A new merchant buying group, made up of some of the most significant independent merchants in the UK, will be established and trading from January 2014. The group will consist of two divisions: timber and builders merchants, and light-side merchants.

The new group, yet to be named, will comprise eight current members of the CBA and 30 members of Cemco (all members), with a combined turnover of over £1bn, firmly positioning it as the leading independent timber and builders merchant buying group in the UK.

John Parker, chairman of Cemco, said: “Through this new group we will be able to provide suppliers with the assurance of volume and commitment to long-term successful relationships that will enable them to plan manufacturing and build their businesses effectively.”

Stuart Mason-Elliott, chairman of CBA, said: “The new buying group will allow members, all of whom are independent, to be truly competitive on price and volume in the national market-place. Other like-minded merchants will be able to apply for membership from January 2014.”

Business will continue as usual between now and January 2014 and all members of CBA and Cemco will remain committed to existing purchasing agreements with suppliers until that time.