“If you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you, Warning: massive generalisation ahead! What is it about human beings that the moment we get into our cars, we turn into absolute numbskulls, unable to think about or empathise with anyone else …

The Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) has appointed Perspectiva Consultants to act as Government Relations Consultants in Scotland and Northern Ireland. An established consultancy with experience and contacts with both the Scottish and Northern Irish devolved legislatures, the Perspectiva team is headed up by Karen Freel, who will be the Account Manager …

North east decorators’ merchant Fred Williamson & Sons Ltd has been acquired by growing independent company, C. Brewer & Sons Ltd. The acquisition marks Brewers’ entry into the North East market and is the culmination of a long-term relationship between the two businesses. Founded in 1884 by Fred Williamson in …

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, has praised the commitment of the Builders Merchants Federation for encouraging more young people to enter the building materials industry. During a visit to the BMF headquarters, the Mayor met with apprentices and discussed the career prospects for young people in the sector. …

If you live in the river you should make friends with the crocodile. Here’s a new game to try while you’re waiting for the train or for that stupidly big file to download or even for the kettle to boil: how many Housing Ministers from the last 20 years can …

Buckingham-shire based independent builders and plumbers merchant Grant & Stone has opened three branches in the last five months. The new Reading plumbers merchant and bathroom showroom opened in December on the Stadium Trade and Business Park. Showroom Supervisor Matt Claridge says: “We feel Reading was crying out for a top …

Members of the Federation of Master Builders have reported shortages of a variety of building materials, with some – notably bricks, windows and roof tiles – having lead times of up to and including a year. However, builders merchants trade association the Builders Merchants Federation, says it is “not aware” …

For want of a nail the shoe was lost, For want of a shoe the horse was lost For want of the horse the rider was lost, For want of the rider the battle was lost For want of the battle the kingdom was lost And all for the want …

The final shortlist for the inaugural BMJ Industry Awards has been announced. The actual winners will be announced at the Awards Lunch on Friday May 18th at the Brewery in Chiswell Street, London. The companies and brands on the final list are: Best Bathroom Brand Methven, Lakes Bathrooms, Roca, Bristan Best …

Nothing in life gives a man so much courage as the attainment or renewal of the conviction that other people regard him with favor; Not long now!! There’s only three more days for you to vote for your favourites in the BMJ Industry Awards. It’s been really amazing to see …