Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
Simon Jackson has retired as managing director of Jackson Building Centres, having been with the company for 30 years. His replacement is Andy Williams, who assumed the role from July 1.
During Jackson’s time with the business it has tripled in size and developed into a leading builders merchant in the East Midlands area with 24 branches. The business is now part of Grafton Merchanting GB.
Williams joined the company in 1983, becoming branch manager in 1995, and manager of the flagship Lincoln branch in 1997. He was appointed to the Jackson board in 2008.
Jackson said: “In my view it was extremely important that this role was taken by someone from within the Jackson’s business and Andy’s proven leadership qualities will be well-suited to these challenging times. I know that all my Jackson’s colleagues join me in wishing him every success in his new position.
“It has been a huge pleasure for me to work with such a committed management team who have jointly orchestrated our tremendous growth. Although we are experiencing testing times at the moment I am sure that the market will recover and when it does Jackson Building Centres will be well positioned to take advantage of the available opportunities.”
Williams said: “I’m very excited about the challenge despite the difficult trading conditions we currently face. The strength of the Jackson brand is a firm foundation to build on for the future. I am committed to expanding the brand and consolidating our position as the leading builders merchant in the East Midlands area.”
Sue Knight and Simon Jackson were previously joint managing directors of Jackson Building Centres. Knight has taken up a key new role as lightside purchasing director for Grafton Merchanting GB and remains on the Jackson board.
