the channel, there was nowhere else for it to go the channel wasn’t connected to the stormwater drain.

In another instance, I personally witnessed the installation of a run of ACO HexDrain on an Oxford driveway with no endcaps (pictured) Again, the rainwater was left to drain into the surrounding subbase This is otherwise known as phantom drainage when the installation does not remove the rainwater from the channel’s location

The failure of phantoms

Allowing water to escape into the underlying subbase and subgrade will weaken the load the paving can bear over time, leading to slumps and even movement of the paved surface A Surrey-based builder, with 45 years ’ experience in the building trade, told me about an entire paved driveway that slid into the road after heavy rain It had been installed on a slope with phantom drainage

It may all seem like a cost-saving shortcut, but it can have disastrous

consequences for a contractor’s reputation, who will incur considerable expense to correct faulty work Therefore, it is critical that the channel drain is sealed and connected to onward drainage and that is where accessories come in

Essential accessories

ACO channel drains come with a wide range of accessories to ensure runoff is channelled in a responsible, legal and sustainable manner Accessories should not be thought of as optional, as they enable your customers to achieve the following:

l Seal: Clip-on endcaps with additional sealant ensure rainwater stays in the channel These are far more secure and speedy to install than hunting around the site for the right sized piece of slate.

l Corner : Channel drains often need to follow the building or paving footprint which will require corners or T-junctions. ACO supplies corner units for each of its channel systems, with knock-out pieces to connect up to four channel runs

l Clean: A sump unit before or within the

An example of ‘phantom drainage’ in Oxford, where a run of ACO HexDrain has been installed with no endcaps

An effective, correctly installed channel drainage system requires both the channels AND the accessories that ensure the rainwater is disposed of appropriately

DRAINAGE & WATER MANAGEMENT

outlet removes i the pipework or from becoming over the outlet g from debris Acc essential for a ru channel drains to allow regular maintenance.

l Connect: ACO channels come with vertical outlet knockouts, while endcaps can be replaced with horizontal outlets Because of this, the outflow options can be tailored to the most suitable location for the downstream drainage connection Round and square downpipe connectors can be clipped onto the channel just like a grating to take rainwater from roof drainage into the channel

demands -site. For property, if a or renovated e area is more than 5m2 (England and Wales, 0m2 in Scotland), rainwater must be dispersed onsite and not allowed to leave the property Therefore, customers need a channel drainage system ie: not just the channels, but the accessories that ensure the rainwater is disposed of appropriately

Recommending the ACO channel drain system will enable customers to get the job done swiftly and effectively and may even result in additional sales for merchants What’s more, the ACO channel

drain system can form part of a sustainable drainage solution, from roof to ground level, that keeps rain out of the drainage system, helping prevent sewage overf lows into water ways

Phantom drainage is a dangerous shortcut that can be entirely avoided with the right solutions ACO’s portfolio of drainage solutions and accessories provide drainage professionals with ever ything they need to install a complete drainage solution

ACO’s Product Trainer Adam Donnaloia supports merchants in-person or online to learn about ACO’s channels and accessories They can then advise their customers on providing safe and sustainable drainage and help fight phantoms

n Find out more how ACO accessories are essentials via the shortcode www rdr link/maw021

DRAINAGE & WATER MANAGEMENT

Local hero

With stock on the ground, a new fleet of vehicles and help with POS, the Brett Martin team in Scotland is “focused on giving merchants the level of ser vice they need, right on their doorstep ” From its Cumbernauld distribution hub, the manufacturer has outlined its dedication to supporting merchants north of the border by “combining a customer focus with a comprehensive range of Underground, Rainwater and Soil & Waste systems.”

The company has invested in a fleet of new deliver y trucks and offers a deliver y

ser vice of 2–3 working days to main cities, towns and ports. It also offers a direct to site deliver y ser vice when required, whilst call and collect options “ are available for those emergency situations.”

D av id Stur ro ck, Manager of t he faci lit y, s aid: “We’re ext remely proud of t he s er v ice we of fer to our merchant c ustomers We have b e en op erat ing our dep ot in S cot l and for 50 ye ars, s o we underst and t he market and t he cha l lenges our c ustomers face. It’s a l l ab out f irst-cl ass c ustomer s er v ice, f lexibi lit y, on t ime deliver ies and sto ck avai l abi lit y ”

Laying claim to being “perfectly positioned to support the Scottish market,” Brett Martin says it is invested in helping builders’ merchants grow profitable business throughout Scotland. PBM reports.

n Brett Martin’s Daylight Systems division has recently launched a new Roof Lantern which the company says will “enhance the quality of any space” and shares many of the same “highperformance features” as the glass rooflight range for the domestic market

Available in both a 4 pane Contemporary or a 6 pane Classic style, the aluminium lantern has been designed to maximise the light transmission by engineering slim glazing bar profiles, whilst maintaining “excellent physical and energy efficiency performance ”

Featuring laminated inner panes, the solution is designed to provide a level of safety not usually available as standard in this market

Sales Director Tony Isaac said: “We are already a major player in the

domestic market with our Flat Glass rooflights, but we realise our customer base use both Flat Glass and Lantern style rooflights Our new product meets the installer’s need for easy water-tight installation with precision aluminium castings and extrusions enabling rapid on-site glazing

“The installation requires no silicone, other than on the kerb, and the design of the lantern’s components has removed the need to access the frame from below Therefore, assembly can be completed from the roof, which is a definite installer friendly feature ”

A three-to-five-day delivery on the range from the Coventry manufacturing site is offered as standard.

n For more information on Brett Martin’s Daylight Systems solutions, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw022

As with its offering across the UK, this ser vice is geared around helping merchants increase sales and the supplier can support stockists with point of sale display materials including shelf labels, banners, product display boards and product literature to showcase the complete range of Brett Martin plumbing and drainage products

Product portfolio

And as for those products, highlights in the above and below ground drainage portfolio include the innovative Cascade cast iron effect rainwater system and complementar y soil system available in eight heritage colours and StormCrate55, an underground modular cellular crate for managing excessive stormwater

n For more information on Brett Martin’s product range and support ser vices for merchants, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw023

The issue of ‘nutrient neutrality’ has hit the headlines recently, with the Government’s proposals to remove restrictions placed on housebuilders and developers relating to the construction of homes near waterways in protected areas. It is, to say the least, a contentious topic but many within the industry assert that alternative approaches and innovative mitigating measures can deliver “practical solutions” to the problem.

Here, PBM looks at the development of the new Aqua-Puratine range from Marsh Industries.

A pathway to proceed

Billed as a “groundbreaking UK-based solution designed to enhance the quality of effluent from package sewage treatment plants and safeguard the nation's water ways, ” Marsh Industries says it is leading the way in environmental best practice with the launch of the AquaPuratine system The innovative solution, born out of over three years of intensive research and development, is described as representing a significant milestone for the business in terms of addressing “all safety and high-quality process requirements ”

While noting that achieving zero nitrate in effluent remains a challenge, the newly certified Aqua-Puratine:EL sewage treatment plant process is said to boast an impressive capability to remove over 50% of nitrates through

simultaneous nitrification and denitrification

The company contends that this substantial reduction in nitrate levels compared to septic tanks and conventional aerobic package treatment plants will “significantly lighten the environmental burden, reducing the need for offsetting measures. ”

The ambit ious proj e c t has b e en a col l ab orat ive ef for t, engag ing t he exp er t is e of t he Pro cess Eng ine er ing Group (PIA) at Aachen, Profess or Tom Stephens on (Marsh Non-E xe c ut ive Te chnic a l Dire c tor) and Marsh Indust r ies’ ow n R&D and Te chnic a l D ep ar t ment.

The resulting Aqua-Puratine solution integrates two pioneering products AquaPuratine:EL and the Aqua-Puratine-G-APS to provide a “practical and environmentally conscious answer to achieving nutrient neutrality in sensitive areas ” Accordingly, these solutions are billed as offering a safe and sustainable approach to ensure “regulated, monitored and clean discharges for development projects ”

Steve Boyer, Marsh Industries MD, said: “Our robust procedures and controls guarantee safe operation, consistent performance, and efficient problem reporting, all designed to meet the rigorous standards set by the Environment Agency and Natural England

“For developments below 50 population equivalents (PE) that pose minimal environmental impact, we offer a pathway to proceed This initiative benefits the entire UK population, spanning all employment sectors and particularly providing support to small building firms and related industries ”

Indeed, Marsh says it “remains steadfast in its commitment” to delivering wastewater treatment solutions that align with the requirements of Natural England and other regulator y bodies. Accordingly, the company asserts that the Aqua-Puratine solution showcases its “dedication to preser ving the safety and well-being of local habitats, rivers, water ways, humans, and wildlife.”

Stated key benefits:

l Effluent standards: Aqua-Puratine achieves combined effluent standards of TNb 18mg/l and Ptot 0 9mg/l

l Chemical residuals: Discharge contains extremely low or undetectable chemical residuals

l Monitoring and notifications: Advanced monitoring systems provide SMS/3G/4G notifications for power failure, overflow, flooding, compressor failure, and low chemical levels.

l Intelligent dosing: Dosing is intelligently based on influent volumes, preventing overdosing and offering fail-safes for influent pump failure

l Safety measures: Safety locks, secure access panels and chemical storage to ensure safe operation

l High standards: Industrial timers and pumps ensure precise dosing for continuous high-compliance performance

Marsh Indust r ies st ates t hat it has est ablishe d “st r ic t inst a l l at ion, maintenance, and rep or t ing pro ce dures” to ensure t hat its pro duc ts are inst a l le d cor re c t ly, op erate ef f icient ly and are maint aine d according to re quirements a ke y fac tor of its war rant y and pro duc t gu arante e.

DRAINAGE & WATER MANAGEMENT

Summary

n The Aqua-Puratine range benefits small developments and alleviates the burden on planning officers, creating a level playing field where all areas adhere to the same standard of safe, monitored, and sustainable off-mains wastewater treatment This initiative addresses concerns raised by Natural England and the Environment Agency and encourages the upgrading of outdated septic tanks that do not meet

General Binding Rules:

Consultation: Builders and developers are encouraged to consult with Natural England and/or the Regulator for potential reductions in offsetting requirements

Environmental protection: AquaPuratine reduces phosphate and ammonia discharge, safeguarding rivers, waterways, and wildlife

Eutrophication reduction: The system effectively reduces COD and BOD levels, preventing eutrophication in rivers and lakes

Certification: Aqua-Puratine systems are tested and certified by PIA (Prüfinstitut für Abwassertechnik)

Adaptability: The G-APS can enhance effluent discharge quality for any sewage treatment plant

Monitoring and alerts: The G-APS control panel monitors and alarms influent flow, applying chemicals as needed, with homeowner and Marsh alerts.

Energy efficiency: The G-APS consumes just 1 kWh/day of electricity

Proven performance: The G-APS intelligent dosing system underwent rigorous testing at PIA in Germany

Compliance: Marsh Sewage treatment plants adhere to the UK Forward for BSEN12566-3

For effluent testing, Marsh has partnered with ALS Laboratories a nationally recognised institution to provide certified sampling and reporting To ensure correct sizing of the Aqua-Puratine-G-APS unit, Marsh requires the measured discharge in litres per day

In summar y, Marsh Indust r ies s ays t hat t he Aqu a-Purat ine range repres ents a s afe, prac t ic a l s olut ion t hat address es t he concer ns of Natura l Eng l and, t he Env ironment Agenc y and sma l ler de velopments, of fer ing a unif ie d st and ard for of f-mains waste water t re at ment The f ir m manufac tures t he range exclusively in t he UK, f rom its pl ants in S omers et and Nor t hamptonshire

n For more information on the AquaPuratine range from Marsh Industries, use the shortcode www rdr link/maw024

DRAINAGE & WATER MANAGEMENT

DEKS INDUSTRIES DEK-ROK RANGE

The company has built upon its growing range of drainage solutions (in addition to its sizeable roofing products portfolio) with the introduction of a new “rock solid” hard-landscaping and gravel stabilisation offering Grass or stone-filled, DEK-Rok is described as great looking and providing the “ultimate ground protection for all applications” with peace of mind for access roads, car parking, driveways and pathways

PL interlocking technology ensures users will get “ultimate resistance to separation under dynamic loads” with the DEK-Rok Heavy Grid ensuring a super loading capacity of 910 tonnes m2 Made from recycled material and available in two colour options black and green to best suit the application, the panels are also said to benefit from easy installation

DEK-Rok Gravel Stabilisation Grid

Creating a pathway or drive with gravel that migrates everywhere, either into the earth or side spillage, can be a major issue and create an unsightly finish that will constantly cause maintenance issues Accordingly, DEKRok Gravel Grid with its bonded Geotextile bottom layer is designed to stop migration, prevent weeds and above all keep the gravel where it is intended to stay

With one simple product purchase, the large sheet solution measures 1123 x 795 x 30mm, is fast laying, interlocking and provides great aesthetics with a near invisible finish with stones n

KAYFLOW 320MM RISER INSPECTION CHAMBER

Further expanding its drainage offer, Kayflow has added a new 320mm riser inspection chamber to its underground range Developed in response to customer feedback and improving on the previous design to bring the model in line with the quality of the larger 450mm riser, it is described as much more rigid and robust with larger reinforcing ribs which aside from providing additional strength allow for a more secure installation

The new design also incorporates a rubber seal, which, as with the 450mm chamber, should always be installed to ensure peak performance

POLYPIPE BUILDING SERVICES ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCT DECLARATIONS

Promoting product transparency, Polypipe Building Services has now released environmental product declarations (EPDs) for its suite of MecFlow, Terrain Q Terrain FUZE and Terrain PVC pipes and fittings sold in the UK Based on third partyverified life cycle assessments (LCAs) and increasingly being requested by customers, EPDs provide details of the environmental impact of a product across its entire life and allow them to select the best products for their projects that also have the lowest carbon footprints

Although currently manufacturers are not obliged to provide EPDs, Polypipe Building Services has taken the step to supply them as standard for all its products as part of its commitment to construction best practice.

ADS STORMTECH THIRD PARTY VERIFICATION

Advanced Drainage Systems (ADS) says its StormTech stormwater management system has become the first combined SuDS attenuation and water quality management system to obtain third party verification of mitigation indices (MIs) for treatment of stormwater runoff.

The manufacturer says this means StormTech can satisfy the water quality requirements on appropriate projects without the need for additional treatment equipment, thereby resulting in significant savings on capital and operational costs

The use of mitigation indices for stormwater treatment are detailed in The SuDS Manual from the Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA) and calculated in accordance with the British Water ‘how to’ guide

Team building

The Scunthorpe-based company has introduced its new MSM tier of support, with newly created roles that will see a team of six managers covering the UK in strikingly visible livered vehicles with the aim of “calling on more merchants, more often.”

As part of their role, the MSMs will ensure that all the point of sale for each merchant’s display of Talasay product ranges including Natural Paving, Vitripiazza, Piranha, Pavetuf and Luxigraze are “ up to date and in tip-top condition” to afford each branch the best opportunity to showcase the supplier’s products to their trade customers, landscapers, contractors and members of the public

Furthermore, each MSM will be on hand to deliver any localised basic product training that a merchant may feel their team needs If a greater level of training is required, then the

MSM can signpost courses taking place at the company ’ s Talasey Training Academy (TTA)

In addition, if merchants would like support in engaging their customer base, the supplier says the MSMs can also attend merchant-own trade days, or arrange for the Talasey on Tour Van and team to take the lead at an event

Technical and Training Manager Lavinia Dowson explained that Talasey has seen an opportunity to get closer to its customers and enhance its existing support She said: “We already have a team of Area Sales Managers who are ver y proactive visiting our merchants and being their first point of contact but as our business continues to grow, we have spotted a gap to introduce an additional layer of support

“ The closer we get to our merchants, and the more support we can provide to them to

assist in their own sales, the better the winwin, as both businesses will benefit from increased sales ”

Lavinia added: “Because of their visibility, MSMs will become a key contact for merchants alongside our team of Areas Sales Managers. And of course, our head office support teams are also on hand to offer different areas of expertise and merchant support too.”

The new level of support follows on from a trio of recent appointments to its senior management Sam Hanks, a well-known figure in the industr y, joined in the newly created role of Director of Strateg y & Proposition whilst Rebecca Hughes who like Sam was named in the BMF top 100 has re-joined the company as Marketing Director Additionally, Peter O’ L oughlin, who joined as National Sales Manager, brings more than a decade of experience in sales of landscaping and building products

Reflecting on all the latest developments, Lavinia asserts that the company keeps going from strength to strength: “ Talasey is an exciting place to be right now We have a growing team at different levels within the business that are all focused on a common goal of supporting our merchant customers so they can increase sales of Talasey products ”

n For more information on Talasey’s marketing support for merchants, use the shortcode www rdr link/maw030

Talasey has unveiled a newly created team of Merchant Support Managers (MSMs) as part of a plan to increase the levels of support the company offers to its merchant customers.

Talasey’s new team of Merchant Support Managers: (L- R) Sarah Wright, Matthew Armstrong, Dane Treadwell, Nihad Roshdi and Stephen Molloy James Newby, the newest recruit to the team is not pictured

BAXI CASHBACK SCHEME

baxi has launched its latest and highest ever cashback scheme, which could see installers who are members of its baxi Works loyalty scheme earn up to £900 running until January 2024, members of the scheme who install and register any of the new baxi 600 and baxi 800 ranges are eligible for the cashback offer

For every three boilers installed and registered through baxi Works, installers will receive £300, capped at £900 total

TALON NEW BROCHURE

Showcasing its extensive range of pipe clips, collars and covers, the latest brochure from talon also highlights the additions to its portfolio as a result of the company ’ s recent acquisition of PipeSnug Now known as ‘PipeSnug by talon’, a four-page section describes how the range meets the new Part L requirements which mandate that pipe seals and grommets are used on pipe penetrations in all new builds the brochure also includes new Snappit blister Pack images and codes, new display boards and codes, updated eZ clip cDU and codes, plus a comprehensive PoS summary at the back with codes and added images to provide a complete and user-friendly experience Use the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw031 to download a copy.

RWC IMPROVED PACKAGING

Making product identification easier whilst providing a more environmentally friendly alternative, reliance Worldwide corporation has officially launched new and improved packaging across its JG Speedfit and John Guest range

As part of an ongoing initiative across the business to reduce its carbon footprint, the new product bags are fully recyclable with a minimum of 30% post-consumer or post recyclate the newly designed packaging also includes bold brand colours, a viewing window for easy product identification, a clearer product description and guarantee statement, as well as a yellow roundel indicating the product size

INSINKERATOR NEW POS

BSW GROUP NEW WEBSITES

With forestry and timber businesses increasingly reliant on digital assets and making services accessible to a wider audience, the bSW Group says it is driving further innovation with the launch of revamped websites for its bSW timber, bayram timber, Iro timber and Wood Fuel Direct businesses

Group Marketing Manager James brennan said: “We’ve only just introduced the bSW Group brand, but the next step was to rebrand and reinvigorate each of the subsidiaries too Although each subsidiary has a distinct product and service offering, and different audiences, we wanted to ensure that they are all seen in the best light, and as members of a wider forestry group these new websites nod to the fact the businesses are connected, but without taking away any of their identities individually, which is important ”

Helping its trade partners to highlight the numerous benefits of owning a food waste disposer, InSinkerator has created a raft of new point of sale (PoS) material including sink stickers and A4 counter cards in addition to tap hangers to showcase its acclaimed WrAS approved 4N1 touch tap

Anne Kaarlela, Marketing communications and customer Service Manager, said:

“We hope our attractive new sink decals alert consumers to the product and encourages conversations with retailers on the alternative food waste solution available our trade partners can order the brand-new PoS via their account manager, or on our dedicated retailer portal, as well as obtain digital copies of our brochure too ”

For more examples of supplier support for merchants on the PBM website, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw032

STABILA ELECTRONIC SPIRIT LEVELS

Stabila has launched two new electronic spirit levels the TECH 196 DL and the TECH 196M DL in addition to a new range of POS support for stockists

Described as being “highly efficient, extremely precise, easy to handle and robust,” the new generation of electronic spirit levels is said to be fit for all the challenges faced every day on building sites and can “easily withstand” contact with water, dirt and vibrations

Both models have two digital displays that can be “read off perfectly in any situation, promptly showing the measurements of inclinations, slopes and angles,” whilst the company says that numerous improvements on the previous generation mean that it can complete common measurements particularly quickly and efficiently.

Designed for a wide range of measurement tasks, the TECH 196 DL model, for instance, is suitable for taking exact measurements in carpentry, joinery, kitchen installation, stair installation and civil engineering In gardening and landscaping, it is “the perfect aid” when laying a garden path with slopes

The TECH 196M DL, meanwhile, has an extra strong rare-earth magnet, making it especially suitable for metal construction, metalwork and concrete formwork The user thus always has free hands to align and adjust the relevant parts, pillars and supports.

Available in different lengths, the levels are protected to IP 67 against dust and water so well that they can even be temporarily submerged for up to 30 minutes at a depth of one metre To make it as easy as possible for the professional, they are also ‘CAL-FREE’ which means it is not necessary to calibrate the electronics during everyday use even if the product is dropped or subjected to temperature fluctuations

ULTRATAPE SENSITIVE MASKING TAPE

lacquered or sensitive surfaces

lacquered or sensitive surfaces

• Very low tack and clean removal

• Very low tack and clean removal

• Ensures sharp edges and a professional finish

• Ensures sharp edges and a professional finish

• Available in 24/36/48mm x 25m

•

Given the many problems confronting the construction sector in recent years including supply chain delays and rising production costs some manufacturers have turned to practices such as shrinkflation and skimpflation, compromising the value of products delivered to the merchant Whist this may offer some short-term advantages, the longer-term implications can be especially damaging

Accordingly, as a trusted supply partner within the merchanting and construction industry, Ultratape has taken a different approach The company asserts that consumers and customers still want premium quality products at an affordable price and this ethos underpins the launch of its new Sensitive Masking Tape product

To present a more practical solution and to avoid waste, the company has reduced the length of the roll and priced accordingly

The newly launched Sensitive Masking Tape is designed to protect wallpapers, painted, lacquered or sensitive surfaces It offers low tack and clean removal to ensure sharp edges and a professional finish, and comes in a selection of different sizes in 24/36/48mm x 25 metre length rolls

SAMAC FIXINGS ROOFTEC COLOURED SLATE HOOKS

Through its Rooftec brand, the new Coloured Slate Hooks from Samac are manufactured from 316 marine grade stainless steel and said to offer exceptional performance and durability whilst also transforming the visual appeal of roofing installations where high-quality finishes are required

While traditional black slate hooks can stand out against different coloured slate tiles, the Coloured Slate Hooks are inconspicuous and designed to seamlessly blend into the overall look of the slate roof By eliminating the traditional metallic hook appearance, these spikeended slate hooks provide an unobtrusive fixing solution, allowing the beauty of the roofing material to take centre stage.

n Use the shortcode www.rdr.link/maw033 for more information, including new product videos.

WORCESTER BOSCH GREENSTAR 1000

Billed as the leading manufacturer’s “first ever budget boiler”, the Greenstar 1000 is said to come equipped with the quality of the other Greenstar boilers in its portfolio with the key difference being the price point

Featuring a five-year guarantee, the one-box design providing front panel access to all key components, including the primary heat exchanger, for easy installation and servicing and compact size is suitable for kitchen cupboard installations where space is at a premium. It is constructed to weigh just 26kg making transport, mounting and installations convenient and manageable for one person

CARHARTT WORK-TO-HOME JOGGERS

Carhartt has added a pair of new additions to its line-up the men’s Relaxed Fit Midweight Tapered Graphic Sweatpants (105899) and the women’s Relaxed Fit Fleece Jogger (105510)

Designed to “seamlessly transition from on-site to at-home,” these sweatpants and joggers are said to redefine comfort, style and durability anytime, anywhere

CROWN TRADE ULTRA LOW SHEEN EMULSION

Said to be the perfect product for ceilings and touching up interior walls, Crown Trade has strengthened its portfolio of professional emulsions with the launch of Crown Trade Extramatt The brand-new paint offers an extremely low reflective finish which alleviates visual imperfections and eliminates flashing

T h e w a t e r - b a s e d e m u l s i o n i s t h e b r a n d ’s l o w e s t s h e e n p a i n t , o f f e r i n g a h i g h o p a c i t y t h a t a l l o w s p r o f e s s i o n a l s t o g e t a p e r f e c t f i n i s h e v e r y t i m e, w i t h j u s t a c o u p l e o f c o a t s E q u i p p e d w i t h t h e p a i n t m a n u f a c t u r e r ’s b r e a t h e a s y, 9 9 % s o l v e n t f r e e t e c h n o l o g y, C r o w n Tr a d e E x t r a m a t t i s a v a i l a b l e i n w h i t e a n d i s s a i d t o b e e a s y t o a p p l y w i t h b r u s h , r o l l e r o r s p r a y. I t i s r e c o a t a b l e i n j u s t f o u r h o u r s a l l o w i n g f o r a c e i l i n g t o b e c o m p l e t e d i n l e s s t h a n a d a y.

SNICKERS WORKWEAR HYBRID JACKET

The new Hybrid multi-purpose work jacket is described as a street-smart, highly versatile garment Equally at home on site or as leisurewear, it is made of flexible, wicking jersey fabric with Repreve fabric insulation in the shoulder and upper body area.

Both the men’s sweatpants and women’s joggers come with two front pockets with zipper closures along with a zippered back pocket on the wearer's right side, meaning there is ample space to keep all essentials safe and easily accessible.

ALLUR BALUSTRADE KITS

Extending its product offering, the composite decking brand has added a new portfolio of balustrade kits to its stylish, high-performance, and environmentally friendly range The new kits, which have been carefully designed to match Allur’s decking boards, are currently available in two of the range’s most popular colours

Gunmetal (pictured) and Caramel

The kits comprise dual posts, paired handrail and bottom railings, a set of twelve spindles, along with all the essential fixtures and fittings. Helping to define spaces and enhance the safety of elevated decked areas, the user-friendly design is said to ensure easy installation whilst also offering resistance to moisture, mildew and warping for lasting appeal throughout the year

The jacket is said to provide great freedom of movement and elasticated comfort for all types of work, in addition to warmth or ventilation when the user needs it

Ltd t/a Made For Trade

S E T T I N G T H E PA C E

With the Premier League on pause during the first international break at the time of writing, it is a good time to reflect on what has seemed to be a fairly open and exciting start to the new campaign After four games, the goals have certainly been flying in and the current FPL frontrunners include a number of names that flew well under the radar when we were picking our team selections So much so, in fact, that many are already considering playing an early Wild Card chip and plenty of managers have already taken the leap!

Granted, E rl ing H a al an d is already two clear at the top of the goalscoring charts but were we really expecting Brighton’s Eva n Fe rguson, Brentford’s B rya n M b e uno and Forest’s Ta iw o Aw oni yi to be leading the chasing pack? After a pretty poor domestic campaign last year, West Ham have made a great start, with Ja r rod Bow e n heavily involved and new signing J ame s Wa rdP row se excelling in support

Aston Villa newbie M ous sa D ia b y is also high up the FPL points standings and has caught the eye so far, whilst if you’re happy to take on the additional challenge of Pep Roulette, both Rod r igo and Jul ia n A lv a re z are racking up the points to enable an affordable Man City attacking force

At both ends of the pitch, Tottenham have charged into the

F LY T H E F L A G

An early-season 0-0 draw hardly seems likely to have hit the headlines but the August 19th fixture between Portsmouth and Cheltenham Town at Fratton Park served up the distinctly unusual spectacle of a supporter being called upon to run the line Injuries to TWO assistant referees led to an appeal for qualified officials at Fratton Park and Pompey supporter and local league referee Julian Browning duly stepped forward, following the approval of Robins boss Wade Elliot.

With no contentious decisions to report, Julian saved the game from being called off and did well enough for Wade to tell BBC Radio Gloucestershire: “He was probably the best official we’ve had this year I did worry when he walked (on) and gave the messiah salute to the North Stand, but it’s one of those things the players dealt with it really well It would have been easy to have lost focus ”

post-Harry Kane era under their attack-minded new boss Ange Postecoglu Jame s Ma d d ison has made a real impact, but it seems to be written in the stars that bargain full-back marauder D es ti ny Ud ogie will be making an appearance in my team soon

In fact, on current form, there are plenty of bargains to be had in all positions but watch out for those price fluctuations

Of course, especially for those of a certain vintage, the pinnacle of the genre took place at Highbury back in 1972 Linesman Dennis Drewitt pulled a muscle and Arsenal’s fixture against Liverpool was in danger of being abandoned A call was put out over the tannoy, and the legendary J i m m y H i l l who just happened to be a spectator on the day arrived pitchside to save the day.

The iconic image of Hill in an ill-fitting sky-blue tracksuit (and a pair of boots two sizes too small…) only added to an incredible legacy Amongst his many achievements in the game, Hill was instrumental in helping to abolish the players’ maximum wage, he commissioned the first English all-seater stadium at Coventry’s Highfield Road, helped introduce the three points for a win system and was even credited with the idea of using a panel of football pundits (for the 1970 World Cup) to analyse the games on TV

With Paul Davies