Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week (February 10-14 2025), roofing manufacturer IKO PLC has announced a new partnership with SIMIAN.
This collaboration will equip the next generation of roofing professionals with premium training materials and real-world experience, helping to address the industry’s growing skills shortage.
Apprenticeships play a crucial role in shaping careers, supporting businesses and strengthening the economy. Through this partnership, IKO will provide essential flat roofing materials – including built-up roofing and single-ply products – to SIMIAN’s roofing apprenticeship programmes. By integrating IKO’s high-quality materials into hands-on training, apprentices will gain practical experience that mirrors real-world site conditions, preparing them for long-term success in the sector.
The initiative, facilitated by the North West Roof Training Group (NWRTG) – a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to enhancing, improving and providing training for roofing contractors throughout the North West of England and Wales – highlights the power of collaboration in tackling workforce shortages and sustaining the future of the construction industry.
Kerry Parker-Wray, Strategic Development Director at IKO, said: “This partnership is about more than just materials – it’s about building a highly skilled workforce for the future. By working with SIMIAN, we’re able to support more people entering the roofing trade, sharpening their skills and building lasting careers.”
With roofers facing the longest waiting lists of all trades due to a shortage of skilled professionals, IKO’s collaboration with SIMIAN is more important than ever. Research shows that customers wait an average of nine weeks for a roofer – nearly double the national average of five weeks for other trades.
Simon Hughes, managing director at SIMIAN, emphasised the impact of the partnership: “We’re incredibly grateful to IKO for their generous support,” he said. “Providing our apprentices with hands-on experience using industry-standard materials is invaluable. With demand for skilled roofers at an all-time high, partnerships like this are essential to bringing fresh talent into the industry and ensuring they have the expertise to succeed.”
IKO and SIMIAN share a commitment to social responsibility and industry excellence, working together to create clear career pathways from apprenticeships to fully qualified roofing professionals. Information about IKO’s other ESG initiatives, can be found here. To learn more about SIMIAN’s training courses, visit its website.
