News

Builders merchant group Independent Builders Merchant Group has bought Merkko Builders Merchants Ltd, expanding its network of builder’s merchants further into Oxfordshire and Berkshire. Merkko is based in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, and has two branches in Kingston Bagpuize and Aldermaston. The acquisition continues IBMG’s strategy of developing its divisions through a …

Builders merchant group Travis Perkins has seen a positive start to the year with total sales* for the three months to 31 March 2022 13.6% ahead of  the year before year, according to a trading update issued last week (April 29). Total merchanting sales were up by 17.9% and all …

Construction products distributor SIG plc is expecting its full-year results to be  “significantly ahead” of previous expectations, on the back of rising demand and cost inflation. The company reported on Friday (April 29) that group sales for the quarter to March 31 were up 25% at £641m. Group sales for …

According to the latest Federation of Master Builders (FMB) State of Trade Survey, prices are hitting bottom lines with 98% of builders having experienced material cost increases, with 83% passing these costs onto the customer. Material shortages and a lack of skills still plague the sector causing job delays for …

GPH Builders Merchants is celebrating its 40th year in business by raising £40,000 for various charities. The charities are selected by employees, with each charity having a special meaning to staff. The move is part of the company’s plans to mark its special anniversary, which also includes ambitions to increase …

Covers Timber & Builders Merchants has welcomed Dame Caroline Dinenage, the Conservative MP for Gosport, to its depot on April 22. Dame Caroline was given a tour of the depot by manager Jamie Dent who explained its operations and products, as well as how the business gets involved with community …

With just weeks to go until the 2022 show, Digital Construction Week (18-19 May, ExCeL London) has announced the highly anticipated line-up for the Main Stage. Reserved for the biggest topics in digital construction and the built environment, the Main Stage features technical experts and thought-leaders from some of the …

According to the S&P Global / CIPS UK Construction PMI for March data UK construction output has risen again, helped by the fastest increase in new work for seven months. That said, escalating inflationary pressures and concerns about the economic impact of the war in Ukraine contributed to a sharp drop in business optimism. And overall, …

You have until  NEXT WEEK  (May 1st) to get your nominations and entries in for the 2022 BMJ Industry Awards.   Click HERE to nominate your favourite merchants, supplier brands, trainees, showrooms and industry people. The awards celebrate the very best brands, merchants and people at the heart of the builders’ merchants …

Independent Builders Merchant Group’s electrical division has opened a new Grant & Stone electrical wholesaler, in Brentwood, Essex. The 3,500 ft site, IMBG’s 24th specialist electrical branch,  will be the exclusive Site Supplies specialist in the Brentwood area, providing lighting and power distribution solutions for Site Temporary Installers.  The new store, …