BARNSLEY MANAGER WINS NATIONAL INDUSTRY AWARD

Mark Winstanley, manager of BMB Buildbase in Barnsley has been named ‘Manager of the Year’ in the industry’s annual awards ceremony. Held at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London and hosted by ex-rugby player Lawrence Dallaglio, the BM Awards for Excellence 2011 brought together 400 industry representatives to recognise businesses and individuals for their outstanding achievements.

Nearly two years ago Mark was appointed manager at Buildbase’s Barnsley branch in Wakefield Road. He has successfully transformed the business, introducing new ideas and systems to significantly improve results, despite the difficult trading conditions.

He has put in unlimited hours to efficiently manage the large nine-acre branch and motivate staff to increase the performance of the business. He has also overseen the launch of Hirebase, the dedicated Buildbase equipment hire service. There are now plans to open a trade bathroom and kitchen area, brick library and `Go Green at Buildbase’ showroom to support sales of eco renewable and sustainable products.

“It’s a great privilege to receive this industry award but I’m very conscious of the fact that that I’m only as good as the team that I have around me. Everyone connected to the branch deserves a big ‘thank you’ for all the hard work they’ve put in since my appointment,” says Mark. “We have a really dedicated, motivated group of staff. Many are long-servers who provide our customers with an exceptional level of service at all times. Thorough product knowledge and great customer service are the essential tools for a successful builders merchant.”

Earlier this year Mark won the Buildbase Manager of the Year award and was chosen to represent the company, going head to head with nominations from builders merchants across the UK.

Mark has served with the business for over 25 years. Originally he joined as a YTS trainee and has progressed through the ranks, completing the NVQ Level 4 in management and the Buildbase management course.

Buildbase Big Breakfast bonus for Macmillan

Customers enjoyed a hot cuppa and a bacon butty at branches of Buildbase to celebrate World’s Biggest Coffee Morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.  Staff at the builders merchant provided hot refreshments in return for a donation to Macmillan. 

Although the national World’s Biggest Coffee Morning is not being held until the end of September, several Buildbase branches across the UK staged the event early to publicise the coffee morning in advance.  Other Buildbase branches will be holding their Big Breakfast events later this month.

GMGB has adopted Macmillan as its national charity partner in 2011, Macmillan’s centenary year.   Funds will go towards the Macmillan Support Line, a free phone service manned by cancer support specialists, providing support to 1,000 people affected by cancer every day.

Catriona Munn from Macmillan Cancer Support says:  “I’d like to thank all staff and customers who joined our big breakfast as they are contributing to towards the Buildbase fundraising for Macmillan.  All money raised through Big Breakfast events will help people affected by cancer”.

Now in its 21st year, ‘The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning’ is Macmillan’s flagship fundraising event which this year aims to raise £8.5 million (www.macmillan.org.uk/coffee). Follow the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning on twitter @macmillancoffee and share your event using the hashtag #coffeemorning or find it at facebook.com/macmillancoffee.

SILVERSTONE BUILDERS MERCHANTS JOINS BUILDBASE

Silverstone Builders Merchants of Cheddleton in Leek, Staffordshire, has been acquired by Grafton Merchanting GB and will join its network of Buildbase branches, trading as Silverstone Buildbase.
The single site general builders merchant is well-established in the local area, having traded since the early 70s.  The family business began as a haulage company that diversified into building materials.  Serving a rural area, the company has a high percentage of delivered business and runs a three-vehicle fleet.

Nigel Wibberley, former owner at Silverstone Builders Merchant, said: “We chose to join Grafton and Buildbase because we were impressed with the way that the business is run with a strong emphasis on ‘independent’ style trading in all the branches.  We have always given great customer service and this is a priority at Buildbase.  The business will definitely benefit from being part of a large, progressive organisation.”

THE UPS AND DOWNS OF LONDON TO PARIS ... BY BIKE

The nine intrepid cyclists of Team Buildbase have completed their London to Paris challenge and have raised around £25,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support for their efforts.  

The four-day adventure began at Blackheath Common at 7am.  The busy commuter traffic of South East London seemed difficult at the time but would pale in comparison with the steep hill climbs of the North Downs of Kent later in the day.

“This was the most challenging aspect of our journey, catching every cyclist by surprise,” recalls David Grimsdale, Buildbase regional director, who led the team. “One of our crew suffered six punctures during this stage.

“Once in France we travelled through some very scenic villages but by far the most poignant aspect of the entire journey was our stop in the Somme district to visit the war graves of soldiers who lost their lives during World War One.  It was very sobering to see how young they were and we all felt very lucky to be alive, even with a few aching muscles.

“On our approach to Paris in the last stage the heavens opened and it rained continuously for over two hours. As a bonus the sun came out as we entered the outskirts of Paris. We were able to visit some of the famous landmarks of Paris and even cycled around the Arc De Triomphe and down the Champs Elysees to our journey’s end under the Eiffel Tower.”

The cyclists completed around 480km in just four days.  Taking part in the challenge from Buildbase were: David Grimsdale, Tim Felton, Neil Parsons, David Robertson and Colin Peacock.  Manufacturers’ representatives taking on the challenge are: Nigel Williams (Premier Forest), Jason Drinkwater (Hanson), Mark Reid (Keystone) and Krystal Webster (Aggregate Industries).

Every Grafton Merchanting GB brand, including Buildbase, has adopted Macmillan as its national charity partner in 2011,  their centenary year.  The aim is to raise £200,000 for the Macmillan Support Line, a helpline that offers practical and financial support and guidance to people living with cancer.

The GMGB Board has chosen Macmillan because it is a charity that is well-known and its work is universally supported. Almost everyone will have been touched by cancer at some point, whether through their families, friends or work colleagues.  There are 2 million people living with cancer in the UK today and one in three of us will be diagnosed with cancer at some time in our lives. 

Donations can be given on line by visiting www.macmillan.org.uk  then go to the “Just Giving” area and enter “Team Buildbase” which will direct you to the right page.

BUILDBASE SUPERBIKE IS STAR OF INSTITUTE OF HARROGATE HOUSING SHOW

The sight of a 1000cc superbike at the Institute of Housing annual conference and exhibition in Harrogate attracted a great deal of interest.  The bike was on loan from the Buildbase BMW Superbike team and was a powerful draw to increase footfall on the Grafton Merchanting GB stand which was promoting its Supply Chain Solutions partnering services through merchanting brands, namely Buildbase, Plumbase and Jackson Building Centres.
“The other exhibitors were giving away pens and mugs, but we had a much more appealing exhibit,” says partnering manager, John Chesworth, pictured here on the bike.  “Visitors just couldn’t resist the chance to sit on this impressive superbike and get their colleagues to take a photo.  We had the bike on the stand at last year’s show and it was a great success then, so we thought we’d repeat the exercise.”

BUILDBASE HITS THE HARDWOOD DECK WITH LYPTUS®

Buildbase has become the first national company to stock Lyptus® Decking, a fully certified and sustainable hardwood product.  Lyptus Decking is immediately available and is the only hardwood decking product supplied as a stock item throughout our branch network.

Catapulted into the global spotlight following its use on the gold-medal award winning ‘A Monaco Garden’ at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Lyptus Decking has fast become a sought after hardwood decking product based on its strong environmental credentials and striking aesthetics. Having first seen Lyptus Decking at the GLEE launch last year, Buildbase recognised the benefits of sustainable supply and certified sources, which coupled with the success of the recent RHS Chelsea Flower Show, has led to a roll-out of Lyptus Decking stocks into branches.

Nigel Bullock, Buildbase product manager has spearheaded the adoption of Lyptus Decking in partnership with existing softwood decking supplier and Lyptus UK distributor, Hoppings: “The Chelsea Flower Show coverage was a great boost for an already great product. We had a gap in our decking product portfolio for sustainable hardwood with a guaranteed supply – Lyptus Decking firmly fits this requirement.”

Grown on managed plantations in Brazil, which are fully certified to the national sustainable forestry standard, Cerflor and recognised by the international Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), the eucalyptus trees used to manufacture Lyptus can be harvested within 14-16 years, compared to the 60 plus years it takes many tropical trees to mature. This faster rate of growth facilitates the sustainability of supply, as the plantations can deliver a greater yield in a shorter space of time.

To support the launch of Lyptus Decking into our branch network, we are featuring Lyptus Decking on our current national promotion programme and have also made the product available to purchase online.

BUILDBASE SUPPORTS GOLD MEDAL-WINNING CHELSEA SHOW GARDEN

A coveted gold medal has been awarded to ‘A Monaco Garden’, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show garden sponsored by the Principality of Monaco.  Thanks to its ‘green credentials’, Buildbase was chosen as the supply partner for this memorable garden which is designed by Sarah Eberle, a former gold medal-winner at Chelsea.  It was built by award-winning contractors, Peter Dowle Plants & Gardens, a long-standing Buildbase customer from Gloucestershire. 

Buildbase was chosen by the Principality as a supply partner because of its commitment to sustainability. Much of the landscaping and building products used in ‘A Monaco Garden’ have been supplied by Buildbase.  During the week of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, HM The Queen, spent time on the garden with Prince Albert of Monaco. 

One of the unusual and exciting features of the show garden is Q-Deck Lyptus. This high quality hardwood decking is made from Lyptus, a fully-certified alternative to traditional tropical species.  Manufactured from eucalyptus trees grown on managed plantations in Brazil, Lyptus can be harvested in less than 20 years, guaranteeing sustainability of supply, as well as source.  Lyptus has been used to construct the deck, the fascias to the cantilevered roof of the building and a staircase leading to a small balcony garden.

During a television broadcast about the garden, BBC presenter Chris Beardshaw said: “’Even the decking is a step forwards, here it’s eucalyptus a sustainably sourced hardwood. It’s tough, resilient and it provides a wonderful bronze surface striking through the centre of this garden and set to revolutionise decking in our landscapes and gardens.’’

Q-Deck Lyptus offers a sustainable alternative to traditional hardwood decking and is available from Buildbase branches nationwide.  It has a rich colour, comparable to species such as mahogany or cherry and darkens to rich walnut-like shades when oiled or wet. It is strong and durable, kiln-dried and PEFC-certified. Through Buildbase, Hoppings Softwood Products supplied Q-Deck Lyptus Decking for the Monaco Garden.  The Lyptus Decking was sponsored by UK importer and distributor, Woodlink UK.

Designer Sarah Eberle, who has an esteemed record in RHS shows, says: “I have been involved in the industry for 35 years and in designing and constructing show gardens for 20 of those years. I can honestly say that this is one of, if not the most exciting projects that I have worked on and I promise you all a garden that will delight and excite the senses. Lyptus Decking has provided the ideal warmth of colour we needed to recreate the Mediterranean environment, but importantly for the ethos of the garden, is backed up by proven environmental credentials.”  

In 2004 Buildbase first supplied building materials to an award-winning show garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. At that event Buildbase announced that it was the first national builders merchant to stock FSC-certified (Forest Stewardship Council) timber at all its branches.  The business has continued to lead its industry in the widespread availability of sustainable and renewable products.

For the 2011 event, Buildbase is grateful for support from key suppliers including: Hoppings Softwood Products, Lafarge Plasterboard, Hanson Building Products, OSC Fixings, St Gobain Weber, Inturf and Dulux Paint.

Full details of the Buildbase landscaping range are available in the latest catalogue which can be seen on the website http://www.buildbase.co.uk/landscapingonline

Information on ‘A Monaco Garden’ is available at www.rhs.org.uk

A 360 degree tour of the show garden can be seen at:
http://www.rhs.org.uk/Shows-Events/RHS-Chelsea-Flower-Show/2011/Gardens/A-to-Z/A-Monaco-Garden

BUILDBASE SUPPORTS BRICKLAYERS OF THE FUTURE

Buildbase gave its support to the next generation of bricklayers by sponsoring a trainee skills competition. The Guild of Bricklayers recently held the West Midlands regional final at Warwickshire College in Rugby.

All the building materials and hi-vis jackets needed for the contest were supplied by Bailey Buildbase in Nuneaton, together with prizes for first, second and third place winners in the junior and senior categories.

The all-day competition required students from 20 local colleges to build a structure which was marked for accuracy by four judges. The winners in the senior section were: Chris Hill (Stafford College); second place, Ritchie Corns (Stoke on Trent); third was Bradley Simpson (Warwickshire).  In the Junior section: first prize went to Mark Lines (South Birmingham); second, Timothy Jones (Stratford on Avon); third place,  Daniel Taylor (North Warks and Hinckley). The winners go on to represent the region in the national competition.

“This is a really worthwhile event which we are pleased to support as a local business in the building sector,” says Dave Adams, manager at Bailey Buildbase in Nuneaton.  “We presented each competitor with a Buildbase bucket full of tools and clothing.  The prizes included some useful items that will come in handy when the students are on the job, even down to the wheelbarrow!  We hope to be able to carry on our support for next year’s event too.”

Buildbase suppliers generously donating to the event included Weinerberger, Tarmac, Stadium, Walsall Wheelbarrows, Tools of The Trade, Rodo and Toolbank.

BUILDBASE RENEWS SPONSORSHIP COVENTRY SPEEDWAY

Buildbase is entering a record-breaking eighth season as sponsor of the Coventry Buildbase Bees and is the longest commercial supporter of this popular speedway team.  The team will be competing in the 2011 season of the SKY Sports Elite Speedway League which began in mid-April.  Several meetings are being televised live on SKY, usually on Monday evenings.

Coventry Buildbase Bees lifted the Elite league title in October last year when they overcame the Poole Pirates at Poole in the second leg of the grand final by 50 points to 40.

Says John Clarke, Buildbase regional director, “Our customers and staff will be able to see the Buildbase Bees compete in the top English league against 9 other teams, hopefully to be crowned the Elite league champions in 2011.

“The team will once again be cheered on by Buildbase as they embark on another exciting season.  Speedway is a great family spectator sport and a thrilling evening’s entertainment.  We are very proud to be backing the Buildbase Bees for another year.”

Speedway is an increasingly popular sport which pitches four riders in each heat.  They accelerate from 0-60mph on 500cc motorbikes in less than 2.5 seconds racing four laps on a 300m oval track.  The riders are sometimes only inches apart, racing without any brakes and a lot of courage in this highly competitive sport.

To view the speedway fixtures and other information on the team, visit www.coventrymotorspeedway.com

ECOBUILD AND SELF-BUILD SUCCESS

Buildbase had a strong presence at two of the UK’s most important building exhibitions, namely Ecobuild and the NEC Homebuilding and Renovating Show.

At London’s Ecobuild, Buildbase exhibited with sister brands Plumbase and Jackson Building Centres.  The theme of the stand was ‘Total Solutions’, reflecting the full range of sustainable and renewable products on display.  Visitors could explore the full range of products needed to comply with current and planned building legislation to reduce their carbon footprint.

Buildbase teamed up with 20 major manufacturers to feature environmentally-friendly building  product solutions from solar panels to heat recovery systems, air source pumps to low flush toilets, insulation to permeable paving.

It was a great opportunity to demonstrate how seriously the business is committed to this vital sector.  Experienced members of the team were on hand to explain every aspect of the products on display and cover the complex aspects involved in the new sustainable building codes.

Ecobuild started in 2005 when there were 50 exhibitors and 1,000 visitors.  In 2011 over 1,000 exhibitors took part and 50,000 visitors attended.

At the NEC event, Buildbase joined Plumbase, Hirebase and Jacksons had their largest stand to date.  As the only merchant attending the show, they took a large number of which were relayed to local branches by email on the same day.

“As this is the leading national exhibition for self-builders, this is a good way to reach an important customer group,” says John Drennan, Buildbase regional director.

“There’s a demand for more information about environmental products as an alternative option so we used the exhibition to highlight our ‘Go Green’ products.  Suppliers from the Renewable Energy and Water Recycling Sectors attracted a lot of interest from the public.

“One of the many reasons self builders choose Buildbase as their preferred merchant is because we can offer the complete package. From the first day of the project where we can offer site clearance tools and plant from Hirebase, right through to completion when kitchens and bathrooms are required.  We can supply everything that’s needed, including renewable energy options like solar thermal, solar PV, heat recovery and rainwater harvesting.”

BUILDING UP GOOD HEALTH

Dozens of customers and staff had a free health screening at their local builders merchant.  Bailey Buildbase in Nuneaton recently played host to St Nicholas Park Clinic which is undertaking free health screening for local businesses.

Community development officer Marlies Flintham carried out a 10-minute health screen beginning with a one-to-one general health awareness discussion.  The assessment included height, weight, BMI, blood pressure, diet, smoking, drinking and advice on looking for signs of cancer. Each participant was given a ‘health MOT’ record card of the discussion and results.   

“We were delighted to host the health screening because it’s a fact that most of us are so busy that we may overlook a regular health check,” says Dave Adams, manager at Bailey Buildbase in Nuneaton.  “The idea behind the scheme is to identify anyone who may have a problem and catch it as early as possible.  In fact, one person was identified as being at risk and referred to their GP for further checks.”

LOCAL MP VISITS MELKSHAM BRANCH TO DISCUSS GREEN AGENDA

Duncan Hames MP visited his local branch of Buildbase to learn more about the builders merchant’s business and discuss environmental issues.   During the visit, hosted by branch manager Lea Carter, the politician met staff and took a tour of the site.

He heard how Buildbase is investing heavily to showcase energy and water-saving solutions for trade and retail customers. The MP saw some of the renewable energy products on the market - one that is growing due to rising media interest and public demand.

Praising the success of Mr Carter and his staff, Duncan Hames MP remarked: "I was delighted to visit the increasingly busy Melksham branch of Buildbase on the Bowerhill Industrial Estate. I welcomed the chance to discuss the government's proposed Green Deal with staff members. In particular, the ways in which we can help people living in our area make the most of the opportunity to improve home energy efficiency - and reduce the cost of their energy use - once the legislation is passed by Parliament”.

The MP also heard an industry view on:

• how merchants are helping his Government bring policies like the Green Deal to life

• how a 5% VAT rate can revitalise local repair, maintenance & improvement activity

• responsible sourcing of timber & sheet materials within the UK and from abroad.

Buildbase has achieved a number of industry firsts in sustainable timber. In 2004, it became the first national merchant to stock timber certified under the Forest Stewardship Council’s chain of custody scheme in all branches. Two years’ later, Buildbase was the first to stock FSC hardwood plywood. In 2010, they were the first merchant to supply TRADA Q-Mark plywood, an internationally-recognised standard.

Neil Parsons, Buildbase regional director, shared some of Buildbase’s current thinking: “We have run the business over the last 15 years on a programme of ambitious expansion. Thanks to a very loyal, hardworking and knowledgeable workforce – combined with an excellent stock range - we firmly believe we offer our customers a first-class service.”

“Buildbase has expanded in the South-West from 5 to 15 branches over the last 4 years.  Nine of these were brand new purpose-built branches and Melksham is one of these. This expansion has created nearly 100 local jobs and a training and career development programme to match.

“We are thinking ahead to year 2020 and the carbon reduction targets that will apply then. Buildbase is already looking at planned investments and product lines to drive the business forward during the decade ahead. We aim to bring new products to the market to support people to remove emitted & embedded carbon from properties.”

THE GREEN DEAL

According to the BMF, the most urgent carbon challenge is to improve the thermal performance of buildings. Mr Hames’ visit was timed to coincide with the Energy Bill being taken in the House of Commons by Party colleague, Chris Huhne MP, secretary of state for energy and climate change. The majority of the bill brings in the Green Deal. This is a financial package designed to allow residential & commercial properties to have energy-saving work done on a “pay-as-you-save” basis.

The aim is to tackle under-investment in existing buildings. The Green Deal will enable voters to have measures fitted without being liable for the capital outlay. Costs are recouped over a fixed period, in instalments, via electricity & gas bills. The proposals are timed to come into effect in late 2012.

Speaking on the Green Deal, Brett Amphlett, visit organiser and BMF Policy Manager, explained:  “The BMF welcomes the Green Deal - it is ambitious, forward-looking and tackles the intractable problem of improving thermal performance. We are quietly getting on with efforts to formulate workable proposals with ministers and officials in Mr Hames’ Coalition Government.

“The Green Deal is predicated on routine work, done by local trained & competent people, delivered in large volumes, every day of the week, away from Whitehall and the London-based media, in towns like Melksham. Our supply chain is uniquely placed to assist politicians like Duncan Hames to move towards a low-carbon future. We urge all MPs to take time to explain and persuade constituents to carry out energy-saving work to improve thermal performance, cut bills and save money.

“Successful firms, like Buildbase, are typical of an established supply chain that stands ready to respond - sales, jobs and growth depend on it becoming a successful industrial policy.”

BUILDBASE TEAMS UP WITH BMW IN 2011 BRITISH SUPERBIKE SERIES

Buildbase will once again have a presence at the British Superbike and British Superstock Championships. For the 2011 season which starts in April, the Buildbase BMW team will have four experienced and talented racers.

John Laverty, Ian Lowry, Barry Burrell and Richard Cooper are the Buildbase riders who will take part in three British championships in 2011: the MCE British Superbike Championship; the BSB-EVO class and the Metzeler National Superstock 1000 Championship.

 “We’re pleased to be taking part in the superbike series again this season,” says Stephen Thompstone, Buildbase MD.  “Many of our customers and staff follow the sport and it’s a great way to raise awareness of our business.  Superbikes have a regular slot on national television and have a healthy following.  Good luck to the team.  We have high hopes for the season with this strong rider line-up and the success that BMW achieved last year on the track.”

The first round takes place over the weekend of 23/24 April at Brands Hatch.

BUILDBASE CUSTOMER WINS £3000 PRIZE

A Buildbase customer from Newbury has won a £3000 kitchen or bathroom in a national competition. Organised by Lafarge Plasterboard, the competition was open to customers purchasing GTEC Aqua Board from their local builders merchant.

Neil Weight, who runs N C Weight Plumbing & Heating, was drawn from hundreds of entries across the UK. He regularly buys Lafarge’s GTEC Aqua Board from FKS Buildbase in Newbury, and called into the branch to choose his prize.

Mr Weight was surprised and delighted to learn he had won first prize. “I’ve been in the trade for over 20 years now and the majority of my work is installing bathrooms in and around the Newbury area. I’m a regular face at Buildbase and drop in several times a week.

“I buy over 40 sheets of Lafarge’s GTEC Aqua Board a month because it is the best product for the job. It’s easy to use and cost efficient, plus it’s strong enough to hold heavy items such as off-the-floor toilets,” said Neil.
   

Lafarge Plasterboard’s GTEC Aqua Board is a gypsum-based board for use in high humidity and wet areas, ranging from bathrooms to swimming pools. It is ideal for use as a tile backing board or can simply be painted, giving the user extra flexibility in designing their bathroom, kitchen or wet room.

GTEC Aqua Board is also available for external applications and has already been used on a variety of high profile projects throughout the UK, reported to save up to 60% on traditional installation times.

The prize was presented by Mike Cocks of Lafarge Plasterboard and Steve Martin, manager at FKS Buildbase in Newbury.

Mike Cocks said: “GTEC Aqua Board is popular among builders merchants and their customers as it provides outstanding water, mould and fungus resistance and is much easier to cut and handle than conventional cement based boards, with the user having to simply score and snap the board.

BUILDBASE EXHIBITS GREEN CREDENTIALS AT ECOBUILD

Buildbase will have a major presence at this year’s Ecobuild exhibition at Excel, London, from 1 – 3 March.  The builders merchant will be part of the Grafton Merchanting GB stand, exhibiting beside its sister brands, Jackson Building Centres and plumbing and heating merchant Plumbase.

The theme of the stand is ‘Total Solutions’ which reflects the full range of sustainable and renewable products on display.  Visitors to the stand will be able to see all the products needed to comply with current and planned building legislation to reduce the carbon footprint.

Buildbase has teamed up with 20 major manufacturers to feature environmentally-friendly building  product solutions from solar panels to heat recovery systems, air source pumps to low flush toilets, insulation to permeable paving.

“As ‘Total Solutions’ theme suggests, the complete range of renewable building products will be brought together on our stand,” says Stephen Thompstone, Buildbase managing director.

“Ecobuild is expecting the highest attendance to date and we’re delighted to be taking part in this important industry event. It’s a great opportunity for us to demonstrate how seriously we are committed to this vital sector of our business.  We’ll have experienced members of our team on hand to talk through the products and cover the complex aspects involved in the new sustainable building codes. ”

In 2010 all Buildbase branches installed a Go Green area in their trade counters and a number of Go Green at Buildbase specialist showrooms have been opened across the UK.

LATEST BRANCH OPENING IN STORNOWAY, ISLE OF LEWIS

The newest branch of Buildbase is located in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis, following the acquisition of a single site timber and builders merchant, Bain Morrison & Co.

The business is a family firm, established in 1901. John and Joan Hay, who run Bain Morrison, and their team of seven other staff will continue with the business. The business will trade as Bain Morrison Buildbase with new signage and branch improvements planned.

The new name, and a new parent company, signal an important step forward for this local business which is well-known to local tradesmen and the Stornoway community. Customers will benefit from greater stock range, access to sustainable ‘green’ products and new equipment within the branch.

“Buildbase is keen to retain and build on the local identity of the business,” says John Hay. “We will keep the original name and customers will be dealing with the familiar faces who have served them well over the years.

“In this way Buildbase can guarantee continuity with customers and build on the high levels of customer service and goodwill that are important to the business.”

X FACTOR CONTESTANT ENTERTAINS BUILDBASE BRANCH

Staff and customers at Davie Buildbase in Law were treated to an exclusive performance by X Factor contestant, Stephen Hunter. He called into the branch recently and was keen to talk about his experience on the blockbuster TV talent show.

Stephen’s father, William, is a local builder and has been a long-standing customer at the branch. He built a house for Stephen in Lesmahagow, not far from the branch. Stephen is also well-known at Davie Buildbase and was pleased to chat with staff and other customers and posed for photos for the local paper.

The X Factor audition in Glasgow is where Stephen first impressed the judges with his version of the track ‘Disco Inferno’. He progressed through to the boot camp stage but just missed being selected for the live finals when judges Louis Walsh and Sharon Osborne opted for the Brazilian singer, Wagner.

Christine Crawford, branch manager, said: “Stephen is a lovely man, always having a laugh with everyone. It was great to see him on X Factor and we thought he was a breath of fresh air. We were disappointed when he wasn’t chosen, as he certainly deserved to go through. Since he featured in the show he’s been doing very well and has landed a film part.”

BUILDBASE INTRODUCES NEW AIR/SOUND TESTING FOR ECO EFFICIENCY

Buildbase has introduced a new air and sound testing service to help customers comply with energy saving legislation.
Builders are now required to conduct sound and air tests on new properties to meet strict targets to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency. Buildbase has teamed up with Chiltern Dynamics, a member of the BM TRADA group to offer the testing service through Buildbase branches.

The air test calculates the area of the building and whether there is any air leakage within the dwelling. Provisional results are provided on site and a certificate is ready within two days.

Part E of the building regulations concerns sound insulation for party walls and floors. The sound test measures airborne sound resistance through party walls and floors and measures impact sound resistance through floors.

“This is a very new area that builders are having to take on board,” says Tony Booth of Buildbase. “We can offer the knowledge and expertise to help them comply with the new legal requirements. ”

AWARD WIN DOUBLE FOR BUILDBASE

Buildbase won two awards at the Builders Merchants Awards for Excellence 2010, held recently in London.  Buildbase was the winner of the Best National Builders Merchant of the Year award - for the fifth year since the awards began - and Best Hard Landscaping Display was awarded to the Buildbase branch in Southend.

The ceremony was held at the Royal Lancaster Hotel and attended by around 450 guests representing the builders merchants industry.  Compere, Nick Knowles of BBC’s ‘DIY SOS’, presented highlights from each of the entries before naming the winners.

Stephen Thompstone, Buildbase managing director, collected the Best National Builders Merchant award trophy from Nick Knowles and Jim Claydon of Hanson, who sponsored the award. 

“It was an honour to accept the award on behalf of Buildbase because it is recognition of all the hard work that our staff have achieved over the last 18 months, when trading has been particularly tough,” says Stephen.

“Although we are a relatively new force within the industry, we have some strong core values that set us apart – our independent ethos and emphasis on customer service.  Our expansion has slowed recently, but we have retained the goodwill and loyalty of our customers. 

“We have retained the traditional qualities of merchanting and are taking the initiative with new innovations like on-line purchasing and sustainable technologies.

“I am very proud of our business and this award is a thank you to everyone who has made a contribution to our growth and our success.”

The hard landscaping award, sponsored by Bradstone, was accepted by Barry Macdonald, manager at the Southend branch.  Barry masterminded an impressive refurbishment of the large hard landscaping display by inviting local landscaping customers to design and install their own features, at very little cost to the branch.  His scheme has created an inspirational display that has increased sales since installation.

Buildbase was also shortlisted in two other categories.  Keith Eagers of Lakes Buildbase in Derby was finalist in the Achiever of the Year and Buildbase was shortlisted for Best Builders Merchants’ Website.

SCANDANAVIAN VISITORS SEE BRADSTONE AT ITS BEST

A delegation of Swedish visitors called into GBS Buildbase in Gloucester to see the latest Bradstone products.  Around 25 visitors, who are Bradstone manufacturers in Sweden, came to see the hard landscaping display at Gloucester branch.  A new display had been installed in early summer and features some of the newest designs and paving features. 

“They were interested to see the ranges we have here which are ahead of the market in Sweden,” says Andi Warboys, manager at the Gloucester branch.  “Our prices are similar, but we have more choice and variety in our hard landscaping display.
“We were very pleased to be chosen as one of the best Bradstone displays and it was interesting to get some feedback from people in the industry in another area.  In a few days we have a smaller group of manufacturers coming from Norway.  I’m looking forward to hearing their perspective on the market.”
Terry Ward of Bradstone said: “My visitors were impressed, not only with the new garden display but the whole operation at Buildbase in Gloucester.  They found it interesting and quite different to the normal merchant operations in Sweden.  Thanks to Andi and his staff for their friendly helpful attitude and kind hospitality.”

BUILDBASE HELPS SCOUTS AND GUIDES ‘DO THEIR BEST’

Before

Before

After

After

After

Scout and guide groups in Newcastle, Staffs, will have an impressive venue for the meetings thanks to members of the local community including Buildbase.  The 200 children who attend the seven Holy Trinity Scout and Guide groups now have a completely refurbished hut which was restored with help from dozens of volunteers over the summer.  Local businesses supplied materials including Rhead Buildbase in Stoke on Trent who donated decorating materials and timber.

Over £40,000 was spent on the project which took seven weeks to complete.  One of the organisers was an old school pal of Dave Viggars, manager at Rhead Buildbase.

“He explained about their ambitious project and asked if we could help in any way,” says Dave.  “We were pleased to donate some items and supply sanitaryware at a good price. Some products were obsolete but were very gratefully received. The team of helpers have done an amazing job.  The building was very run down and has virtually been rebuilt.  You wouldn’t recognise the hut now and it’ll be a warm and welcoming place for all the children.”

Support was given by Holy Trinity Church, Staffordshire Environmental Fund and fundraising by scout and guide groups.  In an effort to keep costs as low as possible, building preparation work, decorating and gardening was undertaken by leaders, parents, friends and helpers.

“On September 12th we opened the doors for the first time to what is, to all intents and purposes, a brand new scout and guide hut,” says secretary Pamela Parry.  “We have new toilets, a new kitchen, new storage, windows, heating system, lights, equipment, new everything! We also now have facilities for wheelchair users.

“We’d like to thank you for your generous help and support during the project.  Your contribution and kind support will see the hut last for another 10-15 years meaning that around 2000 children will benefit from the help that you provided.”

As part of the project there will be a wall displaying the names of organisations that gave their support and an evening is being held as a thank you to all involved.

BUILDBASE SIGNS UP TO LOW CARBON OXFORD

Buildbase has signed up to a new charter that ensures Oxford’s future as a sustainable and low carbon city. Called ‘Low Carbon Oxford’ the initiative is one of the first in the country and involves a programme of co-operation that will help reduce the city’s carbon footprint.

A group of organisations from the public and private sectors as well as community groups are being invited to sign up to the charter for a ‘Low Carbon Oxford’ to mark their commitment and support for the initiative.

The charter is the first step to making Oxford a low carbon city and brings together businesses and organisations which have interests in the future of Oxford as well as climate change issues that affect the city.

The charter was launched by the Oxford Strategic Partnership and is supported by Oxford City Council, University of Oxford, Oxford Brookes University, Oxfordshire County Council as well as major businesses in the city like Buildbase, Mini Plant Oxford, Unipart and Stagecoach. Well-known brands like Marks & Spencer are also supporting the charter as well as community groups like Low Carbon West Oxford.

Councillor John Tanner, board member for a Cleaner, Greener Oxford, says: “I commend the progress that Oxford has already made in reducing its environmental foot print and helping to tackle climate change.

“Businesses, organisations and the public in Oxford are already reducing carbon emissions. But we need to do much more and together we can. This Low Carbon Charter is a first for Oxford and will put us in the lead in creating a prosperous low carbon city for all. 

“I want to thank the forward-looking organisations that are signing the charter today. We now call on all communities, organisations and businesses in the city to sign the Charter, cut carbon, save energy costs and create more 'green' jobs.”
Peter Butterfield, Buildbase spokesman, says: “Buildbase is committed to the issues of sustainability and renewable energy.  As a company we have a sustainable development policy that means we consider the environmental impact of all our activities from transport to waste recycling. 

“As a builders’ merchant we work with our suppliers to procure the right products now and in the future. In this area, Buildbase has led the way in our industry, particularly for timber and plywood. At a local level, our Oxford branch was the first to launch a ‘Go Green at Buildbase’ showroom.  This is a valuable resource that gives tradesmen and members of public an insight into the latest renewable energy products which offer a greener option.

“The origins of our business in Oxford can be traced back several hundred years and in 2010 we are proud to be working with Oxford City Council to support their Low Carbon Oxford campaign.”

The charter states that members are committed to working together to create a low carbon, sustainable Oxford and that we will work to ensure that Oxford’s leadership in reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change is widely recognised.

It also asks the signatories to work together to reduce our carbon footprints by a minimum of three per cent every year for at least the next ten years, create a low carbon, sustainable economy in the Oxford area which will be an example to cities across the country and to create more green jobs for increased prosperity and opportunity for all.

The initial group, including Buildbase, who are signing the charter have been invited to take part in the project after showing interest in climate change issues within the city. The launch was held in the Ruth Deech building at St Anne’s College which won the David Steel Sustainable Building Award in 2008.

The award is for environmentally friendly, resource efficient buildings.

In 2005 Oxford City Council set itself an ambitious target to reduce emissions by 25 per cent by March 2011 and then 3 per cent year on year thereafter.

BUILDBASE SPONSOR NEATH RUGBY CLUB

Neath Rugby are proud to announce the most significant sponsorship deal in Welsh semi-pro rugby. Buildbase has signed a two-year deal with the principality champions.

The new partnership sees Buildbase, along with its associated brands, Plumbase and Civils & Lintels, as the main shirt sponsor for the club, the introduction of ‘The Buildbase Family Stand’, and the hosting of a number of match day tradesmen events at the Gnoll.

Neath Rugby chairman, Geraint Hawkes, said, “Being the oldest rugby club in Wales, Neath Rugby has a well-established and envied history within Welsh rugby. Our recent success has led to even greater interest in the club and we’re delighted that a national company of the calibre of Buildbase, has identified Neath Rugby as a partner to expand its brand throughout South Wales. It’s a great achievement for the club and we’re very excited to start what we hope will be a long and prosperous partnership between these two strong brands”.

Established in 1996, Buildbase has approaching 150 branches throughout the UK and acquired the existing JS Jones builders merchant in Neath in 2008. Buildbase has a specialist Civils & Lintels division which trades from Aberfan and their sister company, Plumbase, has branches in Cardiff and Newport.

Buildbase managing director, Stephen Thompstone said “Buildbase branches have strong links with their local communities and have long-standing relationships with their customers. Many customers and staff are keen rugby followers and Buildbase is proud to have its name associated with this leading club as main shirt sponsor.”

Nadine Davies, brand development manager for Neath Rugby said, “The new partnership with Buildbase highlights the recent achievements of both organisations. As five times principality champions, Neath are proud to be partnered by Buildbase, they’re a winning company like ourselves, with a strong emphasis on supporting the local community.”