Store Profile

“This enables us to have the correct products to suit our customers when they need them, backed by good technical support.”

Brooks teams with leading brands such as GP Wood, Balcas Timber, Norbord, Irish Cement, Gyproc, Wavin, EJ, Ideal Heating, Sonas, Bostik, Sika, Rockwool, Isover and more. Because suppliers regularly conduct staff training, the team is up to date on the latest product developments and can provide the best solutions and advice.

Innovation and Outlook

Efficiency and sustainability criteria have been spurring innovation, primarily in the areas of product development, renewable energy equipment, climate control and digital heating controls.

In addition, Brooks has expanded their drainage and civils line-up. While in the sheet materials category, the range of technical plywoods is bigger than ever.

In the last year, the building product range was extended to include Ibstock bricks, Keystone masonry support systems, Aco drainage systems and an extensive insulation offering. Later this year will come new product developments in shuttering.

Brendan sees the major “emerging trends to keep an eye on will be in energy conservation, as green policy throughout Europe grows demand at consumer and trade level.”

“Products aimed at carbon reduction, such as heat pumps, will gain an increased market share. Acoustic insulation products will also gain in popularity as consumers look to improve the acoustic performance of older dwellings.”

“The performance of the economy will influence demand in our sector, but I am optimistic for the next few years, as Ireland has a growing population and strong employment.”

Green Timber

Brooks consider timber one of Earth’s most critical renewable resources. As their specialist area, sustainability is core to the business.

The company is committed to supporting the responsible management of the world’s forests by promoting the trade in timber and timber products from trusted sources.

In 2015, Brooks achieved the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) Chain-of-Custody certification. This process assures customers that the FSC certified products they purchase are coming from well-managed forests, and that every step in the chain has been certified to ensure they are made responsibly. And that workers’ rights under the ILO Conventions and Health & Safety regulations are respected.

Brooks also stocks PEFC Certified (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification schemes) products sourced from sustainable forests.

“We are fully audited twice yearly to maintain compliance with both schemes. This gives customers confidence.”

But most importantly, helps the growing number of customers, mainly from the trade and government agencies, who must specify certified timber products to help meet the European Timber Regulation and fulfil the Green Building Initiative.

Asset Management

“Our people are critical to our success and what sets Brooks apart when it comes to expertise and service,” Brendan says. “So, we look after them well and promote career progression.”

In addition to regular training on product knowledge and customer skills, Brooks introduced a Management Development Programme in 2022 to offer career development opportunities and support future expansion plans. Incentive schemes motivate growth and business improvement.

“We are very fortunate to have low staff turnover. Many of our team have long service, a vital factor in customer relations.”

“For us, the main barrier to growth is the ability of our sector to continue to attract new people. It’s important to present what we do as a rewarding career choice.”

As Bluebell Branch Manager leading a very strong team, Brendan`s role is to ensure the branch meets its objectives. This is achieved through leadership, communication and by encouraging solid team spirit, demonstrated through excellent customer relationships and care.

“Bluebell is a great place to work, where a ‘can do’ attitude is encouraged. It’s a good place to develop a career in builders merchanting.”

Linked-up

Brooks are members of Hardware Association Ireland (HAI), “who are extremely helpful with training programmes and for advice on regulations or best practice.”

“We also find HAI a valuable and authoritative resource for information on trends affecting our industry.”

The company are supporters of and participants in the Octobuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards, “a great way to encourage innovation and development in the merchant sector.”

In 2022, Brooks garnered several nominations, with the Galway branch receiving the Excellence in Sustainable Business Award.

“Participation helps us raise our standards, promotes our profile as an innovative employer and helps attract suitable employment candidates,” states Brendan.

Local Ties

Each Brooks branch is encouraged to support events or sports in their area. Bluebell is spoiled for choice.

“In the last year we were proud sponsors of the Ballinteer Men’s Shed, The Robbie Keane Academy Cup and the Castleknock Hurling and Football Club.”

At group level, Brooks chose Focus Ireland as its charity partner because homelessness is a nationwide issue.

“We’ve supported their ‘Shine a Light’ campaign for the last five years, helping raise funds to support the most vulnerable people in our communities.”

Usp

Brooks’ standout qualities? “Delivering what we promise, always understand that your customer has a choice and continue to be important to your customer.”

Top Tips Listen to your customer