Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
Builders merchants buying groups NMBS and Unimer are merging to create a super group for independent merchants.
Expected to come into effect on 1st February 2014, the combined businesses have a turnover in excess of £1bn and more than 1,000 members and 600 suppliers.
As part of the arrangements, Unimer independent merchant members will be offered membership of NMBS by way of immediate or deferred terms.
NMBS Chairman, Tim Allen said, ‘NMBS is delighted by this agreement which represents a quantum leap forward for the Independent Builders Merchants sector. Undoubtedly it will deliver hitherto unseen scale to all stakeholders and it will provide our members with the advantage they need to compete more effectively with their National rivals on a daily basis.’
Unimer Chairman Leo Martin said, “This transaction will enable substantial cost savings to be made within the existing supply chain to enhance the competitive position of both merchants and their suppliers. We are delighted that the NMBS board has worked with us to ensure that this vision has become a reality and the directors of both companies will now work together to advance the interests of the independent merchant.”
Unimer MD Howard Grant has stated his intention to retire from full time business but he will remain to oversee the efficient wind down of the existing Unimer operation.
Chris Hayward, MD of NMBS commented, “Together NMBS & Unimer will become a powerhouse for selling into and dealing with the independent merchant sector. It will provide significant additional resources that can be deployed to create real added value for both our members and suppliers.’
