Bradfords, the oldest builders’ merchants in the UK, is celebrating its 255th year in business, reflecting on its “proud heritage and commitment to progress and innovation.”
Founded in 1770 in Pibsbury on the Somerset Levels, Bradfords has grown from a small local supplier to a regional leader, serving generations of builders, homeowners and communities across its network of over 45 branches across the South West.
On its longevity, CEO David Young reflected: “Two and a half centuries in business is an incredible achievement, and it’s something we’re hugely proud of. Bradfords has been part of the South West’s landscape for generations, helping to build homes, schools and local communities. That sense of history and continuity means a lot to us, and it’s what inspires us to keep moving forward.”
Building on this proud history, the merchant says it is constantly looking to the future to serve customers’ evolving needs. Over the last decade, for example, the business has “modernised all aspects of its operations,” from adopting new technology and logistics to developing new specialisms across its staff in plumbing, heating, and renewables.
Furthermore, it has invested heavily in transforming its transport fleet to meet customer demand, as well as expanding its branch network throughout the region, including the opening of Bradfords’ first ever dedicated tool hire branch in Newton Abbot earlier this year.
“We’re shifting from being a business that simply supplies products to one that provides complete solutions – working earlier in the process with architects, suppliers and contractors to add more value.”
Bradfords CEO David Young
David continued: “We may be 255 years old, but we pride ourselves on behaving like a younger, modern business. Bradfords has always adapted to what is in front of it – whether that’s changing customer needs, market conditions or global pandemics – we’re always evolving, and that willingness to look ahead and invest in our future is what keeps us relevant.”
That forward-thinking mindset extends to helping customers build more efficiently and sustainably, as Bradfords grows its offer of innovative and energy-efficient solutions, from renewable technologies and underfloor heating to modern insulation and low-carbon materials – all designed to help build the homes of tomorrow.
David added: “Sustainability for us is about practical, real-world progress. It’s about helping customers make better choices, save energy and build for the long term. We’re shifting from being a business that simply supplies products to one that provides complete solutions – working earlier in the process with architects, suppliers and contractors to add more value.”
Community and people “remain central to Bradfords’ enduring success.” The business has continued to champion both local and global initiatives, with Bradfords notably named one of the top Movember fundraisers in the whole of Europe last year, with £55,000 raised across its branches in 2024. It has also continued to run its longstanding Bradfords Community Cup, which celebrates and nurtures grassroots sports across the region.
Equally, the business has continued to place huge emphasis on staff retention and ensuring its employees develop their skill sets. It has also remained an advocate for utilising apprenticeship levy to support with recruiting the future talent within the South West, and has fully backed the BMF’s ‘Make a Material Difference’ campaign to attract more young people into the sector.
Andy Mees, Deputy Branch Manager at the firm’s Yeovil branch and who recently celebrated 45 years with business, added: “I’ve seen Bradfords grow from a handful of branches to a regional network, but what’s never changed is the spirit of the place. It’s a company that genuinely cares about its people, its customers, and the communities we serve.
“Being part of that journey for so long has been a privilege, and I’m proud to have played a small part in helping shape the Bradfords of today.”
As it celebrates 255 years, Bradfords remains “proud of its past but focused on the future.” With a modern network, a talented and dedicated team, and a clear vision for growth, the business is well placed for the next chapter – continuing to serve the South West’s builders, trades and homeowners for generations to come.
