Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
The Worshipful Company of Builders’ Merchants (WCoBM) hosted its annual City & Awards luncheon at Apothecaries’ Hall on March 16 2026.
Now in its 14th year, the event celebrates exceptional achievement among rising stars in the building materials sector, as well as examples of service and dedication among WCoBM’s military affiliations and other charitable organisations the Company supports.
WCoBM Master Lucia Di Stazio said: “Our City & Awards Luncheon is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate rising stars and young individuals who are making a difference in their field and profession and also acknowledge those who are leading the way in representing the dynamic and diverse opportunities available in the building materials sector.”
“Education is an area that I am incredibly passionate about. In whatever form it takes, be it professional qualifications, apprenticeships, practical training, mentoring or work experience, it has a positive impact on people’s learning and development, creating opportunities and helping individuals reach their ambitions.”
Each year, the Awards celebrate the best students who have undergone learning through the Builders’ Merchants Federation’s (BMF) training programmes. The BMF student winners were:
• Best Online Student: Tia Kowalik, sales person at MKM Building Supplies.
• Best Performing IOBM Diploma Student: Euan Blair, trainee manager at Beatson’s Building Supplies.
• Best Performing Apprentice of the Year: Jack Evans, assistant category manager – Solar PV & EV Charging at City Plumbing.
Each year, the Master also presents an award to someone within the Livery who has consistently contributed to the life and reputation of our Livery and continues to make a difference in our industry too. The 2026 Master’s Award was presented to Past Master Gary Hopkins and Chair of Turnbull & Co. Ltd.
Di Stazio adds: “Gary is a constant guiding hand for our Livery with his immense knowledge and positive leadership and encouragement, always thinking of others and for the greater benefit of our Company.”
The City & Awards luncheon was sponsored by BMF, Brett Martin, The Encon Group, H+H, Heidelberg Materials, Henshaws Roofing & Building Supplies, Joseph Parr Group, Keyfix, Knauf UK & Ireland, Knauf Insulation, Lawsons, Marsh Industries, MRA Research, Monument Tools, NMBS, Reisser and Siniat by Etex.
