PBM reports on the news that two of the country’s largest independent merchants have added new branches to their network, starting with MKM and the opening of its milestone 60th branch.
Hull-based MKM Building Supplies has officially cut the ribbon on its new branch in Mansfield — the expanding firm’s second in Nottingham (alongside MKM Retford) and a milestone 60th nationally.
Founded in 1995 by Executive Chairman David Kilburn, the company’s strategic growth has taken on a significant momentum over the past few years with the fast-growing company adding 15 new branches to its network in just over two years. As revealed in PBM’s annual ‘Top 20’ merchant countdown, the business is the UK’s largest independent builders’ merchant and its 60th branch comes relatively soon after the opening of its 50th — Leamington Spa — in October 2017.
Heading up the Mansfield branch is an experienced duo of Branch Directors, Adrian Arnold and Tony Daynes. In addition to the 12 new job roles, four vehicles will be operating in Mansfield and the surrounding area, clad in MKM’s iconic yellow-and-blue branding.
David Kilburn, Executive Chairman of MKM Building Supplies, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be opening a milestone 60th branch here in Mansfield, especially so hot on the heels of our 50th. Despite the challenging national economic-political outlook, our success places us in the strong position to continue steadily growing our branch network.”
Tony Daynes, added: “Our ethos will be about providing unbeatable customer service, a brilliant product range, and fantastic prices to local tradespeople and retail customers. This approach has helped MKM to expand to 60 branches, and it’s exactly what we intend to replicate in Mansfield.”
Occupying 12th position on PBM’s annual listing, Howarth Timber & Building Supplies has also expanded its nationwide network with the launch of its new branch in Chester, bringing the total to 32. The outlet had previously been trading as Springfields Timber, but is now formally trading as Howarth Timber & Building Supplies and opening new customer accounts.
The branch is said to offer a substantial range of timber and other building products, as well as a specialist plumbing division and a kitchen showroom planned for development.
Other news
James Burrell Builders Merchant has achieved bronze accreditation in the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS), a voluntary scheme which aims to raise the level of quality, safety and environmental protection within fleet operations. The merchant currently has a fleet of 33 vehicles which operate across the North East and Yorkshire including crane off-loaders, sprinter vans and flatbeds.
Transport Manager, Paul Butler, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been accredited bronze status by FORS. All of our branches all underwent a rigorous audit and assessment procedure, carried out by a FORS auditor, to secure the prestigious status. We plan to continue our accreditation journey with FORS to ensure that we are always providing the highest level of service to our customers and community.”
JT Dove has won the 2018 CHUF Champions Challenge, having raised over £34,000 for the Children’s Heart Unit Fund over the last year. Funds raised contributed towards large and small pieces of life-saving equipment, facilities, aftercare, salaries and research for the Children’s Heart Unit in the Freeman Hospital and six district hospitals in the Northern region.
As well as raising money for good causes, the merchant is also highlighting the other benefits that can result from charity support. MD Steve Robinson, said: “Raising charitable funds within your business will help bond your teams together, giving them a common goal that can be fun in and out of work. At JT Dove, this helped our team’s motivational focus which was then applied to other work related activities.”
