The European Commission is to investigate cement companies after suspicions arose that they may have operated an illegal cartel.

Cemco, the independent merchant buying group, has added two more builders merchants to the group.

Failed internet building supplies company Building Supplies R Us is unlikely to have sufficient funds to repay the builders merchants, manufacturers and other unsecured creditors to whom it owes money.

ERA, the door lock people have launched a new remote control door lock system that operates via a simple key fob.

Long Rake Spar, the decorative aggregates people, have a new coloured natural dashing aggregate free from iron sulphide, which can cause discolouration.

Tool specialists Stanley have selected a range of their most popular and essential tools from the Fat Max range, as part of a special Christmas ‘give a man a man’s present’ promotion.

Michael McCabe is the new finance director at Grafton Merchanting GB Ltd.

Cemex, the Mexico-based owners of the Rugby Cement brand, have promoted two of their UK directors.

Software solutions company Progressive Solutions have appointed a financial management consultant to provide a link with the financial staff and board members of customers.

There were fewer housing transaction in October than at any time in the past 20 years and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors are blaming the lack of available mortgage finance.