The Builders Merchants Federation has revealed further details about its forthcoming Annual Members Conference, with industry expert Steve Collinge set to deliver his insights on the future of the merchanting sector whilst the organisation has also outlined more information about the Awards component of the event.
Steve Collinge, Managing Director of Insight Retail Group Ltd and Executive Editor of Insight DIY, is set to be one of the most influential speakers at the BMF Annual Members Conference in September. The theme of this year’s event is “Engaging with the Future”, and Steve will share his observations and assessments on the Future of Merchanting before taking part in an industry panel that will broaden the discussion on this topic. He will also lead a must-attend workshop during the afternoon.
Steve is an award-winning thought leader and independent consultant in the retail industry, working with market-leading brands. With his in-depth knowledge, interest in the latest trends and technology, and insights gained from his digital business, Steve is well-positioned to comment on the ideas and initiatives that are likely to reshape our industry for many years to come.
BMF CEO John Newcomb commented: “Steve’s reputation as an innovative thought leader and his deep understanding of the latest trends in the home improvement industry and merchanting will offer our members invaluable perspectives. His insights will play a pivotal role in shaping our discussions on the future of the industry, and I am confident that his contributions will inspire everyone attending.”
The BMF has also announced the nominations for a new Award for the Most Engaged Builders Merchant, which will be presented at the event on 18 September at the Hilton Metropole in Birmingham. The accolade highlights and celebrates those merchants who go “above and beyond in their involvement with the BMF, helping to drive the industry forward through their active participation and leadership.”
The inaugural nominees are Bradfords Building Supplies, Browns Builders Merchants, Chandler Material Supplies, Harlow Timber Group and the Independent Builders Merchant Group (IBMG):
Bradfords Building Supplies: Bradfords has consistently demonstrated strong support for the BMF and regularly participates in a wide range of industry conferences, forums, and events. Managing Director David Young is the South West Regional Chair of the BMF and has recently stepped down as Chair of the Bricks, Blocks, and Landscaping Forum.
COO Lee Harwood currently sits on the BMF Board, while Giles Bradford is Chair of the Sustainability Forum and Sustainability Working Group, and Jonathan Chard is Chair of the Product Data Standardisation Working Group. The company has also contributed to the Health & Safety Working Group.
Browns Builders Merchants: Browns has demonstrated outstanding engagement across all areas, from its support for apprenticeships and talent development through the IoBM to its regular attendance at meetings and events, several of which it helps organise. Its recently retired Managing Director, Jim Parlato, served as the Central Regional Chair for several years, and Ed Parlato is the current Chair of the Young Merchant Group.
The company also actively contributes to the Product Data Standardisation Working Group.
Chandler Material Supplies: Chandler Material Supplies exemplifies a family-run business that prioritises training, upskilling, and staff development, while also giving back to the industry through leadership, engagement, and a strong commitment to people. Ben Chandler is the Anglia Region Chair.
The company consistently participates in BMF initiatives, regularly contributes to Sector Forums, welcomes MP visits, utilises BMF Business Services, promotes apprenticeships, supports the BMF Young Merchant Group and the IoBM, and actively endorses the BMCareers website.
Harlow Timber Group: Harlow Timber Group is involved in a range of activities. Neil Sabey, Managing Director, serves on the BMF Board; Alan Harvey, Transport Director, Chairs the Transport & Distribution Forum; and team members contribute to the Health & Safety and Transport & Distribution Working Groups.
The company champions apprenticeships, nurtures talent at every level, and has invested in a comprehensive management development programme. Its engagement is further evidenced by recent MP visits, regular participation in forums, regional meetings and conferences, and continued support for BMF initiatives, including Business Services, the IoBM and Construct Zero.
IBMG: IBMG is engaged across multiple facets of the BMF’s work, underscoring its commitment to the building materials sector. CEO Martin Stables serves as a BMF Board Member, and CFO, Richard Robinson, chairs its Finance Forum. Beyond these leadership roles, IBMG regularly participates in regional meetings, sector forums and conferences, and contributes to initiatives such as the Health & Safety Working Group and the Product Data Standardisation Project.
The company actively supports the BMCareers website and the BMF Apprenticeship Pledge and consistently engages with BMF Business Services. Its comprehensive engagement exemplifies commitment to collaboration, best practice, and the long-term sustainability of the industry.
Commenting on the nominations, John Newcomb said: “This may be a new Award, but it is a very important one. The BMF exists to serve and work with its members for the benefit of our sector. Member Engagement is one of the BMF’s core strategic priorities, and we currently track over 42 distinct engagement measures, spanning a wide variety of involvement, to monitor and assess participation.
“Put simply, those who engage the most gain the best value from their membership, so whichever one of our five nominees takes the Award, all are winners.”
Finally, the BMF has announced the companies shortlisted for the BMF Supplier & Distributor Member Engagement Award 2024 and the BMF Service Member Engagement Award 2024. Recognising the vital role suppliers and service members play within the building materials industry, those shortlisted have demonstrated their proactive support through participation in BMF activities and events designed to encourage supply chain collaboration.
BMF Supplier Member Shortlist:
Azpects
John George
Knauf Insulation
Knauf UK Gmbh
Unilin Insulation UK
VELUX Company
BMF Service Member Shortlist
ECI Software Solutions
Epicor
Klipboard
Moorgate Management
Opus Safety
Stirling Warrington
John Newcomb explained: “Each of the shortlisted companies has actively sought to gain the greatest value from BMF membership during the last 12 months. They have all made an outstanding contribution through their involvement in training, forums and events, sponsorships, and participation in supply chain collaboration working group meetings.
“I would like to thank them all and wish them the very best in this year’s Awards.”
The BMF Annual Members Conference and Awards takes place at the Hilton Metropole in Birmingham on 17 and 18 September. To book your place, click here or contact Stacey.Lock@bmf.org.uk
