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Logistics and warehouse operators face mounting pressure to integrate electric vehicles (EVs) into their fleets, driven by tightening emissions standards and customer expectations for sustainable supply chains. Delays in adopting robust EV charging infrastructure could significantly impact operational flexibility and long-term competitiveness. Understanding the cost, operational, and reputational risks of …

Tradeaze founder Jack Hopkins talks to Fiona Russell Horne about how he scaled up from delivery by bike to raising £3m and scaling 3,000 drivers. From bike courier to national platform, Jack Hopkins is aiming to reshape how builders’ merchants approach their delivery options. Tradeaze, the on-demand delivery platform for …

Safely controlling and overseeing access to depots can be uniquely challenging, particularly at sites with complex layouts and those that provide access to both vehicles and pedestrians.   Without well-defined and understood rules regarding safe movement, operators run the risk of accidents, confusion and blockages harming people and impacting operational …

During Mental Health Awareness Week, Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity, shared her insight into the challenges of the construction industry, and how we can all contribute to a positive mental health culture. The Lighthouse Charity provides 24/7 free and confidential holistic emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support to …

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 …