National Buying Group (NBG) is the latest trailblazer to join The Institute of Builders Merchants (IoBM) as a Corporate Supplier member, the membership category for manufacturers and suppliers to the merchant industry who support the IoBM’s professional training ethos.
Following the merger of the IoBM with the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) earlier this year, the Institute’s management committee says that it is “looking to the future, with an emphasis on youth and the highest standards”. At its first management meeting, for example, it was agreed that all BMF Young Merchants will be automatically enrolled within the Institute during its first 12 months. A longer-term aspiration is to become a Chartered Institute.
Nick Oates, Managing Director of NBG, said: “NBG is supportive of raising standards within the industry and views the IoBM developments as a positive step. The Executive Board of NBG fully support the ambition to become a Chartered Institute and are keen to see a clear plan for developing the IoBM with standards put in place early with a view of achieving Chartered status.”
John Newcomb, BMF Chief Executive, added: “We are delighted that the plans and ambitions expressed by the new management committee is attracting the support of high profile Corporate Supplier members like NBG. Its input will be extremely valuable in helping the Institute to grow, both in numbers and stature.”
NBG has also signalled its willingness to play an active role within a revitalised IoBM, suggesting that Corporate Supplier members meet annually to review and provide input into plans. The organisation will also promote the Institute via the NBG Hub to NBG’s Partners.
Find out more about IoBM membership categories at www.bmf.org.uk/IOBM
