The Hardware Journal - September/October 2022

TIME

for EVERY DAY LIVES

As we move into Winter there are a number of challenges to navigate. Early in the year there were hopes that with the lessening of Covid and the opening of supply chains that we would see a return to a “normal” market and trading conditions. However, the Russian invasion of Ukraine has dashed these hopes. This generation has never seen a major conflict in Europe, moreover one in which energy is used a weapon of war.

The shortage of oil is impacting the cost of living in almost every sphere. Inflation, the silent thief is back, and it is very unlikely that public spending can outpace it. Interest rates are going up and there is consumer uncertainty. On the other hand, consumers have amassed very considerable savings over the last few years and any drop in real incomes may be matched by by these savings.

messagefromtheCEO

This sector has many opportunities in our product ranges. We have the product mix that consumers and other businesses are seeking. One of the major demands is for products that will make homes more energy efficient- from heat pumps to attic insulation to lighting to the humble draught proofer. It is important to merchandise this category and to promote it heavily.

Innovation is key to competitiveness and this issue together with our building materials supplement features many new and innovative products and services in the marketplace.

We are delighted to welcome Combilift, Core Tech, MyNet and Scanmatix to our stable of Corporate Partners. In October, we are hosting our Corporate Partner Business Days giving our Corporate Partners the opportunity to bring their solutions to members in 30-minute webinars. Recordings will be available for members on the Hardware Education Hub.

As part of our Retention and Recruitment focus - the highly successful Certificate in Hardware and Merchanting is underway as is our autumn schedule of training.

HAI are attending Careers Fairs - both for second and third level. Recently Murdocks, the Sanbra Group and McMahons joined with us in the RDS and University of Limerick. John McNamara of McMahons said that they found it very positive and that

they got a number of contacts for potential new employees. We will attend these fairs again in the Spring - so if any member wishes to attend with us, please let us know. We also have a contact list for many of the colleges, and second level schools who are always interested in speaking to potential employers.

Earlier this year, after conversations with 150 members, trades professionals, vacant homes officers and experts in the housing field we published our recommendations Empty Homes - Unlocking the Opportunity. There were 17 recommendations that distill into three main parts. HAI believes that it is a clear-eyed blueprint of what will help the sector continue to thrive. At the end of September, we had Budget 2023. Our considered response to the budget is on pages 28-29. In brief some of our proposals have been accepted and we need to continue to push for the others. The firm belief is that it is the combination of these proposals, the cocktail that will underpin an active housing strategy.

On pages 30-31 we outline the suite of Government Assistancegrants, loans, and advice to help the sector.

The theme of uncertainty is becoming almost normal at this point. The sector has shown perspective and the skill of concentrating on solutions rather than problems - practical solutions to practical problems.

And this resilience and ability to see opportunities will ensure that it continues to flourish.

But still, let’s hope for a mild winter.

Martin Markey Chief Executive Officer - HAI

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES:

contents

announces five senior appointments.

Peter McVerry Trust refresh their Residential

Centre.

Group Opens new Bray branch.

their Tiling levelling system.

Hardware Insurance product launched.

at SONAS Bathrooms.

Automated Storage opens new Monaghan Head Office.

- Dual Power: The new battery platform.

Investment at Wogan Build Centre Ltd.

Digital Twin Technology.

Forecasts

regulars

continued high prices.

MESSAGE FROM

CEO Martin Markey

HARDWARE ASSOCIATION IRELAND GOLF SOCIETY

PARTNERS

they offer.

the latest

from the last

look at HAI’s corporate partners and the

HOMES

BUDGET

empty homes

HAI responds to the Government’s

in

latest Budget.

RETAILING IN THE USA

Schaefer, co-owner of

Few Cool Hardware Stores’ explains how storytelling is one of the strongest secret

VIEW FROM EUROPE Regular contributor Thierry Coeman brings us

report from EUROBRICO, the Spanish trade fair, which recently took

in

Building Materials & Supplies

34 MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR

Jim Copeland introduces the latest supplement.

36 DULUX PAINTS

A look how Dulux Paints is driving environmental excellence through innovative solutions.

38 PIPELIFE

MD Ger Healy explains how Pipelife’s acquisition of Cork Plastics will expand the company’s portfolio and market presence in Ireland and the UK.

40 ROCKWOOL

A look at the launch of Rockwool’s NyRock® technology an evolution in stone wool composition.

42 GRANT ENGINEERING

Grant’s award- winning Vortex external range gets a new look.

44 THE LIGHTHOUSE CLUB

The ‘Help Inside the Hard Hat’ Tour comes to Ireland, providing free emotional, physical and financial help for construction workers and their families.

46 OCTABUILD

Gearing up to celebrate the Octabuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards 2022.

48 THOMPSONS WEATHER PROOFING

A look at the brand’s extensive range of roofing products, ideal for undertaking emergency repairs this winter.

50 COMBILIFT

CEO and founder Martin McVicar explains how identifying the right materials handling equipment can lead to a host of operational benefits.

52 HOMEBUYER HERO

Colm Casey’s unique perspective on the financial problems faced by stakeholders in the construction sector and a possible solution.

53 MANNOK

Mannok is highly commended in Responsible Business Awards for Educational Partnerships.

54 CONSTRUCTION INFORMATION SERVICES

Construction Information Services outline their activity analysis for Q3 2022.

training

HAI CERTIFICATE IN HARDWARE RETAIL AND MERCHANTING The HAI Certificate kicks off its second year, with the support of Octabuild as sponsor.

AUTUMN TRAINING SCHEDULE The latest in HAI’s Autumn virtual training for hardware retailers, merchants and suppliers.

65 CAREERS IN HARDWARE A look at HAI’s latest activities in promoting career opportunities in the hardware industry, including attendance at recent careers fairs.

56 profiles

56 STORE PROFILE: GUARDIAN DISTRIBUTION: YOUTHFUL AMBITION AT ITS BEST

How to start trading and grow as successfully as young start-up Guardian Distribution. HAI learns their secret from Michelle Bradshaw, National Sales Manager, Guardian Distribution.

business support

66 DIGI SYSTEMS Jennifer Keogh explains why retailers are turning to Electronic Shelf Labels.

CREDIT RISK BROKERS James Riordan gives readers a helpful fact sheet on Credit Insurance.

ads

A SELECTION OF CLASSIFIED ADS

COMMERCIAL FEATURES

68 WORKWEAR

How the booming construction industry is good news for the workwear sector.

74 FUEL

The latest in the Solid Fuels sector, including new regulations, new smokeless fuel products and gas heaters.

80 FLOORING

A look at how the top flooring manufacturers and distributors are innovating and creating competitive advantage.

CONTEMPORARY TRENDS WITH TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP

Dulux Heritage is a collection of 112 luxurious shades which combine contemporary trends with traditional craftsmanship to make everyday homes feel extraordinary. The Heritage colour collection was crafted by colour professionals at Dulux, along with globally-renowned historical experts. Combining today’s interiors expertise and long-treasured wisdom, this palette is truly timeless.

The Heritage range is formulated with premium quality pigments that guarantee excellent depth of colour and specially blended clays for effortless application. The timeless colours are designed to look beautiful in traditional and modern homes. The curated collection of classic colours is available in two high-quality finishes, Velvet Matt for a soft-to-touch feel on walls and Eggshell for stunningly smooth woodwork and metal.

Dulux Heritage, Extraordinary Paint for Everyday lives. www.duluxheritage.ie

CHADWICKS GROUP ANNOUNCES

FIVE SENIOR APPOINTMENTS

Chadwicks Group have recently announced five senior appointments across its business. The roles filled include Regional Director positions for the South and Southwest, Midlands and West of Ireland, and Dublin regions; National Transport and Logistics Manager; and Sales Director.

The five senior appointments come during a period of sustained growth for Chadwicks Group and have been made as part of the firm’s full-service strategy to meet customer needs in an increasingly demanding market.

Regional Director Appointments

Regional Directors are responsible for managing, developing, and monitoring the performance of the branches under their remit and ensuring that excellent levels of customer service are delivered. They work with branch managers to drive excellent levels of customer service and exceptional operating standards.

Ger Farrell has been appointed as the Regional Director for the South and Southwest region. Branches under his remit include Ennis, Tralee, Waterford, Galway, Ballysimon, Nenagh, Clonmel, Mallow and Midleton.

Rob Kenny has been appointed as the Regional Director for the Midlands and West of Ireland region. Branches under his remit include Navan, Dundalk, Drogheda, Tullamore, Roscommon, Ballinasloe, Monaghan, Letterkenny, Sligo, and Castlebar.

Martin O’Reilly has been appointed as Regional Director for the Dublin region. Branches under his remit include Donabate, Santry, Coolock, Glasnevin, Thomas Street, Walkinstown, Sandyford, Stillorgan, and Sallynoggin.

National Transport and Logistics Manager

David Parsons has been appointed National Transport & Logistics Manager. He joins Chadwicks Group with 25 years’ experience in the transport logistics and road freight industry in the Irish & UK market.

Sales Director

Michael Kelly has been appointed as Sales Director for Chadwicks Group. Having spent nine years with Chadwicks Group, Michael was previously Regional Heating & Plumbing Manager and Regional Director at the company.

Patrick Atkinson, CEO, Chadwicks Group, commented on the announcement: “I am thrilled to announce the appointments of Ger, Rob, Martin, David and Michael to their new positions in Chadwicks Group. Collectively, they have a wealth of experience and knowledge across their respective areas of expertise, and I look forward to seeing them progress in their new roles and help their new teams to thrive”.

MEDITE® makes it real

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

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

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

HOMEVALUE HELPS PETER MCVERRY TRUST REFRESH THEIR RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY DETOX CENTRE

Homevalue have recently delivered a range of materials and supplies to Peter McVerry Trust (PMTL), including new three-seater benches, dining sets, picnic benches, BBQs, and more, to help support the charity in the development and maintenance of their on-site Residential Community Detox Centre in North County Dublin.

The delivery of equipment and materials will help support Peter McVerry Trust to upgrade and care for their Detox Centre throughout the year. It is one of the oldest services at Peter McVerry Trust and ensures access for participants to a key space for the organisation.

The donation will help to support Peter McVerry Trust participants in what can be a difficult journey while in recovery and treatment and help create positive memories to carry with them as they start their new chapter upon completion of their treatment.

Earlier this year, Homevalue announced Peter McVerry Trust as their charity partner for 2022 which will see them support the national housing and homeless charity with a range of initiatives throughout the year including support for PMVT Learning Centre’s Junior Certificate students, and with the

supply of equipment and materials in the development of new housing units.

More information on the PMVT Community Detox Centre is

MEDITE MDF: WHERE INNOVATION MEETS SUSTAINABILITY

As the drive towards net zero becomes more urgent, calls to use more timber are increasing. At a time when the industry is hit with a wave of material shortages and rising prices, manufacturers and fabricators need to make careful considerations over the materials they use while still delivering the best designs. Part of the Coillte Group, MEDITE SMARTPLY has continuously developed innovative, versatile and sustainable products, which are suitable for bespoke creations, and showcase the company’s ethos; from its sustainably managed forests through to its commitment to creating products that contribute to healthier buildings.

Specialisations include MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME, a groundbreaking construction material guaranteed for 50 years above ground and 25 years below ground, MEDITE PREMIER FR, the MDF with built in flame retardance, and MEDITE CLEAR, a MDF panel manufactured with zero added formaldehyde developed specifically for use in environmentally sensitive interior applications such as museums. The range now includes MEDITE OPTIMA – a specially engineered, higher density moisture resistant MDF panel with superior finishing properties. It’s ideal for applications where users need added density, unrivalled machinability and higher surface quality than is found in standard moisture resistant panels.

The MEDITE MDF range is FSC certified and is CARB2 compliant which makes it ideal for designers, fabricators and architects who are looking for more sustainable solutions for their projects. The panels are created using finely milled pine and spruce, which are pressed together to make them flat and smooth without any inconsistencies. Manufacturers and fabricators can achieve an even and uniform finish across every unit, perfect for flawless spray painting and veneering. Inspiration for the products’ limitless design capabilities can be found on the MEDITE SMARTPLY MDF community site. Those who join the exclusive community can share work, gain inspiration, and win prizes that will enable the user to build bigger and better with MDF. Visit:

www.meditemakesitreal.com

Discover the full MEDITE MDF range here: https://mdfosb. com/en

Noelle Woods, Director of Nursing and Addiction Services at Peter McVerry Trust with Paul Candon, CEO at United Hardware trading as Homevalue.

NEW PRODUCT OFFERINGS AND CLIENT APPRECIATION DAY AT JOSEPH MURPHY BALLINA

Joseph Murphy Ballina Ltd (JMBL) recently showcased the best of what one of the leading Hardware Distributors has to offer! There was a great sense of excitement and optimism in being able to welcome back clients into their showroom and warehouse and present over 4,500 products again in person to their customers. The team at JMBL organised an Open Day at their HQ in Ballina exclusively for their clients. Lorraine Burnell, MD Joseph Murphy Ballina Ltd, explained “It was a day to meet and greet our clients in person after two years of virtual meetings – it felt so special to be able to invite people back to Ballina and for the team to interact again with our loyal customers. We had an amazing day, showcasing our new MOY branded product ranges and new partnerships with Maston Spray Paint and Blattwerk Organic Fertilizer from Germany.” The feedback from their clients was that it was a great opportunity to see Joseph Murphy in operation and see the vast array of high-quality product lines available. The clients really appreciated the exclusive deals that were offered on the day.

Leading brands such as Sika, Bostik, BASF, Gorilla Glue and Maston were represented, showcasing their new and innovative products and engaging with customers on the unique selling points of their brands. A highlight was Maston Sales Manager, Tom Lawton, demonstrating the fantastic new Maston Spray

Paint Machine which is revolutionising the spray paint industry. One of the personal highlights when speaking to Lorraine was the sense of team collaboration preparing for the open day. Lorraine explained, “The whole team came together for the open day to ensure that our clients got the best out of their visit to us. It was so rewarding standing back and seeing our team engage with the customers and offering personal service and value which is our ethos as a business.”

Find out more information and see the vast array of products available on www.josephmurphy.ie

Tom Lawton, UK & Ireland Sales Manager of Maston at the JMBL Open Day. Tom demonstrated the new Maston Spray Paint Machine.

BROOKS OPENS NEW BRAY BRANCH

Brooks Timber & Building Supplies returned to Irish ownership in 2021 following the purchase of the business from Premier Forest by Murdock Builders’ Merchants. Murdock’s with ten branches in the north of Ireland and four in the Dublin area, saw Brooks as the ideal opportunity for it to extend its coverage of the Republic of Ireland market and to grow its market share. The Brooks brand is well known throughout Ireland and has been in existence for over two hundred years. With branches in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Tullamore, and Sligo it has played a major part in the construction sector and local economies. With the support and encouragement of its shareholders, Brooks have commenced a programme of investment in store upgrades at existing sites and the opening of new greenfield branches. The first of the greenfield branches opened at Boghall Road, Bray, Co Wicklow at the end of August. The branch which contains the full Brooks offering of timber, sheet materials, building materials, and plumbing and heating is based on a new layout format, which is the template for future branch development.

The principle underpinning this format is to prioritise customer access and service to enable fast turnaround. Investment in racking systems and storage in the warehouse and yard, and merchandising of the shop, are all based on successful

experience elsewhere. A safe working environment for staff and customers is also a feature of the layout.

Brooks, who have always been synonymous with timber and sheet materials, have greatly extended the building materials range with an expanded civils and drainage offering. A full plumbing and heating range is also available including gas boilers and heat pumps.

Further branch locations in ROI are being examined, and the Bray branch template, will enable faster opening of new branches, when sites and permissions are in place.

Brooks who are probably best known for supplying the trade also have a significant retail business, particularly for the home improvement customer, and trade online at www.brooksonline.ie.

The Bellota range boasts many highly durable products and nothing beats the Bellota Tiling Hand tools and levelling system range of products.

Les Ashley from Bellota says “The Bellota Tiling Levelling System provides a flat surface on many different types of substrates without the use of different sized spacers or shims. It uses varied sized clips to provide a uniform grout channel of your choice. It is extremely easy to use and is flexible. It saves time and money and is available in bag quantities for the professional tiler and in kits for the DIY enthusiast.”

See how the system works via the links below: Bellota Wedge Levelling System: Floor and Wall https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=kXxr9F7E390 Push Levelling System: Floor and Wall https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Nia6TGFN1HY

The Bellota Tiling Levelling System is used by tilers and DIY enthusiasts all over Ireland and Europe and due to popular

demand they have now expanded their range to suit the large format 20mm tiles. Why not take a look, they are so simple to use.

Les and the team would like to say a big thank you to all their customers and visitors who attended their stand at the recent Cologne Hardware Fair. The show was a huge success.

Bellota will be publishing their 2023 catalogue shortly. Since arriving in Ireland, Bellota’s catalogue has nearly doubled in size offering many new and innovative products.

For more information or if you would like to meet to discuss the range, please contact Les Ashley on 087 440 8077 or email les.ashley@bellota.com, www.bellota.com

NEW HARDWARE INSURANCE PRODUCT LAUNCHED

O’Leary Insurances Ltd have successfully launched their new Hardware Insurance Product in conjunction with Zurich Insurance earlier this year. Already, they have had significant traction on same and have secured competitive quotes & placed policies for a number of businesses struggling with increased premiums and inadequate covers. Though designed specifically to cater for medium to large type enterprises, O’Leary Insurances have access to a panel of other insurers and have no problem in placing covers for hardware clients that do not fall into these categories.

Some of the exclusive benefits of the Zurich scheme are :-

• Fire Brigade Charges automatically included at ¤30,000

• Standard excess of ¤300 on all property claims

• Nil liability excess

• Work Away/ Collection & Delivery automatically covered under Employers Liability section

• Standard Gross Profit Sum Insured of ¤750,000 noted under the Business Interruption section

• Standard Public Liability Limit of Indemnity of ¤10,000,000

• Standard Employers Liability Limit of Indemnity of ¤13,000,000

• Liability sections extended automatically to include Work away/ Collection/ Delivery

• Extension to cover farm supplies/ agri feeds/ nurseries/ garden centres

• Cover for polytunnels/ greenhouses

They also have the facility to place all other forms of insurance e.g. motor fleet, engineering, management liability, cyber insurance and they will expand further on these covers in future issues. For more information please contact David Lombard, CIP Account Executive.

To contact O’Leary Insurances Ltd. call +353 (0)21 4730005 / +353 (0)87 7697729 or email dlombard@oli.ie

Full range available

EXPANSION AT SONAS BATHROOMS

One of Ireland’s leading bathroom brands, SONAS, following a successful management buyout last year, has strengthened their senior leadership team with several new management roles created this year.

Speaking about the expansion, CEO Richard Sloan said “This is the start of an exciting chapter for the business, and I am delighted to welcome some impressive new talent to SONAS. With these new appointments we have an excellent senior management team who together with our wider team of ninety experts, will continue the evolution of the SONAS brand and business. This can only strengthen what we know is a top rate customer experience.”

Joining the senior management team are Derek Keeley, in the role of Sales Director and Louise Murphy, newly appointed Head of Marketing. Derek brings a wealth of experience in managing highly successful sales teams with industry leading companies such as Coca Cola and Sysco Foods. Derek will lead the retail and commercial sales team on the island of Ireland.

Louise’s extensive background extends to working with global automotive brands as well as running her own Marketing Consultancy business in recent years. Louise leads on brand strategy and is responsible for integrating all marketing channels online and offline. Another newly created role of Customer Experience Manager has been filled by Neringa Stasiunaite. Vastly experienced in managerial and supervisory roles, Neringa will lead the newly formed

Customer Experience Team and will have oversight of all the customer service touch points including Retailer, Technical and Showroom Support.

The development of the SONAS brand has been driven by a product strategy to design and manufacture the SONAS range of bathroom products. To bolster future plans there are three new appointments in the Product Development Department. Francisc Pentek and James Quinn join as Product Category Managers, both with extensive experience in the Bathroom Industry. James and Francisc will work alongside Gerard Fahy, Commercial Director, who will drive new product strategy ensuring the vitality of SONAS product offering, and leading the way in terms of design, durability, and market positioning. Reflecting the high priority of delivering durable and highquality products, Gavin McGarry has been promoted to the new role of Quality & Compliance Manager. Gavin will be responsible for ensuring the high quality of the SONAS product offering, overseeing rigorous testing procedures, and ensuring compliance with all industry and environmental standards. The SONAS brand offers an unrivalled range of bathroom products across all product categories, at price points from entry level to upper mid-market. The extensive range enables the company to compete for market share across three key channels: RMI (Refurbishment, Maintenance and Improvement) Market, New House Building and Commercial Building Projects.

At the announcement of the new leadership team were, James Quinn - Product Category Manager, Neringa Stasiunaite - Customer Experience Manager, Richard Sloan, MD SONAS Bathrooms, Derek Keeley Sales Director, Louise Murphy - Head of Marketing, Gavin McGarry - Quality & Compliance Manager and Francisc Pentek - Product Category Manager.

AXUS DÉCOR, START TO FINISH

Axus Décor’s history goes back to 1974, when its founders opened their first small hardware store. Daily interactions with painters, and listening to their suggestions has led to continued growth and the creation of the first Axus Décor range. Today, Axus Décor’s product line spans eight categories, with everything your customers need from start to finish with several standout innovations. Exceptional protection products include their S-Tex Painter’s Trousers with 19 utility products and the Gekoe Floor-Gripping Paint Barrier Sheet, whose rubber-embossed bottom layer keeps the sheet firmly in place. This unique sheet is also highly usable and fully machine washable. For substrate removal, Arystox self-sharpening ceramic abrasives are like no other. Thanks to its “microcrystalline” structure, ceramic oxide grain is superior to conventional aluminium oxide grains. Tiny fragments of the mineral break off as you sand, revealing new, razor-sharp edges. As a result, you’ll remove material rapidly with less exertion. Also, it takes a long time for the mineral to break down completely, so the

abrasives last for an extremely long period.

The Captain Chunk wide roller frame is their latest innovation. It adjusts to hold 12”-18” wide rollers with a secure twistlock mechanism. Its robust and lightweight aluminiumpolypropylene construction is also solvent-resistant and easy to clean.

Product development is ongoing, with several unique products on the horizon. This Autumn, you’ll see the new Silk Touch roller, with fibres finer than silk that leave minimal texture on walls and cabinetry.

Axus Décor uses premium materials in its products. Yet its products remain affordable due to advanced manufacturing technologies and a highly efficient supply chain.

Browse the complete selection at www.axusdecor.com Free attractive display solutions are available. Email info@axusdecor.com, if you’d like a Regional Sales Manager to get in touch.

The rapid global expansion of Monaghan warehousing innovators Moffett Automated Storage has led to the announcement of 30 new specialist roles at the company at the recently completed new head office facility in Monaghan. Thanks to a growing client list now spanning 10 countries, the company now plans to bring its automated warehouse hardware to even more customers. Their pacesetting pallet storage and retrieval system is controlled by proprietary software developed in-house by the Moffett team. Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar congratulated Moffett Automated Storage for their investment.

“It’s great to be in Clontibret today to officially open Moffett Automated Storage’s new head office, which will create 30 new jobs for Monaghan. The company really is going from strength to strength, and I know that is thanks in a big way to its commitment to constantly innovating and looking at how to do things better. The team and the talent in the business is obviously a major part of its success too. I look forward to seeing what’s next. The very best of luck to the entire team.”

The business is the brainchild of Sam Moffett and has achieved its success in just five years from launch. Sam is the son of renowned engineer Robert Moffett, who founded the international Irish-headquartered forklift brand Combilift. Moffett Automated Storage MD Sam Moffett, explained that the business has gained a global reputation very quickly thanks to its proprietary approach to a growing problem for warehousing: “Along with the system to move, track and organise pallets, we developed software to help solve many of the problems faced by companies who have a need to store and access palletised stock fast”.

“The system, by design, delivers superb density of storage, saving on energy, labour cost reductions and significant

benefits around the safety of operatives and stock. With the need for storage and logistics services on the rise and limited warehousing space available, companies need a new solution and we’ve been excited to help our customers deal with this challenge.”

Moffett Automated Storage typically has over 8-12 live projects in four different countries around the world, each ranging from storage of 5,000 to 15,000 pallets. The system has no limitations on height of the warehouse allowing companies use their footprint to the maximum.

For further information please contact Sam Moffett, Managing Director, Moffett Automated Storage on +353 47 80300, email sam@moffettas.com or visit moffettautomatedstorage.com

MOFFETT AUTOMATED STORAGE OPENS NEW MONAGHAN HEAD OFFICE INTRODUCING FROGSUIT WOOD PROTECTION

Guardian Distribution are delighted to introduce Frogsuit, an award-winning range of wood protectors and associated garden maintenance and cleaning products. Frogsuit has a unique formula providing non-flaking, non-peeling UV protection with water repellent waxes providing a satin finish to nourish timbers for use on garden furniture and all outdoor wood. The complete wood care range includes wood restorer, shed and fence protector and a non-slip decking oil. New additions to the range include power cleaner, UPVC restorer, fabric protector, rattan cleaner, BBQ and oven cleaner, composite decking cleaner and artificial grass cleaner. All of which come in easy-to-use trigger sprays with a child safety feature.

For more information, please contact Guardian Distribution, 01 8323598 or sales@guardiandistribution.ie

www.frogsuit.org

Joonas Ryynänen (CTO, Moffett Auotomated Storage), Colm Markey (MEP), Heather Humphreys (Minister for Social Protection and Rural & Community Development), Leo Varadkar (Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment), Sam Moffett (Managing Director, Moffett Automated Storage), Robert Moffett (Director, Moffett Automated Storage).

DUAL

Dual Power, the new battery platform by Varo, is here to help! Varo, one of Europe’s leading hand and power tool designers and distributors for over 60 years, has developed the Dual Power range for the DIYer who wants cordless, durable and eco-friendly.

Battery platforms have become increasingly popular as users save costs by no longer having to buy unnecessary batteries and chargers. That is why Varo has developed one battery

platform for two ranges of 20 V and 40 V power tools and garden tools. In other words, a one housing battery pack of 20 V or 2x20 V can fit any Dual Power tool. Additionally, the Dual Power charger has been designed and developed to be able to charge all Dual Power batteries within its range, quickly and efficiently. So, all you need to get started is one battery + one charger, regardless of the tool’s voltage.

The batteries and charger can be acquired separately or as part of a starter kit. Because the batteries and charger are universal, there is no need to buy a separate battery for each Dual Power tool, making this product line the more economic and ecological choice. Depending on the users’ projects, budget and power needed, Varo’s customers will find the power or garden tool designed for them, offering endless flexibility and possibilities.

further information contact Les Ashley at les.ashley@ varo.com or directly on 087 440 8077, www.varo.com

SALES METRICS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

When it comes to reporting on your business data, it can be hard to get exactly what you want, where you want it. Not to mention, slow and cumbersome to obtain if you have complex and large data structures. And it doesn’t help if your data is disconnected on third-party business intelligence tools.

new Intact iQ Business Metrics module is a business intelligence tool offering a wide range of pre-configured, industry driven key metrics. These out-of-the-box metrics can be conveniently accessed by you and your team throughout your Intact iQ system.

Starting with the sales metrics, the Business Metrics module will expand to include customer price lists, stock values, purchasing metrics etc. Once purchased, all new enhancements will be passed directly on to you. Intact`s vision for the new Business Metrics module is to create a community driven set of metrics deeply embedded in the Intact iQ framework that will evolve over time. These metrics will be calculated in the background for the best performance and the focus will be on convenience, accessibility and creating a single source of the truth.

It’s easy to use and offers a wide-range of time-periods with over 90 measures linked to them for you to select from. Simply drop your metrics wherever you need them in your system, be that on your customer screen, customer list, user list etc. And with very little technical knowledge, you can have meaningful data at your finger tips to drive smarter decisions.

If you’d like to find out more about Intact’s new Business Metrics module, please contact 042-9331742 or visit www.intactsoftware.com

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DEVELOPMENT CAPITAL MAKES SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT IN WOGAN BUILD CENTRE LIMITED

Development Capital have just recently announced a significant investment in Wogan Build Centre, the established, fastgrowing and innovative building material distributor based in Drogheda with annual revenues of ¤36 million.

It is the 12th investment by Development Capital, bringing the total value of its investments in Irish SMEs so far, to over ¤90 million. The investment in Wogan Build Centre is the third by the Development Capital Fund II, a ¤75 million fund, which has now invested over ¤25 million, approximately one third of its value. The other two companies are Spotlight Oral Care and Nomadic.

Wogan Build Centre has over 40 years of trading experience and a strong reputation for customer service, quality products and specialist knowledge. This investment by Development Capital will support the company’s continued expansion by complementing its consistent organic growth with an acquisition-led strategy, focussed on the addition of complementary businesses to expand Wogan Build Centre’s geographic footprint In Ireland.

Wogan Build Centre provides an extensive range of building and home improvement materials to specialist contractors, general trade and retail customers throughout Leinster. Employing 81 people in Drogheda, the experienced Wogan Build Centre team advises customers in the residential, commercial and industrial sectors on construction projects throughout the region.

Led by brothers Derek and Garrett Wogan, along with an experienced senior management team, the company has achieved significant year-on-year growth tripling its revenues to ¤36 million with employee numbers increasing to 81 since relocating to a new, dedicated 4,200m2 warehouse and retail showroom at Drogheda’s North Road in 2017. Since then, Wogan Build Centre has expanded its product range and established new specialist divisions in: Plumbing & Renewables; Civils & Drainage and Drylining, Insulation, facades & offsite component supplies. These businesses along with its General Merchant business have spearheaded Wogan Build Centre’s organic and geographic market penetration in recent years.

As part of the investment, Fran Stafford, Investment Director at Development Capital, will join the Board with Andrew Bourg, Co-Founding Partner of Development Capital, joining as an observer.

Announcing the new investment made by Development Capital Fund II, Andrew Bourg Co-Founding Partner of Development Capital said: “Wogan Build Centre is our 12th investment to date, and eight outside Dublin. It is a great, fast-growing business led by two charismatic and ambitious leaders in Derek and Garrett, who have a clearly defined growth plan. From our diligence and

research, we see strong market trends supporting the organic and acquisition growth plan including continuing demand for construction and renovation projects as well as a highly fragmented building merchant market, with the majority, over 80%, being independent stores.”

He added: “The organic and acquisitive growth plan is exactly the type of plan that Development Capital II was set up to support and accelerate. We are delighted to partner with Garrett, Derek and the wider Wogan Build Centre management team. We look forward to supporting their plans to further expand the business.”

Derek Wogan, Managing Director Wogan Build Centre said: “This investment by Development Capital is an important milestone for us as it enables us to take the development of the business to another level through acquisitions, following significant organic growth in recent years. We are thrilled to be working with a team that supports SMEs like us with both capital and expertise and we welcome Fran to our Board.” Garrett Wogan, Commercial Director, Wogan Build Centre said: “The diligence, professionalism, and work ethic of our team, together with an in-depth understanding of contractor needs and strong supply partnerships are at the core of our service offering. The nature and speed of change in construction means that our specialist divisions have to be at the cutting edge of MMC (modern methods of construction), renewable technologies and legislative changes. We, together with Development Capital are determined to set the industry standard in this regard.”

Development Capital’s investment model is based on backing SME management teams by providing them with both the funding and experience to unlock and accelerate their growth potential.

Derek Wogan, Wogan Build Centre, Fran Stafford, Development Capital, Andrew Bourg, Development Capital and Garrett Wogan, Wogan Build Centre.

With the arrival of Digital Twins, the way we view or attend exhibitions is changing to bring the construction and associated industries into the 21st Century. One such company to embrace this new technology is Northern Ireland based Solvall.

At The Hardware Show in April 2022 at Citywest, Dublin, Solvall tasked Digital Media International to use their award-winning technology to create a Digital Twin of their stand at the event. Digital Media International (DMI) were recently awarded the honour of ‘Most Client Focused Digital Marketing Agency’ for Northern Ireland at the UK Enterprise Awards, sponsored by SME News, for their Digital Twin technology in creating a virtual showroom/trade counter for Ridgeway in Belfast.

DMI were able to shoot their stand with their 360o camera to create a virtual twin of it that could be used as a virtual showroom, with all of the Solvall product ranges being tagged out for more information, adding video content and a calendar appointment facility for the Solvall team to meet virtually, from anywhere in the UK or Ireland.

This ethos enables any company to bring their clients to meet with them in a virtual world, in which they can showcase all of their products, hold CPD events and training events. All of their products can be meta tagged to create a virtual shop scenario where the viewer can click to buy and even get their order delivered direct to site, from the comfort of their office using their tablet or mobile phone. Spaces on screens and blank spaces on walls can be utilised to host video content.

The applications can be applied to a variety of scenarios such as virtual pods, property and events. With a built-in measuring tape, properties can be quantified for ease of specification for the amount of paint for a wall or ceiling or flooring or carpet needed to cover the space required. The software can also integrate

UNDERSTANDING DIGITAL TWIN TECHNOLOGY WORLDSKILLS PLASTERING AND DRYWALL COMPETITION

At the recent Worldskills Ireland 2022 competition at the RDS, the Plastering and DryWall competition area was sponsored by Gyproc. The eventual winner after three days of tough competition was James Sheehan. James (22) is from Waterford and works for Moore’s Plastering who are based in Kilkenny. He completed Phase 2 of his plastering apprenticeship in Waterford ETB, more recently his Phase 4 in Munster Technical University (MTU) and is currently waiting to be called for his Phase 6.

with BIM and Revit for architectural specifications.

To see the full working model created for Solvall, visit their website and request a virtual meeting with the team through their virtual stand: https://solvall.co.uk/3d-tour/

You can view Digital Media international’s portfolio of digital twins and other digital services through their website:

For further information please contact, Jasen Upritchard, Digital Media International.

T/A Digital Media NI, Tel: 0044 02891451522

At the Worldskills National Final Plastering and DryWall Competition is Jason Horrex – Technical Academy Manager Gyproc, James Sheehan –Competition Winner and Tomas Reidy – Chief Examiner for Plastering & DryWall competition.

ENERGY FORECASTS ARE FOR CONTINUED HIGH PRICES

We are all aware of the significant increases in energy costs over the past 12 months. However, the past two months or so have seen unprecedented volatility in wholesale energy costs with new record highs being set on a constant basis. Gas as a main component in electricity production was already seeing large price increases as world markets started to re-open post pandemic and demand for power escalated.

While post pandemic demand led to record new highs, this pales in comparison with the impact Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has had on the cost of energy. Russia has historically been an extremely important player in energy terms, supplying 40% of Europe’s Natural Gas. This has led to a devastating effect on wholesale gas markets as Europe searches for ways to replace the vastly reduced gas supply out of Russia.

Never has the cost of electricity and gas held more significance for your business, and the focus shifts to what can be done to minimise cost increases.

Avalon Energy are an energy consultant and broker with a long track record in the industry dealing with procurement and energy efficiency services.

Their services include:

• Energy Procurement

• Fixed v Flex contracts & Market Knowledge

• Meter optimisation

• Solar Panels

• LED lighting upgrades

• Energy Monitoring

• Energy Upgrade grant applications

Energy forecasts are still predicting continued high prices. Reducing your consumption on site is the optimum way to keep costs to a minimum.

Avalon Energy are offering HAI members an initial free site inspection, a preliminary conversation around your needs and a “no commitment necessary” billing review and proposal for energy efficiency upgrades through to installation and grant application. For more information, please contact nick@avalonenergy.ie, www.avalonenergy.ie

A GUIDE TO THE MARKETING AND USE OF AGGREGATE CONCRETE BLOCKS TO EN 771-3 IN IRELAND

A Building Standards Advisory and Guide has been issued by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

The chain of custody of a construction product is only as strong as its weakest link. It is necessary for all those involved in the supply chain to adhere to their legal obligations under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR). It is also important that all in the supply chain are fully aware and informed of the performance requirements for aggregate concrete blocks regarding their end use in the construction of works or a building.

A Guide to the marketing and use of Aggregate Concrete Blocks to EN 771-3 in Ireland is published on the DHLGH website at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/45415-a-guide-to-themarketing-and-use-of-aggregate-concrete-blocks-to-en-7713-in-ireland/

This guide aims to facilitate clearer communication within the supply chain regarding the declared performance of essential characteristics, having regard to national provisions in Ireland.

Through clearer communication within the supply chain, specifiers, designers, builders, builders’ merchants, certifiers and end users should be more informed when specifying and choosing aggregate concrete blocks that are:

• fit for intended use

• suitable for the conditions in which they are to be used.

Appropriate specifications and choices will help secure compliance with the Building Regulations.

Updating your ERP system might feel like it’s a task for tomorrow. After all, if it’s not broken, why fix it?

this could lead to your business being left behind. By implementing the latest updates today, your business can take full advantage of the latest innovations and developments available that give you the tools to stay ahead of your competitors.

Here are five reasons why you should ensure your system is on the latest version.

1. Enjoy the full benefits of digitisation

For a business to stay successful, it’s essential to streamline its operation and improve customer service. From instant processing of documents to real-time tracking of deliveries and stock, ‘going digital’ improves processes by removing timeconsuming, cumbersome, or repetitive tasks.

2. Restricting your online options may limit your business

The recent global pandemic accelerated digital trade and consumers expectations of being able to buy online. While sales from traditional stores will always continue, eCommerce sales from your website allow consumers to shop 24/7 via a computer or mobile device.

3. Outdated IT infrastructure creates unnecessary security and operational risk

Running your business solution on the premises means that your hardware and the operating systems used to run it could be outdated and be at risk of failure - especially if you haven’t upgraded it in the last few years.

4. Can your business afford to miss out on innovate new features?

Most ERP providers can - and should - keep up a continual level of investment in new features. Product development and ongoing investment help you thrive in today’s challenging marketplace.

5. Avoid increased expense and risk Holding off on upgrades can be a false economy, having to do two or more upgrades all at once pushes a larger cost into one period, as your teams have more to incorporate simultaneously. Give your business the right tools to stay ahead - it is time to get current and stay current with K8 the right ERP solution for your business. For further information contact KCS at 01 5457100 and www.kerridgecs.com

HARDWARE ASSOCIATION IRELAND GOLF SOCIETY PRESIDENT’S PRIZE

The majestic Mount Wolseley in Tullow, Co. Carlow, hosted the Hardware Association Ireland Golf Society (HAIGS) President Tom Glancy’s Prize.

The course is a firm favourite with society members, offering them challenging golf within a manicured parkland terrain. Sponsored by Toolbank Ireland as usual, golfers enjoyed fantastic hospitality and great company with a fantastic array of prizes.

OVERALL

LADIES PRIZES

VISITORS

2nd Overall - Tim Lodge with Tony Gavagan, Toolbank Ireland.

Class 2 Winner - Paddy O’Leary with Tony Gavagan, Toolbank Ireland.

Overall Winner - William Wallace with HAIGS Captain Bob Boxwell.

Ladies Overall Winner - Breda Phelan with HAIGS Captain Bob Boxwell.

Class

Winner - Martin Rowe with Tony Gavagan, Toolbank Ireland.

HARDWARE ASSOCIATION IRELAND PRESIDENT’S PRIZE

This was our first visit to Corrstown Golf Club, but surely not our last.

Home club of Hardware Association Ireland President, Michael O’Donohoe, this North County Dublin gem, with Dublin`s only island green, hosted members to a memorable day. Players had lovely weather conditions, a challenging 18 holes and excellent facilities complemented by friendly and professional golf and catering staff. Congratulations to all our winners and of course thanks to Crown Paints for their continued support which is very much appreciated.

OVERALL

First

CLASS

CLASS

LADIES PRIZES

VISITORS

Overall Winner - Michael McBride with HAI President Michael O’Donohoe.

Overall 3rd Place - Sam Kelly with Tony Anderson, Crown Paints.

Class 2 Winner - Richard Bourne with Tony Anderson, Crown Paints.

Class 1 Winner - Tony Anderson with HAIGS Captain Bob Boxwell.

Ladies Winner - Brid Gunn with Tony Anderson, Crown Paints. Ladies 2nd Place - Aine Parkes with Tony Anderson, Crown Paints.

Over 100 years of trusted quality, dedication and innovation.

With over 100 years of experience, Rust-Oleum® is revered for its dedication to innovative products of exceptional quality; and our vast range of aerosols are each designed with a specific job in mind. Whether a consumer needs an all-surface spray paint like Universal®, a protective and decorative aerosol like Painter’s Touch TM , or a specialist textured spray from our craft and hobby range, Rust-Oleum® provides durable, flawless and professional results, in a variety of colours and finishes.

At Rust-Oleum® we pride ourselves on our exceptional chip and fade resistant formula, with excellent coverage, colour retention and a flawless finish every time.

With up to 50% more coverage than our competitors, our high-solids content means that a can of Rust-Oleum® goes the distance.

We have complete faith in the high quality of our products and features. Rust-Oleum® is committed to supporting merchants with dedicated sales teams, product training and eye-catching point-of-sale store displays. For an exceptional product renowned for its durability, coverage and ease of use, enquire about stocking Rust-Oleum® today. Contact our Customer Service Department on 01 287 5738 or email: sales@dycon.ie

RANGE

CASH MANAGEMENT

Brink’s Cash Services

Denise McCarthy 1890 474 000 denise.mccarthy@brinks.com www.brinks.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@lcms2.com www.lcms.ie

Zero Tax Property Stephen Holmes 01 4584770 info@ztp.ie www.zerotaxproperty.ie

NEW

ECOMMERCE AND IT SUPPORT

Agility Software Ltd

David Malcolm

01 253 0282 david@agility-software.com www.agility-software.com

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 Alan Finneran

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

Monsoon Consulting Ed Wyeth 01 4750066 ed.wyeth@monsoonconsulting.com www.monsoonconsulting.com

Sales-i

Ros McGill +44 345 508 7355 rmcgill@sales-i.com www.sales-i.com

HR SUPPORT

TSA Consultants

Tommy Smyth

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

INSURANCE

Dolmen Insurance Brokers Ltd

John Bourke 01 8022361 info@hardwarestoreinsurance.ie www.hardwarestoreinsurance.ie

O’Leary Insurance Group David Lombard 021 4730005 dlombard@oli.ie www.olearyinsurances.ie

LOGISTICS

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

AIB Merchant Services Owen Ball 087 7715973 owen.ball@aibms.com www.aibms.com

BOI Payment Acceptance Eamonn Kelly 1800 806 298 partners@boipa.com www.boipa.com

PRINT MANAGEMENT

W&G Baird

Sam Sharpe

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

RECYCLING SOLUTIONS

European Recycling Platform

Martin Tobin 01 6624040 ireland@erp-recycling.org www.erp-recycling.ie

SECURITY SYSTEMS

MyNET Security Jack Raeburn 062-69112 jack@mynet.ie www.mynet.ie

SHOPFITTERS / RACKING SYSTEMS

Johnston Shopfitters

#WeGetRetail

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

Storefit Shopfitters Limited Eamonn Brien 021 4344544 eamonn.brien@storefit.com www.storefit.com

STOCKTAKING

Scanmatix Alex O`Brien 089 2514005 alex@scanmatix.com www.scanmatix.com

Want

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

Empty Homes - HAI reacts to Government’s response and to Budget 2023

In the last issue of The Hardware Journal, HAI published its Empty Homes Proposals to Government, covering key recommendations to combat the challenge of vacant properties going unused nationwide. With the announcement of Budget 2023, HAI responds to its results and its potential impact on the issue in the future.

Our responses centre on the key impacts of Empty Homes, New Housebuilding, the new Concrete Block Levy and new Business Supports, following the publication of our Empty Homes proposal, which was issued to Government in recent months.

Hardware Association Ireland Responds to Budget 2023

Empty Homes - Grants to buy ✓ Empty Homes - Grants (for current owners) to Refurbish ?

Vacant Property Tax ✓

Vacant Property Tax - administered by Revenue ✓ Reduction of VAT on carbon-saving products 7 Continuation of Help to Buy Scheme ✓

The Concrete Block Levy 7

TBESS Scheme ✓

Growth & Sustainability Loan Scheme ✓ Energy Efficiency Scheme ✓

Budget 2023 was announced by Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe and Minister for Public Expenditure Michael McGrath as a “Cost of Living Budget”, focused on helping individuals, families, and businesses to deal with rising prices. The total value of the Budget came to ¤11 billion, reportedly the largest Budget in the history of the state.

Hardware Association Ireland’s (HAI) pre budget submission –Empty Homes – Unlocking the Opportunity – was presented to the relevant Government Departments earlier in the year. It was also forwarded to all Ministers, TDs, and Senators.

Empty Homes:

One of our main proposals was a grant for first time buyers of empty and derelict properties. HAI was pleased to see

this announcement in response to its Empty Homes Proposal, and to see the issue of vacant properties responded to by the government. In July this year the Croí Cónaithe Scheme went live with grants of ¤30k and ¤50k, respectively. This is a very significant step in the right direction

However, we believe that further can be done to support the refurbishment and reintroduction of older and vacant properties to the market.

Another HAI proposal was to have incentives for owners of Empty Homes to refurbish and/or sell on the property. In brief these incentives were in the form of a tax write-off of capital expenditure against future rental income and a moratorium on capital gains tax on these properties. As we go to press it is unclear if the budget has dealt with these proposals. We will push for an answer.

HAI was pleased to see the announcement of a Vacant Homes Tax to combat the challenge of empty properties nationwide. In the Budget Minister Donohoe announced the launch of a new Vacant Homes Tax with the intention to increase the supply of homes for rent or purchase to meet demand. This tax will be three times a property’s local property tax, on top of the existing rate. The tax, to be introduced in 2023, will apply to residential properties that are occupied for less than 30 days in a 12-month period.

The new tax will be administered by the Revenue Commissioners. There are to be a number of exemptions to ensure owners are not unfairly charged where a property may be vacant for a genuine reason. While HAI believes that the tax is low, it is now on the agenda and more importantly the acceptance of our proposal that it becomes the responsibility of the Revenue Commissioners is much to be welcomed.

Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund: Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant

HAI was disappointed with the lack of provisions announced for the refurbishment of properties to improve their energy rating, such as the reduction of VAT on carbon-saving products such as heat pumps and insulation. This is disappointing especially as the EU has said that each member state can apply their own VAT rates.

New Housing:

With regards to the provision of housing, Minister Donohoe announced the following figures:

• some 25,000 new homes were built in the last 12 months • a further 44,000 have been granted planning permission

¤1.7 billion will be allocated to the Department of Housing in 2023, the Minister for Public Expenditure said this would deliver the social housing new build target of over 9,000 homes.

“I am announcing a ¤99 million increase in funding for existing schemes, including the Social Housing Current Expenditure Programme which will support nearly 6,500 additional new social housing units, through Approved Housing Bodies new build delivery and leases,” Michael McGrath said.

¤215 million will be allocated in 2023 to three affordable housing schemes: the Local Authority affordable purchase scheme, the AHB Cost rental scheme and the national First Home Shared Equity scheme.

Additionally, it was announced by the Minister for Finance that the Help to Buy Scheme, which since its inception in 2017 has benefitted over 35,000 people, will continue at its current rates until the end of 2024. HAI welcomes this but has noted its lack of uptake in counties outside of Dublin, Meath, Kildare, and Cork (Source: Revenue – Help to Buy Annual Report 2021) and is hopeful that the announcement of its extension will be followed by heavier campaigning to raise awareness and engagement nationwide.

Empty Homes

HAI will continue to liaise with the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government to continue to push for further provisions to combat the housing challenge.

The Concrete Block Levy

This appears to have come out of thin air. Our belief is that it is highly unfair. If implemented, it would add to the costs of building and undermine much of the good work done on affordability. In particular it will discriminate against younger people hoping to buy a home.

HAI have made a request to the Minister for Housing to impress upon The Department of Finance the need to look at an alternative.

Business Support:

Additionally, HAI was pleased to see the announcement of the introduction of a ¤1.25 billion Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS), providing qualifying businesses with up to 40% of the increase in electricity or gas bills up to ¤10,000 per month. It will help small businesses most, but also medium and larger businesses. It will be administered by the Revenue Commissioners, backdated to September, and will run until at least February 2023.

A ¤200 million targeted Ukraine Enterprise Crisis Scheme was announced to assist viable but vulnerable businesses in the manufacturing and internationally traded services sectors which are suffering the broader effects of the war in Ukraine as well as increasing energy costs, and a ¤1.2 billion Statebacked Ukraine Credit Guarantee Scheme, to provide low-cost working capital to SMEs, primary producers, and small midcaps (businesses with fewer than 500 employees) of up to ¤1 million.

This is in addition to the new Growth & Sustainability Loan Scheme, which it was said will make up to ¤500 million in low-cost investment loans of up to 10 years available to SMEs, with no collateral required for loans up to ¤500,000. A minimum of 30% of the lending volume will be targeted towards Environmental Sustainability purposes.

An additional ¤4 million in funding was also announced to the Local Enterprise Office network to include a new grant for micro-enterprises for energy efficiency. The Small Firms Investment in Energy Efficiency Scheme will provide a grant to companies to encourage capital investment in projects to reduce carbon emissions.

A list of energy and sustainability Government schemes and resources applicable for retailers is on pages following.

HAI will monitor the impact of Budget 2023 on our members and will continue to liaise with our members and with the Government in the coming months.

Energy and Sustainability Government Schemes and Resources

Financial Supports

• Budget 2023 – Revenue Commissioners - NEW The Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS) will provide qualifying businesses with up to 40% of the increase in electricity or gas bills up to ¤10,000 per month and will be administered by the Revenue Commissioners. The operational details will be available shortly. (Opening shortly)

• Budget 2023 – Local Enterprise Offices (LEO) – NEW The Small Firms Investment in Energy Efficiency Scheme will provide a grant through the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) network to companies to encourage investment in energy efficiency technologies or processes that reduce carbon emissions and overall energy costs. The scheme will follow on from the LEO Green for Micro Scheme which currently provides advice and technical support to firms on energy efficiency and reducing their carbon footprint. (Opening 2023)

• Budget 2023 – Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) - NEW The State-backed Ukraine Credit Guarantee Scheme will provide low-cost working capital or mediumterm investment, especially in energy saving measures to SMEs, primary producers and small mid-caps (businesses with fewer than 500 employees). Loans of up to six years

will be available, from ¤10,000 to ¤1 million, with no collateral required for loans up to ¤250,000. Loans will be provided by finance providers from the private sector including banks, non-banks and credit unions.

• Budget 2023 - Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) NEW The Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme (GSLS) will make up to ¤500 million in low-cost investment loans of up to 10 years available to SMEs, including farmers and fishers and small mid-caps, with no collateral required for loans up to ¤500,000. A minimum of 30% of the lending volume will be targeted towards environmental sustainability. 70% of lending will be for strategic investments with a view to increasing productivity and competitiveness and thus underpinning future business sustainability and growth. The scheme will be operated by the SBCI and participating finance providers. (It is anticipated that it will be launched in the market in the first half of 2023).

• Budget 2023 - Temporary Extensions

a. Excise rate reductions in the order of 5, 16 and 21 cents per litre VAT inclusive currently apply to MGO, diesel and petrol respectively. These rate reductions were due to expire on 12th October 2022 but have been extended 28th February 2023.

Energy and Sustainability

b. The 9% VAT rate was previously introduced for gas and electricity on 1st May 2022 and is due to expire on 31st October 2022. This rate has now been extended to 28 February 2023 which will provide for a lower VAT rate from November to February.

• LEO: The Green for Micro programme helps prepare small businesses for the low carbon, more resource efficient economy of the future. This is a FREE programme, available to companies with up to ten employees. www.localenterprise.ie

• SEAI: Capital Grants of up to ¤5 million are available from SEAI for energy efficiency and renewable energy – Key existing grants available to retailers are Community Energy Grants (Grants For Sustainable Community Projects | SEAI), the Support Scheme for Renewable Heat (Support Scheme for Renewable Heat | Business Grants | SEAI), and the EXEED Grant Scheme. www.seai.ie

• SEAI: NEW The Non-Domestic Microgen Scheme - SEAI provides up to ¤2,400 towards the installation of solar PV. Grants are available for systems up to 6kWp (approx. 16 Panels or 25m²) with a potential of savings between ¤2,000 - ¤3000 annual electrical costs (depending on installation size and current utility rates). www.seai.ie

• SEAI: The Accelerated Capital Allowance is a tax incentive ran by Revenue which encourages investment in energy saving technology. Companies that pay corporation tax in Ireland can deduct the full cost of the qualifying energy efficiency equipment from their profits in the year of purchase. www.seai.ie

• SEAI: Eligible companies under the SEAI SME Energy audit receive a ¤2,000 voucher towards the cost of a professional energy audit. www.seai.ie

• SEAI: The Energy Contracting Support Scheme | Business Grants and Supports | SEAI provides financial assistance to implement energy efficiency and decarbonisation projects. The Scheme aims to support the direct external consultancy and/or specialist advisory costs related to project appraisal and procurement of pay-for-performance energy contracts. Find out more about Energy Contracting, www.seai.ie

Non-Financial Supports

• DETE/DECC: Climate Toolkit 4 Business allows SMEs to input some simple information and to get an estimate of their carbon footprint and a personalised action plan to reduce it. It will use this information to generate a personalised action plan and recommend those supports that are relevant to help each business reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs. www.climatetoolkit4business.gov.ie

• Skillnet Ireland: the Climate Ready programme offers leadership and skills support for enterprises who want to develop their operational and strategic sustainability. Climate Ready: Talent for Ireland’s Green Economy, skillnetireland.ie

• Regional Skills: The DigiEco Programme, which is 100% Government funded, aims to create a greater awareness of energy and resource efficiencies, improve the digital green skills of employees, increase awareness on environmental practices that can contribute towards a greener workplace and raise awareness of Climate Change. www.regionalskills.ie

• SEAI: The Energy Academy is a free online resource is designed by experts and gives businesses access to high quality energy training. Businesses can learn how to save energy and grow through energy efficiency. www.seai.ie

• SEAI: Steps to Energy Efficiency includes 5 steps to begin an energy efficiency journey. www.seai.ie

Other Supports

• SEAI: The Energy Efficiency Obligation Scheme, places obligations on energy suppliers and distributors to deliver energy savings. www.seai.ie

• SEAI: Energy Contracting is a ‘pay for performance’ approach to installing and operating energy technologies in your business. The option you choose influences the level of energy and cost savings guaranteed. www.seai.ie

• SEAI: The level of incentive for electric vehicles varies between fully electric vehicles and plug in hybrid electric vehicles. These incentives will reduce as the cost of electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles become equal. www.seai.ie

• SEAI: The Support Scheme for Renewable Heat is a government funded initiative designed to increase the energy generated from renewable sources in the heat sector. The Scheme aims to bridge the gap between the installation and operating costs of renewable heating systems and the conventional fossil fuel alternatives; and incentivise the development and supply of renewable heat. The grant provides funding of up to 30% of eligible costs. Support Scheme for Renewable Heat | Business Grants | SEAI. www.seai.ie

For further information please see www.enterprise.gov.ie or www.Gov.ie

WORK MORE SUSTAINABLY WITH NEW TEC7 ECO SYSTEM

October 2022 marks the 20th anniversary of the introduction of the revolutionary Tec7 product into the Irish market. While immensely proud of its past, Tec7 is more aware than ever of an industry-wide push towards more sustainable and environmentally sensitive practices. The sealant and adhesive segment faces a unique challenge, owing to its reliance upon single-use plastic cartridges. In the face of this challenge, Tec7 is working diligently to reduce overall waste, make savings on energy use throughout the supply chain by dramatically reducing packaging material, and drastically reducing the waste footprint of its product. To facilitate these goals, Tec7 has turned to existing foil sausage technology, and optimised it into a simple system designed with the professional in mind.

The Tec7 Eco System

The new Tec7 Eco System, launching in October 2022, consists of a gun, nozzle & adapter, and the Tec7 MS Polymer packaged in a 310ml foil sausage. Foil sausages will be familiar to trade professionals but are traditionally associated with 600ml products designed for repetitive, high-volume applications. These applications make use of bulky, heavy guns that are not always suitable for detailed, precise work in tight spaces. To remedy this, Tec7 have adopted the concept of the foil sausage and engineered a compact system focused on ease-of-use, workability and optimising the userexperience for the everyday professional.

The system comprises of three components: a high quality 18:1 thrust ratio gun, 310ml foil sausages and a reusable nozzle & adapter package. Using the system could not be easier - simply place the foil sausage into the gun, place the nozzle & adapter at the top, screw the top on the gun, and press the trigger until the click indicates the foil is pierced. The innovative re-usable adapter piece ensures there is no fumbling with knives to manually pierce the sausage, and opening the product is as easy as a few clicks.

Towards a Better Future

The Eco-System 310ml foil sausage offers a phenomenal volume waste reduction, with a 97% smaller waste footprint than a standard 310ml cartridge, which in turn will translate to lower disposal costs for end-users. The unbeatable quality of the product inside remains identical, however the foil pack enables the product to stay usable for longer, both before and after opening, while also enabling the product to be extruded more thoroughly, cutting down on product wastage. The overall reduction in packaging material is also impressive. Before filling, 96,000 cartridges require a 53-foot truck for transport, while the foil needed for an equivalent number of foil sausages will fit on a single pallet! This greatly reduces transport demands throughout the supply-chain and reduces carbon emissions.

The new Tec7 Eco System will sit alongside the traditional cartridge, offering the professional an attractive option to Work More Sustainably. For further information, please contact, PH. 01 6292963

Building Materials & Supplies

BUILDING MATERIALS MARKET CONTINUES WITH CONFIDENCE

Amessage from the Editor

Welcome to The Building Materials & Supplies Supplement for 2022.

In this issue despite on-going business challenges, Manufacturers, Distributors and Suppliers of Building Materials and Services are continuing to provide Builders` Merchants and Hardware Stores with new and innovative quality products to keep the supply chain moving to meet trade and consumer demands.

Dulux Paints tell us how they are driving environmental excellence through their innovative paint solutions. The highly durable Dulux Trade range of products including Dulux Trade Diamond, the new Dulux Trade Scuffshield and Dulux Trade Sterishield all undergo superior testing against international recognised standards to make sure they withstand the toughest environments.

Pipelife Ireland’s Managing Director Ger Healy tells us how the company’s acquisition of Cork Plastics will expand their portfolio and market presence in Ireland and the UK. Pipelife say that this significant investment in new equipment, personnel and service will position their Irish operations as a world-class manufacturing facility for many years to come.

Our colleagues at Rockwool are delighted to tell us that they have just launched NyRock® technology, an evolution in stone wool composition. Manufactured innovatively using a new patented production process this new next-generation stone wool insulation has a more efficient fibre structure that can deliver thermal conductivity as low as 0.032W/mK.

Heating technology manufacturer Grant introduces us to their award-winning new look Vortex external model range. Designed and manufactured in Birr the outdoor boiler is free standing and has been designed for situations where internal space is at a premium. The outdoor range of boilers has the unique award-winning Grant Vortex heat exchanger offering some of the highest efficiencies available in the market today.

The Lighthouse Club Charity continues to provide free emotional, physical and financial assistance to construction workers and their families across Ireland and the UK. Their ethos is that no one should be alone in a crisis. This is achieved by a range of pro-active supports and resources for the construction community including a 24/7 helpline a free mobile app and mental health training.

The eight Octabuild companies are gearing up to their Octabuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards 2022. Winners of the coveted Regional and Octabuild Awards for Excellence as well as individual Category Awards and the upcoming talent Rising Star Award will be announced on the evening. There will also be the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for someone who has made an outstanding contribution to the industry.

For more than 40 years Thompson’s have been paving the way when it comes to water-based waterproofing products. In this feature Chris Fletcher, Technical Services Chemist at Thompson’s introduces us to their extensive range of roofing products ideal for your customers to undertake emergency repairs this winter.

Martin McVicar, CEO and Co-founder of Combilift explains how identifying the right materials handling equipment can lead to a host of operational benefits for builders’ merchants and hardware stores. These benefits include safer operations, space saving and enhanced productivity just by evaluating and rethinking the system you currently have in place for moving products around your premises.

Homebuyer’s Hero joint founder, and former Estate Agent, Colm Casey offers a personal and unique perspective on the problems faced by all construction stakeholders from building site to homebuyer. His online platform with Co-founder and Economist Dr Constantin Gurdgiev seeks to lower the level of risk in the housing market. It involves a new legal framework and new ways to bind buyers to a project.

Mannok share with us their achievement of being highly commended in the Educational Partnership Category of Responsible Business Awards at the Business in the Community NI 2022 awards recently. These awards recognised that Mannok demonstrated its commitment to supporting young people and benefiting their aspirations and achievements through the company’s comprehensive educational partnerships within the Mannok Futures Programme.

Jim Copeland

Building Materials & Supplies

Driving environmental excellence through innovative solutions

The Dulux Trade range includes highly durable products including the Dulux Trade Diamond range and new Dulux Trade Scuffshield Matt, as well as specialist products such as antibacterial Dulux Trade Sterishield

Dulux Trade paints also undergo superior testing against internationally recognised standards. These tests measure permeability, durability and colour consistency amongst others to make sure trade paints withstand the toughest environments. Some Dulux Trade paints also get independent accreditation and verification such as sustainability certification - BREEAM and LEED.

THE SURE CHOICE FOR INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Launched in 2022, Airsure from Dulux Trade is an emulsion paint for interior walls and ceilings that offers great performance and is also 99.9% Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) free*, strengthening their commitment to reduce the building industry’s impact on the environment. Airsure Diamond Matt is available in the full Dulux Trade tinted colour range and provides the same tough, durable finish as Diamond Matt, with scuff, scrub and stain resistant technology.

PROTECT WALLS IN HIGH-TRAFFIC SPACES

Award winning Dulux Trade Scuffshield Matt is a tough, water-based matt emulsion paint that contains ultimate scuff resistant technology. It is designed to protect walls against scuff marks being left behind, to help keep walls looking good for longer. It is also cleanable and offers good stain resistance. Dulux Trade Scuffshield Matt is perfect for use in high traffic areas such as corridors, stairwells and hallways, and busy commercial spaces. Dulux Trade Scuffshield was recently awarded ‘Best Interior Product’ at the Architects’ Choice Awards 2022.

PROMOTE A MORE HYGIENIC ENVIRONMENT

Dulux Trade Sterishield Diamond Matt is a quick drying, water-based coating containing an in-film bactericide, which inhibits bacteria and reduces populations of MRSA and E.coli. When combined with appropriate cleaning practices, Sterishield Diamond Matt helps to promote a more hygienic environment.

TAKE A TOUGHER APPROACH WITH DIAMOND

With the durable Dulux Trade Diamond range, spills and marks wipe away, making it the ideal product for even the busiest of commercial spaces. Developed to stand up to scrubbing, scuffs and stains the Diamond range will help professionals make their great work last even longer.

Diamond Matt offers unrivalled durability in a classic matt finish while Diamond Eggshell offers great durability and stain resistance which is especially useful in spaces with high moisture such as kitchen and bathrooms. Now available in over 2,000 colours, Diamond Satinwood contains an exclusive Cross-Linking Technology that binds and links the paint as it dries.

For further information on Dulux Trade Products and how they can support you, please contact the Dulux Technical Advice Centre on tel: 021 422 0222

Building the future

Managing Director Ger Healy explains how Pipelife Ireland’s acquisition of Cork Plastics will expand the company’s portfolio and market presence in Ireland and the UK.

Pipelife is one of Ireland’s leading manufacturers and providers of plastic piping systems. Ger Healy, Pipelife Ireland’s Managing Director says “Specialising in the extrusion of polyethylene (PE) pipes, the company offers products for the heating & plumbing, water pressure, electricity cable ducting, gas, and agricultural sectors. It has expanded its product lines with the acquisition of Cork Plastics in 2021. Cork Plastics together with its sister company in the UK, Floplast, represented a great opportunity for Pipelife to expand its product portfolio and market presence in both countries,”

The Cork Plastic’s product ranges were very complementary to Pipelife Ireland’s existing product ranges, with the additional advantage of providing a very solid sales presence in underground sewage and above-ground soil products. The Cork Plastics range of roofline products was also of particular interest to Pipelife’s parent company, Wienerberger, with its bricks, façade, and roof tiles business.

“The main objectives of the takeover were to expand Pipelife’s footprint in both Ireland and the UK by consolidating with an established successful business, while simultaneously expanding our product offering into new categories, thus enhancing Pipelife’s overall appeal to its existing customer base that is broadly similar to Cork Plastics. With a significant investment now underway at our production facility in Little Island, Cork, this will result in us having one of the most modern facilities within the Pipelife Group. Actually, Pipelife Ireland and Cork Plastics business now make the Irish operation the second biggest manufacturing operation within the group.”

An initial capital investment of ¤30m has already commenced to expand and upgrade the existing Cork Plastics site. By 2026 there will be 35 state-of-the-art extrusion lines incorporating the latest automation technologies, with a planned output approaching 45,000 tonnes per annum.

“Our primary goal is to be a provider of industry-leading products and services to the building sector. Pipelife recognises that modern systems require fully designed specifications that our customers can have confidence in. As such, we are investing heavily in in-house design services, particularly, but by no means exclusively in the heating sector. We will provide custom-designed systems to the building, with full-design indemnity insurance and full-life after-sales support services. Our motto is “Our reputation, your peace of mind,” and this goal remains the cornerstone of everything we do.”

Ger continued “Developers, builders, and homeowners are faced with ever-increasing upfront costs for new builds with regulatory changes and the move to low temperature, lowemission heating systems impacting building design and heating systems. In these situations, scale brings efficiency, so the greatly enhanced scale of the new Pipelife Ireland operations following the Cork Plastic acquisition will allow us to invest and provide competitively priced class leading design services and products. The inclusion of the Cork Plastics product portfolio allows for a much more detailed design and specification service to be offered on a whole-house basis.”

“The significant investment in new equipment, personnel, and services in our sector in the country will position our Irish operations as a world-class manufacturing facility for many years to come. The investment also shows Pipelife’s long-term commitment to the Irish market and the scale, modernity, and product portfolio will make Pipelife very attractive as a supply chain partner for the major merchant groups, builders, and installers in the country.”

For further information please contact: T: +353 (0) 21 451 0600 E: ireland@pipelife.com. Discover the full product range at www.pipelife.ie or www.corkplastics.ie

Building Materials & Supplies

ROCKWOOL® launches NyRock® technology

Changes to building regulations and an increased focus on sustainability are placing greater pressure on the construction industry to deliver more thermally efficient buildings while preserving standards of fire and acoustic performance. In response, ROCKWOOL has launched NyRock® technology, an evolution in stone wool composition that the company say delivers the lowest lambda stone wool insulation currently available in the UK and Ireland.

Innovatively manufactured using a new patented production process, this next-generation stone wool insulation has a more efficient fibre structure that can deliver thermal conductivity as low as 0.032 W/mK. Critically, this means that U-values can be met with comparatively thinner constructions, which in the case of external wall applications, creates the potential for additional interior floor space over a given building footprint. Alongside its improved thermal efficiency, NyRock® technology still delivers all the additional benefits of stone wool insulation including durability, the ability to be recycled indefinitely, and its acoustic and fire performance. Comprising naturally noncombustible volcanic rock, ROCKWOOL solutions powered by NyRock® technology achieve Euroclass A1 – the highest possible rating – and can withstand temperatures in excess of 1000°C.

NyRock® technology will be rolled out across a range of ROCKWOOL insulation solutions during 2022. The first launch is NyRock® Rainscreen 032 and Frame Slab 032 providing one of the most thermally efficient stone wool insulations for external walls.

“Our new products featuring NyRock® technology will be significant for the construction industry, giving specifiers and building owners a true solution to the rapidly evolving needs of the built environment and its biggest challenges whether thermal, fire, acoustics or environmental,” said Paul Barrett, Head of Product Management at ROCKWOOL UK. “To limit the impact of climate change and support the delivery of net zero carbon, it’s the responsibility of manufacturers like ourselves to go further, re-inventing and improving on existing solutions. NyRock® technology does just that.

“While stone wool insulation is already known for its proven benefits such as longevity, ease of install, circularity, and non-combustibility that is crucial for protecting people and properties, our patented technology builds on these advantages further.

“Whether building professionals need a solution to the lower U-values that also maximises floor space, or a non-combustible option for a high-rise property with enhanced thermal and acoustic performance, NyRock® technology’s industry-leading lambda value for stone wool and ability to reduce the thickness of a construction element support those requirements.”

To register for updates on the launch of products featuring NyRock technology, visit https://rockwool.link/THJ

Grant’s award-winning Vortex external range gets a new look

In a bid to further heighten the popularity of the Grant Vortex range amongst homeowners, trade customers and property developers, leading heating technology manufacturer Grant has announced a new look for its popular Grant Vortex external model range.

Designed and manufactured in Birr, Co. Offaly, the Grant Vortex external model is one of the company’s most popular condensing oil boilers. The outdoor boiler is freestanding and has been designed for situations where internal space is at a premium. This outdoor range of boilers features an awardwinning unique Grant Vortex heat exchanger and has some of the highest efficiencies available in the market today.

Since its launch, the external model has been finished in a galvanised casing, however, the range will now see the current casing updated to a new grey powder coated finish. The new goose grey colour gives the Vortex external model range a distinctive, aesthetically pleasing, modernised look, which is expected to garner a lot of interest from customers and those in the plumbing & heating trade. This change will affect the four boiler models within the Vortex external range which feature outputs of 15kW to 70kW.

The Grant Vortex external model’s colour change comes just months after the Grant Vortex condensing boiler range was recognised at the SEAI Energy Show as the best renewable energy product for its HVO biofuel compatibility. In addition,

the HVO biofuel compatible Grant Vortex range was also recognised as a finalist in the sustainability category at The Irish Times Innovation Awards 2021.

All of Grant’s Vortex condensing oil boiler models, including the new goose grey external model have been developed to be compatible with HVO biofuel. The use of 100% HVO, can result in around 88% reduction in carbon emissions and using this or a percentage blend of HVO with kerosene, will enable rural and hard to heat Irish homes to transition to a renewable green alternative from 100% kerosene at an affordable cost and minimum disruption to their home lives.

All new Grant condensing boilers are future-proofed to use HVO through making a slight modification to the boiler. Older Grant condensing boilers can also be adapted to HVO, these modifications can be carried out by a service engineer during an annual service.

These updates to the award-winning Grant Vortex range continue to reinforce the manufacturer’s position as a leader within Ireland’s competitive heating industry. The company’s focus on sustainability and modernisation is shown through its continuous design and manufacture of its diverse portfolio of innovative heating solutions.

Visit www.grant.eu for more information. Follow Grant on Facebook and Twitter @GrantIRL or Instagram @Grant_IRL

Founder, Stephen Grant.

Grant Vortex external model.

Build

Supplies

‘Help Inside the Hard Hat Tour’ Comes to Ireland

The Lighthouse Club Charity provides free emotional, physical, and financial help for construction workers and their families across Ireland and the UK. Promoting and raising awareness of the charity is a role for recently appointed Irish regional ambassador for the Lighthouse Club, Colleen Milligan, who stated: “The charity has been able to provide significant help for construction workers and their families during times of great difficulty. This can range from emotional challenges such as stress and anxiety, physical difficulties including disabilities, cancer support, and financial support. The extraordinary element of the service is that it is all free. The ethos is that nobody should be alone in a crisis, and this includes the partner, wife, husband, child, and extended family members of every construction worker. This is achieved through a huge range of pro-active support and resources for our construction community including a 24/7 Construction Industry Helpline, our free app and mental health training. We are finding an increasing number of construction workers calling our helpline to ask for support with getting food on their tables, and we will put food on tables and fill cupboards - this is what we do. We help those in need in really difficult times, we are nonjudgmental and we are there to help.”

Colleen went on to say, “I would urge construction workers across Ireland to please pick up the phone and call our confidential 24 hour helpline, use our free text service or download our construction specific wellbeing app - please don’t ever think you are on your own, if you need help, please call us. We are here for you and your family.” More information on the help Lighthouse provide can be found at www.constructionindustryhelpline.com.

Help Inside the Hard Hat campaign

Their ‘Help Inside the Hard Hat’ campaign is now up and running, and a special road tour takes place to raise awareness

starting on World Mental Health Day, 10th October. With the mission that “No construction worker or their family should be alone in a crisis”, the tour aims to deliver the message directly to frontline workers along with information about the crucial services that the charity provides. The ‘Help Inside the Hard Hat’ team are all fully trained mental health first aiders with a down to earth approach and first-hand life experiences in construction. They give out goodie bags, interact with the site workers and on-site prizes can be won.

How can you get involved?

The Lighthouse Club Charity are asking companies and sites from across the entire island of Ireland if they would like a visit from the Hard Hat tour team to deliver the charity’s messages directly to those that might need support. There will also be a great range of prizes and freebies up for grabs. It’s a warm positive experience for those who will be able to get involved. They hope this campaign will continue to provide the help needed for all who require it.

For any company who might be interested in a visit please register your interest here, www.constructionindustry helpline.com/hithh-on-site.html or if you would like to sponsor any gifts for the goodie bags or prizes please get in touch with the charity’s Irish ambassador, Colleen Milligan, colleen.milligan@lighthouseclub.org

If you would like to be a company supporter of the Lighthouse Club and help those in need across Ireland, please check out their website for more information www.lighthouseclub.org/ lighthouse-company-supporter

Irish Regional Ambassador for the Lighthouse Club, Colleen Milligan.

Gearing up to celebrate The Octabuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards 2022

Alison Comyn will MC the event.

With the judging completed, the highly anticipated presentation dinner for the 2022 Octabuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards is now on the horizon. Taking place on the evening of Thursday, 13th October in the prestigious Round Room at Dublin’s Mansion House, the flagship event will see an audience of over 300 people celebrate excellence in builders merchants for the first time from across the island.

MC for the evening will be award-winning journalist and broadcaster, Alison Comyn. A Drogheda native, she has presented numerous current affairs and entertainment programmes in the UK and Ireland, making her a perfect MC for this year’s first all-island Awards. Alison will announce the winners of the coveted Regional and Octabuild Awards for Excellence, the Individual Category Awards and recognising upcoming talent in the industry, the Rising Star Award. The winners have been chosen from a shortlist of 29 merchants and nine Rising Stars representing the best in merchanting across the island.

The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award will also be awarded for the 10th time to someone who has made an outstanding contribution to the industry.

Award-winning comedian, Neil Delamere will provide entertainment on the night. Neil is best known for his quick-witted appearances on a myriad of TV shows and his hilarious live stand-up tours. He has been described as a ‘master of stand-up’ and will provide some rib-tickling entertainment just ahead of the Awards Presentation.

Neil Delamere will provide the entertainment.

Building Materials & Supplies

For the first time in the 36-year history of the Awards, builders merchants competed on an all-island basis. Speaking on behalf of the eight Octabuild members, Octabuild Chairman, Ray Molyneaux said: “It is with great pride that in this, our 36th year, Octabuild hosts an event to celebrate the best in class of builders merchanting from across the island of Ireland. Along with excellence, we recognise that both people and relationships are key to the success and future of our industry, and we are pleased to

provide this platform to bring people together to celebrate the prestigious awards and enjoy an important social occasion.”

All shortlisted merchants and special guests will be guests of Octabuild members - Dulux, Etex Ireland, Glennon Brothers, Grant Engineering, Gyproc, Irish Cement, Kingspan Insulation and Wavin Ireland – on the night.

Winner of the 2019 Octabuild Award for Excellence – Telfords, Portlaoise.

Round Room at the Mansion House.

Roof repairsbring it on!

Chris Fletcher, Technical Services Chemist at Thompson’s, takes a look at the brand’s extensive range of roofing products, which are ideal for undertaking emergency repairs this winter –even in the wet.

It’s a call-out no-one ever relishes – but as the heavy rains descend, the need for emergency roof repairs inevitably shoot up. However, as a contractor, having a good selection of repair products in the back of your van can ease the pain, by helping you get the job done as quickly as possible and achieving a long-lasting result.

For example, no matter how adverse the weather conditions, Thompson’s Emergency Roof Seal can come to the rescue. It’s a high-performance elastomeric coating for small repairs on all roofing types including felt, asphalt, slate and tiles. The solvent based acrylic resin has a high-solids, high viscosity formulation with added fibres that reinforce and strengthen the coating. If it’s raining, simply brush away any ponded water from the area of repair and apply a thick layer of the coating. Emergency Roof Seal is effective immediately and should be surface dry within 24 hours.

For a temporary fix of deep cracks in leaking roofs, Thompson’s Emergency Roof Repair Mastic really comes into its own. A bituminous, mastic-based compound, it has a high-solids content and contains specially selected ingredients that repel water - meaning it can fill and bridge gaps and leave a watertight repair, even in heavy rain or under ponding water. A trowel or pallet knife is needed to work the mastic – and for larger cracks and voids use a scrim bandage to reinforce the repair.

In addition, leaking gutters and downpipes can be quickly repaired using Thompson’s Emergency Instant Repair Aerosol, which is ideal for getting to hard-to-reach areas. It can be applied to damp surfaces and is effective immediately. A scrim bandage is also included for deeper cracks and repairs.

Of course, ‘emergency’ repair products are for just thatand should only be seen as a temporary measure. More permanent repairs should be completed within a month of initial application. For flat roofs, Thompson’s 10 Year Roof Seal is ideal. It outperforms standard bitumen paint, flexing with the natural movement of the roof and resisting UV rays, for a long lasting finish. The fast-acting formula is rainproof in just

six hours. Plus, Thompson’s Roof & Gutter Sealant can be used for roofing felt, pipes and guttering to repair cracks, rips, joints and general leaks. Again, outperforming bitumen bases sealants for a tough and durable repair.

For further information visit

Thompson’s Emergency Roof Seal.

Thompson’s Emergency RR Mastic.

WATERPROOFING SEALING, BRICKWORK OR PAVING BRING IT ON!

For over 40 years, Thompson’s has been paving the way when it comes to water-based waterproofing products – and was the first to develop water-based water seals. Advances in water-based technology mean the Thompson’s range of products can deliver the tough, long-lasting protection needed for a professional finish.

Identifying the right materials handling equipment can lead to a host of operational benefits

Safer operations, space saving and enhanced productivity can all be achieved just by evaluating and rethinking the systems you have in place for moving products around your premises. We asked Martin McVicar, CEO and Co-founder of Combilift to explain.

“When Combilift was established in 1998, my aim and that of Technical Director Robert Moffett was to design a machine that would revolutionise conventional methods of handling, storing and manoeuvering loads – particularly long products. The basic concept of our first model, the multidirectional C4000, was the truck’s ability to change the direction of the wheels at the touch of a button, switching from forward to sideways travel mode. The benefits of safe/ space saving transportation of long and bulky loads, inside and out and on less than perfect terrain, were immediately recognised by many industry sectors. The once humble and often overlooked forklift truck was elevated to a prized asset that transformed a business in terms of safety, efficiency and profitability.”

Since then, and often based on feedback from customers, Combilift have expanded their range to include pedestrian stackers, side loaders, straddle carriers, Aisle Master and narrow aisle forklifts. They introduce at least one new model every year and are the largest worldwide supplier of customised and specialist handling solutions, with lift capacities from around 1t to over 100t. “We see Combilift however not just as a manufacturer of equipment but also as a partner for our customers to enable them to maximise one of their most precious commodities, namely space. All our products are designed to work in the smallest footprint possible for their size and design, and the continued demand for warehouse space coupled with ever rising business costs means that space optimisation is now more important than ever.”

Companies in the hardware, DIY and building materials sectors need to handle products of all weights and

dimensions, and many have already switched to Combilift models. Galway based Joyce’s Hardware & Home is one of the leading hardware and home suppliers in the West and a long-term Combilift user. It is a prime example of how choosing the right equipment has enabled the company to thrive by optimising its storage facilities for better capacity, allowing quicker loading and offloading for faster turnaround whilst ensuring safe operation across its extensive 9-acre site.

Director Jim Joyce says: “We got our first C-Series multidirectional truck around 18 years ago to work in a new timber warehouse that had been fitted with racking.

Martin McVicar CEO and Co founder of Combilift.

Building Materials & Supplies

Combi-CB.

We found it to be very versatile and safe, ideal for handling long loads in the aisles as well as for yard loading/unloading. Following that we acquired a counterbalance design CombiCB model, which is compact in size, but its 4-way capability makes it very versatile and the drivers love it. Last year we took delivery of an Aisle Master articulated truck to work in a new 3,000m² warehouse of which 2,000m² is racked. Due to the truck’s narrow aisle capabilities, we were able to create 2,400 pallet spaces – with our old trucks we’d have been looking at just 1,800 spaces.”

“Just a few weeks ago our Combi-WR pedestrian stacker arrived. We chose this in part because it enables fast movement of pallets for loading, and with the operator working from the side of the unit rather than the rear it’s very safe – and safety is priority number one for us. So, we now have four machines from Combilift to keep our vast range of over 30,000 products on the move. These are as diverse as they come; slates, roofing materials, timber, insulation, fertiliser, bathroom fittings, internal doors, carpets – to name just a few.”

Combi-WR pedestrian stacker.

Martin McVicar continued “The two most recent models acquired by Joyce’s Hardware & Home are electric powered, and we are seeing more and more customers opting for electric fleets as they commit to sustainability and a lower carbon footprint. Over 60% of the trucks we manufacture are electric, with availability in almost all models across our range.

Our next article from Combilift will take a more detailed look at the advantages of switching to electric power.

For more information see www.combilift.com or contact Anthony Rooney at anthony.rooney@combilift.com or mobile

Aisle Master.

Jim Joyce, Joyce’s Hardware & Home.

Mitigating risk

Why are all the builders’ merchants across the country not dealing with queues of builder’s vans in their yards? Why are the trade counter queues not constantly six or seven deep like the good old days of the Celtic Tiger? What’s really the problem? Believe it or not, it can be summed up in one word. Risk.

As a former estate agent from Mayo, I have a unique perspective on the problems faced by all stakeholders - from site to homebuyer in the case of new builds and from vacant property to similar new buyers, in the case of renovation projects.

It has always amazed me how slow and bureaucratic our sales processes are - a relic of a bygone era when financial risk was utterly different to what it is today.

What I’m referring to here is the fact that it has always been the home builder and by extension the builder’s merchant who shoulder significant risk in bringing homes to the market in the hope that between the time they start building and start selling, things have not taken a turn for the worse. (Materials cost fluctuation, anyone?)

In the current environment many builders and/or their potential financiers are so afraid of risk - that they cannot take the plunge and buy that vacant home to flip or have a go on that seven-acre site? Many of you watch frustrated as perfectly good vacant homes head into dereliction or perfectly good sites lie vacant. We could be building, only for the mountain of risk we, as a nation, expect our small builders and builders’ merchants to shoulder.

But we can change things. Easily, as it happens. Enter Homebuyer’s Hero - a platform to lower the level of risk in the housing market. Co-founded by Dr Constantin Gurdgiev, economist, and I, we have been researching processes and market interventions for nearly a year. Now, with all we have learned, we are shortly launching a platform which derisks all manner of construction projects by securing the buyers first. Is it really that simple? Well, almost.

It involves new legal frameworks and new ways to bind buyers to a project. It provides a low cost, transparent process for builders to decide if they should pursue an opportunity. Very significantly, it offers a new way to assess the financial viability of a project at the outset.

I am very impressed with HAI’s proactive approach to its Empty Homes Proposal document. These suggestions as well as very recent government interventions take us a part of the way back to action on housing. Homebuyer’s Hero will close the last mile by greatly reducing risk for homebuilders so they can consider taking on projects again without undue risk.

Crucially for builder’s merchants this will get projects moving up and down the country.

As I write, our new platform homebuyershero.com is in final testing stage. As such, I have prepared a short survey hosted off-site at https://bit.ly/3cwmmbe to guarantee access, as we finalise our new presence.

There are a few short questions for you to answer. You are all in a position to help yourselves and your customers in the industry and we are here to enable a new, free-flowing property market which benefits everyone in the country. Let’s get to work - start by visiting that link!

Colm Casey, co-founder & CEO colm@homebuyershero.com Direct mobile: 087-7529313 https://homebuyershero.com

Colm Casey: Colm is a former second generation estate agent having grown up in a family business ranging from building design, planning and construction supervision through to estate agency. He has a good working understanding of new build and renovation projects from initial ideation to final sale, as well as the pressuresfinancial and otherwise - which accompany them. Colm has blended this understanding of our industry with his life long love of technology to figure out new interventions enabled by tech, for the property market.

Dr Constantin Gurdgiev: Constantin is a world renowned economist, Associate Professor at University of Northern Colorado, Monfort College of Business and Adjunct Assistant Professor at Trinity Business School, Trinity College, Dublin. Constantin is widely recognised for his frank, open, honest and accurate assessment of events arising from the crash of 2008 and is further recognised for his deep understanding of the Irish property market, among a great many other fields of study. His charity work includes being Chairman and co-founder of the Irish Mortgage Holders Association as well as being a board member and co-founder of iCare Housing.

Building Materials & Supplies

Mannok is highly commended in Responsible Business Awards for Educational Partnerships

Mannok has been highly commended in the Educational Partnership category of Responsible Business Awards at the Business in the Community NI 2022 awards. The awards recognised that the company demonstrated its commitment to supporting young people and benefiting their aspirations and achievements through its comprehensive educational partnerships within the Mannok Futures Programme.

The prestigious and respected awards ceremony, championing responsible business, took place on the 8th September in ICC Belfast. Mannok attended the event and hosted a range of guests from many of its partnering organisations.

Commenting on the recognition Mannok received, the company’s HR Manager, Caroline McCaffrey, said, “We are very proud to receive this highly commended acknowledgement for our work to support young people through our educational partnerships. As a large employer for the Fermanagh / Cavan region committed to supporting young people and benefiting the socio-economic prosperity of the rural area, we have been successfully implementing our educational partnerships for many years.”

The Mannok Futures Programme includes a diverse range of educational collaborations, including three flagship secondary school partnerships. The collaborations, which each have themes ranging from sustainability to business insights, involve cross-curricular support to deliver unique initiatives and help enrich young people’s learning experience while also helping to development facilities in schools.

Another dimension of the Mannok Futures Programme is the successful partnerships with universities and colleges, such as South West College, Ulster University and Queen’s University, to offer tailored and supported placements which complement college-based learning.

Mannok has plans to expand its support for young people in the region as it will bring the number of post primary educational partnerships to five by 2025 as part of its Mannok 2030 Vision, the company’s sustainability strategy.

Mannok has also recently given an insight into their ambitious pathway to net zero in a webinar hosted by Construction Buzz.

Mannok published its 2030 Vision, the company’s sustainability strategy to the end of the decade, earlier this year, which included a detailed decarbonisation roadmap focused on alternative fuels, energy efficiency, alternative raw materials and carbon capture, usage and storage. With nine key projects already underway or in planning stages, the company are actively working with global partners and collaborating with cross-industry specialists to utilise, and help develop, innovative technology in its emissions reduction efforts.

The multi-phase programme sets out to harness natural and renewable energy sources and drive innovation in sustainability to create a closed loop process, which will:

• Replace four million litres of diesel per year

• Decarbonise the production of cement by removing over half a million tonnes of CO2 annually

• Power Mannok’s downstream and related manufacturing facilities with new 150MW of dedicated renewable capacity

Mannok has since published details from the webinar on its website, which can be found at mannokbuild.com/ decarbonisation

Collecting Mannok’s Responsible Business Award, HR Manager, Caroline McCaffrey, accompanied by representatives of the company’s educational partnerships from Mount Lourdes Grammar School and South West College.

CIS Activity Analysis Q3 2022

Throughout the summer period, construction in Ireland saw a slight decline at a planning stage, following a challenging quarter and disruptive industry conditions. However, the number of projects on site, saw a positive trend to accompany an uptake in planning applications over the last 18 months. Construction Information Services (CIS) has observed an interesting trend regarding the commencements of residential units, consistent with the government’s phasing out of SHD applications - which will likely become more notable throughout Q4 2022.

Fig 1. ROI Plans Submitted

In the Republic of Ireland, CIS saw a total investment of ¤8.02bn in plans submitted across residential, non-residential and civil sectors. The number of projects submitted saw a decline of 30% in the residential sector, while both the non-residential and civil sectors saw an increase of 24.4% and 879.9% respectively over Q2 2022. It must be taken into account that the decline in residential plans submitted is following a particularly large volume throughout Q2 2022, and is still up 19.6%, on the same quarter last year.

Fig 2. ROI Plans Granted

CIS observed an overall decline in plans granted across residential, non-residential and civil sectors, moving into Q4, despite having a positive upswing in civil construction activity over Q3 in the past few years. The total value of projects getting the green light in Q3 fell from ¤4.94bn in Q2, to ¤3.91bn.

Fig 3. ROI Projects Started

Q3 2022 Analysis CIS

As expected, project starts saw a sharp increase during the summer period amounting to ¤1.54bn in residential, ¤828m in nonresidential and ¤188m in civil projects. Activity increased by a total average of 29.6% with a value of ¤2.56bn over ¤1.97bn in Q2. This is however a decrease on last year’s figure in the same period of ¤3.1bn. General consensus is good in terms of project start despite industry impeding factors and mixed outlook on the forecast of the construction and relating industries in the near future.

Northern Ireland construction activity slowed after Q2 2022. However, Q3 saw a good increase in projects getting the green light and moving on site, compared to the same periods in the last two years. Planning has seen a decrease across the board in terms of plans submitted, only reaching a value of ¤439m in Q3 compared to generally over ¤500m in both the previous quarters and same period YoY.

Project starts saw the most dramatic increase in value, with a total investment of ¤569m, which is a considerable increase YoY despite the decline in plans submitted and plans granted.

CIS supplies accurate project data which can be analysed by stage of development (pipeline, active, and delivered), construction type (new build, refurbishment, change of use), and funding source, with detailed analysis of direct and indirect exchequer public capital investment. CIS data allows you to track and monitor pipeline and active construction trends either nationally or across specific sectors and regions. Decision makers can also forecast market prospects for their specific product or service. For a free demonstration of the CIS system or to enquire about our data, please call +353 1 2999 200 or email sales@cisireland.com Thanks to Josh Wiler Digital Marketing Executive, CIS for compiling these figures.

Youthful ambition at its best

For any business, achieving steady progress during the last four turbulent years is impressive, but to start trading and grow as successfully as young start-up Guardian Distribution is nothing short of phenomenal. The Hardware Journal learns their secret from Michelle Bradshaw, National Sales Manager, Guardian Distribution.

Little did the founders of Guardian Distribution know what they were in for when they set up their business in 2018. Who could have predicted a two-year global pandemic? Yet they have weathered the storms, turned challenges into opportunities and are a successful, expanding business today.

Based in a new headquarters in Baldoyle, Guardian Distribution supplies customers nationwide in Ireland and the UK. The Hardware Journal asked Guardian Distribution if there was a unique quality that enabled this start-up to accomplish so much so quickly amid a roller-coaster economy.

Michelle Bradshaw explained: “Guardian Distribution is a young, energised team and business, however we have very experienced key people at the helm. We are driven in how we approach business, looking to bring solutions to the market, not just products.”

Unwavering focus

From the outset, Guardian Distribution has had very clear company objectives.

“For us,” Michelle states, “getting through the first couple of years and building our team to ensure the business is on a solid platform, has taken priority. We always stay focused on our goals and continue to grow our product portfolio. We are flexible when required and adapt to the changing environment when necessary.”

“However, our focus is not just on the next few years. We are building a distribution business that continues to go from strength to strength. We are proud to be an Irish distribution business operating in both Ireland and the UK.”

Supply and delivery sorted Guardian Distribution supply a wide range of products to hardware retailers, builders’ merchants and garden centres, offering quality product and service to customers every day.

“Our ethos is about developing ranges of low maintenance products that do exactly what they are supposed to and offer

value for money. We also work hard to offer our clients the solutions they and their customers require”.

Customer care comes down to the correct stock and exceptional delivery. Guardian operates its own fleet of delivery vehicles and where necessary it outsources.

According to Michelle “our sales team work on a specific call cycle, so we can ensure every store receives a visit on a scheduled basis and most importantly, that we are reliable.”

Goal-orientated team

Each member of the team is aligned and is working towards the core strategy, with Stephen O’Brien, CEO of the Guardian Group in Ireland and the UK, at the helm bringing twenty years of industry experience.

Also adding a wealth of insight to all aspects of the business is Brendan Morris, Commercial Manager, who has over 30 years of sector know-how.

Completing the Management Team is National Sales Manager, Michelle Bradshaw. Michelle brings 15 years of knowledge gained in other sectors building robust policies and procedures ensuring the right expertise to support their customers.

Together they have created a culture of excellence that carries through the entire Guardian team and they firmly believe that developing people is key to the overall strategy.

“We have invested in the right people to support every aspect of our operations. Through warehousing, stock, purchasing team, sales teams, delivery fleet and inhouse support team.”

“We are transparent and honest with our team and have brought in expert advice and training professionals, to help grow the business and to support our staff in growing at the same pace. We are aware of how challenging fast paced change and growth can impact people. We want to make sure our team feel part of the journey.”

Building solid relationships

Customer-centred partnerships are at the heart of success and growth at Guardian Distribution.

“We have a network of customers countrywide and are expanding every day. We work with Buying Groups, DIY chains, Garden Centres and Independents. This diversity of customers means it is vital that we listen the requirements of each group to make sure our strategy align.

Michelle explains “We offer an adaptable approach to customer needs; our Account Managers tailor call cycles to suit individual customer requirements, and we continually assess and revise our service to ensure we meet their expectations.”

New Product Ideas

It’s a continuous process, sourcing and developing new product, researching innovative and exciting concepts to bring to the market. Our focus is on presentation and how this will sit instore to drive sales for our customers.

One of our upcoming products, Frogsuit, is ready to launch and is new to the market. Guardian Distribution are very excited about this high-quality award-winning range of wood protectors and associated garden maintenance and cleaning products with eye catching POS.

Frogsuit boasts a unique formula combining non-flaking, nonpeeling UV protection with water repellent waxes. The range also includes wood restorer, shed and fence protector and an anti-slip decking oil.

The Frogsuit range also includes an effective new line of cleaners such as, power cleaner, uPVC restorer, fabric protector, rattan cleaner, BBQ and oven cleaner, composite decking cleaner and artificial grass cleaner.

To help retailers enhance their selection and merchandising, all products from Guardian Distribution come with brochures, QR codes linking to installation and fitting instructions, as well as attractive POS and instore displays.

Supplier Profile

Full steam ahead

“It’s been a very interesting time for us, “Michelle reflects. “The industry and Guardian Distribution performed very well during Covid. We are now growing at a steady pace and building on this.”

“We do a lot of business in the Far East which has become challenging for obvious reasons. Since the start of the year, we have increased our travel and buying trips to Europe and the Middle East to make sure we have a steady flow of new product.”

“We are focused on building a catalogue of products and brands that will stand the test of time for the years ahead. Guardian is all about quality products and offering complete solutions to our customers”.

Boosting the profile

Guardian Distribution recently launched a new website, www.guardiandistribution.ie, and will continue to improve its features based on user feedback. The company and its team are also active on LinkedIn, keeping their network up to date on their latest innovations.

Now even bigger advances are in the works. “We have recently taken on a new marketing manager to maximise the potential of social media to reach out to our customers and get their input. Over the coming weeks and months, we will be focusing on relevant platforms for our business and in return our customers businesses to help drive sales back through our customers.

That Unique Selling Point

“What sets us apart? Guardian Distribution is new to the market and looking to bring fresh products and ideas to the industry, “Michelle affirms.

“We will continue to progress and work hard to offer our clients the solutions their customers require. Not only are we growing our business, but, as a team, we enjoy what we do and are very excited about the future.”

Be a storyteller

I was alone in my little car, zipping down the GW Parkway at 6pm on a Thursday evening. It was 2002. The Potomac River shimmered russet and gold in the sunset and I could see the stately buildings on the Georgetown University campus off in the distance to my left. I might have been wondering in that moment where my own education had gotten me which right now was precisely nowhere. The conversation I had just had in my office was still spinning in my head as I switched over to the travel lane and drifted my way from the suburbs toward my home in the city for the perhaps last time.

“Sorry, we have to lay you off.” The General Counsel at my company had said to me unexpectedly that afternoon. It was the third time in about four years that I had lost my job. It was never actually my fault unless you could blame me for picking bad places to work.

And thus began my story of business ownership.

I was 30 years old and didn’t have any business ownership, retail, or hardware experience. I had worked in a jewellery store for two months in college but hadn’t really learned much. I spent a year working in my hometown hardware store in high school, but the girls were only allowed to run the cash register. Neither of those experiences prepared me to run the show myself and one of the first lessons I learned, storytelling, might seem a little out of place.

It didn’t take me long to discover that storytelling is one of the strongest secret weapons that local businesses possess. It’s not only the oldest form of communication, but it allows us to connect with the people around us in ways that don’t seem “sales-y”. For example, when you talk to a customer about the paint they are choosing for their new nursery, sure, you can tell them about the health benefits of your zero-VOC option. But couldn’t you also paint a picture of how the soothing yellow

might be easy on a new-born’s eyes? Or how choosing a vibrant orange might entice their teenager to wake up faster?

What stories are you weaving into your company’s narrative? Do you tell the stories in your marketing campaigns? On your website? When interviewing potential new employees? The more often we tell our stories, the more they become living, breathing elements of our business success.

The fact that I launched our first store being as green as I’ve described above, is an important part of my story that I repeat often.

I believe that retail is a three-legged stool comprised of Places, Products, and People. Chances are you already have the place solidified – a physical location in a welcoming community. And you know what products you’re selling – hardware. Then the third, and maybe the most important leg of the stool is the people. And telling stories about people is a great way to start.

My first employee was a returning citizen (former prisoner) named Tommy who taught me a valuable business lesson. As best we could tell, Tommy had spent 17 years in prison and had a lot of time to make up for. And he could talk anyone’s ear off. All day long. It didn’t matter if the customer was a plumber, a dad, or a woman in a business suit from the fanciest neighbourhood, Tommy would make a friend for life, and in the process, gain the store a lifetime customer.

He worked in the nuts-and-bolts aisle and treated it like his kingdom. It was spotless, full of sunlight, and always organised. I would send a new customer to see Tommy, never worrying that they wouldn’t be helped, and they might reappear five or 25 minutes later. She would be holding a bag of hardware worth $0.45 or $1.50 or maybe three whole dollars. Tommy didn’t care if he had to talk all day to make a little sale. In fact,

Takoma

Local Retailing in the USA

he never thought of it as `had to`, he thought of it as `got to`. His gift of gab taught me to see the lifetime value of our customers. He seemed to intrinsically understand that the longer he talked to our guests, the more likely he was to win us a customer for life. She might only spend $2 that day, but the next week she’d come back for a hammer, then a gallon of paint, then maybe an expensive BBQ grill.

Tommy worked with us for 12 years before moving on and I can still hear his laughter ring throughout the store. His story, intertwined with ours is now part of our DNA. We provided the place and the product so that Tommy could live up to his potential of being the best person for the job and this story.

In her 2020 Ted Talk, Karen Eber, CEO and Chief Storyteller of Eber Leadership Group explains why storytelling is so impactful, and it’s not just because humans have told stories forever. As leaders, we often think we must lead with numbers and data -- cold facts from a spreadsheet that paint a business picture that really is in fact incomplete.

I often quote John Venhuizen, the CEO of Ace Hardware who is fond of saying “Businesses keep score with money, but business isn’t about money, it’s about people” and that gets to the heart of Eber’s speech.

She gets technical to start with though – by explaining a phenomenon called speaker-listener neural coupling which happens when the brains of speakers and listeners “couple” up when a story is being told.

Eber tells us that sensors in our brains light up in the same way for the person telling a story and those listening to it. A good storyteller engages all our senses – smell, touch, sound and so on that transports an audience right back to the event itself - ultimately creating a connection through empathy and emotion between the parties. How cool is that!?

When I speak to audiences, I ask them to close their eyes and think of a main street that they love. How does it make you feel? What do you hear as you walk down that main street?

How does your favourite place smell to you? I can imagine little lights in every audience member’s head glowing with loving memories of favourite places. And in the case of my best memories, a reminder of the people in those places and what they meant to me.

Tommy’s chatter, the customers laughter when he told them a joke, the smell of my first hardware store and its creaky old floorboards. All sensory reactions that transport me back to that time.

Every time I visit Ireland I am regaled with tales as old as the country itself. Storytelling might be part of Ireland’s DNA, but how about that of its hardware store owners? How are you weaving stories into your business day-to-day so that your customers and community are reminded of just how special you are?

Sometime around 2016 one of my teammates came to me and said, “You know Gina, this place is known as `Recovery Hardware` in the community”. That little phrase jumpstarted a book by the same name that tells so many beautiful stories of the people that helped grow our business.

If you’d like to read more about them, you can order the book Recovery Hardware by Gina Schaefer Waterstones.

Kat with a customer and her dog at Frager’s. Logan Store. Corron and Bryant at Old Town.

Gina Schaefer co-owner of A Few Cool Hardware Stores.

A View From Europe

Spanish dynamism infects Europe

These are pretty busy times for trade fairs in Europe. The rapid succession made our European colleague, Thierry Coeman choose between the considerable offerings in Belgium, France, Germany and Spain. For The Hardware Journal, he opted for a report on the Spanish trade fair Eurobrico, in Valencia Home - Eurobrico (feriavalencia.com).

Unrivalled figures to dream away for a while Aecoc, the renowned Association for retail and industry (Madrid), recently published the results for the DIY & Home Improvement sector for the period of the first six months of 2022. This sectoral barometer includes a sample of over 1,200 shops. During the first half of 2022, sales increased by 8.6% compared to the previous year which had already been a resounding success for the whole of Europe.

Further analysis showed that the large retail chains (including Leroy-Merlin, Bricor, Brico Depôt, Bauhaus) recorded a growth of 9.4%. Spain overall has more than 10,000 small DIY retail shops, popularly called Ferreterias, as well as 1,200 small speciality stores, which also managed to achieve a growth of 4.2%. More so, especially during the second quarter 2022, there was a particularly strong performance in larger stores (10.8%) versus the smaller independent retail segment (5.9%).

These figures were explained as follows at a Trade Show presentation by renowned expert in the field, Antonio Hostalet.

Government stimulus dynamises overall market

Three substantial factors have had a decisive impact during the past six months on the overall market figures in all segments, including DIY, Home Improvement, Construction and Trade; all three driven by the support policies decided by the new appointed government led by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez:

• The revitalisation of the construction sector

• The revival of the second residence

• The large-scale recovery policy in tourism

Figures from the National Institute of Statistics (INE) clearly show that such government decisions are more than justified and timely. With an increase of 3.5%, Spain’s construction sector is flourishing, as it did two decades ago. And this in both the residential and non-residential markets; while sectoral turnover for the construction sector in Europe generally has to content itself with a modest 1.5% growth.

The Spanish residential market has experienced an unprecedented boost since the pandemic, thanks in part to the leverage effect in private ownership: more than 70% of

Spaniards own their homes (house or flat) and almost 25% of these owners also have a second residence, mostly on the coast, of course. And just for that second residence, Spaniards have been exceptionally generous in redecorating and embellishing it. A boon for the building materials sector as well as DIY and Home Improvement.

In addition, the Pedro Sanchez government also decided to provide substantial efforts and support for the hotel industry, again stimulating DIY and professional market segments. The eurozone’s fourth-largest economy relies heavily on tourism, which in good years represented more than 10 per cent of gross domestic product. Today, that figure has almost halved. And so such injections make these more than welcome.

Last but not least, Spain is still managing quite well to avoid the downward spiral of an inflationary economy, and not only thanks to the government. “What immediately stands out in the Spanish DIY & Home Improvement sector is the positive mindset to capitalise on the overall momentum that the pandemic has brought to the sector,”underlines Antonio Hostalet. “Spain can be quite proud of its unique DNA in both building materials (tiles and ceramics) and hardware; both coupled with high service levels, innovation policies and quality. Quite a few European retail organisations can benefit from these dynamics in an era where everyone wants to review their sourcing policy. Spain can definitely become ‘the preferred partner’ for sourcing in Europe”, underpins Antonio.

Eurobrico, just more than a trade fair

To what extent could such figures and market support translate into inspiring dynamics at the national trade fair?

Like most European trade fairs, Eurobrico faced the great challenge of fulfilling its role of connecting all actors in the market. “We did not hesitate to put three clear accents in the offer,” explains Alejandro Roda, general manager Eurobrico:

• Position the national trade fair as an educational knowledge and meeting centre.

• Make a visionary contribution about the role of the DIY store in a growth market with ever-increasing potential.

A View From Europe

• Send a strong signal to generate even more synergies in trade, whilst putting the focus on creating renewed partnerships between manufacturers, independents and buying associations such as HT Brico, Ferbric, BricoCentro, El Sabio, Coferdroza.

“With those three messages in mind, we managed to convince some two hundred exhibitors to make it a successful exhibition,” Alejandro adds. Quite a promising result after four years of patience.

Ferreteria 4.0, the shop of the future

The challenge was thus successfully met with a wide range of workshops for both children and fair visitors. Central in the main pavilion was a ‘Black Box’ set up with the live performance of the shop of the future as the big eye-catcher. Under the name Ferreteria 4.0, Antonio Valls, initiator and general manager of System Shop, demonstrated a high-profile total concept store (250 m²) with five essential pillars: digitalisation, innovation, omnichannel, technology and sustainability.

People and Leadership

At the Eurobrico Forum, a meeting platform where lectures were scheduled, speakers perfectly summarised the listed dynamics. Antonio Hostalet led the way with a comprehensive analysis of the sector over the centuries. With thought-provoking images on the construction of pyramids to the provision of robots on the shop floor; the Spanish expert came to one clear conclusion: “the future for our sector is still promising if we continue to invest effectively in the resources at our disposal.

However, the key to success remains people and they are worth more than any other investment. Therefore, we must keep the focus on customer centricity and service for which we must continue to invest in recruitment and training to ensure and embed service levels and expertise as a differentiator. Just like two centuries ago, our DIY stores of today and tomorrow are in dire need of exemplary management. The better leaders are inspirers who are always looking to reinvent their DNA. A truth that applies anywhere in Europe, in Ferreterias, big boxes and convenience stores where people still daily return with pleasure for advice and solutions. Make sure you get infected by these values and truths!

Antonio Hostalet has more than 25 years experience in commercial management and Marketing in different sectors at an international level. He has worked in sectors such as Banking, IT, Ceramics, and Plastics in more than 100 countries. He has long experience in modern distribution channels, high performance sales teams and Marketing.

Antonio Hostalet.

HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting underway for its second year

After its very successful inaugural year, which saw nearly 20 employees in the hardware/DIY industry nationwide complete their studies, with some progressing further in their career, the HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting is now underway for 2022-2023.

Sponsored by Octabuild for a second year, the nine-month long mentor-based programme is designed to equip those new to the hardware retail/builders merchanting sector, and those in need of more structured training, with a knowledge and skills base that will enable them to contribute to the business of their employer. It will also help employees build a career in the sector.

This year’s programme kicked off with an Introductory Day at The Osprey Hotel, Naas, Co. Kildare, on the 24th of August, where incoming students and mentors got to meet each other and their tutors in person. The morning included presentations from the programme’s administrator Aoife Kinsella, Octabuild Chairman Ray Molyneaux, HAI CEO Martin Markey, and HAI President Michael O’Donohoe.

The session was followed by a highly comprehensive Product Knowledge module on Heating Products, presented by Keith Scully from Octabuild member, Grant Engineering. The session covered key technical and market FAQs students might face from DIY and trade customers, looking at products such as heat pumps, alternative fuels and energy consumption.

The students’ learning commenced in early September with the first Zoom-based module, covering Communication Essentials, which was delivered by Noel Davidson from the Entrepreneur’s Academy. It was a highly interactive and by all accounts an enjoyable session with break-out rooms, group discussions and exercises all designed to help the students enhance the power of good communications and to have a positive impact on others.

The next session was Selling Skills, delivered by Terry Harmer in late September. Terry’s highly interactive workshop used break-out rooms and discussion to help students think differently about their day-to-day interactions with customers, with a lot of link-backs to Noel’s Communications module.

Introductory Day at The Osprey Hotel, Naas.

This session was followed by a Product Knowledge module in Paint & Décor presented by Derek Keyes from Dulux Paints, another Octabuild member. Derek delivered a highly interactive presentation on the technical aspects of paint products, to help students understand the use of solvents and other key questions they might face from customers.

Octabuild Members sharing their Product Knowledge

HAI is delighted to be working with Octabuild and its members (Dulux, Etex, Glennon Brothers, Grant Engineering, Gyproc, Irish Cement, Kingspan, and Wavin) to deliver a series of Product Knowledge modules, giving students a full rounded view perspective of the industry.

The remaining modules to be covered are:

• Insulation Products – Kingspan Insulation

• Roof and Timber Products – Etex and Glennon Brothers

• Plumbing Products – Wavin Ireland

• Cement Products Irish Cement/Gyproc

• Fasteners & Fixings - tbc

• Garden Products - tbc

• Hand and Power Tools - tbc

Octabuild Chairman Ray Molyneaux comments on the group’s involvement this year: “Octabuild is delighted to sponsor the HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting for the second year running. We very much appreciate the importance of growing talent in the merchant trade, which offers significant opportunities, and value the knowledge that this programme offers to participants. We look forward to sharing our own expertise in industry specific product knowledge modules for participants and working with them as they progress through the programme.”

HAI looks forward to working with Octabuild in sharing their Product Knowledge and experience with students in the coming year.

Careers in Hardware

A look at HAI’s recent activities as part of its Careers in Hardware campaign, including its participation in the Worldskills Ireland Careers and Skills fair in Dublin.

Hardware Jobs at Worldskills Ireland

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) was delighted to attend the Worldskills Ireland careers fair for a second year. The national event took place over three days in mid-September in the RDS Simmonscourt. It successfully promoted apprenticeships, traineeships and other career opportunities in Ireland. The show demonstrated to young people (including 2nd and 3rd level students) and career officers that they are attractive career opportunities in the hardware and builders’ merchant sector.

The event saw over 16,000 students meeting employers and industry experts to learn more about trades and professional careers. HAI, along with employers and managers from Murdocks Builders Merchants and the Sanbra Group, who joined the HAI team over the three days, met with many students and careers officers from schools and universities to talk about available jobs and how to get started in the industry.

Following this highly successful event, HAI will be working with several careers officers in the coming weeks to present to secondary school students on career opportunities in the industry. HAI members are welcome to get involved.

Upcoming Careers Fairs:

Following the success of the World Skills Ireland careers fair, HAI will be participating in regional 3rd level careers fairs in the coming weeks:

• UL Autumn Career Fair University of Limerick • UCD Science, Engineering & Technology Fair • MTU Careers Fair Cork Campus

For any employers interested in joining the HAI team at any of the above events and to talk to visiting students and

careers officers about careers, graduate programmes, work experience or other initiatives, please contact aoife@hardwareassociation.ie

Other ways to get involved

• Advertise your vacancies on www.hardwarejobs.ie

HAI members can advertise vacancies and publish a company profile for free on www.hardwarejobs.ie, giving them an additional platform to promote vacancies via HAI’s social media channels.

• Display HAI’s Careers in Hardware brochure on your trade/sales counter

This brochure will help guide skilled jobseekers, students and graduates looking for advice on how to find new career opportunities, while promoting the benefits of choosing a career path in the sector. This brochure is available in printed and digital format, if you would like copies for your business please email aoife@hardwareassociation.ie

• Advertise your vacancies instore with our recruitment poster template

A poster has been produced for HAI members to promote career opportunities in their stores and businesses.

If you would like a copy of this poster to display in your store to promote your job opportunities to visitors, then email aoife@hardwareassociation.ie

If you are an employer, and have any vacancies you would like to promote, contact aoife@hardwareassociation.ie today about advertising your vacancies on www.hardwarejobs.ie

Student Recruitment Day at Patrician Secondary College, Newbridge at which HAI participated on behalf of members in the area.

Aoife Kinsella at the UCD Science, Engineering & Technology Fair.

Why are retailers turning to Electronic Shelf Labels?

Imagine being able to change all of your prices in-store instantaneously with the push of a button. Imagine reducing the time consumed changing every paper label and being fully confident that the price displayed to the customer is the same as the price they are charged at the till. Imagine being able to react immediately to market price situations and implement a price promotion or increase across all your stores immediately.

That is what Digi Systems do. They are an established, best-in-class Electronic Shelf Labels (ESL) solution providers. They first introduced the product in April 2017. Today, they manage an estate of over 2.2 Million tags in over 450 retail locations nationwide and they can help you reduce labour costs, customise your marketing and contribute towards your sustainability goals. They offer fully personalised development, installation, and maintenance services through their established Dublin based support team, and nationwide field service engineer network.

What are Electronic Shelf Labels?

An ESL system is a tool used by retailers to display specific price, products, and promotional information. ESLs are fixed to the front edge of retail shelving. Through a local network, the price information can be easily updated with just a few clicks from a remote server whether you have one or 100 stores, prices will be updated seamlessly.

ESLs are an e-paper solution, that replaces traditional paper price tagging and provides shoppers with easy, real-time access to promotional and stock level information, meeting shoppers’ digitally driven demands. The functionality can be adapted to suit your needs and provide a QR display, LED, and soon Near Field Communication (NFC) will be incorporated.

How can ESLs work for your business?

Environmental considerations, the need for fast-paced changes, or freeing up crucial time to work on value-adding activities means that retailers have a need for change. Digi System’s cloud-based ESL system allows you to automate the pricing process and spend more time merchandising, stock replenishing, and assisting shoppers.

More time spent on the shop floor rather than in the back office managing price and promotional changeovers, leads to improved customer confidence and satisfaction.

Paper price tagging is expensive, prone to errors, resourceheavy, and slow. By comparison, ESLs offer retailers an accurate, agile, and flexible price update system, increased instore efficiency, improved store appearance, and an enhanced shopping experience for customers.

Digi Systems solution also contributes towards the retailer’s sustainability goals by reducing paper and ink consumption associated with paper labels.

How the company work for you. Digi Systems have the resource and infrastructure in place to seamlessly install 80,000 tags per month. They will create a bespoke interface to meet your needs ensuring that the ESLs work for you and your business. Once they create your interface, they will do a comprehensive survey of your premises, and support you in completing required pre-installation work.

Their installation team will install the ESLs and rails to your current shelving, they do this at your convenience and with minimal disruption to your customer’s shopping experience.

Their system is user-friendly and full training will be provided to you and your team to ensure you are comfortable with the operation. Of course, they are always at the end of the phone should you need them.

For further information please contact, Colin Downey, National Account Manager, Digi Systems, 087 7596417, colin@digi.ie,

JENNIFER KEOGH Relationship Manager, Digi Systems (Ire) Ltd.

Fact Sheet

Credit Insurance

JAMES RIORDAN Credit Risk Brokers

In other words, the insurance policy covers the risk of loss caused by a buyer’s insolvency or by their defaulting on an agreed debt (credit sale).

That said, credit insurance is not just about having claims paid.

Access to information

When it comes to the risk of loss from bad debts, informed decisions can be made on levels of credit provided based on the insurer’s review of that buyer.

The information held by a credit insurer tends to be more than publicly available financial information or filed accounts. They also have management accounts, detail of payment patterns and records of previous defaults.

Debt Collection & Legal services

Some insurers have their own debt collections & legal team to assist with the recovery of monies owed. Depending on the insurer this can be included as part of the policy or fees are heavily discounted for the policy holder.

Early warnings

When insured, the policy holder is usually informed about any negative information relating to their buyer, whether it is updated financials or poor payment performance to another insured buyer. This information is considered by most to be the second reason for obtaining and keeping a policy.

Credit insurance policies can cover one buyer, known as a single risk policy, 6/7 buyers being a multi-buyer policy or a whole turnover policy which cover all credit sales above a predetermined excess level.

The level of credit sales expected in the policy period (estimated insurable turnover) is the main driver for pricing the premium but the level of bad debts in recent years, the main risks (the buyers and their credit limits) impact the cost also. For an exporter the countries sold to are also considered, especially if they are outside the OECD. Political risk cover can be sought in many countries if required.

Who are the main players?

There are a number of credit insurers operating in Ireland, with Atradius, Coface & Allianz Trade (formally Euler Hermes) being the main three but there are others like Tokio Marine HCC, AIG, Credendo, Chubb, QBE, Nexus. Each offer different

options but in general a policy can be tailored to the client’s trade with the addition of varying modules to a basic policy structure, whether they are a hardware store & builders provider, in construction themselves or a service provider or supplier.

How do I check out my options?

Obtaining terms for a policy is easy, a simple one-page questionnaire is populated and given to an insurer who assesses their risk appetite for the main buyers and then they provide an offer of terms. Using a specialist broker for this can streamline the process and returns a full market response.

A credit insurance policy can be assigned to an invoice discounter provider so that claims can be paid to them if they have funded against the debt. Some lenders insist on there being a policy in place before providing support for this type of funding.

Credit Insurance by its nature is designed to provide peace of mind, information, and bad debt protection but it can also provide structure and guidance to a credit function resulting in reduced debtor days and improving cash in a business.

Our thanks to James Riordan of Credit Risk Brokers for producing this fact sheet. Credit Risk Brokers (CRB) is one of Ireland’s leading specialists in Credit Insurance and Surety Bonds. They are also a founding member of Farosol, a global alliance of leading brokers. CRB have offices in Dublin and Belfast.

Credit insurance indemnifies sellers when trade receivables are not paid for by buyers (debtors).

After a bumper two years for hardware retailers and builders’ merchants, many retailers have reported a softening in footfall since the start of the summer. This is in line with retail across all sectors, with the CSO reporting an annual decline in footfall of 8.1% for the year to date.

However, the booming construction industry is good news for the workwear sector. The EY Economic Advisory service estimates that the volume of construction projects will increase by 4.9% this year and an additional 4.1% in 2023. This growth will ensure the demand for tradespeople to build the houses so badly needed within Irish society, securing workwear sales as a result. While demand will be constant, the product being demanded is where we will continue to see disruption. A much-publicised skills shortage in the construction industry will see companies actively trying to recruit more women. Currently they make up just 9% of the workforce, https://cif.ie/2022/03/09/construction-willneed-more-women-to-meet-future-needs/, but we are set to see this increase as firms and industry bodies alike push for more women to join the trades. This has already increased from just 6% at the end of 2017. As workwear customers, women are rejecting the old-style unisex garments on offer to them and seeking out well fitted, good quality garments that are made specifically with them in mind. We have seen several major workwear brands launch women’s ranges and even maternity workwear over the past year or so and this sector looks set to continue to grow.

Retail demand is steady but strong as pricing pressures continue New Portwest DX4 Workwear Range is stretching all limits!

Portwest’s new DX4 workwear range has proved to be a massive hit for the company, with sales growing 130% in the past 12 months. The range, which launched in early 2021, has proven to be their most popular workwear range to date. That is saying something for a company which has been around for more than 120 years.

Following the success of the DX4 range to date, Portwest have decided to heavily invest in the marketing of the DX4 product. Rachel Davoren, MD of Portwest Ireland, says “We’re backing this to be our best range ever and we know there is still more room for substantial growth in it. The range was on display at the National Ploughing Championships and the feedback from consumers was brilliant, they really loved it. It is supremely stylish and sold at a great price point, which makes

Trades people in general have also become more discerning in what they buy. The consumer led drive to introduce more sustainable fabrics to all garments has seen a big increase in recycled materials and more sustainable fabrics like bamboo being introduced to workwear offerings. While these come with a higher price point than traditional materials, the more socially conscious customer is willing to pay the premium thus far and is actively seeking out garments with these qualities. Bamboo, for example, releases 35% more oxygen into the atmosphere when it is grown than your average tree and the fabric is biodegradable at its end of life, meaning less mass being added to our landfills. These factors are important purchasing considerations for our modern consumer. All of these factors play into increasingly complex consumer demand, and it is certainly a difficult time for retailers and manufacturers alike to navigate. The upward pressure on production costs and raw materials continues and although demand remains strong, it is possible that this will be hit as consumers disposable income reduces due to the cost of living crisis. As always, it is pertinent for brands to manage their stock well, listen closely to their customer and differentiate themselves with service and a strong branding offer.

Thanks to Anne McNicholas from Portwest for her assistance in compiling information for this introduction.

it very attractive to tradespeople who want to look good while they are working.”

This Autumn, Portwest are planning a series of on the road and sponsorship activations which will see them promoting the new range across a series of mediums. This is on the back of a big sponsorship investment in Mayo GAA and a deal to become the Official Workwear Partner of Croke Park, both of which were signed last year.

For retailers who wish to discuss stocking the DX4 workwear range or any Portwest products, they can contact sales@portwest.ie for more information or phone 098 51777, to talk to a member of the Portwest team.

Providing innovative safety solutions

Globus Group is a leading international PPE manufacturer with over 25 years of experience and expertise in providing innovative safety solutions across healthcare and multiple industrial sectors.

Leading the way in PPE, the business is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of global worker safety solutions for Respiratory Protection, Hand Protection, Safety Eyewear, Head Protection, Hearing Protection and Protective Clothing.

For decades, working closely alongside leading safety professionals and providers has enabled Globus Group’s dedicated team to build expertise, develop and deliver the best possible protection for workers, by providing support and advice including on-site training and assessments.

Globus Group is committed to a sustainable future with core values that include a deep commitment to the long-term welfare of future generations. That means they will ensure their business and operational processes are as economically, environmentally, and socially sustainable as possible.

As part of their strategy to manufacture 75% of their products in Europe, they accelerated their growth plan and

commissioned three new factories in the UK and now have five factories across Europe providing resilient sustainable production.

The substantial increase in local production rather than South Asia manufacturing has had a significant, positive impact on their carbon footprint. The importance of control and resilience in local manufacturing means they have made good strides in driving efficiency and reducing waste. They are also driving in-country operational and supply sustainability, plus sourcing more raw materials locally.

At Globus Group, they believe in the safety, reliability and wearability of their products. They are proud to protect their customers in their working lives, equipping them to perform their roles safely and empowering them to do the best job possible. As well as providing safety products that their customers trust, their collaborative approach seeks to set them apart. They believe in building lifetime relationships with their customers and being there to respond to their changing requirements.

For further information, visit www.globusgroup.com

Stay safe and warm with Snickers Workwear

This season Snickers Workwear are not just focusing on strengthening their range of durable and functional trousers. Neither are they simply increasing workplace safety by expanding their line of high-visibility workwear for low-visibility work environments. They’re also adding a number of jackets, tops, and accessories that are vital for their head-to-toe layering system in cold and wet weather.

Layered from head to toe No matter if it’s hot or cold outside, the common denominator to successful layering is the ability to stay dry, even when you’re working up a sweat. And your best tool to combat that is the layer that’s closest to your skin - the base layer.

Base layer

Your first layer is key to staying dry and ventilated and should wick moisture away from your skin. All of Snickers base layers offer seamless comfort and great fit, but with different degrees of ventilation and warmth depending on how active you are at work, and the weather you’re working in.

Midlayer

Your second layer is for warmth and insulation. Properly designed and sized, it should trap your body heat in a pocket of warm air around you. That means your mid-layer needs to fit well, without being too tight or snug. Ideally, it will be crafted of knitted, quilted, fleece, or microfleece materials that provide an airy yet comfortable enclosure.

Outer layer

Your third layer needs to provide both wind and water protection, as well as keep you warm. And just as with both base layers and midlayers, you don’t want to get too warm - so breathability and ventilation are key.

This means that Snickers durable design has to intersect with their technical functionality. Their outer layers are built to be weatherproof enough to keep the elements at bay, and durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of hard day’s work. And then they still deliver the level of breathability and ventilation you can expect and demand.

And even if this is all fantastic autumn and winter news, they’re not stopping there.

In this ever-changing world, Snickers Workwear are also taking decided steps to increase the levels of sustainability in all areas of their business practices. Specifically, how they make their products, what they make them with, and how their activities impact our environment and the world around us.

At Snickers Workwear, they innovate and develop durable and sustainable garments for demanding craftsmen and craftswomen everywhere. And that makes us all feel warm on the inside. #InventingWorkwear

For further information contact Hultafors Group Ireland,

New Solid Fuel Regulations

The Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan, announced in September 2021 that new regulations regarding solid fuels for domestic heating will apply across the State. These regulations are now expected to come into effect on 31st October 2022.

The changes being introduced through the new regulations will affect all, whether they are a householder, a retailer, or involved in the solid fuel industry as a producer or importer.

Some of the changes that will apply when the regulations come into effect are:

• Coal products and manufactured solid fuels must have a smoke emission rate of less than 10 grams per hour – this is the same as currently in force in low smoke zones

• Manufactured part biomass products must have a smoke emission rate of less than five grams per hour

• Coal products and manufactured solid fuels, including manufactured part biomass products, must have a sulphur

content of less than 2% by weight on a dry ash-free basis, and subject to a market assessment, from 1st September 2025 this will be reduced to 1%

• Fuel products which are 100% biomass products including, wood products and wood logs, supplied in units of two cubic metres or less, must have a moisture content of less than 25% (from 1st September 2025, this will be reduced to less than 20%)

• Wood logs supplied in units of two cubic metres or more shall be accompanied by a notice outlining the need to store and season wet wood until it is sufficiently dried

• It will not be possible to sell turf via retail, online or other media, in public houses or other public places.

There are also some changes to the certification and registration process, retailer obligations and other areas. More details on these can be found at www.gov.ie/cleanair

Global energy crisis continues to bite

The global energy crisis continues to have a profound effect on the price of all fossil fuel-based energy forms. Because of this the supply of raw materials has become severely challenged. Arigna Fuels have worked hard to secure sufficient volumes for their customer base for the coming winter season. It is difficult to establish what the knock-on effect on consumer demand will be on account of the increased prices, however Arigna Fuels have seen strong demand throughout the summer period and there is evidence of consumers re-entering the solid fuel market. They expect to see an increase in the usage of turf and wood of all qualities. However, they also expect to see consumers move from oil and gas usage to solid fuel due to continuing high prices and potential shortages.

Minister Ryan has announced that the new solid fuel regulations will be in place from 1st November 2022. This includes the rollout of the Nationwide Smoky Coal Ban along with significant other changes on the sale of wood and turf. Arigna Fuels are gearing up for the upcoming coal ban and anticipate significant demand for their original market leading smokeless brands Cosyglo and Ecobrite. In addition they continue to see increased demand for their renewable biomass product Harvest Flame alongside their range of kiln dried firewood. To discuss your solid fuel needs for the coming season, please contact Arigna Fuels on 071-9646002 and info@arignafuels.ie

Hayes Fuels complete Low Smoke Fuel Plant

Hayes Fuels have just commissioned their new smokeless fuel plant in Dungannon, Co. Tyrone, which has been fully operational from September 22nd. The plant has capacity to produce 100,000 tonnes of low smoke fuel per annum.

Alastair Hayes, Managing Director of Hayes Fuels commented “This is a major milestone for our company. Having become one of the major solid fuel companies in Ireland and UK over past 30 years this was a natural progression for our company to produce our own low smoke fuel. Hayes import large vessels of raw materials direct from source into the port of Belfast and with our economics of scale, and a strong brand, this leaves us in

a great position to be very competitive in the marketplace. We envisage strong demand for our low smoke products”.

Hayes Fuels main product line is Glolite Smokeless Ovoids, which produces a high heat output and leaves a low ash content. The product is packed in both 20kg and 40kg packs and is delivered throughout Ireland. The product meets the criteria for the new proposed solid fuel regulations in Ireland and is suitable for both stoves and open fires. Hayes also produce a range of other solid fuels to cater for every budget.

For further information contact

Hayes Fuels Bagging Facility.

Hayes Fuels Head Office.

Hayes Fuels Processing Facility.

Winter is for warmth

Calor portable gas heaters - cost-effective choice for staying warm.

Winter is a time for warmth. This winter there is also an increased focus on energy efficiency and energy savings. At Calor, they have been preparing for Irish winters for over 80 years, and they’ve gotten used to helping Irish people to keep warm.

As a trusted partner for retailers of all types and sizes including hardware stores, builders merchants and fuel merchants, Calor is always ready to support you in meeting your customers’ needs.To ensure this, Calor has a portable gas heater solution that can help your customers efficiently heat their homes and save on fuel costs.

Using a Calor portable gas heater has many benefits. Portable gas heaters give instant heat, where and when you need it, making them the ideal cost-effective choice for staying warm.

Powered by neatly concealed Calor gas cylinders, portable gas heaters reduce the need to heat the whole house, making efficient use of your customers home heating.

With more people working from home this winter, a portable gas heater is a great addition to a home office space for family members at home all day. While saving on heating rooms throughout the house that are not in use. Customers don’t need to compromise on style either. Calor’s range of portable heaters are designed to suit all tastes and budgets. Customers can choose the style that complements their home. From the country stove style of the Provence, to the sharp clean lines of the Manhattan, there is an option for everyone.

To view the wide range of Calor portable heaters and become a Calor retailer, visit their website at https://shop.calorgas.ie/home-essentials/portable-gas-heaters.html.

Instant heat wherever you are

Calor portable gas heaters deliver instant heat for your home whenever and wherever you need it. Powered by Calor gas cylinders, they’re easy to move around and because you can choose to heat only the room you’re using, they’re cost-effective too.

See calorgas.ie

Want to create competitive advantage? Work with Canadia

Canadia`s passion for floors started a long time ago and is influenced by our heritage of almost 100 years. A carefully selected floor, be it in a modern house, new extension or indeed a house that is 100 years old, is something to behold. This is what Canadia is all about - creating timeless elegance. Wood is truly the material of choice for creating plush spaces with a warm natural feel. The Canadia collection includes many different types of wood construction, including solid wood, engineered and laminate with herringbone, chevron and other decorative patterns.

Canadia have a vast and beautiful collection of wood, complemented by an exclusive range of matching accessories. Supporting our builders’ merchant and retail partners is a key part of Canadia’s success and there are a number of ways in which we deliver added value to you through our supportive service provision, such as:

Canadia Centres

Fully designed in-house at Canadia for selected partners who have the space and wish to invest in, and upgrade, their flooring and accessories offering. Let us take care of the detail and provide you with a first-class floor centre that consumers will consider a local destination point for their new purchase.

Display Boards

For smaller spaces, let us craft the right brand presence for you. Our display boards are crafted to allow consumers visualise their new floor from the comfort of your store. You can design how your boards will fit snuggly into a library display or laminate stand tailored to the size of your store.

Point of Sale (POS)

Canadia branded POS to complement displays and ensure continuity of presence. Included on the POS is a QR code that

can be scanned by your customer to take them to the product page on the Canadia website for more information about the product.

Brochures

Consumer-orientated brochures to provide interior inspiration. An ideal take-away for your customers – to inspire and influence a purchase, and ensure customers return to your store when they are close to making the final decision on their new floor.

Canadia.ie

Consumers can order floor samples to support colour matching and quality of floor prior to purchase. Information for you to assist and support a floor purchase.

Canadia Showroom

The showroom in Tallaght houses our full collection of flooring and is available to consumers, architects, developers and contractors by appointment. Here their experience will be enhanced and supported by Canadia experts.

New Products

In challenging times when the cost of living is increasing and real income is decreasing, Canadia will work with you to provide a collection of keenly priced contemporary floors. Water resistant laminate floors including our Dark Langley Walnut (featured opposite) are increasing in popularity as an alternative to tiles in bathrooms and kitchens. We continue to expand our range of these floors to offer a variety of trend-led colours.

Please contact your Canadia Sales Representative for assistance with any of these supports or contact Canadia directly at marketing@canadia.ie

Whiteriver Group launch new Engineered & Solid Wood Flooring brochure

Whiteriver Group are one of the country’s largest flooring & door distributors and have just launched their new Engineered & Solid Wood Flooring brochure. The new brochure is packed with inspirational lifestyle images to entice homeowners to add a touch of real wood luxury to their homes.

Traditionally, new colours and trends can take time to develop in the market, however social media has accelerated the process in recent years creating real demand. That said, while social media is undoubtedly a fantastic marketing tool, the end user still likes to touch & feel before they buy - this is why showroom presentation and brochures still play a major part of the sales process.

Sales Director, Iain Wogan says that part of their company’s ethos has always been to be “just that little bit better”. They apply this simple approach to all aspects of their business including marketing which is clear in the quality of inhouse publications created by their graphic designers. As well as bespoke showroom display panels which are created on site, they also offer an express hand sample service, which along with a comprehensive website is key to closing sales with end users.

With more than 140 different types of engineered floors to choose from over 160 pages, there is something to cater for all tastes.

Brochures are available to view online at www.wrg.ie or by contacting their Customer Services Team sales@wrg.ie

DS Supplies brings you LED Extrusions and High-Performance Underlays

DS Supplies introduces a range of Trojan branded extrusions designed for use with LED lighting strips. This will facilitate a growing demand for efficient interior lighting such as under stair treads, recessed into walls and skirting boards, along with many other applications around the home and office space. This range includes easy to fit surface mounted lighting, recessed lighting as well as specifically designed stair profiles

Trojan is an Irish registered brand and has been providing Flooring Accessories & DIY installation solutions since 1998. This new range complements the existing broad offering of floor & furniture finishing profiles to our retail customers nationwide.

DS Supplies also brings you High Performance Underlays. Trojan Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) High Performance Floor Underlays are now available from DS Supplies, they reduce sound, level subfloors and have long lasting insulation benefits. These high tog floor underlays help insulate rooms, come in sheet form packs or fan-fold packs. They are easy to cut and made with recyclable materials.

from a three-year

Trojan LED profiles

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