CAMBRIDGE: Ridgeons, the Eastern region's largest independent builders' merchants, has announced the results of its annual Supplier of the Year Awards, voted for by staff at its 21 branches.
The winner of the overall Supplier of the Year for 2008 was Toolbank, wholesale distributors of hand and power tools. A privately-owned company, it supplies customers across the UK and Ireland from 12 locations, and is based in Kent.
Making the presentation, David Ridgeon, the company's vice chairman said: “Our awards are a way of thanking and recognising our suppliers. We're in difficult times, but by working together, we can help each other through."
Said Toolbank's Robert Cullen, who was also named as supplier's representative of the year: “We're very proud to be recognised with this award. It's a tribute to all of our staff at all levels of the business.
“Our businesses are very similar in terms of operation and ethos, which is why we work together so well.”
In the category awards, ‘Heavyside’ was won by Stockgap/Keystone, ‘Lightside’ was won by Symphony and ‘Hardware and Decorating’ by Toolbank.
Nick Sims, Ridgeons Group commercial director, said: “Our frontline staff in our branches vote on a range of criteria, including quality, after-sales support, innovation, marketing and availability. Toolbank scored highly on all criteria.
“Good suppliers and relationships are key to our business and it's important that we work hard with our suppliers to maintain our position.”
