The Independent Builders Merchant Group (IBMG) has acquired Dougfield Plumbers Supplies, expanding its plumbing and heating division in the South West of England and into South Wales.
Established in 1993 and headquartered in Stroud, Gloucestershire, Dougfield Plumbers Supplies is described as a highly successful independent plumbers merchant that supplies trade and retail customers across South Wales and the Southwest through its 10 branches in Swansea, Glamorgan, Gloucestershire, Devon and Cornwall. Since its formation, Dougfield is said to have demonstrated strong organic growth.
Following its recent merger with Grant & Stone, this acquisition continues IBMG’s strategy of developing its divisions through a combination of acquisition, new site development and organic growth. Strategically it will extend the IBMG’s specialist plumbing, and heating offering into Wales and across the Southwest, providing a strong platform for further growth.
For Dougfield Plumbers Supplies, this partnership is described as “securing the right custodian for the business to support future succession – one with shared values, who will maintain and respect its legacy”. Steven Evans, Regional Director and Tim Stickland, Dougfield’s Commercial and Finance Director will continue to lead the business, working with Matt Bland, Managing Director of IBMG’s plumbing and heating division, to realise the growth opportunities that this partnership will deliver.
Matt said: “We are delighted to welcome Dougfield Plumbers Supplies to the Group. We have much in common, so this is a strong and logical partnership. Our continued goal is to be the independent merchant of choice as the best provider for our customers’ heating and plumbing needs. Geographically our partnership is highly complementary, and we are delighted to be able to offer our specialist plumbing and heating provision in Wales for the first time.”
Tim added: “I am confident that this acquisition will provide an excellent home for both our customers and our people who will thrive within a highly respected, independent plumbing and heating merchant focused on excellent customer service.”
IBMG now operates “138 branches from Cornwall to Kent” with combined revenues in excess of £500 million and over 1,700 employees. Before Christmas, the Group also announced the further expansion of its Electrical Wholesale Division with a new Grant & Stone electrical wholesaler branch in Luton, Bedfordshire.
The 5,500 ft site includes a lighting design service, EV chargers and “a wide range of products to meet the needs of domestic and commercial electricians”. The Luton branch increases the division’s geographic reach and forms part of a large expansion plan specifically designed to complete gaps in its branch network, with further branch openings planned throughout 2022.
