Over a glorious weekend in the Lake District, MKM Norwich beat off the challenge from seventeen teams of merchants and suppliers – a record number of entrants – to lift the 2015 BMF Mastermerchant Trophy, presented to the winners of the industry’s annual team building challenge.
This year the teams were tasked with completing a range of physical tests including canoeing and gorge walking and others that challenged their communication and problem solving skills, notably erecting a tent blindfolded.
The winning team, from MKM’s Norwich branch, comprised Gavin Lloyd-Thompson, Branch Director, team captain and Timber/Sheets & Joinery Manager, James Thiess, Kevin Oakley, Driver and Nathan Hunt, Yard Assistant.
Jewson took the Runners Up prize and the other teams taking part were from Alumasc, BMF, Celotex, Chandlers Building Supplies, Digby Trading, Gibbs & Dandy, Howarth Timber (2 teams), J T Atkinson, Jackson Buildbase (2 teams), Marsh Industries, Parker Building Supplies (2 teams) and G B Willbond.
Said MKM’s Gavin Lloyd-Thompson: “This was the first time we have entered a team from Norwich branch into a competition like this, but it certainly will not be the last! We all thoroughly enjoyed the adventure and felt that our team captured the spirit of true teamwork. I have to credit the determination that everyone showed on Sunday to achieve as much as possible to keep us in with a chance of winning.”
Gavin added: “I would recommend this experience to any merchant or supplier. It has certainly had a really positive impact on the branch. We will return next year to defend our title and I’m sure we will have lots more volunteers.”
BMF MD John Newcomb echoed this view, saying: “This is a fantastic teambuilding event and the numbers of teams entering are growing every year. It is also a great way for teams from merchants and suppliers to get to know each other better. While the day’s activities are quite intense, there is time to relax in the evening and the stunning scenery of the Lake District makes the whole experience memorable.”
