Builders’ Merchant sales continue to grow

27 Oct 2017

A 5.8% increase has been seen on Builders’ Merchant value sales to builders and contractors this August, in comparison to last year.

Andrew Simpson, National Commercial Director Hanson Cement and BMBI‘s expert for Cement and Aggregates

Andrew Simpson

“The continuing growth of builders’ merchants’ sales over the summer months does not reflect the slowdown we’re seeing in general construction activity, particularly in London where sales of ready-mixed concrete have eased back during the year.

“We believe activity has now peaked in the capital, although volumes remain at high historic levels. A weakening in overall activity was expected this year, reflecting the softer economic and construction outlooks post-referendum.

“Looking forward, commercial and retail construction is expected to fall next year but major infrastructure projects such as Hinkley Point and HS2, plus Highways England’s road programme will help to steady the ship.

“Builders’ merchants are an integral part of the supply chain and have been encouraged to adopt an Omnichannel approach to selling to future-proof their business. Amazon and other disrupters have created a new way of buying and selling, and their online model has been replicated across retail, influencing the way we buy. It’s been slowly moving into the merchant sector.

“New online platforms such as www.built.co.uk are providing quick and easy access to a wide range of heavy and light side building materials, with full price transparency for digital savvy builders who want the same flexibility and convenience in their business life they experience as a consumer. Most builders and contractors still prefer to go to their local traditional branch, but it’s important to change how you sell to suit those who prefer to buy a different way.”