Following the coming together of Icopal and Monier Redland — and a period of investment in premises, systems and people — BMI UK & Ireland has been formally launched to the construction industry.
With a heritage in roofing reaching back over 180 years, the new company describes itself as a “unique industry leader with the highest quality total roofing solutions for both pitched and flat roofing”. The business says its rich experience, traditions, expertise and market-leading brands mean that it is able to see a roof and the sector in terms of how “support, service and roofing technologies integrate with the built environment; rather than just through the collection of products that protect a building”.
In essence, its new ethos is on more than ‘just’ supplying individual products and components, considering instead the broader systems and solutions it offers for all types of roofing / waterproofing requirements — all based on the specific customer needs for a particular project.
Indeed, the new BMI UK & Ireland outlines a focussed approach to customer care throughout the supply chain, assisting as required on design and project specifications, technical advice and after-sales support for both domestic and commercial projects. Through this, it seeks to establish long-term relationships “based on confidence and trust”.
Across its portfolio of brands, the company believes it offers “the most comprehensive range of products from a single roofing solutions provider on the market today — from concrete, clay, metal tiles and reconstituted slate through to reinforced bitumen membranes, single-ply and liquid waterproofing systems”. This is supplemented by an extensive collection of fittings, components and building membranes, further reinforced by a comprehensice training provision and stockist support.
Previously marketed under some of the sector’s best-known brands, these names have now been developed to acknowledge the new structure. These newly-named brands include BMI Redland, BMI Icopal, BMI Monarplan and BMI Sealoflex, to name but a few.
Speaking at the introduction of the company at a launch event in London, Managing Director Andy Dennis said: “Although a new name in the industry, BMI UK & Ireland has a manufacturing heritage stretching back over 180 years and for whom quality and a commitment to service is embedded in its centuries-old DNA.
“Quite simply, we are totally committed to doing what’s right for homeowners, building owners, the public and the industry. By working together we can identify and support their needs every step of the way — from how the building will be used, to how the roof could be used and the benefits the roof can bring to them as owners and, of course, the community around them.
“This is demonstrated through a dedication to deliver innovative pitched and flat roofing solutions that are designed to transform the way people live and work, providing protection, added value and peace of mind for architects, roofers, building and homeowners alike.”
BMI UK & Ireland is part of BMI Group, which has more than 11,000 employees worldwide in 40 countries and runs over 150 production facilities. With the group having made its home in Central London, BMI UK & Ireland has settled in new head office premises in Milton Keynes.
Established in 1849 and manufacturing tarred flax felt waterproofing products, Icopal moved to Manchester in 1923. Now, through incorporating its comprehensive catalogue, BMI offers the UK and Ireland’s most complete range of construction membranes, support services and insured roofing guarantees.
It’s a similar story with the company’s pitched roofing heritage, with the BMI Redland Rosemary clay tile range having first been manufactured in 1837 and, in a major anniversary, 2019 sees the company celebrating 100-years of concrete tile manufacture for its BMI Redland range.
