MKM Building Supplies has opened two new branches on the same day, taking its national network to 139 and creating over 30 new local jobs across the new depots in Sidcup and Arbroath.
The dual opening on February 9th marks the launch of MKM Sidcup (branch 138) in Kent and MKM Arbroath (branch 139) in Angus, strengthening the independent merchant’s presence both in the South East of England and across its growing Scottish network. Each branch is led by experienced local Branch Directors, reinforcing the firm’s model of “community-led decision making, strong stock profiles and service shaped by local trade needs.”
Located at Five Arches Business Estate, MKM Sidcup will create 17 new jobs and be led by Branch Directors Daniel Fincham and Simon Gregory. Dan has worked locally for more than 20 years and started his career in the yard, progressing through counter sales, telephone sales, sales representative, assistant manager and branch manager roles before becoming a Branch Director.
He said: “Sidcup has a proper community feel. It’s one of those places where everyone knows everyone. I loved the idea of running my own branch where decisions are made on the ground and building an A-team from scratch. That’s exactly what MKM allows us to do.”
Simon, meanwhile, has lived in Sidcup for 40 years and brings more than 30 years’ experience in builders’ merchants, including over two decades as a branch manager. He added: “MKM is a great fit for Sidcup. It’s a proper one-stop shop and the team we’ve brought together here really knows their stuff. Builders, trades and DIY customers will notice the difference straight away.”
In Arbroath, Angus, MKM’s 139th branch will create a dozen new local jobs and be led by Branch Directors Kris Stott and Nick Scott, who together bring over 30 years’ combined experience and deep roots in the local community.
Kris explained: “People in Angus take pride in their work. They’re grafters, care about quality, and appreciate straight talking. We’re the same. MKM’s culture is all about relationships, trust and supporting your community. Arbroath deserves a builders’ merchant that lives by that.”
Nick added: “Our team has decades of combined experience. Everyone we’ve hired knows their stuff and knows Angus. That matters. Whether you’re a trade regular or a homeowner planning your first kitchen, you’ll always get clear advice from people who genuinely care about helping you.”
Both branches bring together a full range of building materials alongside in-branch specialists and dedicated kitchen and bathroom designers. Timber is also a particular focus for both branches – Sidcup, for instance, offers an in-branch cutting service and 18,500 sq ft of fully covered storage are designed to ensure materials leave the yard dry, accurate and ready to use. In Arbroath, the branch has a 41,000 sq ft footprint with large covered areas and treated-timber racks with canopies to protect stock year-round – particularly important in coastal Angus conditions.
The branches will also “support local charities and community initiatives from day one,” with plans underway to work with Arbroath FC Community Trust, helping improve life chances for local people through the power of football. In Sidcup, early plans are already in place to work with Mind in Bexley.
