SIG UK has announced it has passed the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) assessment for merchants and distributors.
The CCPI was created to encourage greater product information accuracy so manufacturers, merchants and distributors, and contractors can make more informed decisions about product selection. The codes seek to raise standards in product information and move the industry to a place where product information is clear, accurate, up-to-date, accessible, and unambiguous.
There are three separate codes. One for manufacturers addressing the responsibility of product information, specifically relating to the assessment of information on products. One for supporters, which includes clients, major house builders, and tier one contractors, who are driving the CCPI through their supply chains, and one for merchants and distributors. The latter focuses specifically on a company’s systems and processes as a conduit for product information. This includes requirements for creating and reproducing product information along with an emphasis on accurate representation.
SIG UK, which includes SIG Distribution, SIG Construction Accessories, Kitson Technical Supplies, and Ocula Partitions, is the first distributor to achieve the accreditation.
Assessment against the CCPI Merchants and Distributors Code provides confirmation that the organisation has been assessed to have the necessary product information processes and systems in place to uphold the CCPI. It also assesses its ability to adhere to the clauses diligently, and proactively promote and support the adoption of the code with their suppliers.
The merchant and distributor code contains four clauses to abide by. Clauses 1 to 3 outline the merchant's responsibility to reproduce and update the manufacturer’s product information, ensuring the data remains clear, current, and true to its original interpretation. Clause 4 addresses the merchant’s responsibility for the competency of its staff, with the condition that a full training programme is in place.
Commenting on the assessment, SIG UK Compliance Director Steve Marr said: “We are delighted to be the first distributor to have passed the Merchants and Distributors CCPI assessment.
“We support the need for accurate product information and recognise the importance of the CCPI in raising industry standards. We hope more merchants and distributors will follow suit as this will strengthen the reputation of the CCPI and increase customer confidence in the market.”
