PBM’s stablemate Professional Builder launched a new Podcast series earlier this year and the latest episode explores some insightful research from the Independent Builders Merchant Group (IBMG).
Professional Builder has been established for over 40 years as a magazine available from the trade counters of over 2,500 builders’ merchant outlets nationwide and latterly as a digital resource for the construction industry via its website and regular email newsletter. Earlier in the year, the Professional Builder podcast was launched, featuring the latest news, training and advice for building trade professionals in addition to conversations with those pushing the boundaries.
The Independent Builders Merchant Group prides itself on being close to its customers and that makes the business uniquely placed to identify the challenges that tradespeople face. In the latest episode of Professional Builder’s podcast, Editor Lee Jones talks to IBMG CEO Martin Stables about current trends in the repair, maintenance and improvement sector and what local builders are doing to maintain a healthy pipeline of projects.
The organisation has also undertaken some fascinating research on workloads and the types of jobs that small and medium sized construction companies are taking on, and we feel sure that the wider merchant sector will be interested in hearing the conversation.
Click the widget below to listen to Martin’s discussion with PB Editor Lee Jones, or use this link to access the Podcast via your provider of choice.
In other news from IBMG, the Group has recently announced the acquisition of MS Roofing Supplies, expanding its specialist roofing division.
Established in 2003, MSR is a local independent roofing merchant operating across East and West Sussex to provide a comprehensive range of products for both pitched and flat roofs from its five locations in Brighton, Chichester, Crawley, Portslade and Worthing. MSR’s “highly complementary branch network and product range” provide IBMG’s roofing division with further geographic expansion, product extension and a “strong platform for further growth”.
Culturally, both companies are said to share a common vision, independent ethos and commitment to providing the highest standards of customer service. Moreover, this partnership is described as securing the right custodian for the firm as MD Tony Siriano will be “stepping down from the business to enjoy a well-deserved break.”
Tony said: “It has been a great honour to lead the employees of MS Roofing Supplies through the years, and having made the decision to step away, it seemed logical to find a partner who would ensure MS Roofing Supplies fulfils its potential. I believe the partnership with IBMG will achieve this. 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 roofing and builders merchant focused on excellent customer service.”
Danny Spokes, Managing Director of IBMG’s roofing division, commented: “We are delighted to welcome MS Roofing Supplies to the Group. This an exciting time for IBMG; we have the scale, the range of products and services, and specialist expertise to ensure a successful partnership.”
IBMG CEO Martin Stables added: “Making selected acquisitions to enhance our current offering and increase IBMG’s geographic reach is part of our strategic plan. The Group will continue to look for more opportunities to complement our existing business and bring our differentiated and comprehensive offering to current and new customers.”
Independent Builders Merchants Group is reputedly the largest owner of independent building and roofing merchants in the South of England, operating five core divisions of Builders Merchants, Timber, Plumbing & Heating, Roofing and Electrical. Following the acquisition of MS Roofing Supplies, the business now has 182 branches which extend from Penzance to Margate, generate revenues in excess of £650 million and are supported by over 2,200 colleagues.
