The first dedicated UK trade show for builders and contractors for five years will take place in Birmingham next year.

Builders and plumbers merchant group Grafton saw its Irish businesses return to profit in the 12 months to December 31 2013, with the UK businesses continuing their own strong recovery.

Builders merchant buying group NMBS has secured the services of Olympic specialist sports reporter, James Pearce, for its 2014 conference in June.

Over 30 people attended the first meeting of the Builders Merchants Federation's BMF Plumbing & Heating Sector.

Timber and builders merchant Howarth Timber and Building Supplies has appointed a lightside product manager to introduce new ranges and drive sales across its branches.

Stairparts and moulding manufacturer Richard Burbidge has signed a contract with merchant buying group Fortis.

East Anglian independent builders merchant Collier & Catchpole has recruited Michael Andrews as the newest member of the Colchester yard sales team.

Independent aggregates business Breedon Aggregates has announced its audited annual results for the year ended 31 December 2013.

Keyline's National Rail Division has introduced a new out-of-hours emergency service at 35 of its depots, which have been strategically placed across the UK to maximise accessibility.

Chemical water treatment manufacturer Fernox has launched a new app to support its 50th anniversary prize draw, which is offering installers the chance to win £50,000 worth of any heating products.