STARK Building Materials UK (STARK UK) has launched a digital delivery tracking service, providing real-time updates on orders. Launched as part of STARK UK’s ‘trusted deliveries’ strategy, the new service informs customers of a two-hour delivery window before sending a second update, narrowing it to a one-hour slot, with a …

Manufacturers supplying the construction sector have been hit by a sharp decline in sales, according to new research published by inventory management specialist Unleashed. The latest quarterly Manufacturing Health Index report, based on data from more than 600 UK firms, highlighted that small and mid-sized firms in the category saw …

Bishop Pipe Freezing has promoted Gary Day to the role of director. Day is also a director of the International PipeFreezing Association, which was established by Bishop Pipe Freezing to drive up standards across the cryogenic pipe freezing sector. In his new role, he will be responsible for the day-to-day …

Quanex Hardware Solutions has appointed Michele Hocking as internal sales key account manager for its Zoo Hardware brand. In her new role, she will focus on supporting key customers directly with their requirements, as well as working with the wider Zoo sales team on training and development. Hocking says: “My …

Plumbing and drainage manufacturer Wavin has announced the appointment of Maxine Cornelius as its new sales director for the UK and Ireland. Wavin has appointed Cornelius to strengthen support for installers and merchants. Overseeing the full Building & Infrastructure range, she will focus on delivering cohesive customer engagement, and a …

Hiatt Hardware Group has announced the strategic acquisition of Lakes Bathrooms and Lakes Showering Spaces. This acquisition will create 200 jobs across the group, and reinforces the group’s long-term vision of building a stronger, more diversified construction and home improvement supplies business with improved supply chain control within the Hiatt …

Building products manufacturer Ibstock Plc has released a trading update for the period from January 1 to April 30, ahead of its Annual General Meeting (AGM). The group reports that overall group revenues were down approximately 10% for the first 4 months of the year on a like-for-like basis, with …

Trade kitchen supplier Howdens has opened the doors to new depots in Wexford and Athlone in the Republic of Ireland. These latest openings bring its depot network to 18 in the region, with the company intending to open three more depots in ROI by the end of the year. Both …

Roofing manufacturer Russell Roof Tiles has formed a strategic partnership with solar specialist Solfit to support the deployment of roof-integrated solar systems.  With solar PV expected to become standard across new-build housing under upcoming energy efficiency regulations, the partnership brings together Russell Roof Tiles’ expertise with Solfit’s roof-integrated solar platform …

Insulation specialist Actis has appointed Jake Wilson as area sales manager for the South East and London. In his new role, Wilson will be offering technical advice, product guidance and on site support to distributors, merchants, architects and builders. Wilson comments: “I was drawn to Actis because it’s a company that …