National Buying Group (NBG) has reported that new Partner enquiries are at record levels as independent merchants see the value of joining a truly democratic buying group. Managing director Nick Oates, said: “Undoubtedly independent merchants are seeing the value in being able to access our buying capability which is, I believe, …

National Buying Group (NBG), the premier buying group for independent merchants, has appointed Mark Smith as its new category buyer for Brick & Block, Civils & Landscaping, and Roofing & Insulation. Smith will work closely with the three category management teams, co-ordinating with each Chair and Vice Chair to analyse, …

The findings of a recent report have indicated the growing need for independent merchants to find the right balance between fulfilling in-person trade sales and providing support via digital channels. The new report from National Buying Group (NBG), Valuing Local Independent Trade Merchants in a Digital World, analysed the role …

Two specialist merchants have set their sights on accelerated growth after joining National Buying Group (NBG). Northamptonshire-based LMR Building Supplies and Hampshire-based Woodstock Plumbing & Heating joined existing members of NBG’s Partner community late last year. Founded in 2018, LMR Building Supplies provides customers in the Northamptonshire area with quality …

Independent builders merchant buying group National Buying Group has welcomed Manchester roofing and mixed building materials merchant Henshaws Roofing & Building Supplies, as a Partner. Founded in 1985,  Henshaws has expanded its turnover three-fold since managing director Adrian Shelley bought the business four years ago, and the firm is now …

To wish was to hope, and to hope was to expect So, I’ve been away for 10 days. Did I miss anything? Maybe a seismic change in our economy, meaning that the country coffers are filling up, our tax-burden is lower and our belts can move out a notch? Or …

Accessing industry expertise and experience was the key consideration for joining National Buying Group (NBG), according to the organisation’s newest Partner, Elec-Mec. The bathroom, plumbing, heating, lighting and electrical merchant, which has branches in West London and Middlesex, has operated as an independent merchant for the past 25 years. Yet …

National Buying Group (NBG) is accelerating its talks with suppliers as it steps up efforts to reduce plastic packaging in the construction supply chain, and the potential tax impact on independent merchants. The ongoing dialogue with suppliers follows recent clarification of the obligated parties under the Department for Environment, Food …

A Scottish builders merchant has opened of one of the country’s largest hard landscaping displays, with the opening performed by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Cartmore Building Supply Co Ltd has opened a new 1,000 square-metre area in Lochgelly with the former Prime Minister’s help. The event showcased Cartmore’s latest …

Intact iQ has signed an agreement with the National Buying Group (NBG). This new agreement will see Intact iQ awarded a service agreement that offers NBG partners access to a competitive pricing structure. It is designed to support members as they look to invest in a progressive software solution that …