News

Nine directors from builders merchant Travis Perkins' Northern region are resting up, having completed their gruelling Coast to Coast Cycle Ride in aid of the merchant's nominated charities Breast Cancer Campaign and Childrens Hospice UK.

Shares in Kingfisher, owner of DIY chain B&Q rose on the back of rumours of a takeover.

Irish merchanting group Grafton posted pre-tax profits up 13% on revenue that was 3% ahead for the six months to June 30 2011.

Successful students in the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers' examinations will receive their awards at the annual lunch, sponsored for the first time by Ironmongery Direct.

ICI Paints AkzoNobel has donated products and services to support the makeover of an outdoor leisure area at Shepherds Down School near Winchester.

Landscaping materials manufacturer Marshalls saw first half sales rise 9% with underlying pre-tax profits up 51% in the six months to June 30.

Newcastle-based independent builders merchant JT Dove hosted visits by two local MPs last week to discuss how building materials' distribution is adapting as the construction industry struggles to avoid falling back into recession.

Approved installer schemes are increasingly important in helping to raise standards within the landscaping industry, according to paving manufacturer Brett Landscaping.

Klober managing director David Arendell and sales manager Tim Piatt have taken part in the world's biggest trialthon event.

Industrial and commercial building supplies merchant BSS Industrial held its annual BSS Challenge Cup sailing race and raised over £3,000 for charity.