Crystal Direct and Active Products UK have both become suppliers for the National Merchant Buying Society (NMBS).

Crystal signed a contract with the NMBS in order to make it easy for merchants to buy and sell PVC-U windows and doors. Working closely with NMBS field representatives, Crystal will provide merchants with a personal service and dedicated hotline. The company offers a five-day turnaround on made-to-measure windows and doors, with free nationwide delivery and GPS tracking so merchants know when their window orders will arrive.

Crystal’s managing director Steve Halford said: “We’re delighted to be an NMBS supplier. We’ve agreed a three-year deal. The PVC-U window market is massive, yet few merchants have benefited from it. Our discussions with Chris Hayward were focussed on unlocking this major opportunity for merchants.”

Mr Hayward, managing director of the NMBS, added: “Our research shows very few merchants feel comfortable selling PVC-U windows, but it’s a big potential market. We’re pleased to announce Crystal Direct as an NMBS-approved supplier to open this market to merchants.”

Meanwhile, Active Products supplies lighting, automotive, gardening, leisure and household products. The company’s recent collaboration with the NMBS gives it access to more than 1,000 independent builders’, timber, hardware, plumbing and heating merchants.

“We’re delighted to have recently gained approved supplier status with the NMBS,” said Active Products’ sales director Ted McLoughlin. “With a number of exciting new products and exclusive distributor agreements gaining momentum, we are keen to continue widening our distribution footprint – forging deeper relationships with independent merchants who we hope will find our popular products unique and sensibly priced, with good margin opportunities.”

Steve Harris, senior category manager at the NMBS, said: “The NMBS is pleased to welcome Active Products as a new supplier to the membership. With an extensive range of torches, lighting and associated builders’ products at competitive prices, there is something for every NMBS member.”