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Andrew Lenton, Director of Business Development at Pipe Centre, explores the changing role of merchants in supporting contractors and SMEs to deliver more efficient, lower-carbon outcomes through better repair and maintenance practices. As the construction and building services industry continues to evolve in line with decarbonisation goals, contractors and facilities …

Outdoor areas are now expected to remain usable throughout the year. Across the UK, developers increasingly prioritise durability, effective drainage and low-maintenance finishes that withstand prolonged rain and temperature changes. Natural turf often struggles in these conditions, leading to mud, surface wear and inconsistent growth. Artificial grass provides a stable …

The pace of business has increased rapidly, and the need for vigilant, yet speedy and accurate credit checks has kept up. Fiona Russell Horne looks at one option for merchants. Builders’ merchants have long been thought of as the industry bankers. Customers open up credit accounts and take their goods …

Trade professionals know that the right cabinet doors can make or break a project. Selecting a bespoke cabinet door supplier with a proven reputation is essential for consistent quality and hassle-free installations. Understanding what sets leading manufacturers like Probox apart empowers fitters, kitchen suppliers, and merchants to deliver reliable results …

What are the benefits of a merchant choosing West Fraser – a supplier which can deliver in smaller loads, for example? There is a number of benefits for a national merchant in choosing West Fraser as a supplier, particularly when it comes to receiving smaller, more flexible load sizes. One …

Warranty, once a secondary concern, have evolved into a central pillar in fostering customer trust and loyalty. Darren Binns, national sales manager at Jefferson Tools, asserts that manufacturers must view warranties not as a fallback but as a strategic approach to ensuring reliability and nurturing long-term customer relationships. In the …

The builders’ merchant sector has never stood still, but in recent years the pace of digital change has accelerated. Trade customers increasingly expect the same level of convenience and transparency online as they experience at the trade counter. For many merchants, the challenge is delivering this without disrupting the ERP …

Roadworks season regularly disrupts transport routes across the UK. Lane closures, diversions and temporary traffic systems can slow deliveries and create uncertainty for businesses that rely on dependable logistics. Builders’ merchants feel this pressure every day. Construction sites rely on materials arriving when expected, and even short delays can interrupt …

Heavy duty workwear plays a vital role in ensuring safety and efficiency on construction sites. Selecting appropriate gear can significantly reduce accidents and enhance productivity. As technology advances, workwear features continue to evolve, offering greater protection and comfort. On construction sites, proper workwear is not just a uniform; it is …

This National Apprenticeship Week, The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is encouraging employers to engage in the week-long celebration to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships and skills make to individuals, construction employers and the wider construction industry. CITB has shared updated figures for its New Entrant …