The BMF’s annual team building event, the Mastermerchant challenge, was won for the second year running by MKM’s Norwich branch.

The competition grows in popularity every year and with a total of 23 teams competing – including one from the BMF - MKM’s achievement was tougher than ever. The team was pushed all the way by Alumasc Water Management Solutions who finished just two points behind MKM to take the prize for the winning supplier, while the team from Willbond was only two points behind Alumasc.

In true Mastermerchant fashion, everyone got wet over the weekend. In part, this was due to the weather, but with physical challenges including canoeing and ghyll scrambling, they were never likely to stay dry.

While it is a fun event the weekend also has a serious purpose. It helps colleagues to learn about each other’s strengths and skills and discover how much can be achieved through teamwork. The teams compete in 12 challenges that test their communication and problem-solving ability as much as their perseverance in physical trials.

MKM’s winning team included three members who took part last year, Gavin Lloyd-Thompson, James Thiess and Nathan Hunt. They were joined by first-timer, Lee Allen.

Commenting on the weekend, John Newcomb, managing director of the BMF, said: “This is not only a fantastic teambuilding event, it is also a great way for teams from merchants and suppliers to get to know each other better. And while the weather wasn’t kind over the whole weekend, we did see the sun – and the splendid scenery of the Lake District – as everyone got to know each other over a relaxing meal on Friday night.”

Mr Newcomb added: “I would also like to thank BMTT for their continued sponsorship and management development company Stephen Lee Associates who devised the weekend’s events.”