SUSSEX/KENT: Parker Building Supplies celebrated its 25th year as an independent timber and heavyside merchants this month.
The business, established in the former railway goods yard in Uckfield, has seen continued growth and now employs more than 150 people at 13 locations across Sussex and Kent.
The company's latest branch opening in Seaford has brought seven new jobs to the town and has given the local building sector a major boost, with customers able to buy supplies without having to leave the area.
Parker Garden Furniture is also a new launch with its own dedicated indoor showroom at the company's headquarters offices on the Bellbrook Business Park in Uckfield.
"Twenty-five years is a long time to survive in business, but by always looking to expand into new areas while delivering superb customer service we have managed to grow," said operations manager, Phil White.
Committed to working for the community, the merchant has nominated the Teenage Cancer Trust as its partner charity in 2011. Staff have already raised thousands of pounds for the charity through sponsored marathons and parachute jumps and in October, Tonbridge branch manager Martin Ballantyne will climb into the boxing ring for three, fundraising rounds.
"We are also keen supporters of local sport," said Mr White. "We were selected as an official supplier for the new AMEX Brighton and Hove Albion football stadium (right) and has been closely involved in the construction process throughout. And, we are involved in the development of the PROBIZ County Ground in Hove, home to Sussex County Cricket Club, providing special engraved paving stones for the new Player's Piazza.
"We have scooped several industry awards and have representation at board level of the Builders' Merchants Federation, a national network of merchants and suppliers that speak with a single voice on issues affecting the sale and distribution of building materials," he explained.
