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BMF and IoBM agree merger
The Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) and The Institute of Builders Merchants (IoBM) has announced a merger – the IoBM will be separately managed and will operate as a brand within the BMF. The merger has been approved by IoBM members because it will give the Institute access to wider resources and personnel, but still give them autonomy with its own management body. The arrangement has been effective since 1st May 2021 – all Institute members will keep their current membership grade, subject to the payment of annual subscriptions.
The assets, activities and membership of the IoBM has been transferred to the BMF, with the Institute then managed by a new management committee comprising the chief executive officer and membership services director of the BMF, the chair and vice chair of the BMF Young Merchants, and two existing Institute board members.
Moving forward, IoBM membership grades will be aligned with BMF training, other accredited courses and qualifications including in-company training where relevant. Membership will be available to all individuals employed within the builders’ merchants’ industry.
The IoBM Charity Trust, which provides grants to support the Institute and for training purposes, will continue to operate under the existing trustees, with the BMF nominating two additional trustees to assist.
Dave Saunders, president of the IoBM, said: “The Institute and the BMF have a common ethos around training, professionalism and certification within the industry, and I am delighted that we have agreed a joint way ahead.
“As a separately managed brand within the BMF, the Institute will remain open to all those employed within the industry, and will benefit from the surety provided by the greater operational resources of the BMF.”
John Newcomb, chief executive officer of the BMF, added: “This energising fusion of two aligned organisations serving the merchant industry will open up fresh opportunities, while maintaining the traditional values of the IoBM.
“The management committee, together with the BMF board, has pledged to develop and publish a three to five-year strategic plan during 2021, mapping the pathway for the Institute’s development. We look forward to a bright and relevant future for the Institute.”
