In a move “designed to benefit the whole industry”, the Institute of Builders’ Merchants (IoBM) is to merge with the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF), to be separately managed and operate as a brand within the BMF.
At the IoBM AGM/SGM held on 27 April, Members approved the merger that will give the Institute access to wider resources and personnel whilst retaining its own management body. The new arrangement, effective from 1 May 2021, sees the assets, activities and membership of the IoBM transferred to the BMF, with the Institute then managed by a new Management Committee comprising the CEO and Membership Services Director of the BMF, the Chair and Vice Chair of BMF Young Merchants and two existing Institute Board Members.
All Institute Members will maintain their current membership grade upon transfer, subject to the payment of annual subscriptions.
Moving forward, IoBM Membership grades will be aligned with BMF training, other accredited courses and qualifications including in-company training where relevant. Membership will be available to all individuals employed within the builders’ merchants’ industry.
The IoBM Charity Trust, which provides grants to support the Institute and for training purposes, will continue to operate under the existing Trustees, with the BMF nominating two additional Trustees to assist.
Dave Saunders, President of the IoBM, said: “The Institute and the BMF have a common ethos around Training, Professionalism and Certification within the industry and I am delighted that we have agreed a joint way ahead. As a separately managed brand within the BMF, the Institute will remain open to all those employed within the industry and benefit from the surety provided by the greater operational resources of the BMF.”
John Newcomb, CEO of the BMF, said: “This energising fusion of two aligned organisations serving the merchant industry will open up fresh opportunities, while maintaining the traditional values of the IoBM. The Management Committee together with the BMF Board has pledged to develop and publish a 3-5 year strategic plan during 2021, mapping the pathway for the Institute’s development. We look forward to a bright and relevant future for the Institute.”
Richard Hill, Chair of the BMF Board, added: “The merger creates an exciting opportunity to build on the existing professionalism of the merchant sector, creating opportunities for colleagues at every level to study for a recognised certificate of personal development.”
