Building for success

Online builders merchant Building Supplies R Us has recently launched its franchise operation and believes it is an opportunity not to be missed for those in the trade

Building Supplies R Us (BSRUS), the UK's leading online builders merchant, has launched a new franchise business with a van-based, on-site, online facility for the building and construction trade.
The company is inviting potential franchisees from all corners of the UK to take on a business that involves the supply of building materials to site. BSRUS believes it is an ideal opportunity for those currently working in building and construction or even on the trade counter within a more traditional builders merchant outlet.

Franchisees will be provided with a van that will be fully stocked with consumables, such as screws and power tools, boots and hard hats and other health and safety equipment. Each van also includes an online ordering facility whereby customers can order building supplies such bricks, timber, cement and even order a skip along with beam and block floors, roof trusses and ready mixed concrete.

Franchise packages cost £25,000, which includes the van with an initial stock of consumables, a full training programme at the company's headquarters and a designated postcode area to operate in.

Franchisees also receive commission on all internet sales. BSRUS expects each business to become profitable within 12 months and is looking to recruit 50 over the next two years.

Frank Kelly, managing director, says: ‘We believe this new service is the first of its kind for the UK and a fantastic opportunity for those working in the building trade who are keen to run their own business. Via the franchise we are taking the builders merchant out to the customer, rather than the other way around. This keeps the job moving to benefit the main contractor, the sub contractors involved and ultimately, the client.

Purchasing via the internet is increasing at a rate of 40 per cent year on year and anyone who still thinks this is "just a phase" will be left behind in the market. In line with this growth, our new, improved website will also be launched in early 2008.

‘Some people still think that builders are behind the times when it comes to IT, but all the indications are to the contrary. They are now able to order where, when and how it suits them and are appreciating the benefits of a more modern and flexible method of buying their building materials.

'Additionally, the carbon footprint reduction implications of this are considerable as we are physically reducing the amount of vehicles on the road. With builders being able to buy items straight from the van, it cuts out the need for frequent journeys and also means far less man hours lost by site staff fetching the required building supplies.'

The company is currently in the process of becoming a full member of the British Franchise Association.

Building Supplies R Us was established in late 2006 and is a 24/7 online supplier of building materials with fixed national prices, guaranteeing delivery within three working days of placement of order.
With more than 2500 products available, specialist items not listed on the site can also be individually sourced. Further discounts are available on bulk orders and the company will provide free, no obligation quotations upon request.

Investment level: £25,000
Phone: 0845 373 1488
Email: queries@buildingsuppliesrus.co.uk
Web: www.buildingsuppliesrus.co.uk
Franchise classification: Builders merchant