News

Huws Gray warns that second visits are driving hidden cost and delays in social housing repairs

7 May, 2026

Ever-increasing tight budgetary constraints, legislative scrutiny and having to balance the needs of ageing housing stock are adding to the pressure.

Travis Perkins Hire safety campaign sees significant drop in plant tips

The business has seen a 71% reduction in incidents of plant tips across its fleet.

St Andrews primed for growth after e-commerce overhaul

The Edinburgh-based firm has invested around £40,000 in its first online store.

BMF members urged to embrace No Falls Week

The campaign highlights how working together can ensure everyone who works at height returns home safely.

Instantor earns Bronze Medal from EcoVadis

The EcoVadis assessment evaluates 21 sustainability criteria across four core themes.

WCoBM welcomes new Liverymen

The six additions were each recognised for their contribution across the building materials sector.

Mad March Million - a reflection

How the merchant sector moved together and came out stronger.

Band of Builders completes 50th project on 10th anniversary

The construction charity has completed its 50th project on its 10th anniversary - after it renovated the home of an amputee Ipswich builder who was unable to finish the extension he started two years ago because he underwent treatment for cancer of the spine.

CPA warns of construction activity contraction in 2026

The Construction Production Association is forecasting that construction activity will contract by 2.5% in 2026, while private housing output will fall by 7%.

Travis Perkins supports battle against tool theft

Tradespeople across Sussex are invited to visit a designated a branch over three days in May to have their tools marked free of charge.

Collier & Catchpole launches Collier Hire

A straightforward, reliable tool hire service built for the trade & DIY will boost its offering.

MP for Bradford East visits Joseph Parr

The meeting was another arranged by the BMF as part of its industry and parliament programme.

Magnet joins the Builders Merchants Federation

The addition of one of the UK’s leading kitchen specialists further strengthens the trade body’s presence in this category.

Howdens launches new apprentice Kitchens Sales Designer programme

Apprentices will learn from in-depot and classroom sessions over the 14-month programme.

‘No sign of recovery’ in construction demand, warns MPA

New figures show sales of concrete, aggregates and mortar fell again in Q1 2026, prolonging the four-year downturn.

SIG blames subdued demand and bad weather for sales decline

SIG has issues a trading update for 1 January to 31 March 2026 in advance of its Annual General Meeting.

Jewson closes Egremont branch

Jewson has announced its decision to close its Egremont branch, following 'ongoing costs' and the loss of the Branch Manager.

Ultimate Renewables Supplies comes to Bicester

Ultimate Renewables Supplies has opened a new purpose-built facility in Bicester as part of its continued expansion strategy.

Nicholls & Clarke acquires Ronacrete

N&C Group has announced its acquisition of the assets of Ronacrete and its cement-based product ranges.

Bathroom Distribution Group reports strong Q1 growth

Bathroom Distribution Group (BDG), owner of Frontline Bathrooms and Smiths Briten, has reported a strong start to 2026, with Q1 sales growth driven by continued investment in product, service and trade support.

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