One of the most important and common materials used in construction is steel. Many buildings—be they residential, commercial, or industrial—heavily rely on steel. Currently, the use of secondary steel is heightening. It’s manufactured from the remains of primary steel to be recycled and molded. This kind of steel has no
The UK’s largest sawmiller and manufacturer of sawn timber products has launched an Accredited Installer Scheme that offers an array of exclusive benefits to contractors across the country. BSW’s Accredited Installer Scheme allows landscapers, joiners and builders to benefit from a wide range of services and support that will
Selco Builders Warehouse has stepped up its commitment to delivering a sustainable future for the business, its customers and colleagues by planting a new forest. In what is believed to be the most significant development of its kind in the builders merchant industry, Selco has directly supported the planting of
Roger Bullivant South East has completed the installation of more than 3,000 Continuous Flight Auger Piles for a major residential scheme with the award-winning developer, Croudace Homes. Roger Bullivant was appointed in 2016 to install over 3,000 300mm diameter Continuous Flight Auger (CFA) piles across four phases to bring forward
Knauf Insulation’s Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab has earned the industry’s first BBA certification for double layering and for use below the damp proof course (DPC), making it certified for the broadest range of build-ups of any rainscreen solution on the market. “We know how much contractors value the peace of mind
London’s Canary Wharf, home to the European headquarters of Barclays, Citigroup, HSBC and many other businesses is currently operating at 10 per cent capacity, with most employees working from home. To put that in perspective, that’s about 12,000 people of the total 125,000 workforce using the buildings. Here, Adam Fox,
Pure Polyurea is a new fast-track waterproofing system from TN International. A next-generation, solvent-free roof waterproofing system with excellent crack-bridging performance has been launched by global waterproofing specialists TN International (TNi). Pure Polyurea is the latest enhancement to TNi’s DacoShield PU cost-effective range of liquid roofing and waterproofing systems which
When it came to the management and control of surface water run-off at a caravan showground in Hull, StormCrate55, an engineered Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) from Brett Martin was up for the challenge. The static caravan manufacturer’s facility features a newly refurbished showground where customers can view a huge range
If you want a new concrete parking lot or driveway in your home, then you may consider looking for a reliable concrete contractor in your area. It’s always best to look for a local contractor since they’re more knowledgeable about your area’s soil type, plant and tree populations, as well
Travis Perkins plc, which is the UK’s largest supplier of building materials and owner of the Travis Perkins builders’ merchants, Toolstation and many specialist trade businesses, is celebrating Pride across the Group. More specifically, colleagues will be using Pride in June to educate themselves on what it means to become
One of the most important and common materials used in construction is steel. Many buildings—be they residential, commercial, or industrial—heavily rely on steel. Currently, the use of secondary steel is heightening. It’s manufactured from the remains of primary steel to be recycled and molded. This kind of steel has no mill certifications, and it’s cheaper compared to primary steel. Secondary steel can also be the result of processes such as steel slitting. It serves to fulfil specific customers’ needs. There are several benefits associated with secondary steel. Here are just some of them: How Is Secondary Steel Used? Given how advantageous secondary steel is, it’s not surprising that it has many industrial applications, including the following: 1. Surface Casing Surface casing is a pipe installed in gas and oil wells. It’s placed near a well to safeguard water sands against leakage or contamination resulting from gas or oil drilling projects. Surface casings are used in concrete pilings in many construction processes, too. 2. Frame Construction Secondary steel can be utilized in forming the frame that supports primary frames in the construction of houses. That kind of support is crucial to ensure that the main frames don’t twist or break. Frames made from secondary steel also help in attaching walls and roofs. These are several common framing parts you may encounter: 3. Pipe Making Recycled steel can also be used to manufacture pipes, which could be irrigation, plumbing, or water pipes. These end products of recycled steel work as well as their counterparts made from primary steel. 4. Packaging Uses Secondary steel can be used in manufacturing food packaging materials and beverage containers. The process involved is usually cost-effective and doesn’t harm the environment. 5. Automobiles Secondary steel is considered a strong and affordable material in the production of some vehicle parts. Even old automobiles are recycled to make new ones. This is possible because steel doesn’t degrade quickly. 6. Home Furniture And Appliances Couches, tables, and chairs can have legs made from secondary steel. When it comes to designing modern furniture, steel can be incorporated in order to come up with stylish designs. What’s more, offices can have modern cabinets and sleek desks manufactured from secondary steel. Lightning fixtures, refrigerators, stoves, and dishwashers have parts constructed from recycled steel as well. These home appliances and furniture are all durable. 7. Signs And Creative Endeavors Secondary steel can be used for outdoor road and entryway signs. Meanwhile, some communities turn to secondary steel to produce outstanding sculptures. These artistic pieces can last a long time. 8. Creation Of New, Sturdy Metal Products With the aid of an electric arc furnace, secondary steel can be refined and turned into quality products. During the process, less energy is used, which ultimately helps in lowering costs. The metals manufactured can be used in railway and bridge construction. Takeaway The use of secondary steel in various industries is increasing. This is because of the benefits that come with this metal, among them being durability and affordability. In the long run, it may help contribute to the reduction of steel materials in landfills. Moreover, utilizing secondary steel is a great way to save on costs associated with primary steel.
The UK’s largest sawmiller and manufacturer of sawn timber products has launched an Accredited Installer Scheme that offers an array of exclusive benefits to contractors across the country. BSW’s Accredited Installer Scheme allows landscapers, joiners and builders to benefit from a wide range of services and support that will help to promote and add value to their business. Benefits include exclusive product training and automatic access to a rewards scheme, whereby installers can earn money just for using BSW products. Installers will also have access to a personalised dashboard on the BSW website, allowing them to promote their specialist services and gain leads for their business. Installers will receive a comprehensive membership pack, which includes BSW product samples, literature and branded merchandise. The scheme is completely free to join and there are no monthly fees involved. By joining installers will gain insider access to BSW’s innovative products and dedicated training for all BSW products, including fencing and landscaping, and the IRO and Alchemy ranges. Ideal for those working within landscaping, contractor and construction roles, the Accredited Installer Scheme will see members listed as approved installers on the BSW website, and members will reap the benefits of an exclusive rewards system – these reward points equate to money off with their local merchants. Alongside their listing as an accredited installer, members can access technical support from the BSW team. They will receive local job referrals, giving them a competitive advantage as a trusted installer, and expertise recommended by BSW. John Roberts, Owner of Greentop Landscapes and Design, was the first member of BSW’s Accredited Installer Scheme. John said: “I’m delighted to be a part of BSW’s Accredited Installer Scheme and it sets the standard for the timber industry. It’s a great opportunity for us landscapers and it’ll help us to secure jobs in the future. The benefits of joining the scheme are endless and I’m chuffed to be a BSW Accredited Installer.” Sian Moreton, AIS Project Manager and National Sales Manager, at BSW said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be able to launch the new BSW Accredited Installer Scheme. This is something we have been perfecting for a while now and we really believe that by working hand in hand with all our fantastic installers as well as our network of suppliers we can help grow all our businesses together. “The new scheme is an amazing opportunity for landscapers to grow their job opportunities all while gaining an in-depth knowledge and working with some of our award-winning timber products.” The Accredited Installer Scheme is already live on the BSW website, and members can sign up for free today. To sign up to the scheme, or to find out more information, simply visit: www.bsw.co.uk/installers
Selco Builders Warehouse has stepped up its commitment to delivering a sustainable future for the business, its customers and colleagues by planting a new forest. In what is believed to be the most significant development of its kind in the builders merchant industry, Selco has directly supported the planting of more than 100,000 trees across 100 acres at a site near Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders to create the Selco Forest. The trees will offset around 8,000 tonnes of carbon during their lifecycle, the equivalent of almost two years of Selco’s customer deliveries, and forms part of a wider package of measures designed to reduce the company’s carbon footprint. Howard Luft, chief executive of Selco Builders Warehouse, believes it is vital the company accelerates its sustainability programme as it looks to its long-term future. He said: “We are proud to be a forward-thinking organisation and there is no doubt in my mind that tackling climate change is the next major global challenge we will face. “Our resilience as a business has been demonstrated throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, during which we have delivered a response built around protecting our customers and our people, the two mainstays of our business, and we will adopt the same strategy around sustainability. “The effect our operations have on the environment has been on the agenda for a number of years but we recognise there is more that needs to be done. “The current priority is to address our carbon emissions. Planting the Selco Forest marks a step change in our actions on this front and we will be planting many hundreds of thousands more trees across the UK in the coming years to extend this project. “However, work on lowering our carbon footprint doesn’t end there. We have already taken steps towards achieving that, including installing LED lighting and a new gas management system across our entire branch network. “We are also overhauling our transport fleet by utilising alternative fuel vehicles – including Compressed Natural Gas and fully electric – in our fleet and removing single fuel petrol and diesel cars from our company car list. “This sustainability journey is a long-term vision and isn’t restricted to the local communities in which we operate but also incorporates the wider Selco family, including manufacturers and suppliers.” Selco has joined forces with the landowner and key timber supplier BSW Timber, together with BSW Timber’s subsidiary companies Tilhill and Carbon Store, to make the Selco Forest a reality. Carine Jessamine, Selco’s marketing director and head of sustainability, added: “The Selco Forest is an important milestone for our sustainability strategy and there will be more announcements on the wider programme in due course. “What is without doubt is that we are committed to continuing our investment in the future by playing our part in protecting our people, the environment and the planet.” With hundreds of trade brands always in stock, Selco’s 70 UK branches are firmly focused on helping tradespeople complete their jobs as quickly and effectively as possible. As well as offering trade services, Selco also has a strong digital presence including Click & Deliver, a Click & Collect service and a new website. For more information on Selco visit www.selcobw.com
Roger Bullivant South East has completed the installation of more than 3,000 Continuous Flight Auger Piles for a major residential scheme with the award-winning developer, Croudace Homes. Roger Bullivant was appointed in 2016 to install over 3,000 300mm diameter Continuous Flight Auger (CFA) piles across four phases to bring forward a development of 475 homes, a community centre, green open space, and a retail unit. Over the last six years and twelve visits, Roger Bullivant has worked in partnership with Croudace Homes to offer a sustainable and virtually vibration-free solution, allowing construction works to continue with minimal disturbances to adjacent buildings and new homeowners. Piles were installed using their in-house designed, 7000 series rigs to pile depths between 9.0 and 18.5m in made ground and weald clay ground conditions. The rigs are equipped with sensitive state-of-the-art instrumentation that monitors the installation of CFA piles, including pile depth, auger rotation, penetration rate, concreting pressure, extraction rate and over-break. CFA piling is drilled and concreted in one continuous operation enabling much faster installation time than bored piles and is one of the quickest forms of piling. This method can be used in ground conditions such as gravel, sand, silts, clay and low strength rock. “It has been very rewarding seeing this major regeneration scheme taking shape. Our collaborative approach has ensured that the project was completed to an award-winning standard despite the disruption of the global pandemic. Ensuring that we worked safely, efficiently and to the high standards we set ourselves is always our number one priority and look forward to working with Croudace Homes again soon,” commented Matt Walpole Area Manager at Roger Bullivant. As construction has developed, the site has been recognised by leading industry awards. In 2019, Croudace Homes was awarded the pride in the job award recognising site managers who achieve the highest standard in housebuilding. In 2020, the ongoing development was Highly Commended in the Best High-Volume New Housing Development category for the South East LABC Building Excellence Awards 2020.
Knauf Insulation’s Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab has earned the industry’s first BBA certification for double layering and for use below the damp proof course (DPC), making it certified for the broadest range of build-ups of any rainscreen solution on the market. “We know how much contractors value the peace of mind that comes from BBA certification,” said Luke Davies, Product Manager at Knauf Insulation. “Our RainScreen Slab is already certified for use in steel frames and behind masonry. Adding these applications and installation methods means customers can rely on Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab to provide a robust and durable solution, certified for all common rainscreen build-ups.” Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is a non-combustible Rock Mineral Wool slab with Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification, which means it complies with the strictest requirements of Approved Document B for dwelling buildings over 18m tall. It is available in the widest range of thicknesses up to 250mm, with a thermal conductivity of 0.034W/mK. Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab can be used in situations where it bridges the DPCs of the inner and outer leaf because it does not absorb water by capillary action. It is manufactured with a water repellent additive which also preserves its integrity while exposed during construction, and it has been wind load tested by the Building Research Establishment to a maximum design pressure of 3,600Pa or 76m/s – the equivalent of a category 5 hurricane. The BBA certification also covers timber frame applications with a masonry outer leaf, and on reinforced concrete substrates. Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is optimised for ease of installation. The improved robustness of the product makes it easy to manoeuvre in place, while still being able to adapt to minor imperfections in the substrate. The product is supported with extensive installation guides, which cover the double layering and below DPC applications. Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is manufactured using ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation’s unique bio-based binder, which contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. Mineral Wool insulation made with ECOSE® Technology is more environmentally friendly than insulation made using traditional oil-based binders. It is also soft to touch, easy to handle, and it generates low levels of dust and VOCs. For more information on Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab, visit https://www.knaufinsulation.co.uk/rainscreen-solutions To speak with a member of the Knauf Insulation Technical Support Team about your project call 01744 766 666.
London’s Canary Wharf, home to the European headquarters of Barclays, Citigroup, HSBC and many other businesses is currently operating at 10 per cent capacity, with most employees working from home. To put that in perspective, that’s about 12,000 people of the total 125,000 workforce using the buildings. Here, Adam Fox, director of vibration control specialist Mason UK, explains how these quieter times could change the face of London forever. Changing perceptions People’s perception of noise, or tolerance of it, may be different post-Covid. The busy office blocks that were synonymous with London work life have taken a different shape. They’re much, much quieter. Of course, less commuters, also mean London’s roads are a lot quieter too. In fact, in the height of lockdown, reports revealed London was quieter than it was back in 1928. As London begins to return to normal — or closer to normal — will people have become acclimatised to the quieter world? Will returning workers start to notice noise and vibration that they had previously been habituated to? Maybe. On the other hand, working from home for many hasn’t been silent bliss. More people at home, means more people walking around blocks of flats, playing music and undertaking DIY tasks they finally got round to doing. While noise and vibration in London hasn’t completely been obliterated, its shift in form has resulted in increased pressure to manage its effects in both office and residential environments. Changing buildings Buildings that are no longer the packed offices they once were, are likely to become mixed use to rebuild occupancy levels. This will result in office blocks having a mixture of residential and commercial inhabitants. Picture this. While one person is sleeping in their bedroom at night, someone is putting in a late-night overtime shift on the floor above using the photo copier. Similarly, while a business is holding its annual review meeting the next day, a resident above could be playing loud music and exercising. This is a complex challenge for developers. This medley of building applications puts significant onus on noise and vibration control to keep all building users happy. This control could be in the form of floating floors to break vibration transmission, or isolating commercial equipment, such as an industrial photocopier. As we begin to see more of these mixed-used buildings in the post-Covid world, we’ll no doubt begin to see some other challenges emerge too. For example, it is highly likely that both the residents and workers will want a communal gym facility. Gyms are becoming commonplace, but so too are the noise complaints that follow if vibration control isn’t implemented. To make sure weight drops don’t result in nuisance thuds and shudders, vibration breaks will need to be implemented. For gyms, a spring-loaded floating floor is normally the best option for free weight areas but there is not a ‘one fits all’ design as each structure responds differently to impact. The new face of London Property developers need to acknowledge the rising trend in mixed-use buildings and thoroughly consider the increased dynamism of these buildings, the array of people using them and the large range of activities taking place in them. Any acoustic consultants brought onto projects like these are welcome to reach out to Mason UK, to discuss how we can solve your vibration problems. For more information, email info@masonuk.co.uk or visit mason-uk.co.uk.
Pure Polyurea is a new fast-track waterproofing system from TN International. A next-generation, solvent-free roof waterproofing system with excellent crack-bridging performance has been launched by global waterproofing specialists TN International (TNi). Pure Polyurea is the latest enhancement to TNi’s DacoShield PU cost-effective range of liquid roofing and waterproofing systems which have recently been introduced into the manufacturer’s extensive portfolio. DacoShield Pure Polyurea is a two-component, extra fast-curing system that is applied by hot mechanical spraying equipment to waterproof concrete structures such as roofs, podiums, balconies and terraces. More than 800m2 can be applied in a single day, providing an extremely fast-track solution, even in areas difficult to access. The elastomeric membrane is BBA approved and has a Broof T4 fire classification, with a life expectancy of up to 60 years. As well as being solvent free and low-odour, it is also free of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). DacoShield PU liquid waterproofing systems have been specially designed to offer specifiers, contractors and clients a fast-curing, highly durable waterproofing solution for both new-build and refurbishment applications. With a choice of finishes and a full range of accessories, the DacoShield PU range provides a highly flexible, aesthetically pleasing waterproofing option for Modern Methods of Construction.
When it came to the management and control of surface water run-off at a caravan showground in Hull, StormCrate55, an engineered Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) from Brett Martin was up for the challenge. The static caravan manufacturer’s facility features a newly refurbished showground where customers can view a huge range of homes. Having previously used Stormcrate55 to successfully manage stormwater on a number of other projects, installer Catalogue Engineering undertook the installation for groundworks contractor Evabuild in order to reduce the risk of flooding on this trafficked site during periods of heavy rainfall. Manufactured from 100% recycled plastic, 523m³ of the StormCrate55 modular units were clipped together in a brick bond pattern to create a three tiered underground attenuation tank. With a loading capability of 562kN per m³, their high strength provided more than enough vertical strength for this tarmacked area at the showground. For the installation team, the lightweight crates, weighing only 15.5kg each, were easy to handle and fit together using the connectors and shear pins supplied. “A large amount of crates were required for this sprawling trafficked site,” commented Luke Dekonski of Catalogue Engineering. “The crates are easy to install and very well made, with no sharp corners so there is very low risk of puncturing the impermeable lining, reducing our risk when offering a warranty installation.” In the event of heavy rains, StormCrate55 has a high void ratio of 95%, which means that the units are highly efficient at storing up to 237.5 litres of water. On this project, the StormCrate55 system was surrounded with an impermeable membrane to create a sealed underground tank. The outlet from this tank is then controlled to facilitate a slow release of the stored water back into the drainage system over a longer period. For infiltration applications, StormCrate55 can also be wrapped in a permeable geotextile, material which allows stored water to slowly seep into the surrounding ground and back into the water table over a period of time. “The StormCrate units are also incredibly versatile which means the structure depth can be varied dependent on the application,” added Luke Dekonski. Suitable for installation in landscaped areas, pedestrianised spaces, playgrounds, parking areas, driveways and access zones, StormCrate55 is seen as one way of addressing the problem of flooding and avoiding using an overloaded sewer system. The use of StormCrate55 has ensured this showground will have a proven rainwater attenuation solution for the long term, reducing demand on the built drainage and the sewerage infrastructure.
If you want a new concrete parking lot or driveway in your home, then you may consider looking for a reliable concrete contractor in your area. It’s always best to look for a local contractor since they’re more knowledgeable about your area’s soil type, plant and tree populations, as well as climate. However, just like hiring other professionals, choosing the right concrete contractor who has significant experience can be an overwhelming process. With a variety of options to choose from, it may be difficult to look for the perfect one for your concrete needs. To help you with your search, here are some tips on how to find a top-rated local concrete contractor: 1. Conduct Research Thoroughly One of the primary ways to help you find the appropriate local contractor for your concrete project is to do thorough research. In today’s modern world, there are various ways to get a nice list of options. These can include: Internet search: With a few Internet searches, you may find an abundant list of potential concrete contractors. For instance, you may use some major search engines like Google, Yahoo, and many more. Family and friends: Ask your family and friends living in the same local area as you. They may have worked with some of the best concrete contractors in your area so they can recommend someone they know and trust. If you’re dealing with damaged concrete in Colorado Springs or wherever you may be located and want it repaired as soon as possible, then the fastest way to find a professional concrete contractor is by researching your options. For instance, you can visit website of concrete companies so you can get information and compare to select the best local contractor among them. 2. Compare Estimates You can also find a top-rated local concrete contractor by requesting detailed estimates from your prospects and comparing them to make a hiring decision. When you check estimates, you’ll have an idea of who you’re dealing with and determine whether they’re a great choice in terms of the following: Pricing: It’s one of the essential things to check in the estimate. Be sure to look not only at the overall price but also the breakdown itself. This means you should examine the costs of the base material, coloring, sealer, reinforcement, concrete thickness, and even the down payment. By checking these things, you’ll know whether the total price commensurate with the detailed breakdown. Specifications: In the contract document, the contractor should also specifically mention the details of the materials to be used, along with a timeline and local suppliers they work with. Moreover, check if the contractor specified how they’re going to tackle the project. If you want to get estimates from contractors who offer stamped concrete to beautify your home, you may want to click here for more information. 3. Check Experience Another way to find an exceptional concrete contractor in your area is to look at professional experience and insurance. This means choosing a professional who has been in the business of making concrete for at least five years as their experience will ensure a good level of reliability and stability. Typically, experienced concrete contractors know exactly what to do by taking an active part in your project and providing insights that can help your concrete project progress smoothly. You can review their portfolio and see samples of their work, especially when it comes to local concrete projects. 4. Request For Contact References Before you choose a local concrete contractor who can help enhance the durability of your outdoor areas and pavements, it’s important to ask them for a list of references. Once you have the list, make sure to contact those references living in your area. This will help you get to know more about your prospects and their work performance. For example, you can ask questions about the type of concrete project they had, the contractor’s level of communication and involvement, the length of the project, and the opinions of the references. After getting all the information, be sure to use them to make a sound decision. 5. Make Sure They Have Insurance It’s also vital to check your prospective contractor’s insurance. Sometimes, things can possibly go wrong while the work is going on. It can be cumbersome to worry and take care of accidents, injuries, or damages that might happen during the project, especially with the expenses that come with these. That’s why you need to make sure the professional you hire carries sufficient insurance coverage. Construction insurance protection can include equipment and tools, crime coverage, protection for their work vehicles. While the insurance is more likely to protect the interest and safety of the contractor and their workers, it’s an indication that your prospective contractor is professionally responsible for their business, which also lessens the burden and worries on your end. 6. Measure The Ease Of Communication Another vital way of finding an exceptional local concrete contractor is to measure their ease of communication. This means considering a professional who has friendly and professional behavior. They should be willing to answer your questions and get back to you on time. If the contractor doesn’t call you back or doesn’t want to answer your questions professionally, consider it as a sign to walk away and look for someone else. Moreover, check whether your potential concrete contractor has a physical office in your area so you can easily go to their office in case online communications aren’t accessible when you need them. The Bottom Line If you’re looking to have a successfully finished concrete project, it’s important to choose the right contractor in your local area. Whether you need some repairs or to build a concrete for your parking area or driveway, you should have a top-rated local concrete contractor who knows how to give the feel and look you want for your concrete surfaces.
Travis Perkins plc, which is the UK’s largest supplier of building materials and owner of the Travis Perkins builders’ merchants, Toolstation and many specialist trade businesses, is celebrating Pride across the Group. More specifically, colleagues will be using Pride in June to educate themselves on what it means to become good allies to lesbian, gay, bi, trans and questioning (LGBTQ+) people and colleagues. This celebration is integral to the Group’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy – You Be You, It Makes Us Us – to help build a more diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome, feeling that they belong and are comfortable to be themselves. As part of this, the company aims to ensure that everyone knows what it means to be an LGBTQ+ ally, and why it is an important part of creating an environment where LGBTQ+ colleagues and customers can feel safe and comfortable about who they are in and out of the workplace. During Pride, colleagues will be invited to embrace the celebrations through active participation in a raft of activities, ranging from allyship education training to reverse mentoring and local leadership team discussions. Those who feel comfortable will also be encouraged to add their pronouns to their email signatures, wear rainbow laces as part of their uniform in branches and stores nationwide, and dress brightly on Fridays throughout the month to show their support. “Being an ally is about showing support for, and solidarity with, our colleagues from the LGBTQ+ community, and celebrating the diversity of our fantastic business. It requires a curiosity about our colleagues, a desire to educate ourselves, and sometimes, the willingness to step in and stand up to others. An ally shouldn’t be prepared to leave unacceptable behaviour unchallenged. Fostering a work environment where our colleagues can be themselves without fear of discrimination and to feel included and supported is essential to enabling them to be happy and productive. “We’ll be a better place to work and better able to understand and serve our customers’ needs if our business genuinely reflects the diversity of our society and our customer base. Visibly celebrating and respecting difference is a key part of allyship. It helps us to attract the best people to work with us irrespective of social or ethnic background, gender, sexuality, disability or any other individual characteristics and makes us a stronger, better business,” explained General Counsel & Company Secretary for Travis Perkins plc and a sponsor for the Group’s LGBTQ+ network, Robin Miller. Acording to Stonewall, more than a third are known to hide that they are LGBTQ+ at work for fear of discrimination. Colleagues at Travis Perkins Group hope that through being brilliant allies, they can support LGBTQ+ colleagues and ensure they feel safe and comfortable about who they are, and eliminate any unfair treatment of them.