Jeremy Gear, MD of Roofing Gear, the Somerset-based specialist roofing merchant, is the new Chairman of the Builders Merchants Federation’s (BMF) Roofing Forum.

Gear takes of over from Steve Revell of Skyline Roofing, who helped establish the BMF’s roofing group from its inception 3 years ago.

Gear has spent most of his 35-year career as a roofing specialist, initially with independent merchant B R Slade (now Bradfords), followed by external sales roles with Redland Roof Tiles and Redbank Clay Manufacturing, before founding his own roofing supply business in 2004.  Roofing Gear now operates from depots in Yeovil and Dorchester.

Commenting on the industry and his appointment, Gear said: “The roofing industry has served me well and I am delighted to have the opportunity to give something back by leading the BMF Roofing Forum. 

“I’ve seen many changes over the years with the sector becoming more technical, the product range multiplying, and a plethora of regulations introduced.  While there are many specialist roofing merchants today, the segment provides great opportunities for generalist merchants who want roofing as part of their portfolio.

“My ideal scenario for the Forum is to bring together like-minded individuals – experienced or not – and identify training opportunities, work with selected manufacturers who can provide CPD and product updates, and eventually take the group around the country to visit production sites. However, my first meeting will be held virtually.”

The BMF Roofing Forum meets twice a year, with the next virtual meeting planned for 9 December via Zoom.