Over 600 people representing independent builders' merchants and industry suppliers gathered for the NMBS Gala Dinner on 12 April, 2016.

The event took place the evening before the 2016 NMBS Exhibition, at the now familiar venue of the E.ON Lounge at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry.

On arrival, guests enjoyed pre-dinner drinks while being entertained by the Legends of Darts Masters. This team of legends and champions from across the sport impressed guests with their skills and also played against those who fancied their chances.

Guests then moved upstairs for dinner and a number of speeches. This included an opening address from Tim Allen, NMBS chairman, who gave the assembled audience an update on NMBS’ performance.

In 2015, the buying society increased its turnover by 8.5% to a record £1.4bn. Discounts and rebates paid to members also increased by £3.2m to £58m in total.

In addition, NMBS has successfully overcome a number of challenges created by new HMRC regulations concerning VAT on prompt payment discounts. It has also maintained its IS0 9001, 14001 and 18001 accreditations as well as implemented new corporate governance policies

Looking ahead, NMBS plans to focus on supporting the activities of its key buying group partners such as FORTIS, NBG, H&B, PHG, CBA, IPG, and IBC, as well as strengthening the deals for their standalone independent members. It will also increase investment into its captive credit insurance scheme, which enables members to benefit from more flexible and extended credit limits, and suppliers to enjoy an even greater level of security and reduced credit risk.

Mr Allen was followed by Chris Hayward, NMBS managing director, who announced the winner of the evening's charity prize draw sponsored by Makita. Luke Armstrong from Dickies won the main prize of a bundle of Apple products.

In total, monies generated from the table donations collected over £6,500 for NMBS’ two chosen charities - The Rainy Day Trust and CRASH.

Mr Hayward also presented gifts to two guests approaching retirement who have repeatedly gone the extra mile for their companies, the building industry and NMBS - Dave Jordan, group sustainability manager at Ridgeons, and Maurice Morton, UK sales and marketing director at Dickies.

Following a three course meal, guests were entertained by after dinner speaker, Nigel Owens. The international rugby union referee and regular TV panellist offered a humorous and anecdotal insight into the world of elite rugby.

In particular, Mr Owens recounted some of his experiences gained refereeing matches at the 2007, 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cups - including the 2015 World Cup Final match between New Zealand and Australia.

Mr Hayward said: "The NMBS Gala Dinner remains an important diary date for both NMBS members and suppliers alike. It enables these key partners to network and mix business with pleasure in a relaxed and informal setting. We're delighted that this year's event was so well attended and that the entertainment, speeches and fundraising initiatives were so well received."