NMBS has helped recruit over 150 apprentices across the independent merchant sector.

In 2023, NMBS helped recruit 60 apprentices into the independent merchant sector through its members and suppliers, as part of its 60th-anniversary celebrations. After this success, NMBS has continued to work with construction apprenticeship specialist LEAP to train scores of builders’ merchant apprentices who will help address the skills gap in the construction sector. 

NMBS also continues to support the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) pledge to achieve 15,000 apprentices across the BMF membership by 2030. This partnership helps take control of the skills gap in the building materials industry while ensuring levy funds are benefited from across the sector. The BMF is also showcasing how apprenticeships help employers save on recruitment costs and foster diversification across teams, leading to increased retention rates and heightened staff satisfaction.

The 150 newly recruited apprentices are distributed across NMBS member companies, including Gardner and Scardifield, Yard Direct, and Silverton Builders Merchants. They are a mix of completely new entrants to the construction industry and experienced professionals looking to enhance their skills and advance their existing careers.

They are carrying out apprenticeships over a wide range of career options, ranging from entry Level 2 qualifications, such as Warehouse Operator, to more advanced Level 7 qualifications suitable for upskilling existing staff or onboarding new managers with experience and transferable skills into senior positions.

Dean Hayward, Head of Sales and Marketing at NMBS, said: "Our continued apprenticeship recruitment drive is contributing towards reducing the skills gap in the independent merchant sector. It is brilliant to see our members and suppliers continuing to support the next generation of merchants and share their knowledge so willingly.

“Together with the support of the BMF, we want to continue to grow our industry’s apprenticeship offering to help secure a future for our industry and to instil the importance of high-quality customer service and local knowledge into the next generation.”