Bradfords Building Supplies, the oldest builders’ merchants in the UK and number one builders’ merchant in the South West has launched its brand awareness campaign ‘We’ve Got Your Back’. With the UK Government paying tribute to the construction industry for making a hugely valued and critical contribution, the campaign is in response to the work being carried out by tradespeople across the region during COVID-19.
Bradfords is one of few builders’ merchants in the UK to have remained operational throughout the lockdown. Initially only serving tradespeople carrying out essential work, Bradfords is now operating local deliveries and arranged branch collection services to account and non-account customers, with all government and trade federation safety recommendations in place.
David Young, Chief Executive Officer of Bradfords Building Supplies, said, “We’ve been trusted by the trades since 1770, and we’re not about to stop now. This campaign is about helping our legion of customers who continue to do amazing work despite these challenging times. As stated in a letter from Alok Sharma to the construction industry, tradespeople are making a vital contribution to the resilience of our country. So, it’s important that we convey that we’re here to support them. Our priority remains the health and safety of all our staff and the customers we serve, as we look to put our best foot forward.”
When lockdown was announced back in March, Bradfords made the decision to remain open but change its whole operational structure overnight. Within less than 24 hours it became a collection and delivery business only, with the introduction of a whole host of industry-leading measures to keep employees and customers safe.
Over the course of the pandemic, Bradfords has been busy supporting housing associations working throughout the region on front line projects. The builders’ merchant has also been providing the materials for a number of NHS trusts to carry out vital work, such as building temporary isolation units and extending the capacity of GP surgeries.
The ‘We’ve Got Your Back’ campaign is now being activated with:
- Advertisements on radio
- Bradfords’ range of online channels, including its website and its social media platforms
- Each branch has been provided with a variety of signage in support of the campaign
This year marks Bradfords’ 250th birthday and the South West based company, which recently won Independent Builders Merchant of the Year at the BMA awards, had a turnover of £150 million in 2019 and currently employs over 700 staff.