Richard Jackson has been appointed as the new UK national sales manager at Freefoam Plastics (UK).

East Anglian independent builders merchant Kent Blaxill has appointed Chris Peverett as the new sales representative for the Bury St Edmunds branch.

Timber supplier SCA Timber Supply Ltd is re-organising its sales team from the beginning of next month.

Market Deeping-based builders' merchant The Deepings Trading Company has appointed Ken Burdock as account manager to look after its heavyside civil and landscaping product portfolio.

Builders and plumbers merchant chain Wolseley plc has reported a 15% decline in first-half earnings, but 'good progress' in getting back on track.

Builders and plumbers merchant chain Wolseley could sell off 19 of its businesses, including Build Center, if it decides they are non-core or failed to perform.

Anne Ganley, managing director of north east independent builders' merchant Thompson Building Centres, will climb Mount Everest in May.

The Builders Merchants' Federation and other construction and housebuilding organisations have joined forces to exert pressure on politicians of all parties to revive the fortunes of the industry.

Building chemicals, sealants and adhesives manufacturer Everbuild Building Products took real Yorkshire cheese to Germany this month.

Housing and Planning Minister John Healey has announced that changes the Building Regulations will make homes 25% more energy efficient.