IBC Buying Group outlines the new features and benefits the group has introduced for its members in 2024, as well as new appointments for the team and its first member research project.
IBC Buying Group is continuing to grow and evolve, with key developments and changes during 2024 strengthening the Group’s member-first strategy. IBC remains committed to listening to and acting on the needs of our members, and this year commissioned its first member research project to better understand members’ needs both now and in the future. The feedback received through this project has helped to shape the development of the business, ensuring it provides everything its members need to succeed.
Other significant strides made during 2024 include enhancing its support services, expanding the available product range, and introducing new internal resources – all aimed at delivering greater value to members and reinforcing IBC’s reputation as a trusted partner in the building materials sector.
One of the most exciting developments for IBC this year is its new Business Development team. Several highly experienced professionals have joined the buying group, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Leading the charge is Simon Cowling, the new Head of Business Development. With extensive experience in both strategic growth and partnership management, Simon will play a key role in enhancing member relationships and driving new opportunities.
In addition to Simon, IBC has also welcomed two new Business Development Managers, Steve Tanner and David Warriner, who together with Ross Travers will provide national support for our members across the UK. Their wealth of industry experience, along with their deep understanding of both building materials and member needs, will enable them to deliver tailored solutions that help our members grow and thrive. Together, they form a dynamic team that is dedicated to enhancing the value and support that IBC offers to its growing membership.
In tandem with these appointments, IBC has also introduced a new internal sales position. Anthony Hollick works closely with members, ensuring that they have access to the best deals and are supported throughout their purchasing journey. By offering national coverage, our team ensures that no member is left behind, regardless of their location.
Expanding the Category Team's Focus
Throughout 2024, IBC’s Category team has remained dedicated to negotiating deals on behalf of members, saving them time and leveraging the collective buying power of IBC. With more than 300 member locations and a combined buying power exceeding £600 million, IBC has the capacity to secure highly competitive deals that would be difficult for independent merchants to achieve individually. This scale enables IBC to deliver substantial cost savings to members, allowing them to focus on growing their businesses without having to deal with time-consuming negotiations.
The team has been instrumental in securing deals with new suppliers, and in 2024, IBC successfully onboarded more than 14 new supplier partners. This expansion further widens the available product range, ensuring members have access to the latest and most relevant building materials to meet the needs of their customers.
Investing in the Future
IBC is also committed to supporting the future of the building materials industry. This year, the group partnered with the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) to recruit an apprentice within our category team. This apprenticeship role, filled by a new Category Assistant, is helping IBC play a key part in welcoming and training the next generation of building materials professionals.
Stuart Stockley, IBC’s Managing Director, said: “We are proud to provide opportunities for young talent to learn and grow, helping to build a strong foundation for the future of our industry.”
In addition to external training programs, IBC remains focused on internal colleague development. One of the highlights of 2024 has been the promotion of Portal Manager Alan Williams to the role of Digital Marketing Manager.
Stockley added: “Alan’s promotion is a testament to our commitment to nurturing talent within the business and ensuring that our team has the skills and expertise to adapt to the evolving digital landscape. Alan will help us lead our digital marketing efforts, enabling IBC and its members to stay at the forefront of online trends and technologies that can help streamline business administration and outreach for our members.”
Enhancing our Members’ Customer Proposition
IBC has also expanded its members’ customer proposition with a range of marketing services. This includes a white-label website offering, which allows IBC members to offer a professional online presence to their customers, without the need for significant upfront investment. By providing extensive marketing support and access to business-critical services, IBC helps its members stand out in a competitive market and build stronger relationships with their customers.
Stockley concluded: “At IBC, everything we do is in close partnership with our members. We continually seek feedback to ensure that we are meeting their needs and providing the support they require to succeed. This year we conducted our member insight survey, and the results speak volumes. IBC members rated us an impressive 8/10, with 89% of respondents associating IBC with the word “trust”. These results highlight the strength of the relationships we have built with our members and the trust they place in us as a vital business partner.
“We remain committed to acting on this feedback, ensuring that we continue to deliver value, innovation, and tailored solutions that help our members succeed. Our growth in 2024 is a direct reflection of the dedication and hard work of our team, combined with the support and trust of our members.”
Looking Ahead
With a stronger team, more supplier partnerships, and enhanced services, IBC Buying Group is well-positioned to continue driving success for its members in the years to come. By staying focused on its member-first approach and evolving alongside the needs of the sector, IBC will continue to be the go-to buying group for independent merchants looking to grow, thrive, and succeed in an ever-changing marketplace.
