Check out the new brick range from Marshalls

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Marshalls is the UK’s leading hard landscaping, building and roofing products supplier.

Their new Glenwall range incorporates cutting-edge CarbonCure technologies, a ground-breaking process employed at our site in Grove, Wales. The range highlights how the Building Materials sector is constantly innovating to make a material difference to the environment through more sustainable building materials.

This technology injects waste CO2 directly into the concrete mix during production, with no negative impact on the performance or durability of the brick. As a result, the CO2 becomes mineralised and permanently locked into the brick for millennia, preventing its release into the atmosphere, even upon demolition. It is estimated that by using CarbonCure at our Grove site, we are removing approximately 30,000kg of CO2 annually.

Mike Edwards, Head of Sustainability at Marshalls, said: “ We became the UKs first pre-cast concrete manufacturer to adopt CarbonCure processes back in 2022.”

As well as their aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits, Glenwall facing bricks provide exceptional durability. They are frost-resistant and offer Euroclass A1 fire resistance, ensuring the utmost safety in construction projects. 

Just one example of how a career in Building Materials can help to shape and improve the fabric of the world around you, by working for an employer that really is making a material difference.

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Landscaping solutions supplier Talasey celebrate 20 years of growth 

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Talasey is one of the UK’s leading independent suppliers of landscaping solutions.

From humble beginnings as Natural Paving Products, two decades later they are now recognised as a trusted provider of high-quality landscaping solutions. Their journey has been marked by numerous achievements, awards and innovative projects, as well as the establishment of strong relationships within the industry.

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Recognised for developing a collection of inspiring and innovative products is an enviable achievement in itself, but Talasey has long recognised the value of training and support. This is why the Talasey Training Academy (which is based at the company’s head office in Scunthorpe) offers informative and interactive practical courses that cover the installation of landscaping products in domestic applications through a blend of knowledge-based and hands-on learning.

There’s also Talasey on Tour – a fleet of mobile showrooms that are used to take Talasey to its customers so they can view its comprehensive range of products. This is ideal for customer-facing merchant trade days and also offers internal training sessions for merchants.

Talasey are a great example of a Building Materials employer, striving for growth, improvements and helping their people to grow with them.

Find out more about this innovative BMCareers Employer here.

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Members of staff at Talasey showroom

Alsford timber and builders merchants are making a difference to the wellbeing of their people


Alsford is the largest independent Timber & Builder’s Merchant in South East England, with 19 branches across Kent, Surrey, London, East Sussex and West Sussex, supplying timber, tools and building materials. They are passionate about being part of BMCareers, have their eyes firmly fixed on the wellbeing of their people and advancements in IT, as well attracting new talent into the business. 

Four Alsford Directors recently embarked on a three-day Vision Tour across their 19-branch estate, engaging directly with team members about their core values, mission, and vision for the next five years. 

The Vision Tour highlighted Alsford’s unwavering commitment to enhancing Wellbeing at work, advancing IT infrastructure, and expanding services for our customers. 

Commitment to Wellbeing

With just under 250 employees, Alsford want to be able to draw from the different backgrounds and experiences within the business, so it is vital that everyone feels they can have their say and that they are listened to. Through consultation with teams in 2023, Alsford decided to become the first merchant to attain attaining the National Accreditation for Psychological Safety through the Dharma Centre for Wellbeing, which focuses on supporting our colleagues both in and outside of work, covering the six elements of wellbeing; Physical, Professional, Mental & Emotional, Social, and Financial, and Alsford will introducing specific programs and initiatives designed to ensure all team members feel more settled and confident in themselves, in both their personal and professional lives. Alsford expect to gain accreditation during Q1 2025.

Advancements in IT

Alsford is also in continual pursuit of operational excellence, with key investment into their IT infrastructure, including a move to Epicor Bistrack Global, and continuing to enhance cybersecurity. These advancements are aimed at improving efficiency, facilitating seamless communication internally and externally, and providing teams with the tools they need to excel in their roles.

“Connecting with our teams in this way is very rewarding,” said Neil Fuller, Managing Director of Alsford. “Our vision for the future builds on the 142 years we have already spent serving customers, and reaffirms our reputation as a leading supplier of Timber & Building Materials in the South East through the dedication and passion of our teams. This year’s Vision Tour is testament to our commitment to our values of being Innovative, Inspirational, United, Passionate, Fun and Honourable, and has set a clear path for Alsford the coming years.”

Members of the Alsford team

LEAP Apprenticeships


A Fresh Pathway into the Building Materials Sector for School Leavers and Career Changers

If you’re a school leaver or thinking about a career change, the LEAP Apprenticeships programmes offers a unique opportunity to break into the building materials sector—an industry ripe with potential and growth.

What is LEAP?

LEAP (Learn and Earn Apprenticeship Programme) is designed to give you hands-on experience in the building materials industry, providing the perfect blend of learning and earning. Whether you’re fresh out of school or seeking a new career path, LEAP offers a great training experience that prepares you for a future in this essential sector.

Why Consider a Career in Building Materials?

The building materials sector might not be the first industry that comes to mind when planning your future, but it’s one that’s full of opportunities. From sustainable construction practices to innovative new products, this industry is at the forefront of shaping the spaces where we live, work, and play. LEAP Apprenticeships are a great gateway into this world, as they are the leading provider to the sector and the Builders Merchants Federation’s (BMF) appointed full-service apprenticeship provider which means all 900 BMF business members can offer their new and existing workforce practical experience, professional mentorship, and the chance to build great career paths within their businesses.

What Makes LEAP Stand Out?

Diverse Career Paths: LEAP apprenticeships cover a wide range of roles, from logistics and manufacturing to sales and marketing, offering something for everyone regardless of your background or interests.

Earn While You Learn: Unlike traditional education routes, apprenticeships allow you to earn a competitive wage while gaining valuable skills and qualifications that are nationally recognised.

Support and Mentorship: Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll be guided by experienced professionals who are passionate about your success. They’ll help you navigate the challenges and opportunities in the industry, ensuring you’re well-prepared for a rewarding career.

Industry-Relevant Training: LEAP ensures that you’re not just learning theory but applying your skills in real-world situations. This hands-on approach is key to building the confidence and expertise needed to excel in the building materials sector.

Who Should Apply?

LEAP apprenticeships are available to all building materials sector businesses wanting to upskill their new and existing workforce. The programmes are perfect for school leavers looking to jumpstart their careers and career changers eager to explore a new field. No prior experience in building materials is required—just a willingness to learn, a commitment to hard work, and a desire to be part of a dynamic industry.

How to Get Started

Ready to take the leap into a new career? Visit employers careers sites for their current vacancies via the Building Materials Careers or visit the LEAP Apprenticeships website to find out more about the programmes on offer across the sector. This could be the start of a fulfilling career in a sector that’s both stable and evolving, with plenty of room for growth and innovation.

The building materials sector is more than just bricks and mortar—it’s about creating the future. With LEAP Apprenticeships, you can be a part of that future, building not just structures, but a lasting career.

For further information, visit the LEAP website.

Team of apprentices