MEMBER NEWS
SOUTH
Supporting regional events The FMB and volunteering members attended the South West Homebuilding & Renovating Show in November at the Bath and West Showground. The FMB engaged with hundreds of visitors about what it does as an organisation and why its members are a cut above the rest. At the same time, volunteering members were stationed at the Advice Centre to provide homeowners with key information and guidance on their projects. South Director Iain Kirtley wishes to thank the members who took part, with additional gratitude to Andy Conduit from AB Conduit Building Ltd who presented to a packed audience about how best to choose a reliable, qualified and trustworthy contractor. The first Homebuilding & Renovating Show in 2025 takes place in Farnborough on 18 and 19 January, so if you’d like to take part or lend your support to any other regional show, please get in touch with Iain Kirtley on the details below.
CENTRAL
From tools to management
(l-r) Maria Coulter, Sam Coxhead, Ben Grasham and Harry Fanshawe at UK Construction Week
Central Director Nicola de Sousa organised and moderated a highly engaging panel discussion at UK Construction Week in Birmingham in October. As many FMB members transition from working on the tools to owning and running a business, Nicola wanted to explore this pathway by bringing together a panel of industry experts to discuss the matter, including: ● Construction Coach Maria Coulter ● Sam Coxhead owner of SJC Accountancy Ltd ● FMB member Ben Grasham of BH Grasham Limited ● FMB member Harry Fanshawe of Templewood Construction Ltd. The panel noted the importance of shifting from working in the business to working on the business. Maria said it is crucial to implement systems and processes, enabling business owners to delegate effectively and move away from low-value, time-based tasks,
allowing them to focus on the work that truly drives the company forward. The discussion resonated with many especially those keen to be more strategic about running their business. A standout issue in the session was the challenge of retentions. Ben and Harry said they refuse contracts with retentions, explaining how this protects their cash flow and avoids delays in payment. Sam confirmed that retentions – often around five per cent – can severely affect profitability and cash flow. One audience member shared their own difficulty with 12-month retentions on residential projects, which left thousands of pounds unpaid. The panel agreed that builders should push back on unsustainable contract terms, especially when trust has already been established with architects. Nicola extended her thanks to CITB for providing the platform for this valuable discussion.
SOUTH
Event success South Director Iain Kirtley attended the Kent Construction Expo in early October, the leading construction event in the South East, where he met with a number of businesses and organisations all eager to work with the FMB and its members. Look out for further details on our social media channels.
CONTACT ● Iain Kirtley , South Director Email: iainkirtley@fmb.org.uk | Call: 07741 240 665
CONTACT ● Nicola de Sousa , Central Director | Email: nicoladesousa@fmb.org.uk | Call: 07769 687 239
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Master Builder
www.fmb.org.uk
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