Representatives from nearly 150 independent builders’ merchants and fixing and fastener specialists gathered at the first TIMco customer conference to discuss how the industry can work together to share best practice and overcome the challenges that many independents face.
The event, held at the TIMco’s Cheshire HQ, took place over two days and included a full itinerary of guest speakers, a walkabout of the supplier’s new expanded warehouse facilities as well as networking with industry peers and members of the TIMco team.
A family run business, the conference focussed on developing relationships between suppliers and customers and the initiatives TIMco is taking to support them with their businesses. By organising and hosting a conference TIMco aimed to give its customers the tools needed to help them take on some of the national organisations that may be operating in their local area. It also provided an opportunity to share some valuable insights in areas such as marketing, logistics and people management.
Managing Director Simon Midwood commented: “We were thrilled to see the conference so well attended. It was the perfect platform to share with customers some of our insights as well as take the opportunity to give them some detail on the initiatives we are taking to help grow their businesses.”
Simon had kicked off proceedings by sharing the results of market research which gave an interesting insight into the UK market place as well as the opportunities and threats that the independents faced. He also outlined the work that the firm was undertaking to support independent merchant customers with initiatives such as helping customers with their merchandising, the production of bespoke brochures as well as improvements to logistics that would enable customers to offer delivery within 24 hours of ordering.
He said: “As a wholesaler we are only successful if our customers are successful. That’s why the conference is focussed of sharing what we can do to help our customer’s businesses be more successful and building mutually beneficial partnerships.”
To support these aims a number of quality speakers presented to attendees over the two days with experts discussing issues such as marketing, logistics and management. Chris Haywood of NMBS closed the conference with a recap of the day and a summary of the UK market. He also took the opportunity to share his views on the benefits that can be achieved by closer cooperation and working together.
Simon Midwood concluded: “We are delighted that the first TIMco conference was such a success and that so many of our customers took the time to get involved and to share their thoughts and experiences. There’s no doubt that the independent merchants and fastener and fixing specialists are now better placed to continue to evolve and take on the new challenges presented in the industry.”
The supplier plans to hold a second event in 2018.
For more information visit www.timco.co.uk
