Professional Builders Merchant February 2026

BUILDE RS MERCHANT

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a t S q u i re

2 7 P R O U C TS RO U N D - U P

BRICKS, BLOCKS & HARD LANDSCAPING

2 9 FA C I N G FA C T S

B re t t L a n d s c a p i n g o u t l i n e s i t s n e w c o n c r e t e fa c i n g

b ri c k s r a n g e , h i g h l i g h t i n g t h e a d v a n t a g e s of m i xe d

l o a d d e l i v e r i e s f o r me rc h a n t s

3 2 P O C K E T S O F C O N F I D E N C E

H + H U K ’s M a t t h e w C om p t on e xp l o re s h o w

m e r c h a n t s c a n c a p i t a l i s e o n op p o r t u n i t i e s , e v e n

w i t h i n a s u b d u e d m a r k e t .

3 4 T H E E X T RA M I L E

C i t i n g d e v e l op me n t s f ro m s u p p l i e r m e m b e r Ta l a s e y,

N M BS e x p l o re s a c h a n gi n g l a n d s c a p e f o r U K

m e r c h a n t s

3 6 A N E W C O N T E N D E R

M a r s h a l l s B r i c k s & M a s on r y ' s D e a n H a r r i s c a l l s t i m e

o n o u t d a t e d p e rc e p t i o n s o f c o n c re t e b r i c k s .

3 8 P R O U C TS RO U N D - U P

TOOLS, FIXINGS & ADHESIVES

3 9 T H E X FA C T O R

T h e l ow d o w n o n Bo n d I t ’s G B X “ n e x t g e n e r a t i on ”

h y b r i d s e a l a n t a n d a d h e s i v e

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SPECIAL REPORTS

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RESCUE PACKAGE

Following National Timber Group’s collapse into administration late last year, several branches and brands have now been acquired by new owners. PBM reports.

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ON THE ROAD AGAIN

Discussing the latest in transport and logistics with Tim Houghton, MD of vehicle hire specialist FVTH.

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FIT FOR PURPOSE

With the launch of the new Bobcat Safety Footwear Women’s Collection, Overland Shoes is “responding to a vital gap in the market.”

Stranger things

This is a really odd time of year, don’t you think? Peaking behind the curtain of publishing mechanics for a minute, metaphorical pen is being put to equally imaginar y paper in mid-Januar y, when there literally are a couple of mince pies in the kitchen remaining stubbornly untouched from the Christmas overordering

Following a delightfully extended break, a reasonably unrelenting schedule has meant no easing gently back into things yet there is an element of eerie quiet to the inbox, doubtless because people are still having the planning meetings that were long delayed last year in the forlorn hope that the Budget might have delivered a magic moment to fire up the engines of growth.

We’ve b e en hav ing plent y of convers at ions and client me et ings to dis c uss t he ye ar a he ad, but many de cisions remain on hold What inb ound emai l t raf f ic we have re ceive d has b e en a c ur ious mix rep or ts and st at ist ics re ve a ling a st ag nant market (and wors e), yet we ’ ve a ls o re ceive d an encourag ing amount of missives det ai ling invest ment in p e ople, faci lit ies and pl ans to exp and op erat ions.

Perhaps this is b est illustrated by the recent brig hter ne ws to emerge following the National Timb er Group’s collaps e into administration late last year w hilst we have e ver y sympathy for thos e that lost their jobs, the likes of Premier Forest Pro duc ts, Ro dger Group Holdings and Je ws on have b een able to step in and save s ome branches

“Whilst it is clearly far too early to identify tangible trends or ascer tain what the real ‘theme’ of this year will be, potential bright spots can be identified for the industr y at large.”

and business units, safeguarding the employment of thos e w ho work in them

S o, this is a market where some firms are at breaking point whereas others are focused on the future And as the BMF Winter Forecast records (see page 6): “London, typically one of the strongest regions, has now become one of the weakest… Meanwhile, the West Midlands and North E ast have performed relatively well ”

It is a topsy-tur v y world indeed, but whilst it is clearly far too early to identif y tangible trends or ascertain what the real ‘theme’ of this year will be, potential bright spots can be identified for the industr y at large For example, the Future Homes Standard and Warm Homes Plan are supposedly due to imminently make their much-delayed debut (we’ ll believe it when we see it, but there is actually a possibility they may be out by the time you read this…).

Perhaps they will offer that extra level of certainty to unlock development, or be incentive enough to kickstart a wave of energ y-efficient upgrades? May be the expected further cuts to interest rates will

Editor Paul Davies

Group Advertisement Manager Craig Jowsey craig@hamerville co uk Tel: 07900 248102

Advertisement Manager Ian Duff Tel: 01204 596633/ 07810 353525 probuilder@sky com

Design

Adeel Qadri

Digital Manager

Jasmine Smith

Digital Assistant

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Group Production Manager Carol Padgett

Production Assistant

Kerri Smith

Circulation Manager

Kirstie Day

boost homeowner spending and generate a wave of RMI work?

Just as it remains an uneven picture for businesses, the same is true for the consumer market Many people do still have money to spend and so, harder to come by they may be, plenty of sales opportunities are out there

Numerous examples are cited in the pages that follow We detail a host of new product launches as manufacturers invest in invigorated solutions for the projects that will happen in the year ahead Equally, there’s been no let up in marketing support schemes as merchants and suppliers recognise the consistent advantages of close working partnerships

Then there’s new ser vice initiatives from providers looking to help merchants become more streamlined, efficient and effective in navigating the challenges to emerge stronger the other side

I apologise if this viewpoint seems all-too familiar and retreads a recognisable path It is after all, an odd time of year Quiet, subdued and a little unclear. Just like this piece though, we may have been here before, but we’ll get through it again

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Copyright © 2026

N E W S U P D AT E

Reportedly the UK’s “most widely distributed trade decorating accessories supplier,” Rodo is celebrating its centenar y as a fourth generation, independently run family business From formative beginnings as a three-employee broom supplier, the company has grown steadily over the decades while remaining “firmly rooted in the family values and work ethic” that shaped its early years following its formation in 1926 by Joseph Brierley

Now boasting a comprehensive portfolio, with ProDec as its lead brand alongside an expanding portfolio of PPE equipment through its Blackrock brand, MD Laura Brierley-Smith commented: “Reaching 100 years is a remarkable milestone, made possible by the hard work, commitment and dedication of employees past and present as well as the loyal customers and suppliers who have supported us throughout our journey.”

Electric incentive

Logistics UK has responded to the government announcement that an additional £18m has been allocated to the Plug-in Truck Grant scheme Lamech Solomon, the business group ’ s Head of Decarbonisation Policy, commented about the scheme’s potential impact: “ The Plug-in Truck Grant is fundamental to the continued uptake of electric HGVs, and the announcement increasing the grant for electric HGVs up to £120,000 per vehicle is a welcome step for ward that can help support the business case for industr y to invest.

Expansion partnership

Filstorage has helped West Building Supplies expand its branch network The Bridlingtonheadquartered merchant recently acquired new sites in Hull and S cunthorpe, and appointed the leading racking and storage specialist to fit out the shops, warehouses and yards

The new depots extend West’s branch network further south in its East Yorkshire heartland, as well as into North Lincolnshire for the first time. It brings the firm’s total

Winter blues

The Builders Merchants Federation’s Winter Forecast Report confirms a stagnant market for building materials sales in the second half of 2025 and does not expect significant growth in the first quarter of 2026 Indeed, after a promising start to the year, Q3 2025 “proved challenging for building materials sales,” prompting the BMF to lower its 2025 annual growth forecast from 2 5% to 1 4%

The BMF’s current baseline annual growth forecast for 2026 has also been downgraded from 3.1% to 2.3%. Continued economic uncertainty means the latest Forecast is tempered by lower and upper forecast scenarios of 1.2% and 3 7% the latter “requiring government stimulus to reignite key market areas, ” including housebuilding and domestic RMI

The BMF Forecast combines a comprehensive analysis of merchant market performance, drawn from the Builders Merchants Building Index, regarded as the key indicator of current RMI activity, with an examination of key factors affecting builders’ merchants to project future sales

The second-half downturn in 2025 was “not entirely unexpected,” as several activity measures signalled a slowdown in market activity With

“However, with long procurement cycles, the sector needs certainty that these new rates will be maintained far beyond March 2026, so it has confidence to plan and invest: our recently published report highlighted that over 60% of industr y respondents believed the government had not provided adequate funding to support the decarbonisation of their fleets

Lamech continued: “Commercial and operational viability will always be the main driver for logistics operators and alongside the cost of buying new vehicles, one of the main

branch network to six, including Scarborough, Beverley, Hull, Scunthorpe, and two branches in Bridlington which include a kitchen and bathroom showroom, and also a timber division

The latest work builds on a long relationship between the two companies. Howden-based Filstorage previously worked

GDP growth subdued at 0.1%, both consumer and business confidence were under pressure

London, typically one of the strongest regions, has now become “ one of the weakest as large, expensive projects stall and developers and contractors reduce their exposure ”

Meanwhile, the West Midlands and North East have performed relatively well, generally maintaining their levels of direct sales

BMF CEO John Newcomb said: “Both housing RMI and the new housing market key areas for builders’ merchant sales have been negatively impacted by the continued fall in consumer confidence The Bank of England could help to unlock these markets in 2026 by supporting a significant reduction in interest rates

“However, Government intervention is needed to really get these sectors moving We need to see incentives for first-time buyers, delivery of the Social and Affordable Housing Programme, more action to free up brownfield land, as well as the publication of the long-awaited Warm Homes Plan and Future Homes Standard ”

In addition, Marshalls has been officially named as the headline sponsor of the BMF All Industr y Conference 2027

barriers they still face to fleet electrification is the lack of charging infrastructure: 85% of operators who responded to Logistics UK’s recent sur vey expressed low confidence in the availability of suitable public charging and more than 80% disagree they can install chargers with sufficient capacity at their operating sites

“ The logistics sector is committed to decarbonising but needs the government to provide sufficient support to make this transition a realistic possibility for industr y ”

with Wests to fully fit out its Scarborough branch and fitted the kitchen and bathroom showroom at its Bridlington depot, which included reconfiguring the existing pallet racking and supplying and fitting new shop display shelving

DRAPER

PORTFOLIO WITH ACQUISITION OF VAN VAULT AND DEFENDER LIGHTING”

Added value acquisition

Draper Tools has announced the acquisition of Van Vault and Defender Lighting Van Vault was established over 20 years ago and is a leading supplier of vehicle and on-site security storage solutions while Defender is a prominent brand in the global site lighting and power distribution industr y. Both brands were formerly part of Toolstream, which recently entered administration.

Draper Tools was established in 1919 and is a 4th generation family business. CEO Matt Sheen commented: “We are pleased to be able to incorporate two such well-known brands into the Draper offering The acquisition allows us to continue meeting demand and helps us further our goal to provide the most comprehensive range of best-in-class tools to our customers

“Draper may be a 106-year-old company with a long histor y, but we ’ re also a ver y for ward-looking business, focused on growth as well as listening to our customers and the wider market Acquiring these two brands represents

a key part of our continued investment in the future and new markets ”

Matt continued: “We understand there may be questions from the market and individuals about this announcement, and we want to offer reassurance that more information will follow in due course In the meantime, we have set up a dedicated email address for each brand and would urge anyone with any immediate questions and concerns to get in touch via this route.”

For any urgent enquiries regarding Van Vault, use vanvault@drapertools com For Defender, use defender@drapertools com

Trade credit insurance initiative

GFTM (Good For The Money) has announced plans to launch a new single-invoice trade credit insurance ser vice in Q2 2026, designed specifically for builders’ merchants Instead of requiring an annual policy, the ser vice will allow merchants to insure individual invoices only when needed, helping them approve new customer accounts, support larger materials orders and offer credit more confidently at the start of a trading relationship

The mo del is intende d for merchants w ho have ne ver pre v iously us e d t rade cre dit insurance, prov iding a way to re duce r isk

w hi le remaining comp et it ive on pr ice, ter ms and s er v ice

GFTM s ays t hat “de cisions w i l l b e delivere d in s e conds,” w it h cover applie d on ly to t hat t rans ac t ion Fur t her more, t he s er v ice w i l l a ls o include a “ s elf-insurance route” to help c ustomers s e c ure cre ditb as e d supply w it h a cont rac tor or t rade buyer able to reg ister w it h GFTM and s e e t he le vel of insurance t hat cou ld, in pr inciple, supp or t t heir purchas es

The y c an t hen appro ach a merchant show ing t hat a f uture invoice cou ld a lre ady

Prostate Cancer awareness campaign

ForgeFix is reminding merchants about its recently launched partnership with Prostate Cancer UK for a year-long series of awareness building and fundraising initiatives The distributor is delivering its ‘Screw Prostate Cancer’ campaign with an aim of getting 100,000 men to take the Prostate Cancer UK online risk checker and to raise £100,000 for the charity

Using Sp ec tre as the public-facing brand for the par tnership, the company has created a b esp oke ‘S cre w Prostate C ancer ’ s cre w cas e with a range of its multi-

pur p os e s cre ws featuring a unique QR co de w hich end-us ers can s can to complete the charity’s risk checker The initiative has already b een backed by indep endent and national merchants alike, with fur ther supp or t f rom institutions such as the NB G, H&B and IB C buying groups, along with the BMF and NMBS

For ever y single sale of its Spectre ‘Screw Prostate Cancer’ cases ForgeFix will donate £2 to Prostate Cancer UK, and in addition the company is also donating 1% of all sales from its entire Spectre screw range through 2026

Tube tales

Lawton Tubes, a Coventr y-based firm supplying copper tube and components to the plumbing, air conditioning, medical gas and engineering sectors in the UK and abroad, has announced it is investing £25 million in improvements across the business “to help futureproof the firm in the face of an ever-changing industry” The 107-year-old family-run company states that these enhancements including a new enterprise resource planning system, an overhaul of its HR system and new appointments to its team will be “fully implemented” in time for the opening of its new £20 million headquarters, which will begin construction later this year.

Director Robert Lawton, a Director at Lawton Tubes said the scale of the investment “demonstrates the family’s commitment to strengthening the business for the decades ahead, as well as laying stronger foundations for the company ’ s continuing diversification and growth ”

b e insure d, w it h t he merchant able to reg ister v i a a de dic ate d lin k and obt ain cover imme di ately s o t he s a le c an pro ce e d on cre dit.

Use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby001 for more information

For more information on the ForgeFix + Spectre Prostate Cancer UK awareness campaign, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby002

Rescue package

As reported in PBM’s January edition, the National Timber Group fell into administration late last year with the closure of many of its depots and facilities plus 561 immediate redundancies across its sites and central functions — approximately half of its workforce. Adding a degree of positivity to the story, several branches have subsequently been purchased from the administrators by other businesses alongside the acquisition of the National Timber Systems business unit. PBM reports.

Supplying national and regional housebuilders as well as the construction and modular sectors with a range of engineered timber products and services, National Timber Systems has been rescued from NTG’s administrators by Premier Forest Products The acquisition “ secures continuity for NTS’s operations, customers and manufacturing footprint,” and safeguards 160 jobs with the new owners highlighting “plans to grow this number to 250 ”

Terry Edgell, Co-founder and CEO of Premier Forest Products, commented: “With our strategic experience in timber and long-term financial stability, we see National Timber Systems as an excellent fit for Premier Forest NTS aligns with and enhances our

existing Mon Timber Engineering offer in south-Wales and the south-west, and broadens our engineered timber solutions for customers across the UK ”

The transaction sees Premier Forest acquiring NTS operations in Bristol, Catterick and Newcastle, plus the assets of its Sheffield site, with the aim to return to full production capacity to meet customer demand. Furthermore, it follows its recent purchase of the Arnold Laver sites in Manchester and Reading from the administrators of National Timber Group England

The Newport-headquartered business subsequently added the Arnold Laver Hull operation, further strengthening its timber distribution, manufacturing and

logistics capability across the north and north-east of England. This purchase secures 18 jobs, following the safeguarding of more than 36 jobs at the Manchester and Reading operations

Speaking of the Hull acquisition specifically, Terr y added: “ This latest acquisition is another important step in strengthening Premier Forest’s presence across the north and north-east of England The Hull operation significantly extends our geographic coverage and deliver y capability, enabling us to better support customers across Yorkshire, the Humber and the wider north-east with a broader range of timber products and faster, more resilient supply”

NTG’s Thornbridge Timber operation, meanwhile, has returned to independent Scottish ownership following the acquisition of its Mother well branch and the wider Thornbridge brand plus associated intellectual property by Rodger Group Holdings an independent, family-owned building materials group which owns and operates a portfolio of businesses across S cotland including builders’ merchant

Build Depot and bathroom and tile retailer

Bath & Tile Studio.

“We believe strongly in the value of independent, Scottish-owned merchants ser ving their local markets properly.”

Mark Rodger, Group Managing Director of Rodger Group Holdings

Founded in 1992, Thornbridge originally operated from a sawmill in Grangemouth which is not included in the deal and went on to build a strong reputation across Scotland’s construction and manufacturing sectors, ser ving both trade and commercial customers

The business will now trade as Thornbridge Timber Limited, operating initially from the Mother well branch under its existing management team and workforce, with all staff transferring as part of the transaction. The business will be supported by Rodger Group’s wider operational infrastructure and logistics capability, enabling Thornbridge to “stabilise operations and ser ve customers across a broader geographic area. ”

Group Managing Director Mark Rodger said: “ Thornbridge is a name that carries real recognition and loyalty within the Scottish timber trade Our focus is not to dilute that, but to protect it This acquisition is about safeguarding jobs, supporting customers, and rebuilding the Thornbridge brand with clarity, continuity and long-term commitment

“We believe strongly in the value of independent, Scottish-owned merchants ser ving their local markets properly”

Further announcements are expected in due course as the business develops its next phase.

Finally, Jewson has announced it has successfully acquired the NTG sites in Loanhead, South Edinburgh (which also traded under the Thornbridge brand) and the former Rembrand Timber branch in Portree on the Isle of Skye The national merchant states that its latest branches “ are already welcoming new and existing customers with its teams supporting them with their project and business needs.”

ROOFING REWARDS

Weather ing the Standards

In the wake of Storm Claudia and Storm Bram, builders’ merchants can play a pivotal role in helping the trade better understand the importance of current roof installation standards. Kevin Taylor, Training & Technical Support Manager at Marley, advises that following British Standards can help ensure long-term roof protection during extreme conditions.

The best way to ensure the ongoing integrity of a roof and be assured that it can deal effectively with harsh weather events is to ensure installation meets the requirements of two important standards: BS 5534 Slating and Tiling for pitched roofs and vertical cladding - Code of Practice, and BS 8612 for Dr y Fix ridge, hip and verge systems for slating and tilingSpecification

Fixing to BS 5534 is the code of practice for installing slates and tiles to new-build pitched roofs and vertical cladding, ensuring that pitched roofs are as secure and as resistant to water ingress as possible The standard offers guidance on best practice for installs including batten selection, the various methods of fixing, wind uplift formulas and how to calculate fixing specifications

For merchants, the importance of batten selection is one area they can offer support to roofers, for example, signposting customers to products which are graded to BS 5534 such as Marley JB Red roofing battens

BS 8612 on the other hand sets out the specifications and tests for dr y fix ridge, hip and verge systems, highlighting the importance of choosing a high-quality dr y fix system and making sure it is installed correctly

Not all dr y fix systems offer the same levels of weather resistance and durability, which is precisely why BS 8612 was created and why it should be adhered to For example, Marley’s Universal RidgeFast System can be used with all concrete tiles and slates, offering merchants valuable upselling opportunities

Again, merchants can deliver real added value for customers looking for products that meet this important standard. It gives merchants a valuable way to increase basket value by stocking a full roof system With all products designed and tested to work together seamlessly, while also offering batten and dr y fix fittings which meet BS 5534 and BS 8612, merchants can offer further assurance to customers with Marley’s 15-year performance warranty

n For more information, visit Marley’s website via www rdr link/mby003

T R A I N I N G Z O N E

Standing out from the crowd

Robert Price, winner of the 2025 BMF Training Company of the Year Award, exemplifies a company whose investment in training has helped differentiate its offer and expand its customer base.

Founded in 1847, the family-owned business is now run by the fifth generation and employs around 400 people across 34 branches, operating under the Robert Price and Tudors brands throughout South Wales and into Herefordshire

Its current training approach began after a management restructure in 2020, when the new team identified skills gaps within the business and sought solutions to boost confidence, improve customer ser vice and foster a fun working environment

This led them to engage the BMF to deliver a tailored six-month holistic training programme for branch managers. It was so successful that it has been repeated to include ever y branch manager, and a similar methodolog y has been adapted to develop programmes in other parts of the group

Sales Director David Pattison strongly advocates providing learning and development opportunities for all team members, encouraging them to reach their potential He said: “It is embedded within our company culture to seek out opportunities In line with this, we invest in knowledge, skills and infrastructure ”

Accordingly, over the past 18 months, the company has implemented BMF management and sales training courses, including the

Pathway to Branch Management, Certificate in Merchant Management, Key Account Management Training, a six-month Sales Excellence Programme, and a bespoke Internal Sales Management Programme The company also offers BMF’s one-day courses, such as How to Build a House, to support new starters

The firm’s training efforts have also extended into new business areas. Until the 2000s, Robert Price was primarily known for heavyside products. Today, it positions itself as a multidisciplinar y knowledge leader, covering Civils, Plumbing & Heating, Timber, Roofing, Insulation and Sustainability Each area has a Specialist Development Manager supporting colleagues across the group, helping to grow sales

Indeed, sustainability has become a significant growth area for the company and Robert Price is recognised as a Sustainability Knowledge Expert by the Welsh Government and the Chartered Institute of Housing

David believes that the company ’ s agility as an independent allows it to seize such opportunities, whilst its Sustainability Training Academy offers product awareness and accredited training Alongside supporting internal colleagues, with each branch having a Sustainability Champion, the also academy delivers training for customers and their specialist subcontractors

Above all, it is a sound business decision Increasing customer understanding of PVs, electric heating and batter y storage, for example, enhances their ability to bid for larger, specialised projects, thereby boosting product sales in this area

Reflecting on the company ’ s approach, David added: “Training helps us differentiate ourselves as knowledge experts in a multi-disciplinary field We have a groupthink mentality regarding customer service excellence. We share knowledge, share resources and even share operations, for example, borrowing transport from another branch to ensure a delivery is made on time.

“Investing in people develops camaraderie across the company, which is an undeniable benefit ”

To find out how your team can benefit from BMF Training, please email training@bmf.org.uk

n BMF training ranges from formal Apprenticeships and, with leading British universities, sector-specific Diplomas, Degrees and a Masters Degree in Merchant Leadership and Strategy, to online product knowledge and other specialist skills training

On the road ag ain

A vital component of any builders’ merchant’s service offering, PBM discusses the latest issues affecting transport and logistics with Tim Houghton, Managing Director of commercial vehicle hire specialist FVTH.

QFollowing another challenging year, what are some of the headline fleet issues to consider?

A2025 was difficult for all sectors including construction, with the industr y suffering through poor haulage rates and rising vehicle and maintenance costs. Government legislation around vehicle safety systems continues to add cost to the overall capital cost of the vehicle

Keeping all vehicles compliant has always been a challenge and new legislation is not making that any easier

QWhat are the real challenges for 2026 when buying a new vehicle, for instance? Are more merchants asking for a comprehensive, planned package to manage costs?

ANew vehicle costs have gone up in the last 24 months with around a 30% increase across the board rising maintenance costs and poor residual values makes the cost of ownership ver y difficult for operators. Interestingly over the last 12 months, more and more companies that would normally outright purchase are looking to get a fixed cost rental/contract hire vehicles.

QHow do you think manufacturer lead times and supply chain issues will affect replacement schedules in 2026?

ADuring 2025 manufacture lead times for chassis actually reduced, due in part to new sales volumes dropping from previous years Ancillar y equipment such as cranes, tailifts and fridges are now on longer deliver y dates

Body builders are accommodating with builds in 2026, and I would suggest building a new vehicle is back to a standard lead time expectation now of between 12 and 26 weeks

QHow do you evaluate what mix of diesel, electric and alternative fuel HGVs make sense for a customer’s fleet?

AThe desire by the manufacturers to introduce EV and alternative fuelled vehicles to our fleets is still there However, infrastructure issues, residual values and the capital cost of the new equipment are all limiting companies’ appetite to move away from traditional vehicles

Until these areas are addressed, I think most businesses will avoid the change for as

long as possible They will prefer to keep with the vehicle models they know, they can cost, and they can accommodate in their yards without large investment

It is all about uptime and being on the road, traditional vehicles are a known quantity and venturing into the unknown takes courage However, it is a step that we will all need to take soon government help (possibly in the form of grants) would certainly help some make that move

QWhat is the ideal maintenance model? How does good planned maintenance help to minimise the cost of vehicle downtime?

AAny maintenance regime is generated by annual and monthly KMS usage Good, well planned routine maintenance will increase uptime and reduce running costs Ad Blue and DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) systems are still a huge challenge for operators, and ver y costly when they go wrong ECU and Cam bust issues due to new tech are also a big challenge for operators and OEMs

QHow are upcoming 2026 UK/EU regulations on emissions, safety technolog y and tachographs going to impact on fleets?

ANew vehicles purchased now have most of these upgrades included, but I just wish there was more thought with government and the manufacturers over the safety features on the vehicles We are still retrofitting equipment to meet the new legislation, meaning additional screens and cameras and tech for the driver to manage

QWhat are the conversations around telematics for merchants? Are telematics systems capable of producing the detailed data needed in 2026?

AMost customers have their own platforms/suppliers to manage their fleets, and it is ‘ an essential’ now for any fleet I can see the telematic platforms increasing in the coming months as operators are looking for even more control and maximum utilisation of their fleets

QHow

resilient can you be to fuel price spikes or energ y shortages?

AFuel prices continue to challenge all industries and unfortunately it impacts on ours FV TH currently doesn’t have an EV offering, concentrating on ser vicing the needs of our customer base which to date has not moved to the EV platform in any numbers

We have yet to fully explore the alternate energ y direction and strateg y we would take We are however on a rented site, which means that investment and infrastructure would be a problem currently This is

common to many of our customers, who also rent their yards

QAnd what are some of the latest developments for FVTH as a business?

AFVTH has recently moved to new premises in Wraysbur y to offer more space for our own customers It is a great addition to our business giving us a large 3 bay workshop and new offices, with 1 2 acres of prime land close to J13 of the M25

It will allow us to grow and ser vice our customers in West London and throughout the UK

QGiven its ongoing challenges, what are your closing thoughts on the building materials sector specifically?

AThe merchants have continued to be an important part of the FVTH portfolio and during 2025 Lords Builders Merchants, amongst others, has expanded its fleet with the company

Equally, it is evident that there are less specialist providers of builders’ merchant cranes for both contact hire and short-term rental, and therefore used vehicle sales FVTH has capacity in all these areas, and we saw an upturn in requests and a high volume of enquiries from existing and new customers in the latter part of the year

Overall, this should continue into 2026, and I think there’s a growing feeling of optimism amongst the merchants that this year will certainly bring more opportunity than the past 24 months

n For more information on FVTH, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby004

Fit for purpose

For years, tradeswomen have had little choice but to make-do with ill-fitting, generic safety footwear that compromises on comfort and can actually get in the way of them doing their job safely

However, Overland Shoes states it is closing this gap with the all-new Bobcat Safety Footwear women ’ s collection said to have been engineered specifically to “deliver the perfect mix of safety, comfort and style for women across all industries ”

The dedicated women ’ s range, spanning over five distinct design handles, is purpose-built on anatomically correct, gender-specific lasts to offer “ proper fit, proportional safety and enduring comfort.”

Ever y model carries the signature Bobcat design language, with safety features “tuned for real-world jobsite environments and the unique comfort advantage” of Redbacks Leaf Spring Technolog y at the core

Independently proven to “improve shock absorption by up to 46% and outperform industr y-leading insoles by up to 30%,” this technolog y helps reduce impact and fatigue over long hours on the job.

Peter Lawson, Brand Manager at Overland Shoes, commented: “Women remain one of the fastest-growing segments in skilled trades, yet many footwear ranges are simply scaled-down versions of men ’ s boots This can have significant real-world consequences, not just in terms of poor

comfort but increased risk, with research showing women are more likely to experience accidents or injur y due to wearing poorly fitting PPE “ This is simply not good enough, and as an industr y there is a clear duty of care to provide safety footwear that is designed from the ground up around women ’ s feet, not treated as an afterthought ”

“Women remain one of the fastest-growing segments in skilled trades, yet many footwear ranges are simply scaled-down versions of men ’ s boots.”

A complete solution for merchants

The Bobcat Safety Footwear women ’ s collection comprises four carefully curated designs shown over five SKUs, each engineered for a specific application and named after an iconic American industrial region:

l Rockford Combining lightweight form and a sport-inspired profile, the Rockford work trainer boasts a range of safety features, such as composite toe caps, puncture-resistant midsoles and abrasion-resistant uppers for enduring

With the launch of the new Bobcat Safety Footwear Women’s Collection, Overland

Shoes states that it is responding to a vital gap in the market.

comfort Ideal for first fix, logistics, warehouse or light assembly work

l Ak ron When it comes to sty lish p erformance, the Hiker-inspired Akron b o ot is des crib ed as b eing hard to b eat Available in sleek All-Black or on-trend Sage, the Akron women ’ s design handle combines padded ank le protec tion, breathable lining, triple-density outs oles and shar p sty ling to “deliver a versatile safety b o ot built for all-day comfor t and durability ”

l Clinch Lightweight in design but tough on performance, the athleticinspired Clinch safety shoe is “built to handle the hardest jobs while keeping feet comfortable and protected all day”

l Virginia An advanced dealer boot designed for high-heat, high-risk applications, the Virginia boot features waterproof leather and a reinforced scuff cap Specified to HRO standard it offers a heat-resistant, triple density wedge outsole for high stability in outdoor, welding, fabrication and foundr y settings

The important PPE category launch comes as the latest research from the Women’s Engineering Institute reveals that 42% of the UK’s female engineering workforce still have to use PPE that is too big to fit correctly, resulting in women making modifications against HSE guidance. A separate study found

n Overland Shoes has appointed seasoned footwear executive Peter Lawso n as Brand Manager to lead the launch of “disruptive” new brand Bobcat Safety Footwear With over two decades of commercial leadership across global footwear markets, including PPE market expertise through senior positions at Blackrock workplace PPE and Toffeln, Peter said: “Bobcat Safety Footwear represents a new era of safety footwear smart, distinctively stylish, comfortable and built for the modern worker

“Beyond the high-end premium sector, the safety footwear market has seen little real innovation for too long I’m excited to bring a fresh, disruptive approach to this important PPE category and help redefine expectations around what safety footwear can be ”

Supporting Peter is an “expert sales team” with a wealth of footwear and brand-building experience

A nne Fish joins as sales lead for Scotland, Northern Ireland and Northern England, with 20-plus years’ experience in sales and merchandising across retail and, more recently, the safety market

Josh Kay, meanwhile, oversees the South East territory, bringing an indepth understanding of the creativity and craftsmanship behind the range through his background as a footwear designer and shoemaker

that more than half of women workers (57%) say that their PPE sometimes or significantly hampers their work

At the same time, the UK continues to see a significant increase in women working in the trades.

Peter continued: “ This isn’t just another women ’ s safety footwear collection it’s a game changer Built from months of in-depth research into what tradeswomen really want and designed around the key differences in fit between women and men, this collection offers a broadly appealing range of styles that put comfort and safety first

“It’s the step the industr y has been waiting for to finally give women the footwear they deser ve ”

All products are certified to EN ISO 20345:2022+A1:2024 and feature composite safety toe caps, non-metallic puncture-resistant midsoles and non-marking, fuel oil-resistant outsoles All women ’ s models are fully metal-free and designed to meet the growing demand for lighter, more wearable protection without compromise.

Unlike other insoles that flatten or degrade over time, the Leaf-Spring Technolog y mechanism is said to retain its structure and performance for the life of the boot, helping reduce the risk of strain injuries, foot pain and long-term musculoskeletal issues

n To enquire about stocking Bobcat Safety Footwear, use the shortcode www rdr link/mby005

IBMG has confirmed the appointment of Matthew Parker as its new CEO Matthew brings nearly 20 years of senior leadership experience, most recently as MD of Wolseley Group’s Infrastructure division Prior to this, he was MD of Travis Perkins’ TF Solutions division and previously held numerous senior roles within the wider business, including as Commercial Director and Finance Director, respectively, of its BSS unit

STARK UK has appointed Fiona Perrin as Managing Director of ewson Partnership Solutions Over the past 30+ years, Fiona as held a number of senior leadership positions in the industry cross merchanting, manufacturing and several public sector rganisations including roles at IBMG, HSS Hire, Coastline Housing and Sentry Doors

Fiona said: “This is a once in a lifetime role, bringing together both my experience and passion for social housing ”

Carl Knowles has been appointed by Pavestone as Head of Marketing The brand and marketing specialist formerly ran his own consultancy Thinck Creative, working with the Pavestone team for more than 18 years

Pavestone UK MD Krystal Williams said: “A familiar face to Pavestone employees and many of our merchant partners, Carl brings considerable marketing expertise and, importantly, has an indepth understanding of our industry ”

Civils & Lintels, part of the Huws Gray group, has appointed Tariq Ahmad as National Sales Director He joins with almost three decades of industry-relevant sales experience through previous senior roles at Polypipe, Twyford Bathrooms and, most recently, Wilsonart

Having previously worked closely with the business when at Polypipe, Tariq commented: “It’s a tough market, but that creates real opportunity, and my focus will be on winning market share, delivering against ambitious targets and supporting the team to be the very best they can be ”

Newton Aycliffe–based ecommerce specialist Powertool World has strengthened its senior leadership team as it “enters a new chapter of accelerated growth ” MD Liam Rafferty and FD Becky Scott bring a fresh perspective, alongside Commercial Director Nick Marshall and Procurement Director Dave Prime who have been instrumental in the company ’ s growth and step into newly defined leadership roles Completing the team with substantial experience in warehousing and logistics is Operations Director Trevor Ball

Liam commented: “We’ve got the talent, the ambition, and the customer demand; this team gives us the structure and focus to deliver on all three I’m excited about what we can achieve together in 2026 ”

Following “ a successful year of growth,” DART Tool Group has strengthened its team with the strategic appointments of Matt Cope as Business Development Manager and Evelyn Gascoyne as Marketing Manager

Matt, with over 30 years of experience in electrical distribution, will support account management, develop customer partnerships, deliver product training, and drive new commercial opportunities across key markets Evelyn, meanwhile, will use her background to lead the development of insight-driven marketing strategies that elevate brand visibility and support customercentric growth

MERCHANT FOCUS

HIGHBOURNE GROUP CYNCLY PARTNERSHIP

Cyncly is celebrating the success of its partnership with City Plumbing following the nationwide rollout of its Virtual Worlds 3D design software across The Bathroom Showroom estate The collaboration marks the largest implementation of Virtual Worlds by any company in the UK and is already said to be delivering “measurable improvements in customer engagement, design capability and trade collaboration ”

The Bathroom Showroom operates 290 showrooms nationally and the rollout of Virtual Worlds represents a “major investment in creating a more immersive and efficient customer journey, designed to help trade customers save time, increase sales and deliver exceptional service to their clients ” Stephen Smith, Managing Director of Bathrooms, explained: “We wanted to align with Cyncly’s forward-looking technology and Virtual Worlds was the obvious choice for the future of bathroom design. The realism of the renders and the intuitive tools are transforming how our showroom teams engage with customers and bring their ideas to life ”

The transition from predominantly 2D design to fully interactive 3D design environments required large-scale training and careful change management Working closely with Cyncly, internal showroom champions were trained to support more than 200 colleagues nationwide The rollout was completed across all showrooms in just a few weeks, going live in time for the key January trading period

The move not only supports direct-to-consumer sales but also strengthens The Bathroom Showroom’s trade customers, handling the design aspect, saving time and helping them be more profitable

For more information on Virtual Worlds, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby006

TOTAL ROOFING

NBG MEMBERSHIP

Colchester-based roofing merchant

Total Roofing has become an NBG Partner, aiming to “accelerate growth through improved purchasing power and the backing of a collaborative network of Suppliers and independent merchants ” By joining the well-established buying group, Total Roofing will now benefit from competitive deals with leading suppliers including deals outside of NBG’s Roofing Category, aiding the expansion and diversification of the product ranges it stocks and sells

To

o f i n g , D e a n W i c k s , l a t e r r e n e w e d d i s c u s s i o n s w i t h

P h i l B o n a r, N B G ’s H e a d o f N e w Pa r t n e r D e v e l o p m e n t a n d Re c r u i t m e n t . D e a n s a i d :

“ We w e r e l o o k i n g f o r w

t o l d u s j o i n i n g N B G

i t T h e b e t t e r d e a l s

c o m e w i t h b e i n g p a r t o f N B G .

“We’ve had an influx of Supplier contact since joining and it’s given us plenty to consider as we look at future routes for the business.”

Operating from a single depot at present, Total Roofing was founded eight years ago and is already planning to open a new branch soon to expand the range of products it stocks, using access to NBG’s deals as a springboard

JEWSON JAMES WADE SPONSORSHIP

MURDOCK GROUP DONEGAL TOWN HARDWARE

The Murdock Group, owners of Murdock Builders Merchants and Brooks Timber & Building Supplies, has announced the acquisition of Donegal Town Hardware & DIY The move brings the Group’s network to twenty-six branches (following recent greenfield openings in Antrim and Drogheda) across fourteen counties to support its national growth strategy and reinforce its position as “the largest family-owned builders’ merchant group on the island of Ireland ”

Donegal Town Hardware & DIY will retain its name, brand and local leadership team, ensuring continuity for customers and staff

Ciaran Murdock of the Murdock Group said: “Donegal Town Hardware is a respected and well-established local business built on strong customer service. This partnership allows us to support the business with our wider Group capabilities while preserving the local identity and customer relationships that have made it so successful.”

The national builders’ merchant has announced a 12-month sponsorship deal with darts player James Wade ahead of the 2025/26 Paddy Power World Darts Championship James has spent more than two decades playing darts among the world’s elite, claiming multiple titles including the Premier League in 2009, The Masters in 2014 and the World Series in 2018

Now, Jewson branding will adorn James’ shirt in the year ahead and Sam Johnson, the merchant’s Marketing Operations Director, said: “James is a legendary darts player who lots of our customers, suppliers and team members will be familiar with, having cheered him on from home during many gripping matches over the years

“He has also spoken openly about his challenges with mental health, something many people within the Jewson community and wider community are committed to supporting We wish James the best of luck with in the PDC World Darts Championship and look forward to working with him well into the future ”

HARRIS & BAILEY

LOCAL CHARITY SUPPORT

Croydon-based Harris & Bailey has pledged its support to local mental health charity Hear Us Croydon for the next 12 months The merchant’s MD Neville Horsfield said: “As a business that’s been rooted in the Croydon community for more than a century, we believe in supporting the people around us

“While we know that looking after your mental health is important for everyone, it’s something that the building industry particularly champions That’s why we’re passionate about raising as much money as possible to help Hear Us Croydon continue the vital work they do locally ”

Tim Oldham, CEO at Hear Us, Croydon, commented; “We’re really pleased that Harris & Bailey has chosen us as its charity for the year Its support will help us continue providing vital services to people living with mental health issues in Croydon It’s also inspiring to see a business from the building trade taking such a proactive approach to championing mental health ”

&

Driving sales

Throughout 2025, merchants faced tight margins, slower housing activity and ongoing uncertainty around developments such as the Future Homes Standard. Shane Kerlin, Managing Director at Keylite Roof Windows, reflects on the challenging market conditions and highlights where opportunities still exist for those who work closely with manufacturers that can offer support in understanding the pressures on the ground.

Although last year tested the sector, economic indicators are now more positive. According to Approach Personnel’s UK Construction Sector Forecast for 2026, most leading forecasters expect the industry to return to steady growth. Meanwhile, the Construction Products Association’s Autumn forecast suggests total UK construction output will rise by around 2 8% this year

Against this backdrop, strong collaboration between merchants and manufacturers is more important than ever to navigate market pressures and unlock new growth opportunities Indeed, at Keylite, our focus remains firmly on supporting merchants with products, ser vices, and technical expertise

By strengthening our offering, we aim to reinforce our merchant partners’ position in the market and help them grow as conditions improve.

Strengthening merchant relationships 2025 began with a 0 9% increase in overall construction value compared to Q1 2024

(source: BMBI), supported by a surge of front-loaded projects earlier in the year For Keylite, reaffirming our partnership with merchants has been a priority throughout One of the most significant developments last year was our expansion into flat roof products a categor y that traditionally leans heavily on online sales Bringing this range into the merchant channel opened new opportunities for both Keylite and our partners, widening the

product choice available over the counter

To meet rising demand, particularly in the Irish market, Keylite also introduced a new distribution hub in early 2025 This investment improves product availability across roof windows and loft ladders and supports sustained growth across the region

Merchant-focused campaigns

Throughout 2025, Keylite continued to invest in campaigns designed to support

“Merchants consistently tell us that ease of doing business with suppliers is paramount.”

merchant branches, increase footfall and build product confidence among trade counter teams

The Verified Installer scheme, launched in 2024 and expanded significantly last year, connects homeowners directly with trained installers who purchase through merchants. This ensures ever y installation enquir y benefits a local stockist while giving installers a reliable supply chain

Alongside this, Keylite’s ‘Fastest Roof Window on the Road’ Demo Trailer campaign has been a standout success Launched in late 2024 and running across the UK and Ireland throughout 2025, the roadshow completed 48 stops at builders’ merchants Each visit provided hands-on demonstrations of product features, installation advantages and performance

benefits boosting branch awareness, building installer confidence and supporting sales

B oth initiatives are set to continue throughout 2026, maintaining valuable engagement between Keylite, merchants and installers positioning our partners as the preferred local source for roof windows.

Investment in people and resources

Keylite’s commitment to the merchant channel has been strengthened by major investment in marketing and technical expertise In Q2, we welcomed Ross Telford as Head of Marketing, bringing 20 years of B2B and B2C experience to the role David Loughran was appointed Technical Manager for the UK and Ireland, and our technical support team expanded to offer direct

guidance to homeowners while ensuring purchase enquiries are directed to local merchant stockists

In June 2025, Keylite launched a new website, split into dedicated sections for homeowners and professionals The professional hub provides merchants and installers with quick access to technical data, installation guides and trade literature, while our in-house experts continue to support branches with product information and selling points to help drive sales.

Merchants consistently tell us that ease of doing business with suppliers is paramount From reliable stock availability to efficient deliveries and responsive after-sales support, ever y part of our operation is designed to make doing business with Keylite as straightfor ward as possible

By listening to merchant feedback and offering clear commercial guidance, we help ensure our customers can support their own clients with confidence

L ooking ahead

Keylite closed 2025 with strong double-digit growth, reinforcing our position as the No.2 roof window brand in the UK and Ireland With construction output predicted to rise by 2 8% in 2026 including a 4% increase in private housing merchants will continue to rely on supplier partners who bring innovation, consistency and strategic support

n Part of the Keystone Group, for more information on Keylite and its support for merchants, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby007

Back in black

While black hardware has long been popular, over recent years matte finishes have emerged for those wishing to strike the balance between timeless style and modernity. Sarah Knight, Technical Product Manager at Quanex group (which includes home security and fenestration brand ERA), explores the trend and why tapping into its rising popularity presents a perfect opportunity for stockists.

Demand for matte black is expected to grow between 15-20% globally throughout 2026, according to Accio, driven by its expansion into architectural finishes This will see the hue grow in popularity even more in many UK homes over the next few years

Thankfully, incorporating the finish is easily achieved with finishing touches like door and window furniture, which allow homeowners to effortlessly elevate their property’s overall aesthetic with simple, yet

impactful changes. What’s more, complementing both minimalist and traditional styles, matte black accessories work seamlessly in both new and older homes.

Rise in the style stakes

Offering a sleek, impactful impression, matte black started strong in kitchen and bathroom projects Providing a smooth look for shower enclosures, taps, and cabinet handles, it wasn’t long before its influence filtered into other areas of the home

These days, we regularly see matte black door and window furniture at the front and centre of exterior projects, and the finish has become a focal point of interior spaces too Whether it's matte black internal door hardware or the resurgence of slim, aluminium framed internal doors and screens, it has only compounded the admiration of the finish, particularly in modern applications and period home renovations

Indeed, Matte black’s growing presence across rooms, beyond bathrooms and kitchens, is in part due to its versatility, creating a cohesive look when adopted across a variety of interior and exterior styles. Homeowners looking to achieve a

contemporar y aesthetic can introduce matte black furniture to complete bold and modern styling whilst those in traditional properties can introduce the finish to emphasise an aged effect especially when paired with hammered, period-style hardware, for example.

Furthermore, black famously goes with just about ever ything Thanks to its

neutrality, a matte finish can provide a striking contrast against various colours and textures.

For instance, when used against neutral hues, earthy tones and off-whites, matte black can enhance the industrial aspects of modern homes In addition, it works well with classic whites, pale hues and moody tones in period styles too

Stockist benefits

Offering matte black across a variety of design choices opens sales opportunities to merchants With homeowners more aware of design trends than ever thanks to online influences, the appetite to explore different interior styles remains high

And with the popularity of matte black set to rise over the coming year, customer requests for the shade will continue to increase Introducing more matte black hardware options will be a significant point

of difference for stockists, with plenty of opportunities for upselling available too

Drawing on its 185+ years of manufacturing, design and innovation experience, ERA offers a matte black finish in its range of 3 Lever Mortice Locks, Bathroom Mortice Locks, internal Doorknob Sets, and UKCA CE Tubular Latches, alongside its British Standard 3621 Security Nightlatch and British Standard 8621 Keyless Egress Nightlatch These options enable homeowners to access a perfect match of locks and handle finishes for internal and external timber applications alike

n For further information on ERA’s diverse hardware portfolio, including its range of locks and latches plus its smart security solutions, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby008

Locked in

Reputedly Britain’s oldest lock maker and, according to the company, “probably the world’s oldest” too, Squire celebrated its 245th anniversary last year. PBM delves into the history books and also considers some of the supplier’s latest innovations.

In 1780, William Squire began making a small range of padlocks, door and cabinet locks, starting a legacy that continues to this day. Throughout the course of the next centur y, the company grew in size, supplying locks for the British army during the Napoleonic Wars, as well as companies across the British Empire.

The company was officially registered in 1906 and during World War Two, Squire put lock making on hold as the company was awarded a government contract to supply machine gun gauges, links and torpedo parts to support the war effort. As society became more prosperous after the war, the demand for padlocks increased, paving the way for further growth and helping the company become a household name

The 1960s saw the firm’s first range of cycle locks, innovating and leading the two-wheel lock market at the time. Squire continued its trend of innovation with the “world’s first heavy-duty combination padlock” some 20 years later.

Such innovation helped the business become a recognised global brand and a leader in general security as well as bike and motorcycle locks Remarkably, through all this time, the company has stayed within the Squire family, passing down through eight generations to its current CEO John Squire.

Over its long history, the company “ never stood still,” shifting its product ranges as times change Today, it embraces the future of security in its advanced access control system, inigma, billed as “ one of the world’s most secure smart lock systems ” The system harnesses Bluetooth communication, allowing businesses to control which locks users can open, easily giving and revoking access, and inspect comprehensive audit trails to see who has entered which areas and when.

Furthermore, Squire also lays claim to offering “the world’s strongest padlock” with the Stronghold SS100CS a heavy-duty padlock “meeting some of the most stringent certifications (and) known for its unrivalled strength and resistance to attack ”

Indeed, throughout its history, the company states it has been committed to the highest standards. This is shown by

accreditations such as inigma’s BSI Kitemark™ for Secure Digital Applications the pinnacle of quality assurance and the SS100CS’s LPCB SR4 rating, which is described as “the highest level that any padlock has achieved ”

CEO John Squire commented: “ To be at the forefront of international lock-making for 245 years is an amazing achievement and one that I am extraordinarily proud of Our current factor y is within four miles of the original premises where the business began, showing the deep heritage our company has

“What has kept us at the forefront of the locks industr y is our reputation for long-lasting toughness combined with constant innovation, new designs, and state-of-the-art production I’m proud to continue this tradition and keep offering the best locks on the market to our customers ”

MADE FOR TRADE NEW KORNICHE ROOF LATERN AND INTERNAL PARTITION SYSTEM

2026 is said to mark a “pivotal time” for Made for Trade (MFT) as the business launches not one but two, flagship Korniche products it states are “set to redefine the market ” Firstly, the new Korniche Roof Lantern builds on the success of the existing, multiaward-winning product with a new “slimmer, stronger” upgrade

Key features include ultra-slim sightlines for maximum natural light and contemporary aesthetics in addition to enhanced structural strength for superior load distribution and performance, alongside fast-fit installation and thermally efficient glazing and profiles to support compliance and energy performance

Transforming spaces with elegance and a slim heritage style, the Korniche Internal Glass Partition System, meanwhile, has been developed to address the growing trend for openplan redesign and internal zoning. Featuring slim aluminium profiles for modern, architectural styling, the system supports customisable configurations including single doors, double doors and multi-panel partitions and offers a choice of bespoke hardware in classic and contemporary styles

n For more information, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby010

UAP

FULLEX CRIMEBEATER AUTOLOCK ROSE

UNION SCHEMA DOOR HANDLES

DOORS, WINDOWS & SECURITY

Designed to be quick and easy to install, UNION’s Schema Collection is a new range of Scandinavian-style door handles which offer seven exclusive lever designs available in five modern finishes, and a total of 29 lever options Taking its name from the word for ‘drawing’ or ‘pattern,’ each handle in the Schema range features clean lines and a slim 3mm rose to provide a sleek finish for any interior scheme from kitchens to bathrooms to living areas

Crafted from high-grade 304 stainless steel, the handles are engineered to suit door widths between 32-44mm. This makes them perfect for merchants who need a solution for the slimmer profiles commonly used in high-end residential and commercial developments.

n Find out more about the collection and download the brochure via www.rdr.link/mby011

ZOO HARDWARE ESCUTCHEON ACCESSIBILITY

Zoo Hardware has strengthened the accessibility credentials of its popular ZCS030LL Lift-to-Lock Return to Door Lever

Sets, which now feature Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) approved Braille to make them more accessible than ever for visually impaired users

Previously, the escutcheon plates displayed the words “lift handle to lock” laseretched directly on the surface While this method was clear in some finishes, visibility could diminish in certain lighting conditions or on darker materials In response, the plates have now been redesigned with high-contrast, bold printed lettering and Braille that has been officially approved by the RNIB

n Use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby012 to find out more.

PWIDF

SECURED BY DESIGN ACCREDITATION

PWIDF, the architectural ironmongery and fire door solutions branch of Premier Forest Products, has maintained its Secured by Design (SBD) accreditation for the second year running With the ‘Police Preferred Specification,’ SBD provides a recognised standard for security products that can deter and reduce crime

As part of the scheme, products are not only tested to relevant security standards but also fully certified by an independent third-party certification body, accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS)

n For more information, use www.rdr.link/mby013

Billed as an innovative evolution of the popular Fullex Slam Shut Autolock, the new Fullex Autolock Rose is designed to deliver enhanced security and greater compatibility with modern doors Suitable for use with timber, composite, 44mm/54 or thicker, the product is specifically engineered to meet the needs of the fire door market

Its flexible design supports two handle spindle options either lever on backplate or lever on rose, so allowing easy integration with a range of door designs It also boasts a new and improved hardened gearbox casing made from a stronger plate material that ensures a higher degree of resistance to attack, whilst also supporting FD30 and FD60 timber and composite doors when used with perfectly cut intumescent kits.

n Discover more via www.rdr.link/mby014

Br ick by br ick

Sean Kelly, National Sales Manager at Brett Landscaping & Building Products, provides the inside track on the company’s extension into brick manufacturing to support merchants and small housebuilders with a greater choice of ‘ready to go’ options.

Across the construction supply chain, for many the stor y of the past twelve months has been one of frustration and false starts under less than favourable economic conditions This is perhaps exemplified by government data which shows that new housing additions in England reached a 10-year low, with only 208,600 net dwellings adding to overall housing stock in 2024/25

However, all things must pass Construction data specialist Glenigan is forecasting that construction output will increase by 8% in 2026 and 13% in 2027. The impact of the government’s £39bn Social and Affordable Homes Programme and

separately, the Scottish Government pledging up to £4 9bn over the next four years as part of its Housing Emergency Action Plan, should begin to offer the construction supply chain a source of encouragement that there is money in the system to meet the demand for new building particularly in affordable housing

Equally, the challenges of the past 12 months have led to the supply chain needing to find new solutions At Brett Landscaping & Building Products, this has involved our expansion into house building products with the launch of a new range of concrete bricks to offer housebuilders, architects, brickwork contractors and of course, builders’

“The use of concrete bricks should not be viewed as a challenge to replace products that builders want to use; it is about supplying a ready to go sustainable solution at a time when the traditional materials supply chain is at a straining point.”

merchants a UK manufactured product, available on a short lead time and with nationwide deliver y

Our Stonehurst range was developed in conjunction with housebuilders to be produced at volume, in a timely manner, offering a more resilient and predictable supply chain to builders The highperformance bricks are designed for use in external and internal walls, and as a façade solution, as an alternative to traditional clay bricks, without compromising on product strength or fire performance

The bricks are crafted in frogged and perforated formats, come with a choice of smooth or textured finishes, and the range is manufactured and tested to the industr y specification for masonr y units (BS EN7713: 2011+A1 2015)

The advantage of concrete bricks is the consistency of product that is supplied They naturally have high compressive strength and weather resistance, as well as high porosity, but crucially, they are

BRICKS, BLOCKS & HARD LANDSCAPING

“The overall impact is that the manufacturing process for concrete bricks typically produces 49% less CO2 than traditional clay bricks. This is laid out in full, third par ty verified, Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).”

manufactured with precise control to set dimensions and colour uniformity In short, you know what you are getting on each load, time after time

This year we will continue to add product options to our range, including a 65mm concrete common brick From a merchant’s perspective, one widening buildin deliver mixed lo agreement with specialists This deal will allow us to manage 12,500 loads each year, delivering materials to builders’ merchants and construction sites across the countr y. This should be an advantage to merchants an small housebuilders who need to tightly control the resources th hold on site read for use. Brett Landscaping & Building Produc is operating a tw strong team ded to our brick focused offer, providing a customer ser vice that can be flexible to the individual requirements of our customers

heels in when a switch from a well-known legacy material to an alternative is suggested, placing their trust in tried and tested products Bricks is one area where workers are trained to predominantly work with clay products, especially in the UK

long ripple effect into the later stages of this year. This will require some pragmatism from builders on the materials available for use during the next two years

do offer a more sustainable solution to traditional materials The energ y requirements for manufacture is much lower than traditional kiln manufacturing, with less heat and water volumes required, while the bricks cure at ambient, controlled steam assisted temperatures The overall mpact is that the manufacturing rocess for concrete ricks typically roduces 49% less CO2 than traditional clay bricks. This is laid out in full, third party verified, Environmental Product eclarations (EPDs) Merchants and mall house builders de themselves on ing able to deliver ourceful solutions heir customer oblems The use of ncrete bricks should be viewed as a llenge to replace ducts that builders pplying a ready to a time when the ly chain is at a

I know that during hard times there is always a sense of people willing to dig their

Beyond product availability, it is important to emphasise that concrete bricks

n For more information on the new Stonehurst range from Brett Landscaping & Building Products and to download a brochure, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby015

BRICKS, BLOCKS & HARD LANDSCAPING

Pockets of confidence

Matthew Compton, Head of Merchant Accounts at H+ shares his perspective on the current builders’ mercha landscape and explores where confidence can still be a subdued market.

Confidence is not a word many in construction would associate with the current market The past year has been defined by caution, rising costs and a sense that decisions are being delayed. Yet from where I sit, working closely with builders’ merchants across the UK, the picture is more nuanced than the headlines suggest

While the industr y as a whole remains subdued, it is far from static There are still busy areas, active builders and merchants who are adapting rather than standing still. The challenge and opportunity lies in identifying where those pockets of activity are, and understanding what is shaping buying behaviour in quieter times

Keeping projects moving

One clear trend is geography London and parts of the South East have slowed noticeably, but there are pockets of activity outside the M25 corridor, particularly in

parts of the Midlands, the Nor South West.

While some large housing c projects have been paused, wor continuing on smaller housebu For many small and regional b working on sites ranging from plots, standing still simply is n

These builders often canno pause indefinitely ; they have t land already purchased and pr need to progress, even if at a m measured pace

Some are adapting by phasi differently getting structure weather-tight before finishing later while others are diversifying into different types of projects such as domestic extensions or social housing partnerships What is consistent is a pragmatic determination to keep moving, even when margins are tight and confidence is fragile.

supply chains were under extreme pressure, availability understandably trumped almost ever y other consideration. Now, in a subdued market, builders and merchants alike have more time to think

Questions around sustainability, where products are made, and long-term

“Sustainability is closely linked to this conversation. And while not yet part of ever yday chat at the merchant counter, awareness of the subject is starting to grow. ”

mance are beginning to feature more rly at the trade counter. is is particularly evident in independent ants, where relationships are key e the growth of online ordering, many builders still prefer to visit their local branch where the daily stop for materials is also a chance to talk through projects, ask for advice and sense what is happening in the local market Merchants are not just suppliers; they are hubs of information

One topic gaining traction is UK manufacturing Recent years have highlighted

the vulnerability of international supply chains, whether due to geopolitics, weather disruption or transport costs Products manufactured closer to site offer tangible benefits: greater availability, shorter lead times and reduced exposure to overseas disruption. There is also a growing appreciation of the wider economic and social value of supporting domestic manufacturing, from local employment to investment in skills and facilities

Sustainability is closely linked to this conversation And while not yet part of

ever yday chat at the merchant counter, awareness of the subject is starting to grow Transparency around the whole-life carbon of building products, supported by independently verified Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), is becoming more important

Builders may not always ask for this information directly, but the direction of travel is clear, particularly as regulations tighten and clients become more informed As an industr y, we need to ensure that reliable, comparable data is available to support better decision-making

Knowledge is key

Skills, meanwhile, remain a critical concern and not just on site The skills shortage within builders’ merchants is often overlooked, yet it has real implications for ser vice levels, product knowledge and customer experience

Merchants rely on knowledgeable people who can advise, solve problems and build long-term relationships Attracting new entrants into the sector and showing that a career in builders’ merchants can be varied, rewarding and progressive is essential Apprenticeships and in-branch training play a key role here, but they need continued focus and investment

The competitive landscape is also evolving. New merchants continue to enter the market, increasing choice but also intensifying competition In this environment, differentiation matters. Stock range, technical understanding and ser vice reliability are what set merchants apart, particularly when builders are under pressure to deliver efficiently and cost-effectively

Looking ahead, optimism may feel cautious, but it is real. Construction has always been cyclical, and while the current market presents challenges, it also rewards those who prepare. For merchants and suppliers alike, this is a time to gather insight, strengthen relationships and ensure teams are ready for when activity inevitably increases again

n For more information on H+H, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby016

The extra mile

Citing developments from its supplier member Talasey, NMBS explores a changing landscape for UK merchants.

Landscaping has long been a staple category for independent merchants, but many are looking for ways to refresh their offer by finding extra benefits to meet changing customer needs. This is where suppliers are increasingly stepping up to help merchants regain their competitive edge not just with new landscaping products, but also with smarter commercial support

Across the sector, suppliers are investing in ranges that meet two parallel needs: the customer’s rising demand for sustainable, ethical materials and the merchant’s need to sell more value into each quote

Stepping stones to a one-stop-shop

It’s no sur pr is e t hat merchants ne e d supp or t f rom suppliers to a l low t hem to quote for t he ent iret y of a l ands c aping proj e c t When c ustomers ar r ive at t he t rade counter w it h complex l ands c aping re quirements, merchants want to b e able to supply more t han just t he p av ing or de ck ing t he y want to quote for t he ent ire s cheme.

To address this, leading suppliers have broadened their ranges beyond core materials. From jointing compounds and natural stone to planters and pergolas, there are added value options at ever y turn S ome suppliers are also offering direct-to-site deliver y for larger or specialist items, helping merchants win the business without needing to hold ever y item in stock

As one of the UK’s leading independent

suppliers of landscaping products, Talasey is a good example of this new approach. Marketing Director Rebecca Hughes explains: “We’re not expecting merchants to stock more. Instead, we ’ re helping them win more of the project We are expanding our ranges to offer products that can be delivered directly to the site, which removes the need for warehouse space, while still growing the merchant’s share of the sale ”

Responsible sourcing

As R eb e cc a p oints out, sust ainabi lit y and resp onsible s ourcing are a ls o fast-g row ing are as of demand. Professiona l l ands c ap ers and home ow ners a li ke are pr ior it ising mater i a ls w it h env ironment a l and et hic a l cre dent i a ls. To supp or t t he merchant’s of fer ing , suppliers are resp onding w it h ranges made

f rom re c ycle d pl ast ics or rapid ly g row ing mater i a ls li ke b amb o o.

There are serious social issues at play too For example, natural stone manufacturing, especially in India, is known for child labour abuses, so many suppliers are working with their supply chain and carr ying out rigorous checks to ensure their stone is ethically sourced at all points in the process

“Our CEO, Mark Wall, is ver y passionate about ensuring our supply chain remains ethical and puts people’s welfare first,” says Rebecca “We have partnered and work extremely closely with a company in India that manufactures our natural stone; it is one which insists on what many would see as ‘Western’ health and safety standards, like clean drinking water, mandator y PPE and properly maintained safety machiner y to reduce the risk of harm to the workforce

“ This investment allows our merchant customers to have much greater confidence in our ommitment to ethical, responsible nd safe practices at ever y stage of he process. To push this further we

are also part of the Ethical Stone Register, which helps us fully prove our ethical credentials to many landscaping customers.”

Rebecca continued: “We have a zero-tolerance approach to modern slaver y, and we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships It’s not just about legal compliance it’s a key part of our brand promise to implement and enforce effective systems and controls to ensure modern slaver y is not taking place

any where in our own business or in any of our supply chains.”

For merchants, these commitments are a huge reassurance and also allow them to ser ve a higher-value customer base. By offering products that align with ESG goals, merchants can pitch themselves to a wider market that is increasingly open to spending more for ethical clarity

Supporting merchants

B e yond t he pro duc t its elf, indep endent merchants b enef it most w hen suppliers are pro ac t ive in t heir s er v ice and e duc at ion R eg iona l s a les te ams, de dic ate d merchant supp or t roles and in-branch t raining are a l l b eing us e d more st rateg ic a l ly to ensure

merchants are conf ident in ups el ling ne wer or more premium pro duc ts Emma Hopkins, L andscaping Categor y Manager at NMBS, explained: “What we ’ re seeing now is a change in the conversation Independent merchants aren’t just looking for product access, they want a supplier who can help them be an expert, so they can provide the tailored and regional support that their customers expect

“We help NMBS members and suppliers across the landscaping industr y to increase awareness about new products making their way to market. By leaning on NMBS and its supplier partners, merchants can better respond to customer trends, reduce their admin load and make smarter purchasing decisions all while accessing rebate benefits that improve their profitability ”

n Find out more about NMBS and its landscaping suppliers like Talasey via the shortcode www rdr link/mby017

As the UK heads toward a more sustainable built environment, Dean Harris, Managing Director at Marshalls Bricks & Masonry, is calling time on outdated perceptions of concrete bricks.

A new contender

With regulations tightening a environmental targets looming, the future of construction will be shaped by those willing to lead with sustainable intent taking meaningful steps towards decarbonisation by embracing innovative, low-impact alternatives to traditional materials

For as long as we can remember, bricks have been the literal cornerstone of the construction industr y Bricks have been trusted for centuries for their reliability, structural integrity and versatility, making them the go-to material for builders globally

But the brick we ’ ve come to rely on is most often clay. And while clay bricks are

Myth #1: Aesthe tics

gone largely unquestioned for decades a default choice rooted in tradition rather than innovation

However, now there’s another contender growing in market share the concrete brick. ain

“Traditional clay bricks have their place, but they’re no longer the only choice with concrete bricks offering a compelling alternative.”

n While this myth may have held some truth decades ago, today’s concrete bricks come in a wide range of colours, textures and finishes to complement any regional aesthetic and for full design compatibility. From vintage tumbled bricks and walling stone to traditional red-facing bricks and every colour in between there’s a concrete brick to match every project

And there’s no need to worry about them fading over time when colour-fast oxide pigment is used These pigments guarantee a long-lasting, wear- and weather-resistant colour, and most importantly, do not compromise the strength of the concrete.

Myth #2 : Shorte r lifespan

n Some argue that concrete bricks are too new to the market to prove their longevity But concrete is a building material used since Roman times, with ancient structures still standing today thousands of years later

Concrete bricks are one of the few building materials that actually become stronger with age, but the durability doesn’t stop there They are F2 rated, meaning they have been tested and found to offer high frost resistance and in colder, wetter climates like we have here in the UK, this frost resistance is a major durability advantage But not all brick types can make this claim, which further supports the argument that concrete should be the brick of choice

From high wind exposure to extreme weather conditions, concrete can be used and trusted to perform in any environment, providing full confidence in the product

assumptions may spring to mind that they re ugly, heavy and bad for the environment But these are just outdated perceptions that simply don’t hold up Today’s concrete bricks are high performing, aesthetically versatile, and are a lower carbon alternative to your typical, traditional clay brick

Let’s take a closer look at those common misconceptions and separate fact from fiction

Myth #3: On-site ef fic ien cy

n Another misconception is that the weight of concrete bricks slows down construction, decreasing project efficiency and increasing labour costs While there is some element of truth to this concrete bricks average 2 7 to 3 1kg compared to the average clay brick which sits at 1.8 to 2.3kg this added density brings structural benefits

Plus, because of their uniform shape and size due to repeat moulding, handling and consistency is improved on site and waste is reduced Clay bricks are far too irregular which can lead to an increased number of bricks not suitable for use, potentially adding cost

Concrete bricks therefore can help streamline projects, not slow them down Their design is so uniform it often allows for faster build times and higher customer satisfaction

Myth #4: A g reate r e nviron men tal impac t

n Concrete bricks are made in a significantly different way to clay bricks, which has a huge bearing on environmental impact Clay bricks are cured in kilns powered by gas an energyintensive method while concrete bricks cure by the natural exothermic reaction of cement, resulting in a carbon footprint that’s 49% lower when compared to your typical clay facing brick

A fact that is less well known is that concrete is an inherent carbon dioxide absorber throughout its lifecycle; a natural process which occurs when the concrete reacts with CO2 in the air Furthermore, new carbon capture technologies are being adopted by manufacturers to reduce, and even remove, carbon dioxide across the concrete manufacturing process

These technologies inject captured CO2 directly into the concrete as it is being mixed, enhancing strength while reducing its carbon footprint. And once the carbon dioxide is mineralised, it can never be released into the atmosphere, even if the concrete is demolished

The future of construction

The built environment accounts for around 25% of the UK’s total carbon emissions, and with an increasing focus on net zero, the materials we use matter more than ever Traditional clay bricks have their place, but they’re no longer the only choice Concrete bricks offer a compelling alternative strength, aesthetic flexibility, lower embodied carbon, and impressive lifecycle benefits

At Marshalls Bricks & Masonr y, we ’ re proud to be at the forefront of this evolution, offering high-performance concrete bricks that don’t just meet modern construction demands but help shape a more sustainable future for the built environment

n For further information on concrete bricks from Marshalls Bricks & Masonr y, use the shortcode www rdr link/mby018

BRICKS, BLOCKS & HARD LANDSCAPING

BRADSTONE BRADDRIVE SLATE

Bradstone has announced the launch of its latest innovation in driveway paving BradDrive Slate, a premium block paver that has been developed to combine the durability, performance and cost-effectiveness of concrete with the natural and elegant aesthetics of slate. Engineered for “modern living and to provide a premium finish,” the paver is available in a contemporary anthracite colour with five different sizes in each pack.

Landscapers can also purchase BradDrive Slate with a grey, resinbased jointing compound which complements the paver for a professional finish while resisting weed-growth, so that it is hassle-free and low maintenance for homeowners

The paver is manufactured with high-quality concrete made in Britain, and thanks to its 60mm depth, it can withstand heavy loading a feature that’s rising in importance as heavier electric vehicles become more popular BradDrive Slate also boasts a slip-resistant surface to provide safety and security in wet and icy weather conditions.

n For more information, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby019

HEIDELBERG MATERIALS UK CARBON CAPTURE CEMENT PRODUCTION

QEP

VITREX TILE CUTTERS

QEP has launched the new XTC630 and XTC900 Vitrex Xtreme Pro-Series Manual Tile Cutters for “fast, precise, break-free ceramic and porcelain tile snaps every time ” The robust tools are said to be ready for the challenge of daily site work and feature the proven two-step Push and Snap ‘Perfect Cut’ system for clean, controlled and accurate snapping without risk of breakages

Dual chrome-plated rails deliver smooth scrolling action time after time, combined with an ergonomic handle for complete control The adjustable mitre guide and magnetic breaker are all made to withstand intensive professional use, while the clear view of the scoring line delivers a precision score

Each suitable for use on ceramic and porcelain tiles up to 13mm thick, the XTC630 enables maximum cuts up to 630mm and the XTC900 for cuts up to 900mm They both achieve diagonal cuts and feature a 200mm wide reinforced aluminium flat bed for stable operation. A magnetic side support adds stability for larger tiles.

n Stockists can find out more via www.rdr.link/mby020

VANDERSANDEN BRICK PORTFOLIO

Celebrating its centenary last year, Vandersanden says that it has been defined for over a century by three values that matter most to merchants quality, consistency and choice For example, its unique 25-year guarantee against gypsum efflorescence is said to be unmatched in the industry while “dependable supply” via its “robust network and logistics” ensures bricks are available and delivered when needed so merchants can serve their customers with confidence.

Meanwhile, with one of the UK’s widest portfolios, the manufacturer says it offers the colours, textures and finishes to meet any specification from traditional stock to hand-formed and waterstruck. New traditional stock bricks are said to be “coming soon,” while innovations such as Pirrouet billed as the world’s first carbon-negative facing brick outline its commitment to a sustainable future

n Discover more via www.rdr.link/mby021

Heidelberg Materials UK has reached the next milestone in its plans to build the UK’s first carbon capture facility at its cement works at Padeswood in north Wales, having signed an engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM) contract with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Worley following the successful completion of the front-end engineering design (FEED) by the partners

Set to be operational in 2029, CEO Simon Willis said: “The new facility will capture around 800,000 tonnes of CO₂ a year from our existing works and enable the production of evoZero, the world’s first carbon captured near zero cement, on an industrial scale to help decarbonise the construction industry ”

n Further details on the initiative can be found via www.rdr.link/mby022

The X Factor

At home. At work. At play. On the move It doesn’t matter where we are or what we ’ re doing, the evidence of how advances in technology are continuing to improve our day-to-day lives can be found everywhere e job site is no exception but if you think that leaps forward in capability are limited to our more glamorous bits of kit like power tools, think again

Ever yday essentials like sealants and adhesives are undergoing their own silent revolution too, and British-based manufacturer Bond It says it is helping to spearhead this evolution. “Innovation has continued to be central to Bond It’s longstanding success as one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of sealants, adhesives and building chemicals,” explains Ian Moir, Vice President UK Sales & Marketing at the business

“Over the last 20 years, we ’ ve brought many groundbreaking developments to market including some of the ver y first hybrid sealants and adhesives e launch of GBX continues that tradition of developing new and next generation products able to deliver trailblazing levels of performance ”

Billed as the next step in hybrid technology, GBX has been developed to build on the success of Bond It’s hybrid sealant and adhesives which offer “all of the benefits of silicone and polyurethane products but with none of either material’s drawbacks ”

Indeed, thanks to their ability to deliver the ver y best of both worlds, hybrids have

become the go-to choice for a wide range of trades and an even wider range of tasks With “advanced characteristics,” GBX has been created in line with the supplier’s commitment to ongoing product R&D and production is made possible thanks to its investment into new and state-of-the-art manufacturing technolog y

Ian said: “It uses a base polymer developed by Bond It and which we can produce entirely in house is complete control has enabled us to tailor GBX’s formulation so precisely that it can set new standards in a whole host of ways ”

Careful consideration has been given to ensuring GBX delivers in all the areas that are important to today’s trade professional Specifically, it has been engineered to offer a combination of “better than ever levels of adhesion, flexibility, tooling, resistance and durability.”

PBM speaks with Bond It UK’s Ian Moir to find out more about GBX the supplier’s “next generation” hybrid sealant and adhesive for professional use.

Furthermore, it contends that these new “benchmarks in capability” can be enjoyed across all manner of applications with GBX able to bond to practically ever y material, regardless of whether it’s porous or non-porous. at means it can be used on metals, masonr y, glass, plastic, ceramics, timber and much more

e product is also UV and water resistant and can be effectively applied to wet

surfaces and even under water to stop leaks. Suitable for interior and exterior use, GBX is over-paintable, highly flexible and will not crack or shrink It also contains a biocide, which retards mould and mildew growth, making it suitable for sanitar y applications whilst it has even been ISEGA certified as safe for use in food production, packaging and preparation areas

Containing no solvents or isocyanates, it is odourless and emits fewer VOCs (volatile organic compounds) which contribute to improved health and safety and reduced environmental impact

“GBX is a tool bag essential and an ideal solution for most sealing and bonding tasks encountered by builders, joiners, plumbers, tilers, roofers, window fitters and maintenance contractors,” concludes Ian. “We are excited by its potential and by its enormous possibilities We are sure that following its recent launch, it will give the trade plenty to get excited about too ”

n For more information on Bond It, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby023

Darren Binns

The hidden advantage

Darren Binns, National Sales Manager at Jefferson Tools, explains why

‘afterservice’

— effective after-sales support defines lasting success.

In our industr y, success is often measured in sales volumes, innovation, and market share. But behind ever y thriving brand lies something less visible the quality of its afterser vice

It’s easy to overlook, yet in my experience, this is where true loyalty is built. At Jefferson Tools, we ’ ve learned that the real stor y of reliability doesn’t end when a product leaves the shelf. It begins there.

Afterser vice is not only about fixing problems It’s about building confidence in the brand, the product, and the partnership Ever y stockist who chooses to

represent Jefferson Tools does so on trust: trust that our products will perform, and that we’ll stand behind them when needed.

We see afterser vice as a living part of the customer experience It’s not a reactive process that begins with a complaint but proactive, continuous and embedded in ever ything we do From detailed product training and clear documentation to responsive technical support and efficient parts availability, we tr y to make ever y touchpoint an extension of the same promise: we ’ re here for the long run

Furthermore, at Jefferson Tools, we take pride in the human side of afterser vice Our stockists are our partners, and in many cases, friends When they call, they’re not routed through a faceless system they reach real people who know the products inside out and care about getting the right result.

We’ve built our afterser vice model around three simple principles: accessibility, responsiveness, and respect.

Accessibility means being easy to reach whether it’s a phone call, an email, or a visit from one of our regional account managers. Responsiveness means acting quickly and

decisively to solve issues, because downtime costs everyone And respect means treating every query, however small, with the same professionalism and care.

That personal touch goes a long way It gives stockists the confidence to sell, reassures customers that they’re buying quality backed by accountability, and reflects the values that have shaped Jefferson Tools since day one reliability, partnership, and integrity

In a world where competition is fierce and products can look similar on the surface, afterser vice is what truly differentiates one brand from another A company that stands by its products gives its stockists a distinct advantage they’re selling assurance

That’s why we see afterser vice as an investment, not an

“We see afterser vice as a living par t of the customer experience. It’s not a reactive process that begins with a complaint but proactive, continuous and embedded in ever ything we do.”

overhead Ever y repaired unit, ever y technical quer y answered, ever y replacement part delivered on time strengthens our reputation and, more importantly, the reputation of our stockists.

Because when they succeed, we succeed

As we continue to expand our range and reach new markets, afterser vice will remain central to how Jefferson Tools operates. It’s the foundation on which trust is built, and trust is what keeps our partnerships strong through changing times

At the end of the day, anyone can sell a tool. But it takes genuine commitment to stand behind it to keep promises made long after the sale

n For more information on the Jefferson Tools range and its afterservice support for merchants, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby024

Circular log ic

When a tool as popular as the Festool HKC 55 gets an update, expectations are high I remember the launch of the original HKC 55 very clearly and, thanks to its balance, portability and precision, it quickly became one of my favourite tools Now, Festool has released the HKC 55 KEB, and it doesn’t disappoint.

At first glance it looks familiar, but under the hood there are some key changes that make it an even smarter, sharper and safer choice The most significant upgrade is in the name the ‘K’ stands for Kickback stop

Kickback is one of the biggest risks with circular saws It happens in an instant and can cause both injur y and damage to your workpiece. The HKC 55 KEB includes built-in kickback detection that stops the blade the moment it senses a dangerous jolt

This is particularly welcome on a saw used as portably as this one. It’s a feature that transforms the way you work Where the old HKC gave you confidence in its performance, the HKC 55 KEB adds peace of mind Ever y cut feels safer, more controlled, and less stressful In practical terms, it means fewer surprises on site and more focus on getting the job done

Another feature in the name is the ‘E’ for EC-TEC motor, which is powerful yet has low energ y consumption Then there is the ‘B’ a nod to the brake, which is fast acting for a safer working environment

Running at 5,200rpm compared to the old tool’s 4,500rpm speed is another big

Offering a trade user’s perspective, Tibby Singh from PBM’s sister title Professional Builder, reviews a tool that “cuts faster and smarter” — the new Festool HKC 55 KEB.

win with this new model That extra spin gives the saw a noticeably faster, cleaner bite through the timber Whether you ’ re cross-cutting, ripping, or trimming, the higher blade speed makes work feel smoother and more efficient

Pair that speed with the new thinner blade, and you’ll notice cuts that feel more effortless while still maintaining accuracy Festool has slimmed the standard blade down from 1 8mm to 1 6mm and while that might sound like a minor tweak, the difference is noticeable

A thinner blade means less resistance, less strain on the motor, and less batter y drain The result is faster cutting with reduced effort, longer runtime and smoother results. It’s a case of ‘less is more ’ You’re removing

“So, is it wor th the upgrade to the HKC 55 KEB? In shor t, yes. The combination of the faster 5,200 rpm, the slimmer 1.6mm blade, the addition of the safer Kickback Stop protection and its continued compatibility with Festool’s guide rails takes ever ything the old HKC 55 did well and has made it even better.”

less material with each pass but gaining more efficiency and control. At 90°, the cutting depth is 55mm.

Of course, the HKC 55 KEB isn’t limited to one blade With Festool’s range of blades, users can cut through a variety of materials, from solid timber and sheet goods to plastics and laminates and much more Swapping blades is quick and simple thanks to FastFix technology Just press the spindle lock, release, and you ’ re ready to switch before you know it

Batter y life also benefits from the thinner blade, with the 8 0 Ah Battery pack giving you more cuts per charge And when you do need to switch blades for different materials, the FastFix system keeps downtime to a minimum.

One of the features that set the original HKC 55 apart was its compatibility with Festool’s FSK guide rails, and the HKC 55 KEB continues this tradition. The FSK rails lock directly to the saw, turning it into a compact, portable cross-cutting system This is especially valuable when working at height or in awkward spaces

Because the rail stays attached to the saw, you ’ re not juggling multiple pieces of equipment Once you make your cut, the rail automatically retracts into position, ready for the next one It’s quick, it’s safe, and it keeps you moving efficiently through repeat cuts without fuss.

Of course, the HKC 55 KEB also works with Festool’s standard FS guide rails for long, precise straight cuts That flexibility makes it an all-rounder. So, you can be cutting rafters on a roof one day and trimming panels in a workshop the next

Its angle adjustment ranges from 0 to 50 degrees, with a central clamping mechanism. In terms of ergonomics, the HKC 55 KEB feels ver y familiar The balance is excellent, the grips are comfortable, and it retains the solid, durable build quality you’d expect from Festool

Dust extraction remains highly effective, keeping both your line of sight and lungs clear Despite the thinner blade, the saw feels anything but flimsy It’s steady, reliable and built to withstand daily site use.

So, is it worth the upgrade to the HKC 55 KEB? In short, yes The combination of the faster 5,200 rpm, the slimmer 1 6mm blade, the addition of the safer Kickback stop protection and its compatibility with Festool’s guide rails takes ever ything the old HKC 55 did well and made it better

It’s safer, faster and more efficient, whether you ’ re tackling beams, trimming sheets, or doing repetitive cross-cuts

n For more information on the Festool HKC 55 KEB, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby025

PLASTERBOARD PRODUCT BUNDLES

All above board

Stacey Booth, Head of Marketing & Portfolio at Okarno, looks at how merchants can help customers get the job done quickly and easily by offering carefully chosen product bundles.

Builders and contractors who regularly install plasterboard know the importance of having everything they need for the job in one place When branches stock essential products such as jointing tape, joint fillers and innovative roller-applied wall coverings it saves time, adds convenience and helps customers to keep projects moving

Updates from branch s arrivals and must-have su always welcome, as they m professionals can walk in walk out ready to tackle t next job without delay

By proactively sharing this information, whether it relates to insulated or uninsulated plasterboard installation or general plaster repair, builders’ merchants can position themselves as indispensable partners in their customers’ buying decisions

Here we look at each of th products in more detail:

Jointing tape

There are two types of joi for plasterboards paper-based and fibreglass mesh The choice between paper and fibreglass is often a matter of personal preference. For example, whilst paper tapes require your customers to have a certain skill level to ensure a smooth finish, they remain a popular choice among professionals.

Gyproc Joint Tape is ideal for jointing both tapered and square-edge boards

Quick to apply by hand or machine, it’s pre-creased for easy application to internal angles, and features chamfered edges and spark perforations for improved grip and easier finishing

bubbles Subsequent coats are then applied

Paper-based tape is often less expensive and best suited for branch customers working to a budget, so it is worth having in your range

Gyproc fibreglass tapes, meanwhile, are ideal for areas prone to cracking, thanks to their high tear strength, self-adhesive f use They enable faster raditional paper tapes, pen mesh design helps se blisters and bubbles ng application. Merchants who understand the differences between jointing tapes can guide customers to the most appropriate solution, reducing callbacks and improving project outcomes. The key is helping your customer select tape products to specific plication requirements understanding their ences

The reality of working with paper tape is that it requires a methodical approach The first step is to pre-fill any gaps greater than 3mm and allow it to dr y for an hour before applying the paper tape Next is a base coat compound, such as joint filler, before carefully embedding the tape to avoid air

oducts, such as EasiFill, dvancement because and finishing in a single offers both air-dr ying and setting properties, making it ideal for bulk filling and fine finishing

Jointing products usually have a longer working time, which is beneficial for customers on larger projects However, for smaller jobs, a reduced working time may be preferable to avoid waiting for the product to dr y before applying a second coat.

“When branches stock essential products such as jointing tape, joint fillers and innovative roller-applied wall coverings it saves time, adds convenience and helps customers to keep projects moving.”

The Gyproc EasiFill products clearly indicate their working time in their names; for example, EasiFill 45 has a 45-minute working time, whereas EasiFill 60 has a 60-minute working time The intended use for each product is stated on the packaging and in published installation guides available on the manufacturer’s website Branch customers particularly value joint-filling compounds with minimal shrinkage as this can reduce the need for multiple coats and extensive sanding, which can add up significantly on large projects where time savings are crucial

Finishing coat

Roller-applied coverings, such as Dalapro Roll Nova, are an effective way to achieve the final layer on the plasterboard once joint filling has been completed. Its advanced formulation provides exceptional workability, allowing your customer to achieve a smooth professional finish that can be dr y in as little as eight hours, depending on environmental conditions

It’s worth reminding customers that this roller-applied covering is perfect for skimming plasterboard insulated and uninsulated as well as various other surfaces, including concrete, plaster and brick The roller application ensures even coverage, whilst a skimming blade helps achieve a smooth, professional-looking, high-quality finish

Roller-applied coverings are also effective at concealing minor imperfections, such as small cracks or stains, providing a smooth base for further decorating without requiring extensive preparation

Other typical uses for roller-applied coverings are nail pops, cracks or other minor surface flaws Dalapro Roll Nova is supplied in a 12-litre resealable tub (covers 12 square metres at 1mm thickness), meaning your customer can use precisely what they need and then keep the rest for the next project

Imp or t ant ly, w hi le rol ler-applie d cover ings c an hand le minor rep airs w it h e as e, t he y are not a one-size-f its-a l l s olut ion There are cer t ain situ at ions w here t he exp er t is e of professiona l pl asterers is indisp ens able

Easy on the eye

With the rollout beginning across its EASY range from March 2026, Azpects says that its newly refreshed packaging is part of a wider focus on supporting builders’ merchants with improved product visibility, clearer range navigation and more consistent brand presentation across branch and digital channels.

The redesigned tubs represent an evolution of the existing EASY range, “retaining the same trusted formulations and performance while introducing a cleaner, more contemporar y look ” The update has been developed to support merchant marketing objectives, helping products stand out more effectively at the point of sale while making it easier for customers to identify the correct solution for their application.

“For merchants, the new packaging supports better visibility, clearer range navigation and more confident customer conversations, all while maintaining the reliability and performance installers expect.”

Within landscaping and hard landscaping categories, where product choice and correct specification are critical, packaging plays an increasingly important role in driving confident purchasing decisions. The supplier’s refreshed designs therefore place greater emphasis on clarity, consistency and ease of recognition, supporting both counter conversations and self-selection in branch

The update also improves visual consistency across the range. For merchants, this supports stronger categor y presentation, clearer grouping of related products and improved visibility on shelves, displays and merchant websites.

Importantly, the company makes clear that the new packaging does not reflect any change to product performance. The formulations, coverage rates and application methods remain exactly the same, allowing merchants to “ reassure existing customers that the products they have trusted for the past 17 years continue to deliver results” now presented in a more modern and professional format

The redesign has been developed with direct consideration for real-world merchant environments Feedback from partners highlighted the importance of clear differentiation, strong shelf impact and packaging that supports straightfor ward customer explanations. The result is an offer that is easier to merchandise, easier to explain and more visually distinctive within competitive branch settings.

To support merchants through the transition, Azpects is providing a comprehensive rollout package as the new-

look tubs begin to appear from March onwards This includes updated product imager y for use in brochures, catalogues and online listings, as well as digital assets to support e-commerce platforms and merchant marketing activity

Updated in-branch point-of-sale materials will also be made available to help clearly communicate the change to customers, ensuring continuity and reducing confusion as existing stock is phased through.

Sales & Marketing Director Chris Bourne commented: “This refresh is about enhancing how the Azpects range performs at point of sale, not changing what customers already trust We’ve focused on improving clarity and shelf presence while keeping the product to the same high and trusted standard.

“For merchants, the new packaging supports better visibility, clearer range navigation and more confident customer conversations, all while maintaining the reliability and performance installers expect ”

The packaging refresh forms part of the firm’s wider investment in brand consistency, merchant support and installer confidence throughout 2026 Alongside continued development across its sales structure, training and technical support, the update reflects a long-term commitment to helping merchants maximise the potential of the growing landscaping sector

n For more information on the Azpects range and its support for merchants, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby027

TALON

FS5 FLUESNUG PROMO

following the success of a new promotion at Williams Trade Supplies that rewards installers for every fS5 flueSnug purchased, with three prize tiers to work towards, Talon is inviting interested plumbing and heating merchant branches to take part in similar promos as per the Williams campaign, purchasing 10 units earn entry into the prize draw for fS5 merchandise, 20 units qualifies for the Velocity rog bag prize draw, while 30 units secures entry into the top prize draw for a Velocity rogue 45 backpack

Designed to drive footfall, increase unit sales and spark in-branch conversations, the promotion encourages installers to purchase fS5 units in volume (working towards the three prize tiers) and giving merchants a “strong incentive-led offer” to promote at counter level furthermore, participating branches can be supported with a full suite of point-of-sale and digital materials including a5 flyers, aisle posters, a merchant TV video, social media assets for branch channels and an internal staff briefing sheet so counter teams can explain the promotion clearly and confidently

For more information, use the shortcode www rdr link/mby028

DRAYTON GREAT GREGGS GIVEAWAY

Drayton has launched the Great Greggs Giveaway, with up to £26,000 worth of vouchers up for grabs until the end of april When installers spend over £75 on Drayton products in a single transaction in branch, they’ll receive a £5 Greggs digital voucher Plus, there’s no limit on how many vouchers they can claim the more individual transactions they make with the minimum spend, the more they can earn until the £26,000 total giveaway value runs out all installers need to do is upload their proof of purchase via the Drayton website and their £5 Greggs voucher will be sent via email Find out more via www rdr link/mby029

BAXI

DOUBLE REWARD POINTS

baxi has launched a double points promotion through its baxi Works loyalty scheme, enabling baxi, Main and Megaflo installers to claim more rewards when they fit and register qualifying heating solutions The campaign runs until 2 March and applies automatically when members register eligible products such as the baxi 400, 600 and 800 ranges, the Main eco Compact range, baxi Platinum combi, baxi Megaflo system and Duo-Tec combi boilers, Megaflo eco cylinders, pre-plumbed aSHP cylinders, aSHP cylinders and the HP40 and HP60 units

Points can then be converted into rewards including new tools and workwear, high street vouchers, tech, experience days and baxi training courses Further details can be found through www.rdr.link/mby030

DAIKIN INSTALLER INCENTIVES

SHOWERWALL BROCHURE

The leading wall panel manufacturer has launched a new 80-page brochure showcasing its complete range of designs, innovative coreboard choices and latest panel accessories following the recent introduction of more than 25 stylish new decors, a 100% waterproof Hydrocore coreboard, and its first range of integrated niches, the full offering is now available in the brand’s latest guide

Katie Cope, Head of Showerwall, said: “We’re delighted to support our merchant and retail customers with an all-new brochure that brings our design-led ethos to life on the page ” For more information on Showerwall, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby031

running until the end of March, Daikin is offering accredited Sustainable Home Network installers the opportunity to earn £1,000 in rewards every time they install and register a qualifying altherma High Temperature heat pump The promotion applies to eligible high temperature models purchased via a Sustainable Home Centre or merchant partner which are then registered via the company ’ s ‘Stand by Me’ portal during the promotional period rewards can then be redeemed against gift cards, equipment and other options available within the Sustainable Home Network partner portal

Discover more via www.rdr.link/mby032

For more examples of supplier support for merchants on the PBM website, enter the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby033

REMIX DRY MORTAR BAGGED PRODUCTS

Known for its silo mixing stations commonly seen on large construction sites, the company has now added to its range of bagged products Specifically targeting small builders via distribution, the manufacturer is looking to increase the number of merchants it is stocked in.

Produced in the UK from its two sites in Bristol and Gravesend, the range is made up of six different products with each manufactured using kiln dried constituent materials and stringent quality assurance processes to “deliver consistency, durability and ease of use across a wide variety of applications ”

The range includes:

l Post Mix Concrete engineered for fast setting, dependable performance

l Roof Tile Bedding Mortar for secure, long lasting tile installation

l General Purpose Masonry Mortar offering consistent workability and strength for everyday brick and block laying

l General Purpose Concrete a versatile, durable material suitable for a wide range of structural and non structural applications

l 40N Concrete suitable for high strength applications such as concrete bases and walkways

l Kiln Dried Sand completing the range with a versatile product for jointing and grouting and paving slab bedding. The supplier states that every bagged product is produced using “carefully controlled mix proportions, guaranteed cement content and optimised workability aids” to ensure a reliable, frost resistant and weather resilient material that performs consistently on site

Advanced bagging, palletisation and shrink wrapping technology ensures every product is prepared efficiently, accurately and to the highest standards while the full Remix range is supplied in robust Maxi and Super Maxi plastic bags

n For further information, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby034

MIRKA CONSISTENT EDGE SANDING

Mirka UK has expanded its accessories range with the new Mirka Edge Guide for the DEROS II 125 mm and 150 mm sanders. The accessory has been developed to help achieve consistent and repeatable edge sanding results across a wide range of applications, from joinery, edge detailing, painting and varnishing preparation to precision sanding on large panels

With edge finishing being one of the most demanding surface preparation jobs, there is a need for consistent pressure and for the tool to be at a steady angle for a sustained period to achieve the necessary result. The Edge Guide’s ergonomic design ensures the sander can glide from one end of the job to the other whilst being easily adjustable and enabling the user to move the angle from 45° to 90° easily to ensure accurate and reproducible results, no matter the surface

In addition, the guide is fully supported, which minimises the risks of tilting or uneven sanding that could lead to costly reworks

n Use www.rdr.link/mby035 to find out more.

CARHARTT STORM DEFENDER

Carhartt’s Storm Defender range is “built for tradespeople who face the worst of the weather head on.” The technology pairs a tough, rain-resistant exterior with a breathable membrane that lets sweat escape, helping wearers stay dry, protected and able to focus on the job.

The Monterey Jacket, for example, has a lightweight, fully seam-sealed design to block wind and heavy rain. Available in both a men’s (105751) and women’s (106904) version, the water-repellent zips keep essentials dry whilst the adjustable hood and drop-tail hem give extra protection and, when it’s not needed, it packs neatly into its own pocket for easy storage

The Monterey Pants (106437) are “equally tough when the elements get going,” and the Heavyweight Jacket (104670) is said to be “built to stand up to severe weather” with the generous fit leaving plenty of room for warm layers beneath

n For more information on the full range, use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby036

PJH BATHROOMS TO LOVE LUDLOW FLOOR STANDING BATH

The PJH brand has enhanced its freestanding bath collection with the new Ludlow model Billed as a “true modern classic,” the bath blends the old with the new with an elegant built-in pedestal base and double-ended design whilst its “streamlined silhouette” and a contemporary Matt White exterior are intended to present a flawless finish Measuring L1685 x W804 x H585mm, it offers a 270-litre water capacity and comes with a pre-fitted integrated waste Manufactured from high grade white acrylic, it is said to be easy to install, lightweight, durable, highly resistant to damage and capable of retaining the heat for longer

n Use www.rdr.link/mby037 for more.

CONEX BÄNNINGER

M PROFILE <A> PRESS COPPER FITTINGS

Having taken on “extensive feedback” from trade professionals and with the UK predominantly an M-profile market, Conex Bänninger recognised the need to complement its established >B<-profile range with a comprehensive M-profile solution Engineered for drinking water, cold-water installations applications and previewed at last year’s InstallerSHOW, the fitting is backed by a 25-year guarantee

RECOUP ENERGY SOLUTIONS

Business Unit Director Martin Smith said: “We fully expect <A> Press Copper to grow and become popular among installers, contractors and specifiers. Compatible with most M-profile jaws, <A> Press Copper offers a quick, straightforward installation with a reliable two-point press delivering a permanent, flame-free connection and removing the need for hot-works permits ” Available in 15–54 mm sizes, the product uses an unpressed-joint indicator O-ring for straightforward, reliable joint identification

n More details can be found via www.rdr.link/mby038

GRANT UK QUICK RECOVERY 2 CYLINDERS

Manufactured at Grant Engineering’s state-of-the-art facilities in Co Offaly, Ireland, the firm’s UK range of hot water cylinders has welcomed new models in the form of the Quick Recovery 2 (QR2) Cylinders. Single-coil cylinders which are compatible with both high temperature and low temperature heating systems, they have been specifically designed to complement air source heat pumps such as the Grant Aerona 290 and Aerona³ heat pumps.

Available in sizes from 150 litres up to 300 litres, the Quick Recovery 2 cylinders include standard, slimline, pre-plumbed and Smart pre-plumbed options to provide choice for installers and their customers As well as having “fast heat-up times and excellent standing heat losses,” the cylinders are said to be Grant’s most efficient generation of cylinders featuring ErP ‘B’ rated models within the range

n For more on Grant UK’s hot water cylinder range, use www.rdr.link/mby039

VITREX LASH SPIN

RECOUP HEATDECK

Said to be the first UK manufactured shower tray to incorporate energy-saving waste water heat recovery for showers (WWHRS) technology, the Recoup HeatDeck uses Mira Showers’ Flight shower tray integrated with a high-performance Recoup copper heat exchanger to present a solution the company states can save “up to 40% of the energy per shower by using cold water preheated by the energy from waste shower water to reduce the demand for domestic hot water ” Head of Technical at Recoup Energy Solutions said: “Our new energy-saving HeatDeck shower tray will integrate with any shower incorporating a thermostatic mixing valve (TMV) or Mira Showers’ Heatloop electric shower As electric showers are not usually compatible with WWHRS, this combination is an industry game changer “It enables straight forward upgrades for new properties and an ideal retrofit solution for existing housing stock decarbonisation.”

n Part of Kohler Mira, for more information on Recoup’s WWHRS solutions use the shortcode www.rdr.link/mby040

Known for its solutions to giving a professional edge to tiling installations, QEP’s Vitrex brand has introduced the Xtreme LASHSPIN tile levelling system With the patented LASH Level, Align, Space & Hold wedges, Vitrex states it had already made it easier for DIY enthusiasts to achieve a lippagefree surface but its latest introduction marks “another leap forward” for trade professionals

Developed to give a perfectly level surface for large-format floor and wall tiles, the enhanced, spin-style Xtreme LASH SPIN combines “speed, simplicity and accuracy” in a reusable, two-part system to offer a levelling alternative to wedge systems

The system aligns tiles and holds them in position while the adhesive cures Its flat base provides consistent spacing while the spinnable Screw Cap allows for quick, tool-free tightening and “perfect levelling every time ” Once the adhesive has set, the base is removed with a quick strike from a rubber mallet to leave a “flawless, lippage-free surface” ready for grouting.

Designed for tiles up to 15mm thick, the system is ideal for both walls and floors and can be used with porcelain, marble and natural stone

n Find out more via www.rdr.link/mby041

n For more

4 www rdr link/mby105

Hultafors Group UK Ltd page 17 www rdr link/mby106

Kinedo | SFA Saniflo UK Ltd page 12 www rdr link/mby107

Long Rake Spar Company Ltd page 35 www rdr link/mby108

Mirka UK Ltd ........................................................................page 41

www.rdr.link/mby109

Overland Shoes Ltd page 11 www rdr link/mby110

Owlett-Jaton page 43 www rdr link/mby111

Professional BUILDER LIVE ............................................page 18 www.rdr.link/mby112

Professionalbuildersmerchant.co.uk page 35 www rdr link/mby113

S.E.M.CO page 20 www rdr link/mby114

Tarmac page 28 www rdr link/mby115

Ten-25 Software Ltd page 23 www rdr link/mby116

Ultratape outside back cover www rdr link/mby117

Wienerberger Ltd inside front cover www rdr link/mby118

With Paul Davies

T H E M A G I C O F T H E C U P !

D a w s o n’s head mere moments before the skipper nodded in the opener will forever be an iconic FA Cup image.

It can’t be overstated what a result this was, and there’s also a strange bit of symmetry to it all A record 117 league placings separated the sides and Palace are the first defending champions to lose to a non-league team since Holders Wolves were then defeated a certain Southern League club by he name of Crystal Palace!

t h e s c o re s h e e t

Newcastle’s dramatic penalty shootout victory over Bour nemouth featured a 95thminute equaliser for the Toon, with H a r v e y B a r n e s’ would-be minute winner in the 118thminute rapidly cancelled out by M a rc u s Ta v e r n i e r in added-on time A similar story at Wrexham gave the Red Dragons another Hollywood ending over Nottingham Forest, then there was Sheffield Utd fan L ou i s R e e d nettin twice for Mansfield Town to knock o his former club (where he remains the Blades’ youngest ever league player) in a 4-3 thriller.

Anything else? Oh yes, only the biggest upset in the competition’s celebrated 155-year history as sixth tier Macclesfield FC knocked out holders Crystal Palace! The Conference North side triumphed 2-1 over their Premier League opponents and TV coverage of centre-half S a m H e a t h c o t e applying some running repairs to the bandage on captain P a u l

O N T H E R A D A R

The transfer window is still open at the time of writing so plenty could change over the next few weeks, but there are some enticing runs coming up for a few clubs in February and FPL investment could be worthwhile For example, if Chelsea hit the ground running under new

As a Wimbledon supporter, I’d just like to give a quick shoutout to our 1-0 victory over no, not Liverpool in 1988 but Burnley in 1975. The Dons were in the Southern League at the time, and Burnley finished sixth in Division One the previous year and one of the few times a non-league team dumped a top flight side out on their own turf

But even I must concede the Macclesfield win takes the cake pecially in the moder n era, the gulf en the top and the rest just grows exponentially I mean, Palace spent £35m on B re n n a n J o h n s on a few days previously; Macclesfield rose from the ashes of forerunner Macclesfield Town’s demise and only started out, in the North West Counties Premier Division, less than five years ago

They’ve got a home tie against Brentford next A second scalp is HUGELY improbable, but the Bees will be fearing it much more than the Silkmen!

boss Liam Rosenior, maybe it’s time to consider C ol e P a l me r once again?

And despite their FA Cup shambles, I’m hoping points magnet D an ie l M un oz can return from injury to reinvigorate Palace for a benign set of fixtures from GW24…