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Builders’ merchants are seeing a broad improvement in trading conditions, with heavy-side materials, insulation and timber all contributing to a stronger quarter. Branch teams report that forward orders are becoming easier to plan and customer confidence is gradually returning.
What this means for merchants
More consistent demand gives merchants room to improve stock availability without returning to the excess inventory levels seen earlier in the cycle. The strongest operators are pairing local product knowledge with faster collection and delivery options.
What to watch next
Margins, energy costs and regional housebuilding activity remain the key indicators. Buyers will also watch whether supplier lead times stay stable as volumes increase.
Topic: Latest News. Merchant Exchange will continue to follow developments and publish practical updates for branch teams, buyers, suppliers and industry leaders.
