The Hardware Journal September/October 2024 by The Hardware Journal

MANAGING BUSINESS COSTS

Just leap with our

JOY TM Colour of the Year 2025

Dive into the positive power of yellow

Message from the CEO

Budget 2025 was a mixed bag for the sector. On the positive side there are several policies that will continue to stimulate demand, however, there is very little to curb the spiraling costs of doing business. And many of these costs are Government imposed.

Overall, the investment of €6 billion in housing is very positive. €186 million of this will go to the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF). Rejuvenating empty homes is an important strand in our overall strategy that HAI has presented to Government to help solve the housing crisis. Over the past four years we have campaigned to put incentives in place to bring empty homes back to life. It is great to see some of our recommendations taken on board. The increase in funding to Croí Cónaithe is positive, as is the increase in the Vacant Homes Tax. Similarly, the lowering of VAT on some renewable products, and the extension of the Help to Buy Scheme, are welcomed. HAI members have been sent the current outline of what the budget means to the sector – it is also available to view on our website (www.hardwareassociation.ie). The granular details of this are currently being worked out by staff at the Department of Housing and we are urgently seeking meetings with senior ofﬁcials in key departments to ﬁnd out exactly how this will be spent. When these details are clearer, we will update members via our website and social media.

On the increasing costs to business, there is very little comfort. A notable exception to this is the decision not to go ahead with a new Capital Gains Tax proposal on generational transfer for family businesses. Had it gone ahead it would have threatened the longterm survival of many in the sector. A special word of thanks to Mike Glennon, Glennon Brothers, who was pivotal in highlighting the issue and spearheading the opposition to it.

In the last few weeks HAI has released two major reports – The 2024 Wage Rate Survey (Page 9) and The Business Index for the first six months of the year (page 10). When the key findings of each are taken into account it makes for sobering reading. Growth in wages has outpaced the growth in the value of the market since 2021. This year the gap has widened further – with wages up 7% in a flat market. Even allowing for sample differences the direction is clear. When combined with other rising business costs, most of which are government-imposed, and the challenges in attracting and retaining staff, it leads to an industry that is under severe pressure. This situation is not tenable, certainly not in the longer term.

Over the last few months HAI, along with other trade associations, have been making this point to Government that the costs of doing business are too high. As a sector we made a considerable contribution to the budget surplus. Also, as a sector we occupy a unique position in that we underpin construction, in particular the politically sensitive area of housing. Simply put if our costs continue to spiral this will be reﬂected in the price of materials - in a market where prices are already much too high.

With an election on the horizon, we all need to be making these points to the political parties. While the ﬁner details of this budget have yet to be worked out, no one has described it as business friendly.

In this issue a recent report from Chadwicks (page 20) indicates a willingness of school leavers, and their parents, to consider a career in construction. HAI are currently attending career fairs around the country and again at these events the attitude towards a career in the sector is very positive.

Gina Schaefer (page 68) looks at what is best to measure and what to incentivise in a hardware business.

And, in a very thought-provoking article, Steve Collinge (page 70) has had something of a change of heart on the role of eCommerce underscoring the adage of “when the facts change, I change my mind.”

SEAI gave a very insightful presentation to our working group on Warmer Homes recently. According to their research 30% of heat is lost through the attic and only about 50% of Irish homes have any attic insulation.

As the nights draw in, the season for insulation is upon us and promotion of warmer home products in your stores is vital.

Martin Markey Chief Executive Ofﬁcer - HAI

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

Fleetwood Paints unveils bold new look for primer range.

Record volume of Electrical goods recycled in 2023.

Intact take a fresh look at your business software.

Published by: Hardware Association Ireland

Editor: Jim Copeland, editor@hardwareassociation.ie

Editorial/Feature Contributor: Aoife Kinsella O’Reilly, Aoife@hardwareassociation.ie

Advertising Manager: Jim Copeland, jim@hardwareassociation.ie

Design and Production: Stephen Broad, ConceptRoom, stephen@conceptroom.co.uk

Printers: GPS Colour Graphics Ltd, Belfast.

Distribution: MMS Mailing Services, Dublin.

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES:

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

Combilift secures double win at UK Engineering & Manufacturing Awards 2024.

MOL Tools & Abrasives recognised at the 2024 Irish eCommerce Awards.

Premio launches innovative online catalogue builder to empower wholesalers.

Ireland’s SMEs facing digital readiness challenge.

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

BUSINESS INDEX Business Index Q2 2024 results.

Building Materials & Supplies

50 DULUX

Dulux continue with their vision of driving environmental excellence through innovative solutions.

52 PIPELIFE

Building Materials & Supplies

Pipelife’s modernisation plan shows commitment to Irish market.

54 MULTI STIK

The one stick solution, designed to bond virtually anything to everything.

55 PVC FABRICATIONS

PVC Fabrications introduce their Corrugated Cable Protection Pipe System.

56 WAVIN

Wavin are set to launch their Ductile Iron B125 range.

58 GALCO

Galco are tackling heavy-duty drainage challenges with Monotec Ultra F900.

59 COMBILIFT

Combilift offers an all-in-one product range.

60 GRANT

Grant are decarbonising homes with the Grant Vortex HVO biofuel boiler & Grant Spira Pell.

features

66 TIMBER IN THE USA: Mike McDole from the Lumber & Building Materials Industry in the US, provides a focus on independent lumberyards being a key player in the industry in the US.

68 LOCAL RETAILING IN THE USA: Gina Schaefer talks about how a strong and successful bonus plan should align company leaders towards the same common goals.

70 STEVE COLLINGE: Steve poses the question; Is the Epocalypse coming for online-only brands?

46 profles

46 STORE PROFILE: TOPLINE MURTAGHS

Topline Murtaghs in Ashbourne introduce their new store look.

business support

62 PRAGMATICA Brianna Larsen, Pragmatica`s Sustainability Executive, introduces Sustainability as a business unit.

63 FEXCO John Barry, Fexco`s Payments and FX Consultant, explains how supplier payments to China can be made with less friction and less cost.

64 BRINK’S Ciara Burke, Head of Sales and Client Services at Brink’s, helps you optimise your cash management.

65 LeanBPI John O’Shanahan, Managing Director of Lean BPI, talks about Digitalisation in small business being a practical approach.

WORKWEAR

This issue features market leading manufacturers & suppliers introducing Workwear developed with Irish workers speciﬁcally in mind. These products are designed with the same craftsmanship and attention to detail as the tools being used, allowing the perfect workwear for the less than perfect day.

DOORS & WOOD FLOORS

The latest industry and product developments in the sector, including designs offering a touch of luxury to your customer’s home. High performance underlays for wood and laminate ﬂooring beneﬁts are also explained with the importance of training programmes being emphasised. Door furniture, cutting edge styles and designs are also featured.

DULUX COLOUR OF THE YEAR 2025 - TRUE JOY

Dulux’s expert trend forecasters have selected True Joy™ as the Dulux Colour of the Year of 2025 – an energising and motivating yellow that encourages us to embrace change and simply “take a leap.”

Since the launch of the ﬁrst Dulux Colour of the Year in 2004, the Dulux trend forecasting programme, ColourFutures™, has seen leading designers, architects, editors and thought leaders from around the world come together with the paint brand, to identify a colour that captures the mood of the moment. These conversations explore the way we will be living in the future, what we will want and need from our living spaces, and universal thoughts and experiences. This year’s conversations revealed a universal belief that there is more to life

elsewhere – this year’s Colour of the Year, True Joy™, empowers us to instead create the change we want to see.

The Colour Moment 2025 has also been launched alongside three colour stories, providing clear insight and inspiration into how True Joy™ can be used in combination with other hues in the home. These palettes are just another way that Dulux hopes to encourage all to have the conﬁdence to take a leap out of traditional colour comfort zones. True Joy is available through colour mixing in all stores.

Dulux Colour of the Year 2025 - True Joy - bedroom inspiration.

Dulux Colour of the Year 2025 - True Joy - living room inspiration.

HAI IN CORK

Continuing Hardware Association Ireland’s (HAI) aim to visit members around the country, on 12th September the Board of HAI and local merchant members were hosted by Pipelife in Cork with thanks to Timmy Mullins, Marketing Manager. The day began with a very interesting market presentation by Ger Healy, Managing Director at Pipelife UK/Ireland who outlined Pipelife’s history and their plans for the future. There was also a very informative tour of the facility by Conor Manning, Operations Director, and Pipelife then provided a networking lunch. Later in the evening HAI Board members and staff were joined by regional members for dinner and more catch-up conversations and networking.

At the evening session there were also two thought-provoking presentations by Tommy Smyth, TSA Associates on recent and upcoming HR legislation and from David Lombard, O’Leary Insurances Ltd., on how best to achieve the correct insurance premium and how to fully optimise your broker.

HAI’S WAGE RATE SURVEY REVEALS AN INDUSTRY UNDER PRESSURE

Hardware Association Ireland’s (HAI) recently published Wage Rate Survey for hardware retailers and builders’ merchants reveals signiﬁcant pressure from rising wage costs, shortages in staff, challenges in recruiting and overall operational expenses.

It highlights the growing challenges our sector is facing as we navigate an increasingly competitive labour market and rising costs across the board.

Key insights are:

• 85% of retailers and builders merchants claim that the National Minimum Wage has had a major negative impact on their businesses. The knock-on effects of salary expectations are having a massive impact on costs

• 82% have increased their wages this year (up from 68% in 2023)

• Wages have risen 17% since 2021!

• 80% claim major constraints to hiring, with 75% citing a shortage of suitable candidates as a major constraint.

Hardware Association Ireland say that we need measures that address these wage pressures and help ensure the long-term viability of hardware retailers and builders’ merchants, as we underpin the critical infrastructure of construction and housing.

HAI looks forward to working with Government in the coming weeks and continuing to advocate for stronger support and solutions.

For access to the full report, please contact aoife@hardwareassociation.ie

What impact has the increase in the National Minimum Wage (from 1st January 2024) had on your business?

Market Intelligence

BUSINESS INDEX Q2 2024 RESULTS

Business Index Qtr 2 2024 Year-on-Year

Comparisons

HAI CERTIFICATE RETURNS FOR ANOTHER YEAR IN PARTNERSHIP WITH OCTABUILD

September marked the return of the highly anticipated Certiﬁcate in Hardware Retail & Merchanting, Hardware Association Ireland’s (HAI) dynamic nine-month mentor-driven programme designed to help new or developing employees propel their career in the hardware industry to new heights.

Modules underway

The 2024/2025 programme launched in style with Noel Davidson’s session on Communication Skills. This engaging session was packed with interactive discussions and hands-on exercises, designed to break the ice and also to empower participants to reﬁne their communication skills. From day one, the students took a deep dive into their personal development, connecting with peers, and discovering their unique communication styles.

The second module of the programme – Selling Skills – was delivered by Terry Harmer, a well-known trainer within the sector. The session was a highly interactive one, with Terry testing the students on their selling skills via role-play exercises, group exercises and discussions to take them out of their comfort zone and bring their selling skills to another level.

All modules in the HAI Certiﬁcate cover key facets of working in a retail/builders merchanting environment:

HAI Certiﬁcate welcomes back Octabuild as sponsor HAI are also excited to continue its partnership with Octabuild and its esteemed members: Dulux Paints, Etex Ireland, Glennon Brothers, Grant Engineering, Gyproc, Irish Cement, Kingspan Insulation, and Wavin Ireland. Together, HAI and Octabuild are gearing up for an incredible year ahead, featuring Octabuild’s specialised Product Knowledge modules and exclusive site visits to Octabuild member locations across the country, where students can get more in-depth information on their products and the industry.

Speaking about their involvement in the Certificate this year Declan Conlon, Octabuild Chairman said: “Octabuild is proud to continue its sponsorship of the 2024/25 HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail & Merchanting, a programme that plays an important role in fostering talent and driving excellence in the hardware and merchanting sector. We believe continued learning and development is more important than ever, and through our product knowledge modules, participants gain first hand a deeper understanding of the products and practices that drive our industry”.

“By supporting this HAI initiative, together we are investing in the future of our industry, ensuring that the next generation of professionals is well-equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed.”

Octabuild members are delivering the following modules over the coming months:

– Heating & Plumbing Products - Grant Engineering

– Roof and Timber Products - Etex and Glennon Brothers

– Cement and Plasterboard Products - Irish Cement and Gyproc

– Insulation Products - Kingspan Insulation

– Paint & Décor - Dulux Paints

Last chance to enroll!

This is your final opportunity to secure a spot in the HAI Certificate! If you have team members who are new to the hardware retail or builders merchanting sector, or if someone on your team is eager to elevate their skill set with structured, comprehensive training, then act fast - scan the QR code to enroll in the HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting today!

Have any queries? Contact aoife@hardwaressociation.ie

UNITED HARDWARE NAMED ONE OF IRELAND’S BEST MANAGED COMPANIES

United Hardware has been named as one of Ireland’s best managed companies for the ﬁrst time, at the 2024 Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards.

The award recognises United Hardware’s commitment to superior business performance and excellence in leadership and was bestowed during a gala dinner event in Dublin, alongside other ‘best managed’ businesses.

The award follows United Hardware’s successful merger completion last year, transitioning from a joint venture partnership to a single trading entity which signiﬁcantly enhanced business efﬁciencies while opening up major opportunities to develop and amplify its national retail brand, Homevalue, along with accelerating other strategic initiatives across the Group. As an indigenous, locally owned business accredited by Guaranteed Irish, United Hardware operates the Homevalue retail brand for its members, who together own more than 160 stores throughout Ireland and employ around 2,000 people. United Hardware serves a diverse range of trade and DIY customers in Irish communities. Being selected as a Best Managed Business will further bolster United Hardware’s positioning as the market leader and validates its efforts to enhance member performance through best-in-class sourcing, buying, sales, distribution and other value-added support services.

Noting the signiﬁcance of winning the award for the ﬁrst time, Paul Candon, CEO of United Hardware, said: “Being

named a Deloitte Best Managed Company for the ﬁrst time is a huge achievement for our company and a testament to the incredible dedication shown by our entire team and work over the last number of years to complete our merger, and become a true co-operative. Their resilience, hard work and commitment have enabled us to thrive in a competitive landscape, and we are truly honoured to receive this prestigious recognition on their behalf. United Hardware is now a uniﬁed business, enabled by an empowered team and a collaborative culture and we’re proud that this work has been recognised as part of the Best Managed Business Awards, which will further bolster our growth ambitions. I’d also like to extend our deepest thanks to our suppliers and our independent business-owning members, whose partnership has played a crucial role in our success.”

The Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme, in association with Irish Life Corporate Business, recognises indigenous Irish companies across the island that operate at the highest levels of business performance. It is one of the only award programmes that evaluates businesses from every perspective, including strategy, capability, commitment, ﬁnancials, and growth potential across all key functions.

The Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme is open to companies from across all 32 counties in Ireland. Winning this award is not only a powerful marketing tool for companies but, more importantly, provides an opportunity to celebrate the collective achievements of an entire organisation.

DECWELLS CELEBRATE 40 YEARS IN STYLE

Decwells of 60 South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2 is celebrating its 40th Anniversary this year. The last three years have been the most challenging of the forty. Being in the city centre meant that they were in the eye of the Covid storm.

For two years they traded in a ghost town and just when they began to see green shoots of recovery the Dublin riots happened.

However, they are on the recovery track again and please God they hope there will be no more surprises.

Decwells owes its success and longevity partly due to the long-standing support that they have received from its suppliers over these forty years. For this they are very grateful.

It is important at this point to mention their co-founder, the late Monica Baker, who over those forty years contributed largely to the steadfast attention to making sure that each supplier was paid on time, every time, and her legacy lives on and always will.

Because of Monica Baker’s passing on the 10th of October last, they partnered with Our Lady’s Hospice and many of their suppliers to celebrate their 40th birthday.

Decwells have put in place a special promotion at point of sale where their customers can enter a rafﬂe by simply writing their name and mobile number on their receipt, then putting it into to a special container on the counter which will then be entered into a ﬁnal draw.

The collaboration & promotion does three things:

• Remind people of the long history of their business which has a reputation for excellence in service which is never compromised.

• Regain some of the lost ground over the last three years due to the unprecedented difﬁculties the business has suffered.

• Raise badly needed funds for a magniﬁcent cause “Our Lady’s Hospice.“

According to Decwells, their suppliers have been incredibly supportive in their efforts and all together, as a result, they are hoping to be in a position to pass a minimum of €10,000 to the Hospice on the 31/12/24. The promotional activities in store started in May 2024 and will conclude on the 31/12/24.

EMPOWERING CUSTOMERS WITH THE SKILLS AND CONFIDENCE TO TACKLE HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

The DIY Academy currently hosts full-day on-site workshops in Homevalue Hardware Stores for both beginners and advanced DIY enthusiasts. These sessions offer hands-on experience with tools and products, essential home improvement skills, a delicious lunch, goody bags and the chance to connect with fellow DIY enthusiasts. Workshops are available in Homevalue Hardware Stores throughout the country as appropriate.

The DIY Academy, founded in 2022 by Martin Glynn, leverages over 25 years of carpentry experience to empower individuals with the skills and conﬁdence to tackle home improvement projects. The Academy’s mission is to make DIY accessible, ensuring that people no longer need to rely on handymen for minor household tasks. The Academy also offers interactive online and on-site workshops, providing a comprehensive introduction to DIY.

They also host their on-site workshops, held over six weeks in Renmore, Co. Galway, to guide beginners through essential DIY skills. Topics include using a drill, attaching items to block and stud walls, building a stud wall, and ﬁxing common mistakes like patching plasterboard. Participants also learn how to install door handles, kitchen doors, and adjust locks and hinges.

For those unable to attend in person, the DIY Academy offers an Online Beginner Series. This six-module course is designed for busy individuals who prefer to learn at their own pace. The course provides lifetime access, with regular live Q&A sessions for expert support, making it an excellent option for those who want a ﬂexible learning experience.

The DIY Academy’s vision is to make DIY enjoyable and accessible for everyone, equipping people with the knowledge and conﬁdence to transform their living spaces.

For further information please contact Martin Glynn at info@thediyacademy.ie or visit www.thediyacademy.ie

CAN MDF MEET MODERN BATHROOM AND KITCHEN NEEDS?

Moisture in homes is a persistent problem for many homeowners in cool temperate climate zones such as conditions experienced in Ireland. For example, mould and damp have been recurring issues for residents in Dublin*. The number of reported damp, mould and condensation cases in Northern Ireland Housing Executive properties came in at 17,198 in the 2023-24 ﬁnancial year - a 21% increase compared to 2020-21**.

Tackling moisture is all-the-more challenging in rooms that are poorly ventilated and where exposure to high humidity can lead to condensation, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Here, it is essential that all materials used for furniture within the room are moisture-resistant and able to endure the conditions without compromising aesthetics or longevity.

David Murray, Head of Technical Affairs & Ireland Sales, MEDITE SMARTPLY says, “There are some misconceptions about the long-term performance of timber, particularly medium-density ﬁbreboard (MDF), in these kinds of humid environments due to their porous nature. In reality, modern MDF panels with added moisture resistance are very dense, and precisely manufactured under strict factory conditions and are perfectly suited to applications such as bathroom and kitchen furniture”.

“Compared to regular ﬁbreboards, moisture-resistant (MR) MDF panels offer better durability and dimensional stability in areas prone to moisture. This means a longer lifespan and reduced maintenance needs, providing a cost-effective solution for homeowners and builders alike. MEDITE MR MDF is designed for use in humid conditions in accordance with MDF.H (Option 1)

as deﬁned in EN 622-5. However, it must be stated that Moisture Resistant MDF can never be a substitute for good design and ventilation standards”.

MEDITE MR MDF is an ultra-low emitting formaldehyde (ULEF) panel with outstanding machining qualities and can be used for everything from furniture and windows to skirting boards and architectural mouldings. This versatility makes MR MDF an ideal material for various applications within bathrooms and kitchens, often machined at high speeds yet with exceptionally smooth and close-grained edges for a perfect ﬁnish.

For example, John Penny Bespoke Joinery selected MEDITE OPTIMA - a specially engineered moisture-resistant MDF panel with an extra smooth surface ﬁnish - when designing bespoke shaker kitchen doors for a private client in Scotland. John Penny praised the material for its stability and machinability, stating that the product ran smoothly through the machines and handled water-based paints well.

With moisture-resistance and an extra smooth, ﬂawless ﬁnish, modern MDF panels are an ideal choice for meeting the demands and expectations of bathroom and kitchen applications.

For more information on MEDITE moisture-resistant MDF, visit mdfosb.com

* www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/residents-living-withmould-and-damp-campaign-for-fast-track-regeneration-1.4608001

** www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/rising-damp-mould-dampcondensation-29271993

SOUDAL IRELAND: A JOURNEY OF GROWTH AND INNOVATION

Soudal Ireland is a proud part of the Soudal Group, the global company founded by Vic Swerts in 1966. As a 100% family-owned business, Soudal has seen remarkable growth, with 79 afﬁliates, 29 production sites, and a presence in 140 countries. The company produces 130 million cans and 310 million cartridges annually, offering over 18,000 SKUs and employing 4,115 people.

Soudal entered the Irish market in 1994 through its distributor at the time Seal Systems and contributed to key projects such as Tallaght Hospital, Croke Park, and the Botanic Gardens. In 2019, Soudal acquired Seal Systems, transforming it into Soudal Ireland and expanding both its workforce and storage capacity.

Between 2022 and 2024, Soudal Ireland has invested heavily in marketing and brand development, launching campaigns and providing extensive training programs. The new warehouse and ofﬁce in Santry further support that growth in the Irish market.

Soudal Ireland’s Ofﬁcial Open Day

On August 22, 2024, Soudal Ireland celebrated its achievements and future ambitions at the ofﬁcial Open Day of its new facility in Santry. With a signiﬁcant growth in market presence, key account wins, and increased market share, Soudal Ireland is positioned for continued success. The new facility includes a state-of-the-art training and showroom space and an expanded warehouse.

The new warehouse and showroom / training facility reinforces Soudal`s continued growth in the Irish market and this investment underpins their long-term strategy for Soudal in Ireland

During the opening, CEO of the Soudal Group, Dirk Coorevits, highlighted the Soudal Group’s growth plans for Ireland. “It’s a pleasure to inaugurate our new Dublin facilities, a milestone in our growth journey. This expansion reﬂects our commitment to the Irish market and local presence. Thanks to the Soudal Ireland team and everyone who has supported us. We aim high and believe the best is yet to come! Thank you for your support”.

For further information visit www.soudal.ie or email enquiries.ireland@soudal.com

The Soudal Ireland team with Group CEO Dirk Coorevits.

New premises reception.

New warehouse facility.

DUPONT ™ FOAMSGREAT STUFF

Insta Stik™

DuPont™ Insta Stik™ Multi-Purpose

Adhesive is a fast-curing, polyurethane foam adhesive that provides excellent adhesion in one can. Whether you’re working with polystyrene or polyurethane, plasterboard, mineral wool, masonry or wood, the one-part formulation of Insta Stik™ makes for an easy application, without the need to mix and handle heavy bags of plasterboard adhesive.

What’s more, with a tack free time of three to ﬁve minutes and the ability to plaster over it in just one hour, Insta Stik™ allows you to work fast and maximise productivity.

Available in both straw application and gun application cannisters with a DIN4102-1 B2 classiﬁcation for ﬂammability and Euroclass Class E with EN13501-1, Insta Stik™ is the ultimate on-site solution, enabling an easy application that meets all the necessary standards.

Expanding foam

Lightweight and portable, DuPont™ expanding foam is ideal for ﬁlling cavities, penetrations, cracks and expansion joints. With gun and all direction straw application – as well as ﬁre rated products – DuPont™ has a solution, whatever the job.

Great Stuff™

The Great Stuff™ range also offers a number of low expansion, one-part polyurethane insulation foam products.

Great Stuff™ Pro Gun Foam Filler Windows & Doors is a fast cure foam that self-moulds to surface irregularities, ideal for ﬁxing windows and door frames. Its cell structure enables

the formation of a lasting bond whilst providing improved insulation and the ability to be cut cleanly. Ready to use, even over multiple sessions, its gun application allows for improved accuracy and less waste.

Great Stuff™ Pro All Direction Straw Foam Filler Gaps & Cracks can be used to seal, ﬁll, bond and insulate most construction materials. It has a ﬂexible applicator nozzle that allows 360° application. Fast curing, it can also be cut, sawn, sanded, painted and plastered over to blend seamlessly into any installation.

Furthermore, Great Stuff™ Pro Fire Rated Foam provides a fire rating of up to five hours according to BS 476 part 20:19871. Coloured pink for easy identification, it provides excellent adhesion to most construction materials and the same usability as the non-fire rated product. It also provides a rating of R=60dB on the sound reduction index for 10mm and 20mm gaps and is available in both a straw application and gun application cannisters.

For more information on the DuPont™ polyurethane foam insulation range, go to: www.geocel.co.uk/brands/dupont/ all-dupont-products/

1. Five-hour rating obtained with a concrete gap size of 15mmx220mm, according to BS476 Part20:1987. Different gap size and material will impact the ﬁre performance.

NO MESS NO TOOLS

DuPont™ Insta Stik™ Multi-Purpose Adhesive is a fast-curing, polyurethane foam adhesive that provides improved productivity and excellent adhesion in one can. Scan the QR code to discover more about this product and to locate your nearest stockist: www.geocel.co.uk/instastik

BUILDING A FULFILLING CAREER: 7 IN 10 YOUNG ADULTS IN IRELAND HAVE CONSIDERED PURSUING A ROLE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

New research from Chadwicks1, reveals that 70% of people aged 16-24 years have considered a role in the industry. Most parents of young adults2 (85%) see the beneﬁts of a career in construction for their children, and in fact, over two thirds (67%) would be happy if their child pursued a career in the sector. For the Chadwicks study, 250 parents of young adults were surveyed, as well as 200 people aged between 1624, examining their attitudes towards pursuing a career in construction, ahead of the results of the 2024 Leaving Certiﬁcate.

At a time of year when many young adults are perhaps thinking about their future careers most, Chadwicks has partnered with architect and broadcaster Hugh Wallace to raise awareness of the benefits of working in the trades. In addition to the parents and young adults polled, 150 tradespeople were also surveyed for the study, and the findings reveal the many advantages they have experienced with the career path they have chosen. Demonstrating its commitment to fostering growth in the sector, Chadwicks recently announced a new partnership with Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin), investing €250,000 in the development of Ireland’s first Design and Construct Centre at the university’s Grangegorman campus. The new state of the art space has been designed to meet future architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) educational needs, and produce work-ready graduates. Chadwicks is also a key sponsor of WorldSkills Ireland, an event aimed at educating young adults about apprenticeships and careers in the trades. Chadwicks hopes that these partnerships and the research findings will increase young adults’ interest in pursuing a career within the sector.

Parental guidance

Despite the ﬁndings that many parents polled saying they would be happy if their child did pursue a career in the trades, 73% have not actively encouraged their child to do so. The two main reasons why are evenly split between the perceprion of a lack of opportunities for career progression (50%) and the perception that the industry is male dominated (50%). Of the 25% of parents polled who have a child that has pursued a career path in construction, 85% of those said they were happy with the career that they chose.

Constructing the perfect job

Young adults polled share similar concerns to parents about a construction industry career path, and in addition, they believe that it can be a very lonely career (27%), and, like parents, they perceive that it’s a male dominated industry (26%) and there is a lack of career progression (21%).

Despite this, 70% have considered a career in trades before, and the aspects of it that appeal to them most is doing a job that is very practical (57%), being able to express their creative side (36%) and the ﬂexibility that it offers (32%).

When tradespeople polled were asked what the best things about their job were, their response would suggest that their career is far from a lonely one! The ability to work anywhere in the world (41%), the fun they have socialising with others, and creativity they experience ‘on the job’ (37%) and the excellent pay (35%) were their favourite aspects of the role.

Breaking down the myths

When tradespeople polled were asked why they pursued a career in construction, interestingly, the most common reasons perhaps directly dispel some parents and young adults’ concerns. Chances to make very good money (43%) and opportunities for career progression (40%) were the top two reasons that tradespeople pursued the career they did. Regarding the misconceptions that tradespeople believed others have about their work, the pay being generally low (42%), the perception that there are hardly any females (41%) and the job being too physical (40%) are most common.

Commenting on the ﬁndings, Patrick Atkinson, CEO, Chadwicks Group said: “At Chadwicks, it is critical to us that we use our market leading proﬁle within the industry to support and foster growth in the construction sector. In addition to our partnership with TU Dublin and sponsorship of WorldSkills Ireland, platforms such as Higher Options provide young adults with information and unique exposure to the many diverse job opportunities that exist in the industry. The research shows the need to continue to advocate for the sector and give tradespeople a platform to help make construction jobs more attractive and inclusive to young adults from diverse backgrounds and genders in Ireland”.

Hugh Wallace added: “I am delighted to support Chadwicks in promoting job opportunities in the construction industry to young adults, many of whom have big career decisions to make!”

1 Refers to 3Gem research commissioned by Chadwicks in July 2024, of 200 tradespeople, 250 parents of children aged 16-24 and 200 16-24-year-olds.

2 Refers to parents of people aged 16-24 years.

3 When researched about a career in the construction industry, the study clariﬁed to respondents that the roles encompassed within the industry were broad and included but were not limited to: Painter / Decorator, Project Manager, Electrician, Carpenter, Landscaper / Gardener, Bricklayer, Engineer, Plumber, Architect, Tiler, Building Surveyor, Builder, Plasterer, Quantity Surveyor

Bluestone Sales & Distribution Ltd

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Bluestone Sales & Distribution Ltd, distributors of BRITA Water Filters and other leading brands in homeware & electrical goods supplying all major retail outlets in Ireland and Northern Ireland

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News & Products

REBUILDING UKRAINE

In this article Kostiantyn Salii, the President of the All-Ukrainian Union of Manufacturers of Building Materials looks at the opportunities in rebuilding Ukraine.

Ukraine is the fourth largest country in the world in terms of mineral reserves for the construction industry.

According to various estimates, the purchase of construction materials for post-war reconstruction will require $65 billion to more than $100 billion. This wide variation in forecasts is due to the lack of veriﬁable data on the losses suffered by infrastructure and housing stock as a result of Russian aggression.

It is clear that industry’s current capabilities and even its pre-war capacities will not be enough to cope with the surge in demand when the recovery begins. According to our estimates every factory in the industry that has not been bombed or looted by the Russians will have to increase production by 200-300%. This applies to quarrying, production of ready-mixed concrete, building mixtures, decorative materials, and dozens of other product groups. Many market segments will face signiﬁcant shortages after the war.

Building Materials

Cement - In Soviet times, Ukraine produced more than 20 million tonnes of various cements per year. Last year, it produced only 4.5 million tonnes.

It will be possible to increase production to 13 million tonnes - far short of what will be required. At present, in spite of the continuing war, globally recognised Western investors are interested in buying factories in Ukraine. Ukraine is open to this in the belief that it will raise the quality of goods produced compared to products coming from elsewhere. In order to have enough cement and concrete, do you need new plants or is it enough to modernise the existing ones? We need new ones. Many existing plants are located close to the front line and have suffered signiﬁcant damage.

Glass - Ukraine needs 3-4 factories with a capacity of 25 million square metres of thermally polished glass per year. There is already a shortage of window glass on the market. It is not produced in Ukraine at all. It has historically been imported from the east and is of very low quality – even inferior to that produced during Soviet times.

Bricks - Most domestic production has ceased due to a lack of orders and shortages of electricity – electricity is switched off for two hours per day and it is difﬁcult to run machines with intermittent power.

Basalt insulation and ceramic tiles - there should be enough as Ukrainian producers have been actively exporting these products recently.

Drywall and aerated concrete - again there should be enough of these products.

Within the framework of the “industrial” visa-free regime with the EU, the procedures for importing many goods into Ukraine have been simpliﬁed.

New factories and automation

We are now trying to convince potential investors that investing in Ukraine is very profitable. Even if you do not want to build a plant here during the war, preparatory work should begin now. Ukraine has enormous mineral reserves for the construction industry - we are the fourth largest in the world. We have everything: sand, lime, and granite crushed stone. The only thing we lack are modern factories. Transport adds high costs. It is better that factories will be located in Ukrainecloser to local raw materials. For example – it is more profitable to get lime and process it nearby than to transport it and process it and then return the finished product.

When the starting whistle blows there will be a very large inﬂux of companies - especially from Poland and Germany. We can say for sure that at least 1,700 Polish companies are ready to enter Ukraine on the ﬁrst post-war day.

Our strategy will be about maximising robotisation and mechanisation of both the production of building materials and the construction processes themselves.

According to trade unions, more than 200,000 people were ofﬁcially employed in the construction industry - on sites and at factories - before the war. About 50,000 of them are on the front line.

A factory that produces concrete products used to employ an average of 245-260 workers. Now it’s good if there are 45 left.

We hope that the majority of those mobilised during the war will return to their companies unharmed. Unfortunately, many will come back from the front line with disabilities. The modern production model and digitalisation make it possible to involve disabled people in complex production. The way to involve them in production processes is to teach them how to operate the latest robotic mechanised systems. One person in a wheelchair can remotely control the process by pressing a few buttons in the workshop, entering specialised codes for production, or even working at home.

Housing - Last year, there were reports that housing sales in modern complexes had increased in Ukraine. But in reality, this applies mainly to those housing estates that were 90-95% ready before the war. They only required a small amount of building materials.

We are thinking of producing house-building kits that will reduce the consumption of steel, concrete and cement by 3-4 times, and most importantly, reduce the number of people involved in construction.

Prefabricated homes – off site construction - Houses of 40-50 square metres are very popular in the country. The British and Germans are coming to Ukraine with their own technologies, and we already have our own developments. This is good for areas that lack the funds to rebuild quickly and/or those destroyed by the Russians.

It is possible to order houses from a manufacturer, manufacture them and install them all in six months to a year at most. This approach will, among other things, facilitate the return of Ukrainians from abroad immediately after the war.

For further information contact martin@hardwareassociation.ie

FLEETWOOD PAINTS UNVEILS BOLD NEW LOOK FOR PRIMER RANGE

Fleetwood Paints is excited to announce the rebrand of their entire range of Trade Primers, giving the same trusted products a fresh, modern look that enhances both shelf appeal and customer convenience.

As part of Fleetwood’s continued commitment to supporting retailers and trade professionals, this rebrand is designed to make the often complex primer category easier to navigate, helping customers choose the right primer for any surface.

What’s Changed?

Introducing the range as Pro-Prep primers. This bold new design that clearly displays essential product information also includes a full grid of surfaces and problems on the side of the can. With improved drying and recoat time on Terminator, and easy-to-recognise icons showcasing the uses of each primer, selecting the right primer for the job has never been easier.

Additionally, a QR code is now featured on the packaging, guiding customers to helpful online resources on product application.

The new 500ml can shape has also been redesigned for a taller, sleeker appearance, improving its visibility and making it easier for customers to self-select the right product for their projects.

Same Great Product, New Look

While the packaging has undergone a transformation Fleetwood has retained the trusted formulations that professionals have relied on for years. Whether it’s the oil-based BLOXX-IT, the shellac-based TERMINATOR or the water-based PURE GRIP, each product continues to deliver superior coverage, adhesion, and performance across a wide range of substrates.

Look out for the new Fleetwood Paints primer range rolling out from November 2024. For more information, contact your local Fleetwood Paints sales rep.

HUSQVARNA XP® POWER FUELBETTER FOR YOU, BETTER FOR YOUR HUSQVARNA

Husqvarna XP® Power 2 and Husqvarna Power 4 have been made with forestry experts and green space professionals in mind.

With efﬁcient combustion and lower levels of harmful substances, users get more machine performance and higher work efﬁciency.

Lower amounts of harmful substances in the alkylate fuel means less harmful exhaust emissions, creating an improved working environment that lets professionals work safer for longer, which in turn increases productivity.

When your customer uses Husqvarna alkylate fuel, they avoid potentially dangerous substances including benzene and aromatic hydrocarbons, substances that can cause serious health problems.

The engine is also treated more kindly, for example, the spark plug and combustion chamber are kept cleaner.

The fuel can be stored and even after long periods of no use, your engine starts without any problem if your tank has been ﬁlled with Husqvarna alkylate fuel.

Environmentally, there are numerous beneﬁts, e.g. the formation of ground-level ozone (smog) is reduced by more than 50%.

Husqvarna XP® Power 2 Advanced 2-stroke alkylate fuel is mixed with 2% Husqvarna XP® 2-stroke oil, and formulated for Husqvarna products. Its exceptional cleanliness and lubricity ensures long-term durability under the toughest working conditions, allowing your Husqvarna machine to deliver its full potential.

Alkylate fuel formula, mixed with fully synthetic, biodegradable oil, results in less harmful exhaust emissions than regular fuels - creating a healthier working environment for improved productivity. Having the Veriﬁed Engine Formula (VEF) and a Husqvarna veriﬁcation program secures long time durability of Husqvarna engines.

For more information on Husqvarna oil and fuel, visit www.Husqvarna.com/ie

RECORD VOLUME OF ELECTRICAL GOODS RECYCLED IN 2023

Consumers recycled a record-breaking 41,730 tonnes of electronic and electrical waste in 2023 – the equivalent of almost 200 x 40ft containers more than the previous year, new ﬁgures from Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) reveal. In its annual report it shows that approximately 18.1 million appliances were collected for recycling last year –exceeding all European norms.

Despite the record takeback tally, WEEE Ireland’s CEO Leo Donovan warns “We need to recycle more critical raw materials as Ireland’s population grows. Most householders have a hidden treasure trove of broken, unused or unwanted electrical items in their homes. They alone hold the key to recycling them, giving the items a new lease of life so we can recover the critical raw materials they contain.”

The e-waste haul saved from landﬁll in 2023, up from the 40,767 tonnes collected in 2002, includes two million lighting items, a quarter of a million TVs and over half a million large household appliances including fridge freezers.

Over 15 million small appliances such as coffee makers, calculators, kettles and keyboards, along with the equivalent of 66 million used AA batteries were also handed back to make their way into the circular economy.

“Over the last two decades, WEEE Ireland has developed a highly efﬁcient, free national takeback system, enabling our country to outperform EU recovery targets,” said Leo. Our investment in ﬁrst-class, indigenous recycling facilities ensures we fully maximise the quality and value of the resources –with over 80% of materials recovered for reuse.”

“While this is a major achievement for our country, we can’t stand still, particularly when it comes to recycling small electrical products to ensure we have the materials needed for current and future product manufacturing.”

Europe currently imports 80% of its rare earth elements, gallium and magnesium, from China. “With ﬁnite resources, it is also vital that we support Ireland’s new National Waste Development Plan transitioning from the traditional ‘takemake-use-dispose’ model to one where electrical and electronic devices are being reused or repaired as much as possible to minimise waste generation,” Leo continued.

The annual report also revealed that last year 54% of e-waste was collected from retailer sites, 26% from local authority sites and 20% from WEEE Ireland’s network of collection points. Consumers are encouraged to bring old and broken appliances for free recycling, to their nearest local authority civic amenity centre or participating electrical retailers, with no purchase necessary.

Jim Copeland, Editor The Hardware Journal and Leo Donovan, CEO WEEE Ireland at the KMK recycling facility in Tullamore.

INTACT TAKE A FRESH LOOK AT YOUR BUSINESS SOFTWARE

The right software can be a powerful ally in tackling daily business hurdles. The Intact team recommends the following features to help you turn these obstacles into opportunities for growth and efﬁciency.

Choose Software Tailored to Your Trade Opt for a system that truly understands your business, seamlessly integrating everything from sales to delivery and accounting. Purpose-built for your industry, it centralises all operations and should handle a diverse range of product typesfrom chain sold by the metre to timber priced by the cube.

With features to automate mundane tasks like credit control and invoicing, it frees up your team to focus on growth. Whether your staff are in the ofﬁce, warehouse, or on the road, they can work more efﬁciently with instant access to real-time updates, keeping you competitive and ahead of the game.

Smart Ordering and Stock Management

There’s no need to ﬁll shelves just because there’s space. Let your software analyse your sales history and suggest what you really need. Order based on actual demand, free up cash, and make smarter decisions about what to buy and when. Predictive stock management tools and replenishment rules can also help to ensure you have the correct stock at the right time in the right place.

Smart Pricing, Protected Proﬁts

Modern solutions offers smart pricing tools that help you manage your customer discounts and price changes automatically. You set up the rules once, and the system handles the rest, preserving margins when supplier prices change. You can also set quote time limits for volatile products and show users past pricing to prevent unnecessary discounts. You stay in control while empowering your team and safeguarding your proﬁts.

Use Instant Updates for Smarter Choices

No more digging through spreadsheets or jumping between programs. The right software for your business will show you what’s happening in your business right now, not yesterday. It will allow you to create special screens for different teams, showing them exactly what they need to know. This way your team can spot problems or opportunities quickly, helping you react faster to market changes.

Serve Customers Better, Faster

Arm your staff with all the info they need at their ﬁngertips with a fully integrated trade counter system. This will ensure they can answer any question about stock, prices, or order history in seconds, keeping your customers happy and coming back.

Smooth Deliveries, Happy Customers

Look for a system that will enable you to manage deliveries efﬁciently within your main system, such as Intact’s Transport Scheduler. It gives your team full visibility of orders from purchase to delivery, streamlining operations and improving customer service.

Advice for Businesses Considering New Business Software:

• Take Your Time: Take a measured approach. Consult with all departments to understand their challenges. Intact recommends creating a detailed requirements document before seeking vendor demos. This preparation ensures you’re well-informed and can make the best choice for your business.

• Set Clear Goals: Have speciﬁc objectives for your software. This helps justify the investment and focuses your search. This will give you a key purpose and a reason to buy it, making it easier to justify the cost internally.

• Think Long-Term: Consider your needs for the next 10-15 years. You’re not buying the software for just today. You’re looking at the next 10 to 15 years as a partnership.

• Embrace Change: Be open to new ways of working. If you want to do things exactly as you’re doing it today, stick with what you have. But if you’re looking to grow, then ﬁnd a vendor that brings market-tested solutions and change management expertise.

In today’s challenging market, you need every edge. The right industry-speciﬁc business software can help you tackle key challenges, from pricing to customer retention. By choosing wisely and implementing strategically, you’ll set your business up for both current and future success.

Grow Your Business with Scalable Solutions

Ready to tackle your business challenges head-on? Explore Intact’s ERP and business management solutions that ﬁt your needs today and grow with you tomorrow. Learn how the right tools can transform your operations, regardless of your business size. For more information, call 042 9331742 or visit www.intactsoftware.com

WHY THE KEY TO SELLING MORE STARTS WITH TRYING TO MAKE LIFE EASY FOR YOUR CUSTOMERS

With 65 years in the industry, Trend Tool Technology know a thing or two about carpentry tools and accessories. So, their thoughts on how retailers can maximise their earning potential on one particular important area for installers is very interesting: Kitchen ﬁtting

Andy King, Trend’s Training and Standards Manager (as well as legendary woodworker) is happy to offer his thoughts on the subject.

Selling isn’t a dirty word

Tradespeople know that making turnover and proﬁt is nothing to be ashamed of - retailers provide a vital service fulﬁlling a need for the right product, at the right price and at the right time.

Andy advises “Every customer is an opportunity to maximise revenue - but it’s not just a case of selling more to them. What’s better for you should also be better for them.”

So, what do they want, and how can it beneﬁt you?

As the cliché goes: Time is money. The main motivator for the trade is to get onto site, get the job done quickly, get it done well and move on quickly to take on more work – As they often visit the store at the start of a working week, the start of the working day or in times of urgent need, then it’s vital to ﬁt seamlessly into the life of the tradesperson.

Want fries with that?

“We are all consumers and we know how annoying it can be to be subject to an ‘upsell’, but done in the right way, you can be helping get the job done quickly,” says Andy.

The easiest way to increase basket spend is to ask what job the customer is undertaking – and making sure they have everything to complete the task. They really don’t want to get to site, only to have to come back again. So they won’t mind helpful questions.

Of course, to make this a valuable exercise, make sure you stock the lines to complete the task. A customer picking up a kitchen worktop cutter is clearly going to be using a lot of other tools and accessories that day; Do you stock them all – and what questions can you ask?

Andy has some suggestions;

– Measuring up and marking the room and worktop: Do they have measuring and marking tools?

– Joining the worktop: Do they have biscuits, biscuit cutter/ blades, worktop connector bolts?

– Adapting cabinets or boxing in: Do they need a pocket hole jig for boxing in whilst retaining easy access for emergencies?

– Cutting the worktop: Do they have a decent Kitchen worktop jig – Do they need a specialist jig such as a Belfast sink jig?

– Obvious question: Do they have an accurate router with sufﬁcient plunge?

– Have they got lung, eye and ear protection for themselves and their teams? PPE is everyone’s responsibility but managers have a duty of care to their teams. They may also need replacement ﬁlters. Do they have adequate dust extraction, suitable for site work? If they are in a customer’s house, have they considered that the customer needs to be protected from dust?

If they are cutting materials using circular saw blades, do they have enough blades to ensure sharpness through the job? Do they have the right type for the material and the ﬁnish they require? Some brands have on-line compatibility data which will help them make a quick and accurate choice.

These are a few simple questions which can lead to increased revenue.

For further information please visit www.trend-uk.com

HARVEST FLAME PROVIDING AN ALTERNATIVE SOLID FUEL TO ROI RETAILERS

Arigna Fuels (one of the ﬁrst manufacturers of smokeless fuels on the island) has continued to be at the forefront of clean fuel technology and has launched Harvest Flame to the market. Harvest Flame is a 100% sustainable renewable biomass product made from agricultural biomass residues.

Harvest Flame is now available in 30L and 10kg bags. The 10kg bag has a handle on it and is suitable for storing outside. It is an ideal replacement for the BNM Briquette as the product is easy to light and the bags are easy to store and transport. Harvest Flame is not liable for carbon tax and hence is offering retailers in ROI a chance to offer their customers a suitable alternative to smokeless coal. In addition to this, Harvest Flame is truly sustainable and provides consumers and retailers with a chance to reduce their carbon footprint by burning and retailing a sustainable solid fuel.

Carbon tax on solid fuel has increased by a further €19.75 per tonne in May 2024 to €147.49 per tonne. This along with the 13.5% VAT rate against a 5% VAT rate in Northern Ireland has further increased the gap between the price of smokeless coal in ROI and NI. Unfortunately, a lot of retailers sales have been impacted by this large price variance. Harvest Flame provides ROI retailers a chance to regain and grow their market share in solid fuel.

Arigna Fuels are also continuing to offer their market-leading smokeless coal products Cosyglo and Ecobrite alongside our range of convenience products. Cosyglo and Ecobrite are the only HETAS approved products on the Irish market and demand for both have increased since the new regulations took effect.

To discuss your solid fuel needs for the coming season, please contact us on 071-9646002

DRIVING YOUR BUSINESS FORWARDS WITH CROWN PAINTS

High quality products, a wide selection of colours and sustainable solutions – at Crown Paints, they understand these customer demands and have the products and expertise available to help you give your customers exactly what they want.

They have been recently awarded Guaranteed Irish accreditation, celebrating their commitment to sustainability and support for communities across Ireland.

The accreditation recognises their targets to achieve complete carbon neutrality across their operations by 2026, reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the entire supply chain by 50% by 2030, and be a zero waste to landﬁll business by 2026, as well as their market leading paint formulations.

Crown Trade Clean Air Scrubbable Matt, for example, was developed in response to growing concerns about air pollution and is designed to signiﬁcantly improve indoor air quality.

Its unique breatheasy® technology and 99% VOC-free and solvent-free formula make it both environmentally friendly and safe for use indoors while its air-purifying capabilities actively reduce formaldehyde levels by 45%.

The product holds Class 1 scrub-rating alongside BREEAM and LEED certiﬁcations, your customers can rest assured that with Clean Air Scrubbable Matt they’re creating a more durable and beautiful space all the while reducing carbon emissions.

Their Colour Edit curated collection of 160 shades combines timeless design with modern trends, giving your customers the freedom to create beautiful, personalised spaces. Whether customers are looking for bold, vibrant hues or classic, understated tones, the Colour Edit Collection offers a palette that suits any aesthetic.

With Crown Paints every pot of paint is brimming with potential, not just to transform spaces, but to make a positive impact on the environment.

For more information visit www.crownpaints.ie

Harvest Flame is a renewable biofuel made from organic plant-based material that is suitable to burn in stoves and open fires.

BENEFITS OF HARVEST FLAME

Higher heat output than seasoned timber, wood chips or wood pellets

Low moisture and ash content

Large reduction in particulates and emissions into the atmosphere

Sustainable – we use biomass residues, which are the byproducts of processing agricultural products

Suitable for all appliances — open fires, stoves and outdoor fire pits

Made in Ireland using 100% renewable raw materials

GOING UP IN THE WORLD: JEFFERSON TOOLS’ NEMESIS JACKS

Jefferson Tools, a leading supplier of professional tools and equipment in Ireland and the UK, is releasing the new ultimate “Nemesis” jacks range. Each product is tailored to meet the demands of modern workshops and garages and promises to redeﬁne standards in automotive repair and maintenance. Given that in mythology, its name represents someone or thing that dispenses divine retribution against those who succumb to hubris, having a Nemesis at your side might not be considered a good thing. But you are quite safe when it comes to the new Nemesis range of vehicle jacks from Jefferson Tools – they won’t let you down. (Well...obviously they will – but they will lift back up –again and again!)

Why Nemesis?

The Nemesis range includes models with varying capacities from two to four tonnes, equipped with features designed for rapid lifting and ease of use. These jacks are constructed with a heavy-duty chassis, low entry proﬁles for broader accessibility, and twin piston systems that provide swift and effortless lifting. With maximum heights reaching up to 533mm and robust design details, the Nemesis jacks ensure a compelling blend of durability and functionality. Let’s look into some of the standouts in more detail.

They work – without the work-out

Some jacks need so much energy to pump up it can sometimes feel like the gym membership isn’t needed. But not with Nemesis. The range’s Four Tonne Rapid Lift Trolley Jack has a rapid lift feature that cuts down lifting time dramatically, helping to work faster and smarter—not harder. Its universal joint release mechanism allows for safe, controlled lowering of the jack and vehicle. The proﬁled lifting arm permits a low clearance height. This model includes a

rapid lift pedal for increased usability, ideal for use in professional workshop environments.

The Nemesis Three Tonne Axle Stands can support up to 1.5 tonnes each. They incorporate a sturdy base and locking mechanism for dependable and safe operation. They adjust from a minimum height of 370mm to a maximum of 438mm, allowing for ﬂexibility across various job requirements. Weighing in at 5.62 kg, these axle stands combine portability with strength your customer can rely on, ready to take on a range of challenges in the garage.

A 1.5 Tonne Wheel Dolly is another essential tool for the professional workshop. It is smartly designed with eight adjustable rollers, allowing for effortless positioning of vehicles. The extralarge jacking handle promotes easy operation by a single person. Stability is a must, and this is ensured with a locking mechanism that fixes the rollers in eight positions. For added mobility, it’s equipped with two locking and two fixed castors, ensuring superior stability and smooth manoeuvrability around the shop floor.

“With the Nemesis range, Jefferson Tools addresses key challenges faced by automotive professionals, including timeintensive operations, safety concerns, and the inefﬁciencies of using multiple tools,” says Darren Binns, National Sales Manager at Jefferson Tools. “From minimising effort in lifting to enhancing industry standards, these tools are built to meet professional needs and exceed expectations.”

A full Nemesis lifting tools range is now available through Jefferson Tools’ distributors nationwide. For more detailed information on speciﬁcations, pricing, and how to purchase, visit www.jeffersontools.com

MANNOK TO BE ACQUIRED BY CIMSA - A GLOBAL BUILDING MATERIALS PROVIDER

Cimsa, a Turkish listed global building materials company – and a subsidiary of publicly listed global conglomerate Sabanci Holdings [‘Sabanci’ or the ‘Group’] - has reached agreement to acquire 94.7% of Mannok for an overall enterprise value of €330 million. The local Mannok leadership team will retain a 5.3% interest.

Under the agreement, which is subject to customary approvals, the Mannok brand will be retained as a growth hub for Cimsa and Sabanci in Ireland and the UK, and the business will continue to be led by local management. This agreement marks Cimsa’s third major investment in the past three years, following recent investments in Spain and the US, and underpins its ambition to become a scale player in the UK and Irish markets.

Employing approximately 800 staff, Mannok is comprised of two divisions, Building Products and Packaging, which are focused on the Island of Ireland and GB markets. Its key activities are the manufacture of cement, concrete, quarry and aggregate products and insulation materials, as well as the manufacture of packaging products, mainly for the food industry.

Cimsa is a subsidiary of Turkish listed Sabanci, a global conglomerate which employs over 60,000 people in 14 countries across ﬁve continents. Sabanci is engaged in a wide range of business activities including: cement and building materials, energy and climate technologies, industrials, banking and ﬁnancial services, retail and digital sectors. In 2023, Sabanci delivered combined revenue of €31.5 billion and consolidated net income of €600 million. In 2022, Sabanci Group committed to a US $5 billion investment in sustainability by 2027.

Commenting, Umut Zenar, CEO, Cimsa said: “We believe this agreement marks the beginning of a new era for Mannok. At Cimsa our model is to back great local businesses and management, and we look forward to creating new employment opportunities in the region as we support Mannok’s continuing growth and sustainability ambitions. Given its border location, Mannok has unique access to UK and EU markets, and we see it as a key stepping stone in expanding our footprint in Western Europe. For Mannok staff, joining the Sabanci ecosystem will also present a world of opportunity for career development and progression and exposure to innovation in product development, sustainability, and digitalisation.”

Commenting, Dara O’Reilly, Chief Executive, Mannok said “At this stage of our development, securing a long term, strategic, well capitalised owner of scale, is the right move for Mannok and we look forward to working with our new colleagues at Sabanci. I wish to also acknowledge and thank the Investor Group, led by Brigade Capital Management, LP amongst others, for their unstinting and collegiate support as majority owners of the business over the past decade, following the acquisition from Share Receivership in 2014. Investor Group backing and the support and commitment of our customers and our 800 staff are the reason Mannok has grown and prospered, and why we are now optimally positioned for a new chapter of growth.”

A recent news statement published by Cimsa on this transaction can also be viewed at https://press.cimsa.com.tr/cimsasigns-agreement-to-acquire-mannok-strengthens-focus-onuk-and-ireland/

INTERNATIONAL HARDWARE FAIR ITALY

The International Hardware Fair Italy is set to return for its second edition on 8th - 9th May 2025, in Bergamo. Following the success of the inaugural 2023 event, which saw 5,300 visitors from 30 countries, the 2025 edition promises signiﬁcant improvements.

This event will bring together key players from across the Italian and European sectors such as hardware, DIY, building, garden & outdoor, safety & workwear, paints & coatings, electrical supplies and lighting.

In addition to its efﬁcient two-day format, which combines exhibitions with a robust programme of conferences, the International Hardware Fair Italy is praised for being an exhibitors-friendly event, making it easy and seamless for partners to participate. The event is designed to optimise networking thanks to the matchmaking programme, a scheduled one-to-one onsite meeting with key distributors, wholesalers and buyers from all over Europe.

The show is built to strengthen the Italian and European presence of visitors for the exhibitors, offering an exceptional platform for businesses to showcase their latest innovations and solutions. With an easily accessible venue in Bergamo, the event provides a prime location for both Italian and European participants.

One of the key advantages of the Bergamo location is its proximity to the Orio-al-Serio international airport, ensuring

ease of access for visitors from across Europe. To further enhance the visitor experience, a free shuttle service will be available, conveniently transporting guests to and from the venue, making the trip as seamless as possible.

Mark your calendars for 8th & 9th May 2025, and visit The International Hardware Fair Italy in Bergamo for an unmissable event that will shape the future of the hardware and DIY industries.

For registration and further information visit www.hardwarefair-italy.com, phone +39 02 869 61 337, or email hardwarefair-italy@koelnmesse.it

WAVIN SUPPORTS BALBRIGGAN CHARITY REMEMBER US TO LAUNCH SENSORY GARDEN

Members of Balbriggan charity group Remember Us were joined by Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Joe O’Brien TD and Fair City star, Rebecca Grimes, together with residents and local dignitaries in July to launch a very special facility – the Remember Us Sensory Garden.

Remember Us provides a social outlet to people with special needs and their families in the North Fingal Area. This beautiful and considered resource was the brainchild of Remember Us founder Nora Roban who has been planning it for many years. With support from Wavin Ireland, the garden has been created as a wonderfully immersive, fully accessible space which features a vegetable garden, wheelchair swing, games area, sandpit, play-shed and will incorporate an outdoor music system.

Established in 1998, Remember Us is an integral part of life for over 250 families across the wider North Fingal area.

Its aim is to create a social environment for people with special needs and their families that support their development and inclusion as valued members of the community.

Speaking at the launch, Nora said, “All of us at Remember Us are delighted to welcome our guests to the opening of our Sensory Garden. It will be a very special resource for our members and their families, and we’re thrilled to see this long held dream become a reality. Our thanks to Wavin Ireland for their support in enabling us to get this project off the ground and for the volunteering efforts of their team. We are so excited to welcome our members and their families to this incredible space and we’ll look forward to them enjoying it for years to come.”

To ﬁnd out more about Remember Us, visit www.rememberus.ie

COMBILIFT SECURES DOUBLE WIN AT UK ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING AWARDS 2024

Combilift, a leading global innovator in material handling solutions, has achieved dual recognition at this year’s UK Engineering & Manufacturing Awards 2024, securing two highly prestigious awards.

The ‘Design Team of the Year’ award was presented to Combilift’s Heavy Equipment Team for their exceptional work on the groundbreaking 12-Wheel “Combi-LC Blade.” This cutting-edge machine has been specifically engineered to handle offshore wind turbine blades, which can reach up to 115 meters in length and weigh as much as 70 tonnes. The design significantly enhances the ability to transport these large, nonuniform loads safely and efficiently from manufacturing sites to storage and deployment locations.

This innovative solution addresses the growing needs of the renewable energy sector, where the demand for efﬁcient logistics systems is increasing as the size and scale of offshore wind turbines continue to grow. In collaboration with Siemens Gamesa, one of the world’s largest suppliers of offshore wind turbine technology, Combilift designed a transport system that offers unparalleled stability and safety in moving these massive turbine blades.

In addition to this remarkable team achievement, Combilift’s co-founder and CEO, Martin McVicar, received the coveted ‘Industry Leader Award’, This accolade honours Martin`s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to innovation, which have played a pivotal role in transforming Combilift from a small Irish manufacturer into a global leader in the material handling sector.

Since co-founding the company, Martin has overseen its rapid growth, transforming it into one of Ireland’s top exporters, with a projected turnover of €500 million this year. His approach to leadership combines technical expertise with a handson, inclusive management style. Known for his engineering prowess, Martin has a background as Chief Engineer at Moffett Engineering, a role he held at the young age of 19.

Beyond business success, McVicar is deeply committed to fostering a strong corporate culture. Combilift’s headquarters, one of the largest factories under one roof in Ireland, serves not only as a manufacturing hub but also as ambassadors for corporate social responsibility.

The company regularly hosts apprenticeship schemes, charity events, family days, and educational visits, further solidifying its role within the local community. Combilift also sponsors the local Ladies GAA team, demonstrating McVicar’s commitment to supporting gender equality in sports.

Combilift’s double win at the UK Engineering & Manufacturing Awards 2024 is a testament to the company’s innovative spirit and visionary leadership, reinforcing its position as a global leader in the material handling industry.

For further information visit www.combilift.com

The ‘Design Team of the Year’ award being presented to Combilift’s Heavy Equipment Team.

Combilift’s co-founder and CEO, Martin McVicar, receiving his ‘Industry Leader Award’.

MOL TOOLS AND ABRASIVES RECOGNISED AT THE 2024 IRISH ECOMMERCE AWARDS

On Friday 13 September, MOL Tools and Abrasives had the distinct honour of being represented by Mark Burns (General Manager) and Conal Hunter (eCommerce Manager) at the prestigious 2024 Irish ECommerce Awards, held at the iconic Mansion House in Dublin. This event showcased the very best in the online retail sector across the island of Ireland, and MOL were thrilled to be nominated for the Irish B2B Website of the Year award. Competing alongside established Irish brands such as Diageo, Henderson Food Group, Musgrave Marketplace, and Sysco Ireland highlighted the signiﬁcance of this recognition, particularly in such a competitive landscape.

The Irish B2B Website of the Year award celebrates exceptional eCommerce platforms that facilitate business-to-business transactions, underscoring the importance of digital innovation in today’s market. As one of Ireland’s largest power tool wholesalers, MOL Tools and Abrasives launched their B2B website in July 2023 with the goal of digitalising and future prooﬁng their operations. This new platform aimed to provide their customers with an additional sales channel and seamless checkout experience, whilst also enabling easy access to stock availability and live pricing.

Since its launch, their B2B site has made remarkable progress, continually evolving to meet customers’ needs. The integration of a new ERP system in May 2024 has further enhanced the website’s functionality, providing real-time stock levels and accurate pricing information. This development has been crucial for customers, allowing them to make informed purchasing decisions and streamline their operations. Despite their online presence still being in its infancy, the recognition for such a prestigious award underscores the team’s dedication and hard work.

The 2024 ECommerce Awards event itself was an inspiring gathering, offering the privilege to connect with some of the top online traders, developers, and marketers in Ireland. The Round Room at Mansion House served as a breathtaking backdrop for this celebration, steeped in history and reﬂecting the vibrant spirit of Ireland’s growing internet retail industry. The pre gala reception also provided a unique opportunity to network with some of Ireland’s best eCommerce professionals, in a relaxed setting.

Looking ahead, MOL are excited about the potential for their online presence to continue expanding. They aim to strengthen their claim as one of Ireland’s leading B2B website and hope to be considered for this prestigious award again in the future.

For further information visit www.moltools.co.uk

MOL Tools and Abrasives Conal Hunter (eCommerce Manager) and Mark Burns (General Manager) at the 2024 Irish ECommerce Awards.

PREMIO LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE ONLINE CATALOGUE BUILDER TO EMPOWER WHOLESALERS

Cork-based B2B eCommerce solution provider, Premio, is excited to announce the launch of its new custom catalogue builder. This tool is designed to elevate promotional strategies and drive sales for wholesalers and distributors in the building materials, hardware, and related industries.

The new catalogue builder enables companies to swiftly create fully branded, up-to-date catalogues in minutes, tailored to individual customers, speciﬁc categories, or targeted market segments.

With zero printing costs, wholesalers can effortlessly produce, update, and distribute professional-grade catalogues directly from their online stores, aligning with ESG and sustainability initiatives. Premio’s user-friendly, ﬁve-step on-screen process ensures that suppliers can keep their customers informed of the latest product offerings and pricing through real-time updates. The platform allows for easy sharing of PDFs or online links to catalogues, enhancing communication and accessibility. This innovative tool not only supports sales and reduces costs for suppliers but also fosters customer engagement with personalised, reliable product information. Whether promoting seasonal stock, special offers, or new product launches, the catalogue builder enables rapid market access, enhancing brand visibility and boosting sales performance.

Brian O’Driscoll, Managing Director of Premio, commented on the launch: “This feature is particularly valuable for wholesalers in the construction and hardware sectors, where rising competition, ﬂuctuating material costs, and supply chain challenges require suppliers to adapt and respond quickly to maintain market position.” He continues, “The new catalogue builder allows Premio users to quickly update and communicate changes in prices, availability or product specs to their sales team and customers, ultimately boosting sales and increasing customer satisfaction.”

For more information on Premio’s online catalogue builder, visit www.premio.ie or contact info@premio.ie

HAI MEET WITH MINISTER FOR FINANCE AHEAD OF THE RECENT BUDGET

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) Treasurer Eddie Kelly and CEO Martin Markey had a pre-Budget meeting with Minister for Finance Jack Chambers. During the meeting increasing business costs and the potential of “above the shop” properties were discussed. Hardware Association Ireland have welcomed Budget recommendations for rejuvenating empty homes. In particular, the strong commitment of €680 million allocated to affordable housing schemes and to support additional grants under the vacant refurbishment grant scheme.

Commenting on the Budget 2025 announcement, Martin Markey, “We would like to thank Minister for Finance Jack Chambers TD and Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe TD, for announcing these innovative and transformative measures in the recent budget. These measures will facilitate and accelerate the renovation of above-the-shop units into valuable homes and living spaces in towns and villages across Ireland”. You can view further budget information from HAI at https://hardwareassociation.ie/ how-budget-2025-impacts-our-sector/

Hardware Association Ireland CEO Martin Markey and Treasurer Eddie Kelly at a pre-Budget meeting with Minister for Finance Jack Chambers.

MD Burns & Co Ltd was founded in 1990 by Mark Burns, a van wholesaler in Dundalk. It has since diversiﬁed into a retail, wholesale and manufacturing operation. The company has over 100 employees and operations in three countries, with an annual turnover of €20 million.

They manufacture and supply their own range of Carlingford Candles and have nightlights in various pack sizes and burning times. With their own and exclusive ranges, they are conﬁdent that they won’t be matched on quality or value. MD Burns also manufacture some of their own products and have their own branded ranges not available anywhere else. They buy and import from all over the world to bring the biggest and best value products they can.

• They supply a huge range of household and hardware goods, mops, brushes, dustpans and bins.

• They have a large selection of cleaning products and equipment and everyday usage items.

• Their artiﬁcial ﬂowers and cemetery grave pots are very popular among their customers.

The MD Burns sales team cover all 32 counties across Ireland as well as GB & Europe.

Check out their website www.mdburns.ie or contact the head ofﬁce team at sales@mdbireland.com, tel: +353 1 8499425 to ﬁnd out your nearest available sales representative who will be happy to connect with you.

MD BURNS SUPPLY A HUGE RANGE OF HOUSEHOLD AND HARDWARE GOODS STAFFORD’S LAUNCH THEIR AUTUMN, BLACK FRIDAY & CHRISTMAS PROMOTIONS

Be sure to mark your calendars for the highly anticipated Autumn, Black Friday, and Christmas promotions 2024 from Stafford’s! As a customerfocused company, Stafford’s is committed to providing their valued customers with top-quality products at the most competitive prices. Continuing the overwhelming success of last year’s Black Friday and Christmas promotions, Staffords are delighted to reintroduce complimentary gifts with special purchases. Get ready to immerse yourself in an array of irresistible deals and prepare to savour every moment of this festive season with Stafford’s.

Call them today on 053 936 7246 or email sales@stafford.ie if you would like to get more information on their current offers or arrange an appointment to come see their new Showroom at Belleﬁeld, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Y21 E0F5, located ﬁve minutes from the M11.

CONTACTLESS LIMITS AND DIGITAL WALLETS

Did you know that the contactless limit can be far higher than €50 when your customers are using a digital wallet?

“Digital wallets, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, are the fastest growing payment method in the world and link a bank account or payment card to a smartphone or smartwatch,” says Patrick Doyle, Vice President of Point-of-Sale Solutions for payments experts Elavon Europe.

“So, if your customer doesn’t have a card but is paying using a phone or watch, then anyone taking payments for your business should know this, so you aren’t putting off customers wanting to spend over €50” says Patrick.

The limit for digital wallets is set by your customer’s bank or their available funds.

“Digital wallets are very secure,” adds Patrick. “They encrypt all data which protects both your customer and your business. They use layers of authentication like an in-app PIN, or biometrics, such as facial recognition or a thumb print, to make sure the user is who they claim to be.”

Because digital wallets tend to use existing contactless technology, there’s no need for you to invest in new and costly hardware to accept wallets in store.

“Whatever your business model and no matter who your customers are, digital wallets are here to stay and growing in popularity,” says Patrick.

“Building them into your customer experience should be a critical part of your customer journey and payments strategy,” he adds.

So, think to yourself, “How do I make payments easier, and a better experience?” If you do that, your customers will spend more, returning knowing how easy it is for them to pay.

To talk more about payments and what Elavon can do to support your business take payments securely, contact: Peter Cooke on peter.cooke@elavon.com or +353 (0) 871676215

Elavon Financial Services DAC, trading as Elavon Merchant Services, is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

HEAT MERCHANTS SELECTS K8 TO DELIVER THEIR DIGITAL STRATEGY

K8, the leading cloud-based business management software solution from Kerridge Commercial Systems (KCS), has been chosen by Heat Merchants as its core ERP Business System and digital platform to underpin its growth strategy. Heat Merchants, part of the Wolseley Group, is renowned for delivering excellent customer service and sees that K8 can drive further efﬁciencies in its operations through the implementation of the powerful ERP platform. Supporting the business requirements of over 300 daily users, the K8 solution will be implemented throughout all of the company’s outlets and warehouse and it will also deliver a sophisticated digital ecosystem for Heat Merchants including electronic mobile delivery tools for drivers, mobile tools for picking and warehousing, eCommerce trading platform interoperability, WorldPay integration and labour saving OCS tools for Accounts Payable invoice matching and document management.

Heat Merchants supplies a comprehensive portfolio of heating, plumbing, bathroom and renewable energy solutions for both domestic and commercial projects. The group trades

in 42 outlets around Ireland as Heat Merchants and Tubs & Tiles, with 30 Heat Merchants branches and 12 Tubs & Tiles showrooms supported by a central warehouse and distribution hub based in Athlone. The group plans to introduce K8 across all of its outlets and central warehouses and will complement its internet presence with the powerful integrated web solutions within the K8 platform.

Commenting on the selection, Chris Cottington, Operational Design Director of Wolseley UK says “Wolseley has made multiple acquisitions over recent years, and we have been keen to ensure that excellent systems are in place in all parts of the group, along with a consistency of approach towards digitisation of processes and eCommerce. With K8, we have invested in a modern and scalable business platform. The team at KCS has greatly impressed us with their industry knowledge and their attention to detail and we now face the future with conﬁdence knowing that we have a great partner who delivers for us”.

For more information please visit www.kerridgecs.com

SONAS ARYA STAINLESS STEEL TOWEL WARMERS IN BRUSHED GOLD

As Autumn draws in, your customers can transform their daily routine into a luxurious experience with the Sonas ARYA range of stainless-steel towel warmers. Crafted from premium quality stainless steel, ARYA comes in a range of ﬁnishes including chrome, matt black, brushed gold and brushed nickel and work perfectly to ensure full customisation of their bathroom.

These towel warmers offer unparalleled heat distribution to bring both warmth, elegance and comfort to your customer’s home and are compatible with heat pump heating systems as they heat up faster than standard steel radiators and retain heat for longer.

The ARYA range will revolutionise the way your customers think about towel warmers, offering rapid heating capabilities that provide them with cosy towels within minutes. This exceptional heat distribution is the hallmark of the ARYA range, ensuring that customers can wrap themselves in warmth as soon as they step out of the bath or shower.

The standout feature of the ARYA range is its remarkable durability and efﬁciency, these towel warmers are built to withstand the test of time. Crafted from high quality stainless steel, they offer superior strength and hardness compared to traditional materials like aluminium and mild steel. This translates to a long-lasting investment for their bathroom, ensuring that their towel warmer maintains its pristine appearance and functionality over the years.

Furthermore, the ARYA range aligns perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable solutions. Stainless steel’s recyclability underscores its eco-friendliness, making these towel warmers an environmentally conscious choice that ﬁts seamlessly into modern homes. Choosing the ARYA range also means embracing energy efﬁciency. These stainlesssteel radiators are not only rapid heat conductors, but also possess the ability to retain warmth for extended periods. This feature translates to energy savings, as rooms remain comfortably heated even after

the central heating system has been turned off. This dual advantage of rapid heating and sustained warmth makes the ARYA range an economically viable choice for any household.

What sets the ARYA range apart is its exceptional corrosion resistance. Stainless steel’s innate ability to fend off corrosion ensures that the towel warmer remains a striking addition to your customer’s bathroom décor, even after prolonged use. This thin yet robust ﬁlm provides increased resistance against both abrasions and corrosion, preserving the radiators’ surfaces in the face of everyday wear and tear.

Say hello to the future of bathroom luxury. Elevate your customer’s daily routine with the ARYA range of stainless-steel towel warmers – where sophistication meets absolute comfort.

For more information visit www.sonasbathrooms.com

IRELAND’S SMES FACING DIGITAL READINESS CHALLENGE

Ireland’s Digital Readiness Monitor published by .ie analyses Ireland’s progress on Digital Development. The Digital Readiness Monitor, which analyses the level of digital sophistication of websites in Ireland, has revealed that 36% of websites in Ireland have a low or very low level of sophistication.

Ireland’s Digital Readiness Monitor, which includes websites using the .ie domain, as well as those using .com, .co.uk or any other extension, presents a comprehensive picture of Ireland’s digital readiness with research conducted by .ie in partnership with the Irish Institute of Digital Business, DCU and the JE Cairnes School of Business and Economics at University of Galway. The Digital Readiness Monitor introduces a new national measure of digital readiness – the Web Technology Intensity Score (WTIS).

The WTIS is comprised of eleven indicators that measure the digital readiness of organisations in Ireland including basic

websites; websites with sophisticated functionality; websites with evidence of basic analytics, sophisticated analytics, social media integration, mobile optimisation, online advertising, sophisticated online advertising, internationalisation, selling online and cloud computing.

The Government’s digital strategy, Harnessing Digital: The Digital Ireland Framework, aims to position Ireland as a European and global digital leader. SMEs make up the majority of Irish businesses and the ability of Irish SMEs to adopt sophisticated digital technologies will be fundamental to increasing Ireland’s digital competitiveness.

The report reveals that 36% of websites in Ireland have a low or very low level of sophistication even though there are various Government grants and programmes to support digital advancement. A website and associated technologies are a proxy for an organisation’s degree of digitalisation, so this statistic demonstrates that SMEs’ websites are underdeveloped. At the other end of the spectrum, one in four websites (27%) have a high or very high level of sophistication.

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke said “Ireland has outlined its ambition to be a digital leader, reﬂecting the key role that digital technology does and will continue to play in shaping our competitiveness and driving productivity. The ﬁndings of this report demonstrates that we must continue to drive the digital agenda, ensuring digitalisation and technology remains a priority across all facets of Irish enterprise.” Ireland’s Digital Readiness Monitor can be viewed at www.weare.ie/irelands-digital-readiness-monitor/

Associate Dean of Research, DCU Business School, Professor Theo Lynn (left), Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke (middle), Chief Executive at .ie, David Curtin (right).

HARDWARE ASSOCIATION IRELAND PRESIDENT’S PRIZE

Hardware Association Ireland President Paul Candon was delighted to welcome members to his Newlands Golf Club on 15th August. Founded in 1910, Newlands continues to be one of Dublin`s most vibrant golf clubs where their members can also enjoy bridge, snooker and indoor bowling. The mature parkland course was a great test of golf on the day for golfers at all levels. The course rewarded those who controlled the shape and the length of their shots. Our ﬁrst visit in many years but could become a ﬁrm favourite with society members judging by the compliments on the day and numbers wishing to play. Sponsored by Crown Paints as usual, golfers enjoyed excellent hospitality and great company with an excellent array of prizes.

2nd Place Overall James Wallace receiving his prize from Sponsor Clarke Blair.

3rd Place Overall Paddy O`Leary receiving his prize from Sponsor Clarke Blair.

Overall Winner Ainé Parks receiving her prize from Hardware Association Ireland President Paul Candon with Sponsor Clarke Blair, Crown Paints, Commercial Director Ireland.

from Sponsor Clarke Blair.

HARDWARE ASSOCIATON IRELAND GOLF SOCIETY PRESIDENT PAUL CANDON’S PRIZE

15th August 2024 - Newlands Golf Club Sponsors - Crown Paints

Ladies

Ladies Overall 2nd Place Cathy O`Gorman receiving her prize

Paul Candon presenting HAIGS Captain David Bolger with his Captain’s Pin.

Overall Winner William Dixon receiving his prize from Hardware Association Ireland President Paul Candon with Sponsor Clarke Blair, Crown Paints, Commercial Director Ireland.

DENIS BURKE TROPHY

Members of the Hardware Association Ireland Golf Society (HAIGS) enjoyed beautiful weather and a great welcome on their ﬁnal outing of the year to the very popular Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort on Friday 6th September.

With thanks to our generous sponsors Bostik, golfers enjoyed outstanding hospitality, great company with an excellent array of prizes. This challenging 18 Hole Championship Golf Course has matured beautifully with age and offers stunning views of the Carlow mountains and countryside.

Designed by the late, great Christy O’Connor Jnr, it’s an idyllic and lush parkland course that tests every facet of the players’ games while also providing enjoyment.

DENIS BURKE’S TROPHY PRESIDENT TOM O’CONNOR’S PRIZE

6th September 2024 - Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort Sponsors - Bostik

OVERALL

First

CLASS

LADIES

CLASS

First

Second

HAIGS President Tom O`Connor presenting William Dixon with the inaugural Player Of The Year 2024 Shield.

Ladies Overall Winner Breda Phelan receiving her ﬁrst prize from Sponsor Peter Morrissey

2nd Place Overall, Jim Quinn receiving his prize from Sponsor Peter Morrissey.

3rd Place Overall, Joe Harlin receiving his prize from Sponsor Peter Morrissey.

Overall Winner, Jim Cuddy receiving his prize of the Denis Burke Trophy and a driver from Sponsors, Peter Morrissey, Bostik, Commercial Director.

HAI Corporate Partners

CORPORATE PARTNER

CASH MANAGEMENT

Brink’s Cash Services

Customer Services 0818 111 330 nationalservicecentre@brinks.com www.brinks.com

W&G Baird

Sam Sharpe +44 (0) 75 8311 9846 sam.sharpe@wgbaird.com www.wgbaird.com

CREDIT & FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Credit Risk Brokers

James Riordan 01 491 6007

james.riordan@creditriskbrokers.com www.creditriskbrokers.com

JPA Brenson Lawlor

Ian Lawlor 01 668 9760 ian@brensonlawlor.ie www.brensonlawlor.ie

LCMS Ltd

Billy Nolan 087 2604625

billy.nolan@lcms.com www.lcms.ie

Agility Software Ltd

David Malcolm 01 253 0282

Core Tech

Geraldine Quinlan Burke 025 41400

geraldine.quinlan@coretechnology.ie www.coretechnology.ie

Intact Software

Mark Gurney 042 933 1742 mark.gurney@intactsoftware.com www.intactsoftware.com

.IE

Andrew Connolly 01 236 5400 aﬁnneran@weare.ie www.weare.ie

Kerridge Commercial Systems

Elaine Snuggs 01 5457100

elaine.snuggs@kerridgecs.com www.kerridgecs.com

Magico Orla Cooney 065 6864580 ocooney@magico.com www.magico.com

ECOMMERCE AND IT SUPPORT

david@agility-software.com www.agility-software.com

Monsoon Consulting

Bharat Sharma 01 4750066

bharat.sharma@monsoonconsulting.com www.monsoonconsulting.com

Premio eCommerce

Karen Dillon 021 245 5022 info@premio.ie www.premio.ie

StudioForty9

Gerard Keohane 021 239 2349 ger@studioforty9.com www.studioforty9.com

HAI Corporate Partners

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

DCS Group

Caroline Sugrue 066 7181836 carolinesugrue@dcsgroup.eu www.dcsgroup.eu

Solgrid Ltd

Damien Howe 085 1649497 damien.howe@solgrid.ie www.solgrid.ie

FIELD SALES & MARKETING

CPM Ireland

Anne Kelly 01 7080300 akelly@cpmire.com www.cpmire.com

WASP Technologies

Richard Baird 086 2857843 richard.baird@wasptech.com www.wasptech.com

HR SUPPORT

Peninsula Business Services (Ireland) Limited

Michael Gombart 1800 719 215 michael.gombart@peninsula-ie.com www.peninsulagrouplimited.com/ie

TSA Consultants

LEGAL ADVICE & SUPPORT

Finders International

Maeve Mullin 01 567 6940 maeve.mullin@ﬁndersinternational.ie www.ﬁndersinternational.ie

LOGISTICS

Nugo

Liam Hennessy 087 1235581 liamh@nugo.ie

Woodland Group

Lee McMullen 01 8111500 lee.mcmullen@woodlandgroup.com www.woodlandgroup.com

MATERIALS HANDLING

Combilift

Anthony Rooney 047 80500 anthony.rooney@combilift.com www.combilift.com

Henley Forklift Group Ltd

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

PAYMENT SERVICES

Tommy Smyth 021 4634154 tommy@tsaconsultants.ie www.tsaconsultants.ie

INSURANCE

Margin Investments Ltd t/a NFP

Kevin Whelan 01 6672644 kevin.whelan@nfpireland.ie www.nfpireland.ie

O’Leary Insurance Group

David Lombard 021 4730005 dlombard@oli.ie www.olearyinsurances.ie

BOI Payment Acceptance

Rory Brennan 1800 806 298 rory.brennan@boipa.com www.boipa.com

Elavon Merchant Services

Peter Cooke 081 820 2120 peter.cooke@elavon.com www.elavon.com

HAI Corporate Partners

RECRUITMENT

Tactical Talent

Vinny Kelly 01 9079192

info@tacticaltalent.ie www.tacticaltalent.ie

RECYCLING SOLUTIONS

European Recycling Platform

Martin Tobin 01 6624040

ireland@erp-recycling.org www.erp-recycling.ie

SECURITY SYSTEMS

Securitas Technology Ireland

Denise McCarthy 086 1916327

denise.mccarthy@securitas.com www.securitastechnology.com/ire

SHOPFITTERS/RACKING SYSTEMS / DIGITAL PRICE LABELS

DIGI

Jennifer Keogh 01 2954844 jennifer@digi.ie www.digi.ie

Johnston Shopﬁtters

Shane Brennan 01 4190419 sales@johnston-shopﬁtters.com www.johnston-shopﬁtters.com

OHRA Racking Solutions

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

Shop Equipment Ltd.

Padraig Downey 087 8135242

Padraig_downey@sel.ie www.shopequipment.ie

Storeﬁt Shopﬁtters Limited

Eamonn Brien 021 4344544 eamonn.brien@storeﬁt.com www.storeﬁt.com

Store 2000

Paul Bennett 087 2332402

Paul@store2000.ie www.store2000.ie

IP Telecom Sales Team 01 6877777 sales@iptelecom.ie www.iptelecom.ie

Why become a HAI Corporate Partner?

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

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

• A listing on the HAI website, www.hardwareassociation.ie

• The use of the widely recognised HAI Corporate Partner logo and a Corporate Partnership Certiﬁcate

• A free listing with logo and contact details on the Corporate Partners Pages in each issue of The Hardware Journal

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

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

• A preferential rate for exhibitor space at The Hardware Show

• Positioning your company as a solution-provider for the hardware, building materials and DIY sectors

• Access to all the latest industry news via regular emails and updates.

Want to ﬁnd out more?

New look for Topline Murtaghs Ashbourne

Back in 2022, Colin Murtagh and his staff had a meeting where the possibility of a shop extension was discussed. The idea was to extend their existing store by 900sqft to give them more space. But after construction work started in October 2023, it quickly became clear that this was going to be more than just an extension; the management team discussed and agreed to an entire store revamp.

Murtaghs quickly set to work, with the help of the Topline team, to plan out a whole new store layout. They introduced some new categories and re-sized existing category space. They changed ﬂooring, changed paint stands and improved the store’s interior and look. A new Flooring Studio was introduced, and a new Sales Counter was created in the centre of the store.

According to Colin Murtagh “We’ve created a store that we’re really proud of, that provides our customers with a great shopping experience. Our hard work is already paying off as we are very proud to be recently named as ﬁnalists in the Retail Excellence Ireland Awards. These awards are amongst the most prestigious retail awards in Ireland that celebrates the outstanding achievements and excellence in the Irish retail industry. The winners will be named at an awards ceremony in November”.

“We’re a Top 30 finalist in “National Retailer of the Year”, a Top 5 finalist in “Independent Store of the Year” and a Top 5 finalist in “Small Online Retailer of the Year”. So, we’re absolutely thrilled.”

“Murtaghs have been part of the Ashbourne Community for over 67 years, so we hope these improvements, along with our online business www.murtaghs.ie, will future proof our business for the next generation.”

View from front door.

New 360o sales counter.

Paint Department signage.

New Extention Inside.

New Flooring Studio.

New Paint Department.

Same great cement now available in both the reliable paper bag and new plastic bag. www.irishcement.ie

Building Materials & Supplies

New Dulux AquaMax Satinwood

Dulux continues with their vision of driving environmental excellence through innovative solutions with the addition of Dulux AquaMax Satinwood Colour Mixing, Primer Undercoat and Gloss.

Available in Satinwood Colour Mixing, Gloss White and Primer Undercoat across a range of sizes, Dulux AquaMax products go on smoothly and have excellent coverage, so your customer gets a beautiful ﬁnish every time. In addition to that, it’s easy to apply and fast drying, meaning they can complete their project without any fuss and get on with the rest of their day.

The Dulux AquaMax range is water-based for use on interior and exterior wood and metal surfaces, giving your customers amazing value for money. In addition, the Satinwood and Primer undercoat have Ultra Low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s) compared to traditional paints, making them better for

the environment and consumers health. It has low odour too, for a more enjoyable decorating experience.

For further information on this new product and to see what decorators are saying, visit www.duluxtradepaintexpert.ie/ en/products/aquamax-satinwood-colour-mix or scan the QR code.

Building Materials & Supplies

Pipelife’s modernisation plan shows commitment to Irish market

Pipelife is one of Ireland’s leading manufacturers and providers of plastic piping systems. Specialising in the extrusion of polyethylene & PVC pipes, Pipelife offers industry-leading products for heating & plumbing, water pressure, electricity, cable ducting, gas and agricultural sectors. In recent years the Irish operation has focused very heavily on renewable heating products & services, along with its traditional focus on plumbing & heating pipes and fittings. They also have a large focus on sewage, soil, rainwater and roofline products and has grown significantly over the years in the Irish, UK and continental European market.

Demonstrating its long-term commitment to the Irish market, in June this year Pipelife Ireland completed the first phase of its latest investment plan in its manufacturing operation in Cork. This first phase investment of €15m entailed the replacement or upgrade of the entire water cooling and raw material distribution networks across the entire plant, the upgrading of offices, canteens, locker rooms, toilets, the installation and commissioning of six new high speed, automated extrusion lines for PVC, ABS and PP products, and the completion of a new purpose built Renewables Academy to cater for training of installers, architects, specifiers and merchants.

In the coming months Pipelife will be installing four further high speed, automated extrusion lines, and the continuing investment plan will see all older extrusion lines being replaced by the end of 2027, bringing the total investment in the Cork plant to over €30m.

By then Pipelife Ireland will have 28 high speed, automated extrusion lines operating in its Cork plant, with an average age of 6 years, and with an annual capacity to extrude some 48,000 tonnes of pipe across the sewage, soil, cable protection, water, gas, rooﬂine, rainwater and plumbing & heating sectors.

Complementary to this investment in equipment and facilities, an IDA backed €4m, 3-year training programme to upskill its more than 200 employees is currently underway in Pipelife Ireland. These investments in their people and equipment will ensure that Pipelife is positioned to remain a long term Irish producer of ‘Guaranteed Irish’ piping systems for the Irish market.

The signiﬁcant investment in new equipment, personnel and services will position their Irish operations as a world class manufacturing facility for many years to come. This very visible investment shows Pipelife’s long term commitment to the Irish market and there is no doubt that the scale, modernity and product portfolio of the new Pipelife Ireland operations will be very attractive as a supply chain partner for the major merchant groups, builders and installers in the country.

Pipelife Ireland Solutions Limited is thrilled to announce the opening of their new, state-of-the-art, purpose-built Renewables Academy. This exciting development is set to be a signiﬁcant beneﬁt to installers, builders’ merchants, BER assessors, and professionals within the heating and construction industry.

Key Features of the Renewables Academy:

• Free Courses: They offer a range of free courses that are accessible to all industry professionals.

• Expert-Led Training: Their courses are led by members of their Technical Team, who bring a wealth of practical knowledge and expertise in installation practices.

• Comprehensive Product Knowledge: Attendees will gain valuable insights into Pipelife’s heating technologies, ensuring they are well-equipped with the best product knowledge and installation techniques.

• Manufacturing Facility Tour: Participants will have the unique opportunity to tour the Pipelife manufacturing facility. This tour allows visitors to see ﬁrst-hand where their high-quality products are made.

By participating in these courses, industry professionals will be able to enhance their skills and knowledge, ensuring that they can meet the highest standards of customer satisfaction.

Pipelife Ireland Solutions Limited are also proud members of Guaranteed Irish. This membership indicates their commitment to supporting local employment, contributing to the community, and ensuring the Irish provenance of their products. As a member of Guaranteed Irish, they also demonstrate a dedication to high-quality standards and a positive impact on the Irish economy and society.

For more information and to talk to their team call 021 488 4700 or e-mail them at ireland@pipelife.com

Multi Stick - the one stick solution

Designed to bond virtually anything to everything, whether in wet or dry conditions, underwater, or in the rain. Multi Stick delivers exceptional bonding strength, rapid curing, and superior anti-slip performance, making every application effortless and precise.

• Incredible Initial Grab: Securely holds materials in place instantly.

• Exceptional Bonding Strength: Delivers a durable, reliable hold on both porous and non-porous surfaces.

• Versatile Application: Ideal for use in wet and dry environments, even underwater.

Multi Stick is expertly crafted to handle any bonding challenge with exceptional ease. Thanks to its advanced anti-slip bonding technology, Multi Stick guarantees a ﬂawless, professional ﬁnish every time. Multi-Stick is thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of professional tradespeople, carefully packed in a 350ml size to ensure convenience and usability.

Multi Stick’s rigorous manufacturing process ensures meticulous attention to detail, delivering consistent and reliable performance in every tube. Multi Stick is not just an adhesive; it’s the ultimate choice for those who demand perfection in every project.

Multi Stick caters to an extensive array of applications, including but not limited to:

• Bonding Difﬁcult Materials: Versatile enough to bond challenging materials like glass, granite, marble, and metal.

• Chemical Spillage Resistance: Effective in environments where exposure to chemical spills is a concern, ensuring durability and reliability.

• Outdoor and Weather-Exposed Applications: Ideal for use in exterior settings where weather resistance is crucial, such as on building facades or outdoor furniture.

• Bathroom and Kitchen Installations: Useful for attaching ﬁxtures, tiles, and panels in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens.

• Construction and Renovation Projects: Essential for general construction and renovation tasks where highstrength bonding is required.

• Home Improvement Projects: Versatile for a wide range of home improvement tasks requiring a reliable adhesive.

Looking for the perfect adhesive for all your customer`s bonding needs? Multi Stick - the one stick solution for multiple jobs, ideal for bonding a variety of materials.

To ﬁnd out more, visit www.sika.ie/distribution

Incredible Initial Grab: Securely holds materials in place instantly.

Exceptional Bonding Strength: Delivers a durable, reliable hold on both porous and non-porous surfaces. Versatile Application: Ideal for use in wet and dry environments, even underwater.

NEW NEW PRE-ROPED PRE-ROPED

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CORRUGATED CABLE PROTECTION PIPE SYSTEM IN STOCK & READY FOR DELIVERY.

50/40 PE Coil x 50mtr black

50/40 PE Coil x 50mtr red (fits ESB hockey stick!)

50/40 PE Coil x 50mtr green

50/40 PE Coil x 50mtr blue 12 coils per pallet

110/94 PE Coil x 50mtr black

110/94 PE Coil x 50mtr red

110/94 PE Coil x 50mtr green 5 coils per pallet

75/63 50mtr pre~roped Blue

Wavin set to launch Ductile Iron B125 range

Leading plumbing and drainage manufacturer Wavin has launched B125, a new range of covers and frames to complement its extensive A15 offering, designed for use in gravity drainage installations.

The Ductile Iron B125 covers and frames, available in 450mm and 600mm square sizes, are designed for use in private residential and non-residential pedestrian areas – making them ideal for single domestic driveways and public footpaths. With the rise of SUVs and EVs, modern cars are getting both bigger and heavier. A typical family car can now weigh over 2 tonnes. As the new B125 range covers a maximum weight loading of 12.5 tonnes, this offers peace of mind for any family car or van.

Independently tested and certiﬁed, the B125 rated covers are also the recommended requirement for non-trafﬁcked public spaces – supporting local authorities and developers with their drainage.

Features of the B125 covers include a 75mm frame depth and all-round square edges, ideal for fast and easy installation into block paving and improved tarmac adhesion. Additionally, the range includes optional cover locking points for increased security for higher risk areas.

Steve Jeffries, product manager at Wavin, said: “The launch of our Wavin Ductile Iron B125 covers and frames is set to advance our drainage offerings and help contractors ensure a high quality and durable installation in domestic driveways and public pedestrian areas”.

“The Wavin drainage inspection chambers offer several base and shaft conﬁgurations to gain access to underground drainage pipelines, giving speciﬁers and installers the freedom to choose the most suitable system for their needs. The covers are for use with Wavin 450 Universal and Tegra 600 Inspection Chambers. The development of our B125 covers and frames provides additional options for those in the industry.”

For more information about Wavin’s latest Ductile Iron B125 range contact your sales representative or see www.wavin.ie

Building Materials & Supplies

Tackling heavy-duty drainage challenges with Monotec Ultra F900

In high-traffic areas like industrial zones, ports, logistics hubs, and highways, managing surface water while withstanding extreme loads is a significant challenge. Monotec Ultra F900 provides the perfect solution, designed specifically for environments where large vehicles and heavy rainfall demand a drainage system that excels under pressure.

With a robust ductile iron grating, Monotec Ultra easily handles the forces exerted by heavy vehicle maneuvering and braking, ensuring long-lasting stability. Its smooth polypropylene body and large inlets allow for fast, efﬁcient drainage, even during heavy rainfall, preventing pooling and maintaining site safety.

Maintenance is minimal, thanks to the easy ﬂushing system accessible through an access box, while the break-proof polypropylene body adapts easily during installation. Additionally, Monotec Ultra is built to last, resistant to frost, UV rays, road salt, corrosion, and chemicals. Made from recycled materials, it also aligns with sustainable practices, offering an eco-friendly solution without compromising on performance.

For areas that require durability and efﬁciency in harsh conditions, Monotec Ultra F900 is the reliable choice for

Building Materials & Supplies

Combilift

product range

Handling building materials of different shapes, sizes and weights such as piping, timber, and palletised goods can present various challenges for traditional forklifts.

Irish forklift manufacturer Combilift has over 26 years of experience in the material handling sector and offers an all-inone product range that eliminates the necessity for multiple machines to accomplish a single task, resulting in a reduction of your ﬂeet size, increasing productivity and eliminating timeconsuming double handling.

Multidirectional forklift models such as those in the C-Series and CB range are designed to travel sideways while handling long and bulky loads, for example, timber panels or pipes. The sideways function eliminates the need for overhead carrying while navigating narrow aisles and tight spaces, which signiﬁcantly reduces the risk of injury or collision. This allows for more efﬁcient use of available space, creating a safer working environment while saving costs.

Combilift’s pedestrian stacker range is also an excellent choice for busy building supply and DIY stores, whether you need to safely handle pallets or long loads. The pedestrian range is equipped with the patented and award-winning multi-position tiller arm, ensuring maximum safety for the operator and pedestrians nearby. This feature enables the operator to remain in the safest position when working in narrow aisles - at the side of the truck and not at the rear as with other pedestrian stackers. This, in turn, reduces the risk of the operator becoming trapped between the truck and the racking and ensures full visibility of the load and the surrounding area.

Contact Combilift today to show you how their wide range of products can help your company make the most of your existing space and enhance the efﬁciency and safety of your operations.

For more information, visit www.combilift.com

Decarbonising homes with the Grant Vortex HVO biofuel boiler & Grant Spira Pell

For over four decades Grant’s innovative heating technologies have become the driving force of many heating systems across Ireland. This is mainly due to their reliability, high efﬁciency, and their ability to reduce carbon emissions and provide effective heating solutions for both existing homes and new builds.

The Grant product portfolio includes ranges of condensing oil and HVO biofuel boilers, condensing wood pellet boilers, air to water air source heat pumps, solar thermal panels, underﬂoor heating, hot water cylinders and aluminium radiators.

For many years the Grant Vortex condensing boiler range has been a core product for the manufacturer and is often the product of choice for upgrading existing home heating systems throughout the country. In recent years, Grant innovated its Grant Vortex range to enable the technology to run using 100% HVO biofuel. This breakthrough in research and the development of HVO-ready condensing boilers saw the manufacturer largely transform into a renewable heating company.

All boilers within the Grant Vortex range come HVO biofuel ready and older Grant condensing boilers can be adapted to run on HVO, with required modiﬁcations being carried out by a service engineer during an annual service. This adaptability of the Grant Vortex range is helping immensely with the move towards a low carbon future, whilst still providing the reliability and efﬁciency that is synonymous with Grant.

The award-winning HVO biofuel compatible Grant Vortex condensing boiler range is helping to reduce carbon emissions in rural and hard to heat properties. Barry Gorman, National Renewables Sales Manager explains, “Using 100% HVO to heat a home can result in around 88% reduction in carbon emissions and using a percentage blend of HVO with kerosene

can help the transition to a renewable green alternative from 100% kerosene at an affordable cost, with minimum disruption to everyday lives, as opposed to incurring the high cost and disruption associated with deep retroﬁtting.”

Utilising HVO will also help Ireland to signiﬁcantly decarbonise approximately 680,000 existing residential homes, at a cost of approximately €500 per existing oil boiler installation when matching and changing to a new biofuel burner and substantially less if the boiler is already biofuel ready.

For larger, more rural properties, the Grant Spira Pell condensing wood pellet boiler can also be considered. The Spira Pell utilises indigenous wood pellets to offer a truly environmentally friendly heating solution. This ultra-high efﬁciency wood pellet boiler is one of the most innovative and sustainable boiler designs on the market today and offers property owners a cost-effective, low carbon heat source for larger, more rural properties.

The Spira Pell range is made using high grade steel and stainless steel, with the same simplicity of operation of any boiler type and is available in outputs from 5kW to 33kW. The boiler is easily installed and offers optimal control with an easy-to-use touch screen which provides clear and accurate information on the systems daily operations. The Spira Pell also includes useful features like a universal hopper, rapid ignition and user-friendly digital display.

Visit www.grant.ie for more information on Grant’s range of innovative heating solutions. Follow Grant on Facebook and Twitter @GrantIRL or Instagram @Grant_IRL

Think Heating. Think Grant.

Grant Spira Pell condensing boiler.

HVO biofuel compatible Grant Vortex outdoor module.

Sustainability as a business unit

Sustainability in business refers to a company’s strategy and actions to reduce adverse environmental and social impacts resulting from business operations. It also relates to incorporating sustainability related issues into the impacts, risks and opportunities of the business model. Beyond helping curb global challenges, sustainability can drive business success, create operational and cost efﬁciencies, and develop new growth opportunities.

Sustainability in the corporate environment has become an increasingly important priority and one that is driving strategic transformation globally. With the pressure to embed sustainability in business practices increasing, the need for a holistic, organised, and systematic approach is required.

What are some of the challenges facing organisations when it comes to sustainability?

The challenge to be addressed should be establishing a sustainability strategy, or incorporating sustainability into the current business strategy. Sustainability has long been on the agenda for many companies, however sustainability actions may be disconnected from their core strategies. Rather than taking a fragmented, reactive approach, treating sustainability as a key issue with a direct impact on results can drive business success. Consequences of not implementing a sustainability strategy could include increased exposure to external events, forcing your company to be reactive. This lack of streamlining across departments resulting in lost opportunities and inefﬁciency, potential for reputational risk, or regulatory ﬁnes.

Begin with the ‘Who’

Many businesses struggle with how to start building a sustainability strategy. Like any organisational strategy, it should begin by looking beyond your business and customers play a key role in determining the starting point. If your business is part of a larger company’s supply chain, you may be impacted by the EU’s new Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). While reporting under CSRD is mandatory for some larger companies, most SMEs won’t need to report directly. However, as part of the supply chain, you could be asked to provide information in the future. Therefore, it’s crucial to assess what your larger customers will require from you in the next three years as you develop your business’s sustainability strategy and roadmap.

Your ‘Now’ – What are you already doing?

While many businesses tend to focus on the environmental aspect of ESG, they may already be doing signiﬁcant work in the Social and Governance areas. Social considerations encompass a wide range of activities, including community

involvement, employee health and well-being, and labour and human rights. In fact, many of these practices are often embedded in staff handbooks and existing company policies. Recognising and building on what your business is already doing in these areas is an important step in shaping a comprehensive sustainability strategy.

Your

‘Future’

– Where Are You Headed?

For most SMEs, the key priorities are growing the business, adding value for customers, and attracting and retaining top talent. Developing a sustainability strategy can help achieve these goals. By considering customer expectations and conducting a situational analysis, businesses can identify the gaps in their sustainability efforts. This forms the foundation of a strategic roadmap, which might include steps like measuring the company’s carbon footprint or pursuing certiﬁcations such as EcoVadis for B2B or BCorp for B2C.

The ‘How’

As with any strategy, implementing sustainability requires proper resourcing, which can be challenging and costly, depending on customer expectations. At the roadmap stage, it’s essential to budget for these activities and carefully consider how the strategy will be executed. Establishing a Green Team or appointing Sustainability Champions within your organisation can help drive the implementation and ensure you meet your sustainability goals.

Sustainability work also beneﬁts from sponsorship and leaders who can drive the transformation. The wider leadership team plays an important role in collaborating across the company and delivering on key aspects of the sustainability transition. They play a critical role by contributing diverse experience, resources and perspectives to drive the organisation towards achieving the goals laid out. The collaborator group and wider leadership team have key responsibilities in facilitating knowledge sharing, innovation and implementing sustainable practices.

If pulling a team of dedicated people from within your organisation is not an option, ﬁnding outsourcing sustainability support may be the best option. At Pragmatica, we act as an outsourced sustainability partner and provide tailored sustainability services as well as deep expertise, to help our clients to add value to their sustainability journeys.

If you would like more information on bringing a sustainability partnership to your organisation and meet your speciﬁc needs, please get in touch with one of our experts.

hello@pragmatica.ie

JOHN BARRY

Payments and FX Consultant, Fexco

Make supplier payments to China with less friction and less cost

Irish imports from China totalled US$11.55 Billion during 2023, according to the United Nations COMTRADE database on international trade.

Identifying the most economic and efﬁcient way to pay Chinese suppliers for goods is crucial for businesses.

Paying suppliers in China: What are the key challenges? According to research from a survey of 250 Irish SMEs reported in the Irish Times, www.irishtimes.com/ business/2022/11/24/seven-out-of-10-smes-fear-closurenext-year-due-to-rising-costs-research/, almost all respondents cited frustrations when using banks’ international banking services – almost a third (32%) complained of the complexity and speed of these services, and more than a quarter (27%) said fees are either too high or too confusing.

Let us take a closer look at some of the top challenges when making foreign currency payments to China

1. Currency exchange rate risk/fees.

• Exchange rate risk: Payments to Chinese suppliers are often made in Chinese renminbi (RMB) or US Dollars (USD), and the value of the Euro can ﬂuctuate, impacting the total cost.

• Foreign exchange fees: Uncompetitive rates and high international payment fees offered by traditional banks when exchanging euros to dollars can increase transaction costs and eat into proﬁt margins.

According to a paper from the European Central Bank, banks across Europe earn hundreds of millions of euros a year from charging small corporate customers for foreign exchange services. www.irishtimes.com/business/ﬁnancial-services/ banks-accused-of-systematic-gouging-of-small-customerson-fx-1.3928064

The report also reveals that rates for hedging solutions to protect against swings in the exchange rate can be 25 times higher for smaller corporate clients.

2. Lack of dedicated support from payment provider

Given the complexity around issues like regulation and payment formatting for transactions to China, importers need a dedicated line of communication with their payment provider to query and resolve any issues, especially around time sensitive payments.

However, traditional banks often reserve dedicated support for larger clients, leaving smaller businesses without an assigned account manager, so it can be difﬁcult for smaller businesses to speak to the right person when help with cross-border payments is urgently required.

3. Lack of choice in payment currency

Chinese suppliers usually invoice in either US dollars (USD) or Euros (EUR), but the price in these currencies will usually be higher than the renminbi equivalent. This is because the supplier will often look to protect themselves against the cost of transferring dollars or euros back to renminbi and premiums can be signiﬁcant.

In effect, Irish importers are effectively covering the cost of potential currency market volatility leading to higher costs. Paying in renminbi may reduce costs but many traditional banks do not offer payments in these currencies.

There is a better way to pay Chinese suppliers

In many cases, companies accept these unnecessary costs and frictions as simply a factor of doing business with suppliers in China, not realising that there is potentially a better approach.

Another way that Irish companies could potentially save money is to simply ask their Chinese supplier for a price in both Chinese renminbi and US dollars. The company can then check the euro/ renminbi rate and the euro /dollar rate to see which is more cost-effective. Often, they will ﬁnd that the euro/renminbi is signiﬁcantly cheaper.

How do I compare euro / Chinese renminbi and euro / US dollar rates?

Headquartered in Killorglin, Co Kerry, Fexco International Payments provides innovative and cost-effective foreign currency payment solutions to importers and exporters. They will be able to help you compare pricing in dollars and Chinese renminbi and work with you to ﬁgure out the most cost-effective method of payment. Their success is built on customer service, and you will be allocated an account manager, so you will always have a direct line to someone who will be able to help.

If you would like to discuss any of the above in more detail, please contact John Barry, jobarry@fexco.com (066) 9799041

Optimising your cash management with Brink’s

In today’s fast-paced business environment, effective cash management is more critical than ever. Regardless of the size or nature of your business, handling cash efficiently, securely, and accurately can significantly impact your bottom line. Ireland’s leader in cash management solutions, Brink’s works with companies to optimise their cash handling processes. By conducting comprehensive cash management optimisation reviews, Brink’s helps businesses improve security, efficiency, and accuracy.

The Importance of Optimised Cash Management

Cash remains the lifeblood of many businesses, keeping operations running smoothly. However, without proper oversight and continual improvement, cash handling processes can become outdated, leading to unnecessary risks and inefﬁciencies. Brink’s digital cash management solutions ensure that every step of your cash handling journey - from receiving payments to depositing funds - is executed seamlessly, minimising potential errors and maximising operational effectiveness.

A Cash Management Optimisation Review, offered by Brink’s, provides a detailed assessment of your existing processes, identifying key areas for improvement and offering actionable insights to strengthen your cash management operations. This proactive approach not only safeguards your assets but also lays the foundation for adopting digital solutions that elevate your business performance.

Key Beneﬁts of a Cash Management Optimisation Review: – Enhanced Security

Protecting your ﬁnancial assets is paramount. Ineffective cash handling procedures can expose your business to risks such as theft, fraud, and loss. Brink’s evaluates your existing security measures, including cash storage, transportation, and access controls to pinpoint vulnerabilities. Implementing the recommended improvements helps create a robust security framework that protects your cash, providing peace of mind and securing your business from potential ﬁnancial setbacks.

– Improved Efﬁciency

Streamlining cash handling processes can lead to significant time and cost savings. Inefficiencies like redundant steps, manual errors, and slow reconciliation procedures can hinder productivity and divert valuable resources. Brink’s reviews your workflow to identify bottlenecks and suggests streamlined processes, automation opportunities, and best practices to accelerate operations. These efficiency improvements not only reduce cash handling operational costs but also allow your team to focus on core business activities.

– Increased Accuracy

Accurate cash management is essential for maintaining ﬁnancial integrity and making informed business decisions. Errors in counting, recording, or reporting cash transactions can lead to discrepancies that impact budgeting, forecasting, and overall ﬁnancial health. Brink’s review assesses your current methods for handling and tracking cash, recommending solutions such as advanced counting technologies. These enhancements foster better transparency and accountability within your business.

– A Foundation for Secure, Digital Cash Handling

As businesses evolve, embracing digital cash management solutions becomes crucial for future success. Brink’s helps you transition to systems that offer real-time monitoring, enhanced data analytics, and seamless integration with other financial platforms. The optimisation review serves as a pivotal first step in this transformation, providing a clear roadmap tailored to your specific needs. By establishing this foundation, your business can more readily adapt to market demands and leverage innovative tools that drive competitive advantage.

Taking the First Step Toward Excellence

Undertaking a Cash Management Optimisation Review with Brink’s is a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. This evaluation empowers businesses to proactively address challenges, implement effective solutions, and fortify their ﬁnancial operations.

Ready to Transform Your Cash Management?

There’s no better time than now to elevate your cash handling processes and secure your business’s ﬁnancial future. By investing the time in Brink’s Cash Management Optimisation Review, you take a decisive step toward optimising operations and embracing innovative, secure solutions that can propel your business forward!

For a limited time, Brink’s is offering a complimentary Cash Management Optimisation Review to help you streamline, secure, and enhance the accuracy of your cash operations.

Scan the QR code to book your review today and discover how optimised cash processes can make a lasting impact on your organisation’s success.

JOHN O’SHANAHAN Managing Director of LeanBPI

Digitalisation in small businesses: A practical approach

As digitalisation continues to reshape the business landscape, small businesses face a unique set of challenges in adopting new technologies. Unlike larger enterprises, small businesses often lack dedicated IT teams or the resources to manage complex digital transformations. The good news is that even without extensive IT support, small businesses can successfully navigate this journey.

The Starting Point: Assessing Digital Readiness

Many small business owners already use digital tools like cloud-based accounting, POS systems, or online marketing. However, the extent of digital integration varies depending on the owner’s tech experience, industry, and business needs. A key ﬁrst step is assessing both the business’s digital readiness and the team’s ability to use these tools effectively. This dual approach ensures that the business is not only equipped with the right tools but also that the team is prepared to use them effectively.

Identifying Opportunities for Digitalisation

Digitalisation varies for each business. Some focus on streamlining internal operations i.e. using digital tools to make tasks easier for staff, freeing up time for more value-added activities while others may choose to improve customer communication through email or expanding into eCommerce, while others use data to improve business performance. The key is to start small, targeting speciﬁc problems or processes where digital tools can bring direct improvements to ease their pain points, rather than getting overwhelmed by all the options available.

Early Wins: Building a Foundation for Future Initiatives

A key strategy for small businesses starting digitalisation is to focus on early wins - cost-effective, low-risk initiatives that show quick results. These successes build conﬁdence and lay the groundwork for bigger projects. For example, replacing paper-based or Excel-driven processes with digital tools can automate routine tasks thereby minimising errors, and improving overall efﬁciency.

Hoey’s DIY, a hardware store in Castlebellingham, partnered with Lean BPI to implement a cloud-based solution for realtime order tracking, allowing staff to monitor status of any order via phone or tablet regardless of location, schedule rework, capture job photos, and send automated SMS notiﬁcations. This system has improved their operational efﬁciency and customer satisfaction.

Closing the Gaps: Integrating Digital Systems

Many businesses, even those partially digitalised, still rely on manual processes due to gaps in system integration, which can be especially challenging for small businesses. A practical approach is identifying these gaps and ﬁnding digital tools that integrate smoothly.

As small businesses expand into online sales, integrating legacy in-house systems with cloud platforms has become a common challenge. Previously, this required costly solutions, but advances in digital tech now offer affordable options. For example, Robotic Process Automation (RPA) can bridge the gap by automating data transfer between systems, such as syncing an in-house POS with an online sales platform, ensuring accurate inventory management across both.

A Strategic Approach to Digitalisation

Small businesses can simplify digitalisation by taking a strategic approach - assessing readiness, targeting key improvements, and focusing on early wins. A problem-solving mindset is also crucial and ensures digital tools address speciﬁc challenges and enhance processes, making efforts purposeful and aligned with business goals.

Government Supports

The Digital for Business programme is a free initiative from the Local Enterprise Ofﬁce that has recently been expanded to enterprises employing up to 50 staff. Through expert consultancy, businesses receive guidance on analysing their existing digital systems to identify gaps, optimise current tools and select innovative solutions to enhance efﬁciency and improve overall business performance.

The Path Forward

Digitalisation offers small businesses tremendous opportunities to improve efﬁciency, enhance customer experiences, and unlock new growth avenues. By taking a measured, problem-solving approach, small businesses can successfully navigate the digitalisation journey.

The goal is not just to adopt recent technologies but to integrate them in a way that drives real value for the business. Small businesses that embrace digitalisation position themselves to thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace, ensuring long-term success and competitiveness.

For further information visit www.leanbpi.ie or contact John O’Shanahan at johnoshanahan@leanbpi.ie, 087 7444887.

Lumber & building materials - USA

Lumber & building materials dealers in the USA: An overview

As a contributor to The Hardware Journal, I’m happy to share insights from the United States, where I live and work just outside of Boston, Massachusetts. Following my previous article on residential construction in the US, this article focuses on Lumber & Building Materials (LBM) dealers, particularly independent lumberyards, a key player in the industry. In the US, LBM dealers can be broadly categorised into four main types:

Independent Lumber Dealers (Lumberyards): These businesses are typically privately-owned and operate independently of large chains. They sell a wide range of lumber products, hardware, and other construction materials to contractors, builders, and homeowners. Unlike their larger counterparts, independent lumberyards focus on personalised service and in-depth product knowledge.

Big Box Home Centers: These large retail stores, like Home Depot and Lowe’s, offer a broad selection of home improvement products. They cater primarily to DIY customers with their extensive inventory, including lumber, hardware, paint, plumbing, electrical, appliances, and more. They’re mostly warehouse-type stores with about 100,000+ square feet.

Specialty Building Products Dealer: These dealers specialise in speciﬁc product categories, such as rooﬁng, siding, or windows. They offer a broader and deeper selection within their specialty areas compared to general lumberyards or home centers. But they do not carry all the various products a lumberyard or home centre would normally carry.

Hardware Stores: As you would expect these stores sell a wide range of products for home improvement, maintenance and repair. Including fasteners; tools; hardware; limited plumbing & electrical supplies; paint & sundries; garden tools; cleaning supplies; etc. They are often smaller, locally owned businesses, though they can also be part of national or regional chains. They are known for their knowledgeable staff who can provide advice and guidance on various home improvement projects.

For this article, I will be focusing on the Independent Lumberyards in the US. There really is no “typical” lumberyard, due to various sizes, layouts, and geography. However, they share several common traits;

Product Range and Customer Base: Independent lumberyards carry a comprehensive range of building materials, including framing lumber, plywood, engineered wood products, rooﬁng, siding, windows, doors, tools, and more. While they do serve some DIY customers, their primary clientele consists of professionals - general contractors, home builders, and remodelers. This professional focus allows lumberyards to provide specialised services and products not typically found at big box stores.

Service and Expertise: One of the key differentiators of independent lumberyards is their commitment to service. Most lumberyards have multiple sales counters to better serve their customers. They’ll have a “Retail/DIY” sales counter and it’s usually towards the front of their store. They’ll also have a separate “Contractor” counter, or ofﬁces/cubicles, to better serve their professional customers. Moreover, they employ extremely knowledgeable staff who understand local building codes and can provide expert advice.

Outside Sales Representatives (OSRs) and Inside Sales Coordinators (ISCs): Many lumberyards employ OSRs who work directly with customers, visiting job sites and building strong business relationships. They have the option to work from home for their administrative duties (plan take-offs, quoting, etc) and many of them only go into their lumberyard occasionally. Depending on their drive, skill level, and geography, annual residential OSR’s volume ranges from $3.5M to $20M USD (3.1M to 18M Euros), with the average being $6M-$7M USD (5.4M-6.3M Euros). ISCs support OSRs by handling administrative tasks and ensuring smooth communication between customers and the lumberyard. OSR duties include:

• Sales & services, established accounts and regularly pursues prospects

• Visit jobsites and/or customers’ ofﬁces on a regular basis

• Create a “Business Partnership” with their accounts by recommending products; service & productivity efﬁciencies; etc. to increase sales with customers

• Provide clear, concise info to generate quotes and orders on a timely basis

• Provide accurate info to Shipping/Delivery Department for deliveries (i.e., date, address, instructions)

• Sell more product groups to accounts (i.e., vertical growth)

• Maximise Gross Margins

Lumber & building materials - USA

• Stay up to date on new products, services, and local building codes

• Attend builder association meetings

• Maintain a positive image at all times as a company representative

ISCs main responsibility is to provide administrative support for OSRs, along with customers who communicate with them directly. ISCs duties include inputting orders and quotes in the computer system; managing the ﬂow of information between OSR’s, customers, and departments; assist OSR’s in managing their order and quote reports; and more.

ISCs allow the OSR to spend more time out on the road. They work together as a team. Most larger lumberyards have ISCs separated from the counters. It’s not always a one-to-one ratio of OSR to ISC. It depends on the volume of the OSRs. My experience is that a good ISC should be able to handle approximately $10M-$12M USD in total volume from the OSRs.

The majority of US lumberyards pay their OSRs on a commission plan based on Gross Margin Dollars. They usually get a company vehicle or a vehicle allowance, plus gas card, along with a cell phone, laptop, and printer/scanner. ISCs are usually paid an hourly wage, and many lumberyards offer them an incentive based on total Gross Margin Dollars they handle.

Delivery Service: Most US lumberyards offer free delivery service to their professional customers and charge a delivery fee for homeowners/DIYers. They also have varying delivery vehicles including tractor-trailers with piggyback forklifts; 24’ straight body with piggyback forklifts; 16’ ﬂatbeds for small deliveries & emergencies; curtain side box trucks with or without piggyback forklifts; lumber & rooﬁng boom trucks; gypsum boom trucks; and pickup trucks.

Depending on where the lumberyard is located, their delivery radius usually is about 50 miles (80km). However, some deliveries can be as much as 100 miles (161 km). Regarding lead-times, if it’s in stock, the lumberyard can usually deliver it the next business day.

Credit Department: The majority of US lumberyards have in-store credit (house charge) available for their professional customers. The customer ﬁlls out and signs a credit application agreement and the lumberyard will do its due diligence to determine if the customer is credit worthy. While payment terms seem to vary, many have payment terms of Net 30 Days

from Statement Date. Meaning, purchases in September are due no later than the last business day in October. If payments are late, they will charge interest. Just about all lumberyards accept online payments and wire transfers to pay house accounts.

Other Services: Additional services include material take-off lists from plans; layout/placement drawings with engineer stamp for roof and/or ﬂoor trusses, and also for I-Joist ﬂoor systems; kitchen & bath cabinetry design; and more.

Technology: Embracing technology, many lumberyards offer online access 24/7 for their customers. This includes access to the customer’s account, where they can look up invoices/orders/quotes, and pricing. They can also check deliveries and make payments. Numerous lumberyards offer these technological services via their own mobile app for added convenience, enhancing customer service and operational efﬁciency.

As you can tell, independent lumberyards play a vital role in the US LBM industry, offering specialised products, expert services, and a customer-centric approach that differentiates them from larger retailers.

Although I could go on and on about how US lumberyards operate, serve their customers, and drive their bottom line, I believe this article is already long enough. For those interested in learning more about US lumberyards, or exploring potential business opportunities, I am always available for a conversation.

Mike McDole has 40+ years’ experience in the Lumber & Building Materials Industry in the US and is the principal of Firing-Line LBM Advisors (outside of Boston, MA, USA). He helps dealers with management strategies, sales strategies, salespeople, gross margin improvement, proﬁt improvement, and more.

Mike can be reached at Ph. 001.774.372.1367 or Mike@FiringLineLBM.com.

Local retailing in the USA

Defne it, measure it, bonus to it!

A strong and successful bonus plan should align company leaders towards the same common goals. It should be explainable, understandable and measurable. I think this is even more important today.

With increased pressure on wages, higher costs of doing business, and bigger competition, it’s even more critical that independent hardwares know what numbers to watch and we get our whole team involved.

As a CEO, my job is to know the numbers. I know this. I’ve read it in books, and I’ve heard it on podcasts. But that doesn’t mean that I immediately absorbed the advice that was handed to me.

When Alignment Matters Most

In 2013 I was sitting in our conference room with our CFO and our longtime HR Director. He and I were talking about the upcoming excitement related to opening our next store. I love people. So I was excited to interview and hire and train and see our new teammates interact with our new future customers. According to research, customer experience drives 2/3 of customer loyalty and I always equated more team members to a better customer experience.

Out of the corner of my eye, I could see that our CFO was getting a little frustrated. He didn’t speak up, so I didn’t pay a whole lot of attention. Finally, he said “We are going to run out of money if you keep hiring so many people”.

I’m embarrassed to say that I laughed, I didn’t think he was being serious - of course we weren’t going to run out of money! But about ﬁve minutes later, he stood up, slammed his hands down on the table and he said, “We will be bankrupt within a year”. And with that, he left the room.

Well, our CFO also happens to be my husband, so I couldn’t wait until the next day to talk through his concerns - I was having dinner with him later!

Make it measurable

That night was a pivotal moment in our company’s history. We made a plan to understand, share and bonus to the metrics that meant the most to us - to strengthen our teams’ ﬁnancial literacy (and my own) so we could align our needs with our actions.

Nothing happens overnight but for the past several years we have used the same metrics we deﬁned that night to build a strong, resilient, and proﬁtable chain of hardware stores.

Our targets might change slightly each year, but we have five metrics we diligently track. Our leadership team, which includes the back-office staff, the store managers and the assistant store managers understand the categories, their opportunity for financial reward, and the reason behind each goal.

We call them our BIG 5

• Inventory Record Accuracy (IRA) – measures if what we have on the shelves matches what our inventory system says we have

Goal: to sustain 80% accuracy. This means 8 out 10 quantity-on-hand numbers match what’s in the database

• Scan Rate – measures the percentage of our total customers who use or are encouraged to use their loyalty rewards card by individual colleagues for transactions against the total transactions rung up at our POS Goal: 70% of all transactions

• Employee Engagement - a measurement of the emotional commitment associates have to the store and our goals.

Goal: 4.25 overall employee satisfaction on a 5-point scale

Note: we increased the goal this year from 4 to 4.25 to demonstrate our commitment to a happy team

• Overall Satisfaction (OSAT) - The OSAT score is based on how many customers rate us a 5 out of 5 for their overall customer experience based on a one question survey“Please rate your satisfaction with your overall experience at our store”. The question takes into consideration the whole customer experience from the moment the customer walks in our doors up until checkout.

Goal: an average OSAT score of 85%

Note: survey is linked from POS receipt and emailed to our reward customers whose email addresses we have on ﬁle

• Sales per Hour worked (SPH) – this is our way of measuring the productivity of our staff or how many dollars we’re making per hour per employee. The total revenue number is divided by total labour hours available during the week.

Goal example: $140 per labor hour for Q3, 2024

Note: the goal changes seasonally based on customer volume

To provide even more detailed information, I interviewed Francis Felice, Director of Operations for A Few Cool Hardware Stores with a speed round of Q&A.

Local retailing in the USA

Q. Who is included in the company bonus plan?

A. All salaried personnel including Store Managers, Assistant Store Managers and “back ofﬁce” positions representing about 15% of the overall workforce

Q. What percentage of payroll does the bonus plan represent?

A. Qualiﬁed leaders have the potential to earn up to 10% of their salary which is roughly 1.5% of our total payroll costs

Q. Who makes the bonus and KPI decisions

A. Targets are determined by the company CEO, CFO and Director of Operations

Q. When and how are the bonuses paid?

A. Bonuses are paid out quarterly

Q. Do you have any resources or reading material to recommend?

A. I’d encourage those interested to look at Gallup.com and to read the Gallup produced book, It’s the Manager – By Jim Clifton and Jim Harter

Q. Do you anticipate any upcoming changes or ideas as industry trends change?

A. As digital purchases and delivery become an even greater part of our business, we may consider eCommerce metrics being factored into our plan. This could include a goal based on order fulﬁllment (speed and accuracy), cancellation rates etc.

Using Spot Bonuses to incentivise and say thank you

While our main bonus program is available to the leadership team, we also have annual spot bonuses for our front-line team, who are usually part-time and on an hourly rate, and go above and beyond every day of the week. These come into play at times of the year when we have large storewide events that take more than usual effort.

For example, our annual Garden Parties are like a World Cup of events for us! They happen at all our locations over the same weekend and bring in thousands of customers. Our stores aren’t big, so it takes a lot of work to pull them off. In addition to ﬁlling the break rooms with yummy food, and giving everyone new themed t-shirts, we bonus each teammate who

works one of those days $25. If they work both days, they get $50.

This is a lever we have to pull at various times if we think it will help with event alignment and team output.

Some ﬁnal advice

At the end of our formal interview, I asked Francis what advice he would give to you from the perspective of “the Ops Guy” and his response showcases what a thoughtful, engaging leader I know him to be.

He said “Keep the team informed. Don’t wait until the end of the quarter to tell a manager where they are in meeting their goals. Checking in every day is too much, but once a quarter won’t cut it”.

As the CEO, it was always good for me to know that the leadership team wanted to talk about goals, that they wanted to update us on where they were by hitting those goals, and that they wanted to dream big for the growth of our company.

The bottom line is strengthened

This plan is well rounded. The Big 5 measure the categories we believe have the most impact on driving performance and increasing our proﬁt dollars.

We are proud to be a healthy place to work and a great place to shop. With this structure we can manage inventory accurately, make sure our customers and team members are happy and have metrics and goals that complement one another.

If I can provide any more details, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I can be reached at gina@acehardwaredc.com

Gina Schaefer is a visionary entrepreneur and dynamic keynote speaker, best known as the founder of a chain of Ace Hardware Stores, acehardwaredc.com. With nearly 22 years of experience, she has transformed a single hardware store in a neglected neighborhood into a thriving enterprise with 13 locations across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Gina’s business not only provides essential services but also empowers the community, including the recovery community, by fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace.

Is the Epocalypse coming?

It was around two years ago that the phrase Epocalypse ﬁrst came into my consciousness. It was used within a report ‘Predictions 2023: Retail’ written by Forrester, one of the world’s leading Research Groups, based in the US.

Amongst many predictions it made for the US Retail Industry, it went on to make some fascinating observations around eCommerce and particularly those online-only brands and businesses that had for many years been experiencing signiﬁcant growth, often taking market share from the traditional players.

‘Retail’s Epocalypse will bankrupt online-only brands’ Towards the end of the report, it made a startling statement “Retail’s Epocalypse will bankrupt online-only brands that lack a physical strategy”.

At the time, I found this really odd, why would something as devastating as an apocalypse be associated with the world of eCommerce and why would these successful eCommerce businesses suddenly be bankrupt without physical stores?

We’d not long come out of Covid, where eCommerce had received a signiﬁcant boost, and everything continued to point in the completely opposite direction. Surely it was the traditional bricks’n’mortar stores that had the most to fear with their high ﬁxed costs and inability to compete effectively with the far more nimble, online players?

eCommerce share continues to grow

During Covid, eCommerce sales in the UK accelerated to around a third (32.5%) of all retail sales and by 2022, although the proportion of UK retail sales made online had fallen back to 26.5%, once consumers could visit stores again; this was still more than double the level it had been in 2012.

There’s no doubt that the eCommerce growth is having an impact, and as the retail industry continues to experience change and to evolve, there are many examples of traditional bricks’n’mortar business models being disrupted. In fact, the growth of eCommerce has often been blamed for the store and branch closures as consumers turn their backs on traditional stores, preferring the wider range, lower prices and convenience of purchasing online.

Without question, eCommerce was contributing to the decision of many retailers to close stores, but that was far from being the only headwind. Elevated debt burdens reduced the ability of some retailers to adapt to changing customer tastes and tipped others into administration, including high proﬁle examples in the UK such as Debenhams and Wilko.

The Storm Clouds were gathering

What I wasn’t quite so aware of in mid 2022, was that the storm clouds were already gathering for even the largest online-only businesses. As the post-Covid boom in the Home and Garden Industry subsided, the reality began to kick in, and

the combination of slowing sales growth, slim margins and a substantial rise in costs was already beginning to have an impact.

Investment in Google Advertising - Without stores, one of the only real ways to ensure customers can ﬁnd your business today is to invest in Google and social media. Between the period Q1 2020 and Q2 2024, Google’s quarterly revenue more than doubled from $40.9 to $84.3 billion, much of it coming from online advertising. With so many businesses competing to be top of search, online only retailers are forced to increase investment or risk becoming invisible.

Escalating Delivery Costs - But it didn’t stop there, without stores, the only way to get your products into your customers hands is through delivery to their homes or place of their choice. Carriage costs were already high and have increased further in the last four years, compounded by several of the UK’s largest courier’s including Tuffnell’s Parcels falling into administration, as their business models failed to keep up with the eCommerce revolution.

Last Mile Delivery - With Amazon setting the standard and expectations for Last Mile Delivery, the once acceptable three-day lead-time was now being rejected by customers and online businesses were forced to compete, with ﬁrstly 48 hour and now next day being the acceptable norm, at far higher cost. Faster delivery became even more important for online businesses who were now having to compete with next day click’n’collect available from a nationwide network of physical store retailers, making this option easier for customers.

Returns - Most online businesses I come across in our industry have return rates of between 5% and 10%. It’s a signiﬁcant and unfortunately unavoidable cost as consumers have been trained that they can buy, try and return without any

Steve Collinge

The Epocalypse is already here

Within weeks of reading the Forrester article, the first example of what I thought was a very successful online business in the UK, collapsed into administration. www.made.com was a furniture and household retailer that gained significant traction in the market. It focused on offering stylish and affordable furniture through its website, catering to a broad customer base. The company fell into administration in November 2022 after facing financial difficulties. The business was subsequently sold to Next, with the deal involving the transfer of brand, websites, and intellectual property, but this did not include stock, staff, or other assets and liabilities.

This was followed in March 2023 by one of the UK’s favourite online homeware retailers, Cox & Cox and then in October 2023, one of the largest online only Bathroom retailers in the UK, Victoria Plum. Since then, there have been numerous examples of substantial online-only businesses who have succumbed to the dangerous combination of unavoidable escalating costs and tiny margins.

In early September Folkestone Fixings Limited, a £97m turnover tools specialist, submitted a notice of intention to appoint an administrator.

You have four options

For the companies and the thousands of staff involved, Forrester’s Retail Predictions of an Epocalypse were painfully accurate and completely changed my perspective on the likely future of our retail industry. At one stage, I genuinely feared for the future of physical retail, I believed the ‘death of the high street’ was coming and accepted that the growth of eCommerce was unstoppable. It was now crystal clear to me that stores were actually the essential element of any retail proposition and that online and eCommerce on its own was vulnerable.

In conclusion, I’d like to share with you what Forrester said at the end of their report. To avoid the Epocalypse, they made four very clear recommendations to online-only businesses.

They suggested that the only way to survive was to:

1. Open physical stores of their own.

2. Develop shop-in-shop locations.

3. Enter Wholesale partnerships or

4. Shut down your website.

Steve Collinge is an international speaker, inﬂuencer, retail commentator and is Managing Director of Insight Retail Group Ltd and executive editor of Insight DIY. You can follow Steve on LinkedIn and X.

It’s time for something different. It’s time for LMA Workwear

LMA Workwear, the market leader in France have been active in Ireland for over six years. In that time, they have researched and developed a range of workwear that is specifcally designed for the Irish market.

LMA Workwear launched its UTOPIE 4 way stretch at The Hardware Show in Dublin in February this year and it was an instant success. Everyone agreed it was very well designed, very comfortable and very affordable for end users. More importantly, it offers a substantial margin to the stocking merchants.

It was the ﬁrst trousers that LMA Workwear designed and produced in three leg lengths as standard from stock and this is proving very popular not only in Ireland but across all of LMA Workwear’s markets. In fact combining its experience in Ireland, Canada, Africa, Spain, Italy Begium and the Netherlands, LMA Workwear have moved from being a French company selling French product internationally to becoming an international workwear company based in the North of France. They now have a range to match and exceed all expectations.

The UTOPIE is followed by the 1884 and 1885 entry level holster pocket trouser, available in black and navy and again in three leg lengths as standard.

The 1884 and 1885 is priced to sell well to all end users regardless of their budget. They come with a merchandiser pack that shows at a glance your customer size and simpliﬁes reordering.

LMA Workwear’s key principle is that workwear needs to be workwear, not casual wear. Therefore, it needs to be strong with reinforcement where necessary. That does not mean it’s doesn’t have a certain “je ne sais quoi” that sets it apart in its styling.

Equally important is LMA Workwear’s distribution base. The company is looking for partners who are not afraid to offer something different to the market. Something that sets them apart from every other store, all offering the same products and brands.

LMA Workwear will be recruiting merchants in strategic parts of Ireland over the coming 12 months. They offer exclusive arrangements in your local area, unique product styling, growing brand recognition and a great margin opportunity.

We will be contacting selected partners in the near future, but if you would like to know more and have this growing brand ﬁrst in your area, contact the Country Manager Peter Dunican on 087 9660561 or peter.dunican@lebeurre.com to arrange a meeting and explore the opportunities.

Husqvarna personal protective equipment will keep you safe and ready for tough challenges!

The Husqvarna range of protective clothing and equipment is designed with the same craftsmanship and attention to details as their tools. And because they make the machines your customers are using; they know exactly how to make the clothing and equipment that helps use them best.

Workwear

The range of workwear and protective clothing takes season, weather and temperature into consideration - as well as what type of job you are facing.

Helmets

They offer high quality helmets, equipped with hearing protection and visor, for both the professional and residential users.

Boots

They provide a comprehensive range of comfortable foot protection, made from high-quality materials, that will stand up to the many challenges of outdoor work.

Gloves

The Husqvarna gloves range is designed to provide everything your customer will need when it comes to protection and functionality and to get the job done safely.

Ear Defenders and Hearing Protection

Shop from a wide range of ear protectors, from residential hearing protection to professional-grade active ear defenders with intercom and Bluetooth®

Visual Protection

Husqvarna offer your customer a complete range of eye protection from visors and glasses to goggles.

Other Protective Equipment

They also offer Active Cleaning detergent for protective safety equipment that is phosphate free, biodegradable and has been classiﬁed as environmentally compatible. It is also effective for cleaning saw chains, garden machines and air ﬁlters.

For more information on Husqvarna protective clothing and equipment, visit www.Husqvarna.com/ie

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Transforming retail landscapes: Portwest’s strategic evolution

In October 2022, Portwest, a global leader in workwear and PPE, marked a signiﬁcant milestone with the acquisition of Westaro, a well-established name in Irish agricultural and workwear sectors. This strategic move has not only expanded Portwest’s retail footprint but also enriched its product portfolio, setting a new standard in retail transformation.

Over the past year, the synergy between Portwest and Westaro has been accelerating. The expanded sales and merchandising teams have been at the forefront of an ambitious overhaul, bringing a fresh perspective to retail environments through dynamic new installations and store revamps. This rejuvenation strongly aligns with Portwest’s commitment to excellence and innovation in workwear solutions.

The integration of Westaro into Portwest’s operations has facilitated a strategic expansion of product lines. Among these, the AgriShield All Weather range stands out as a testament to the team’s dedication to agricultural safety and durability. Designed to meet the rigorous demands of farm environments, AgriShield products combine robust functionality with comfort, ensuring that workers are well-equipped to face the elements.

In addition to AgriShield, Portwest has introduced the latest collections of Dunlop footwear, Base footwear, and No Risk boots. These brands are renowned for their high performance and reliability. Dunlop’s footwear, known for its superior grip and resilience, is particularly suited for demanding work environments. Base footwear, with its emphasis on safety and comfort, has been a game-changer for various sectors. No Risk boots, designed to offer maximum protection and durability, are now prominently featured in revamped stores, reﬂecting Portwest’s promise to deliver products that exceed industry standards.

The transformation extends beyond mere product updates. The new store installations and revamps have been designed to enhance the customer experience, making it easier for shoppers

to access and explore the full range of Portwest’s offerings. Modernised layouts, interactive displays, and improved product visibility are just some of the enhancements that have been implemented. These changes are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, ensuring that customers can make informed choices and ﬁnd the products best suited to their needs.

Portwest’s efforts over the past year underscore a broader trend within the retail industry: driving towards a more immersive and customer-centric shopping experience. By integrating Westaro’s expertise and expanding its product range, Portwest has set a new benchmark in the workwear sector. The focus on innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction is evident in every facet of the revamped stores and product offerings.

Moving forward, the impact of this acquisition and the subsequent transformation of retail environments will continue to resonate across the industry. Portwest’s strategic vision and operational excellence are reshaping the way workwear is presented and experienced, solidifying its position as a leader in the sector.

For further information email commercial@portwest.ie or visit www.charleshughes.ie

High performance XPS underlays for wood & laminate fooring

DS Supplies are delighted to offer High Tog ﬂooring underlays by Trojan which are designed to provide excellent insulation within a room along with sound reduction, enhancing the comfort of your customer’s living space.

XPS materials are made from extruded polystyrene which are recyclable providing a more sustainable ﬂooring underlay solution. The beneﬁts include:

• Light weight panels are easy to cut & install for laminate & wood ﬂoors.

• Offering superior levelling over the subﬂoor.

• Withstanding heavy loads.

• Non-absorbing resistance to moisture.

• Insulation warmth.

• Durability.

• ECO Friendly.

• Made in the EU.

DS Supplies are also delighted to be one of the headline sponsors at the upcoming NTAI (National Tiling & Flooring Association of Ireland) trade event at the Clanard Court Hotel Athy, Co. Kildare, Ireland’s only trade show devoted to tiling

FLOOR UNDERLAYS THAT HELP INSULATE YOUR HOME!

& ﬂooring products. This annual trade event will take place on November 9th hosting an afternoon trade show and later that evening the awards dinner event.

Hugh Wallace award winning architect, TV star, and founding partner of Douglas Wallace Consultant Architects, will join as Master of Ceremonies and will present the awards to the winners in each category. This prestigious event celebrates excellence and innovation within the tiling and ﬂooring industry, providing an unparalleled opportunity to showcase both company and products. DS Supplies will sponsor the “Best Tile Store within a Hardware Setting” category.

For more information visit www.dssupplies.com or phone (+353) 1 4011 666 or email info@dssupplies.com

NEW

The Prestige Selection by Fortessa - redefning elegance

When decorating any luxury space – every detail counts. You should never settle for less than perfection. This sophisticated range of door furniture will appeal to those seeking to elevate their home with sleek modernity and classic elegance. Combining aesthetic, ergonomic designs with precision engineering – these handles will transform the way you experience your home.

Cutting edge styles & ﬁnishes

The Prestige selection is designed with modern aesthetics in mind, seamlessly blending function and form. Whether you prefer minimalist clean lines or subtle curves, each handle reﬂects contemporary sophistication. Available in a variety of ﬁnishes, including matte black, gun metal grey, and antique bronze, our handles complement any décor, from ultra-modern interiors to the more traditional.

Surpassing exacting standards

Beyond their striking appearance, Fortessa’s luxury door handles are rigorously tested to ensure they meet the highest industry standards for both performance and durability.

Each handle undergoes a series of quality checks, including stress testing and corrosion resistance, to guarantee they can withstand daily use without losing their luster or functionality. Whether for high-trafﬁc areas like kitchens or bathrooms or for more intimate spaces, the handles maintain their impeccable quality over time. Rest assured, these are handles that your customer can rely on for years to come.

Traditional craftsmanship meets cutting edge manufacturing

Craftsmanship is at the heart of every handle in the Prestige selection. These designs are meticulously crafted using premium-grade materials, ensuring not only their beauty but their durability.

Every detail, from the smoothness of the lever to the precision of the finish, reflects Fortessa’s commitment to excellence. This attention to detail results in door handles that feel as good as they look - ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in your customers hand, while making a bold style statement.

Choose Fortessa’s Prestige Selection for a perfect fusion of style, durability, and craftsmanship that will elevate your space to the realm of Prestige.

For further information visit www.laydex.ie

Fortessa Prestige - Horizon.

Fortessa Prestige - Draco.

Fortessa Prestige - Taranis.

Canadia on the importance of wood fooring company training programs

In today’s trend-driven market, expertise remains a key differentiator for companies in the wood ﬂooring industry. Canadia have recognised the importance of continuously improving their own teams’ knowledge and helping that of their retail partners. Implementing relevant training programmes will not only reﬁne technical skills but through good advice and service will ensure high levels of consumer satisfaction and repeat business.

Over time Canadia have developed and evolved training programmes to cover all the key areas, from the different types of wood ﬂooring and where they sit with other ﬂoor coverings, to installation methods and more customer focused areas,

including wood ﬂooring selling techniques. With advancements in eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices, sales teams will beneﬁt by staying up to date on the latest products and advancements.

Canadia believe in ongoing retailer training, helping to ensure they are knowledgeable about the latest technologies, including moisture-resistant ﬂoors. This awareness will lead to better product recommendations and installations with a greener environmental footprint and ultimately increased sales and higher margin for retailers.

Customer service training is another crucial aspect of these programs. Installing a wood ﬂoor is an intimate process that can disrupt a customer’s home or business. Helping your team with effective communication and problem-solving, ensures smoother projects and happier clients. This equates to more business through the number one way to grow your ﬂooring sales, referrals.

Charlie Hamilton, Managing Director at Canadia says: “A well informed and knowledgeable team are key to selling quality flooring and in the development of a strong flooring business within your company. Training will enhance the reputation of flooring within your store and will boost word-of-mouth referrals.”

Training is available to Canadia stockists across Ireland. Please contact your Canadia Sales Representative for assistance or contact Canadia directly at marketing@canadia.ie

Accountants and Business advisers

The hardware sector specialists - nationwide

Nobody knows the hardware sector better than us. We are the nationwide leaders in the sector. We specialise in maximising your business proﬁts. We advise on buying and selling hardware companies. We are experts on tax and succession planning. We excel at tax efcient hardware business restructuring and we provide efcient compliance services.

And we’re only a phone call away Call Ian Lawlor or Michael O’Leary today.

T: 01 – 6689760

E: ian@brensonlawlor.ie

E: Michaeloleary@brensonlawlor.ie JPA Brenson Lawlor, Donnybrook, Dublin 4

To advertise to key decision makers in the industry, contact Jim Copeland at 01-298 0969 or email jim@hardwareassociation.ie

Classiﬁed advertisements (text plus logo) can be emailed to: jim@hardwareassociation.ie and are to be prepaid, at least two weeks prior to publication.

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• Apply 450mm × 13mm bead per kilogram weight on heavy vertical bonding.

• For all applications, including general building maintenance OB1 ® Grip & Grab Adhesive bonds non-porous stone, concrete, natural stone, gypsum board, wood, glass, polycarbonate ceramics etc. For highly porous stone please contact Technical Services via website.

• As universal adhesive OB1 ® Grip & Grab Adhesive bonds to most surfaces and does not attack synthetic material.

• On mirrors (vertical strips), on natural stone, polyester, polystyrene foam (does not bleed through).

• OB1 ® Grip & Grab Adhesive bonds copper, lead, zinc, aluminium, stainless steel, and is resistant to vibration.