The IPG has united with three of its members, Newline Plumbing & Heating Supplies, Plumb Inn, and Gas & Plumb Bits to launch their new flagship stores across the UK, this summer.
The IPG states it was formed in 2013 with one vision: to bring independent plumbing, heating and bathroom specialists together, and in turn, give its customers the opportunity to “buy the best brands locally at great prices”. Fast forward five years, The IPG says that its vision is now implemented across its member locations nationwide, “with a multitude of excellent brands on board”.
With the group expanding in size and success it’s sights have been turned to launching the first set of ‘flagship stores’ with three of its members. The first of the three stores, Newline Plumbing and Heating Supplies (Newline), is based in Kingswinford. The two businesses have worked closely to completely relaunch the store, looking at everything from store layout optimisation to new store fascias.
Newline was founded in 1986 by Mike Kendrick, who was originally pledged £500 from his brother to start a business in Oldbury by selling plumbing and heavyside building materials. This then followed onto the next generation with Mike’s son, Steve Kendrick, who was keen to follow in his father’s footsteps and began working alongside his father in 1997 by serving on the trade counter and making tea.
The development of the family-run business earned the company larger premises in Kingswinford. In 2017, Mike retired, and Newline has been in the safe hands of Steve who is running the business alongside his sister.
Steve remarked: “Today marks a milestone for Newline. I believe the future will be as strong as the foundation our partnership has been built on and I am excited for the times ahead. With The IPGs support, we have a store and a new website that we can be very proud of. We understand that an online presence is an important part of the customer experience today and our new store and website presents us in a professional way.”
Newline is due to unveil its ‘face lift’ and celebrate the launch of the unique store on Tuesday 27 August 2019. Guests such as The Mayor of Dudley will be in attendance to support this independent, family-run business. Key suppliers, customers, local and trade press are expected to be at the store opening and are an influential part of this exciting journey.
Nike Lovell, The IPG’s Head of Marketing, said: “It is a pivotal moment for both our group and our members, the company is committed to encouraging communities to support their local independent plumbing, heating and bathroom specialists, where alongside unrivalled service and unbiased, honest advice; a customer is likely to find that their shopping basket is cheaper.”
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