South London’s Selhurst Timber & Builders’ Merchants is celebrating 20 years in business and also marks 15 years of partnership with IBC Buying Group, a collaboration said to have played a “crucial role in the merchant’s continued growth and success.”
Founded as a single depot with just four employees, Selhurst Timber has since flourished into a thriving business with 32 staff members operating across four depots. In addition to its core portfolio of timber and building materials, the company has expanded its offering with a dedicated plumbing and electrical shop, as well as a large holding depot to ensure it carries plenty of stock. Its delivery fleet has also grown significantly, from just one van and a lorry to an efficient fleet of 11 vehicles.
Managing Director Arron Green has been fundamental in the business’ success. Having joined his father-in-law’s family firm 16 years ago, he worked his way up from sweeping the yard to leading the company, becoming MD in 2021. The operation remains a true family business to this day, with Arron’s wife Emma a Director overseeing accounts and HR, while their son Bradley recently joined the company to assist with sales, marketing and the business’ online presence.
Arron credits the company’s success to its unwavering commitment to customer service. “Our customers are spread from St Albans to Southampton,” he said. “We offer same-day delivery on local orders placed by 2pm and go the extra mile with services like our loft loader, which we invested £180,000 in and offer to customers free of charge so they’re not having to carry heavy loads up flights of stairs.
“We believe our success is driven by the fact that our customers always come first, and we value our staff. It’s about building loyalty and ensuring that our customers keep coming back.”
Over the last 20 years Selhurst Timber has weathered many challenges, including multiple recessions, thanks to its resilience and adaptability. Being part of IBC Buying Group has also been a major advantage for the independent merchant, ensuring access to competitive pricing and securing product allocations even during supply shortages.
Arron explained: “IBC has been key to our growth and played an important role in helping our business grow to where it is today. We have a great relationship with our Divisional Account Manager and IBC is proactive in pushing us towards better deals, identifying opportunities and helping us navigate any challenges. The partnership has given us the stability to expand and improve our service while remaining competitive.”
He continued: “In particular, IBC helps us during product shortages by making sure we receive allocation. This is particularly important during challenging times, because it means I can still secure loads for my customers.”
Over the years Selhurst Timber has been approached by other buying groups, but Arron said he values the solid relationship he has built with IBC, explaining: “I can see that they’re investing in the younger generation, and it’s important to me to work with a buying group which is modern and fresh thinking.”
Vick Patel, CEO of IBC Buying Group, said: “Selhurst Timber has enjoyed fantastic growth over the past 20 years and we’re delighted that IBC Buying Group has been able to play a part in their impressive development. Just like IBC, the team at Selhurst puts its customers first, and we look forward to helping support their continued success for the next 20 years.”
Looking ahead, Selhurst Timber has ambitious plans for further expansion, including opening another depot and growing its staff numbers to meet increasing customer demand. The company is also focusing on enhancing its online presence, with IBC playing a supportive role in developing its eCommerce capabilities. Ultimately, the merchant’s goal is to become “the biggest independent builders’ merchant in South London.”
For more information about IBC Buying Group, visit www.ibcbuyinggroup.com.
