Jewson Live – the UK’s largest Builders’ Merchant Show

Yesterday, the Buildingtalk editorial team visited Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre for Jewson Live, the first of an annual Jewson event for construction professionals, showcasing the latest developments in products and techniques from across the industry.

It was a great event, packed with Jewson trade customers from around the UK, who were able to visit over 140 exhibitors from leading construction brands. Many were offering product deals as part of the event. The hospitality at the show was free for visitors, including a great lunch.

Jewson’s marketing director, David Fenton, said: “We wanted to create an event which will give customers an insight into the latest product innovations, techniques and industry trends all in one day.

“We know that our customers are extremely busy, so the event was designed to offer a snapshot of everything they will be interested in for 2016 and beyond.”

Jewson shows support for Street League

Jewson Live presented us with the opportunity to meet with Allan Davidson, Regional Director at Jewson, who is passionate about helping young people make a start on their career.

He explained the benefits of Jewson’s collaboration with Street League, a charity that helps to tackle youth unemployment, using football.

“With nearly half a million 16 to 24 year olds in the UK currently without employment, initiatives such as Street League are fundamental in ensuring that young people gain the skills and workplace experience they need.”

Jewson supports Street League by offering work experience placements for up to 100 young people.

Street League Scotland’s managing director, Dougie Stevenson, has said: “Working at Jewson stores gives our young people a fabulous opportunity to hone the skills they have acquired on the Street League Academy, build their CVs and become attractive employees to other employers. We’re delighted that some of graduates have also gone on to work for Jewson on a permanent basis.”

Industry talks at Jewson Live

The event also featured presentations from leading industry figures, exploring topics such as the skills gap and sustainable building.

MY COMFORT BY SAINT-GOBAIN

Stacey Temprell, Sector Director, Saint-Gobain explored the My Comfort building concept that promotes better, more efficient buildings and improved health and well-being for building users.

SELLING COMFORT USING GREENWORKS FSAP

Marcus Jefford, Greenworks Training Academy Director discussed how a systems approach to building will make life easier for the trade, plus key product innovations to be aware of for 2016.

Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen was among Jewson Live’s many speakers

BUILDING REGULATIONS 2016 UPDATE

Martin Taylor, Commercial Director, LABC spoke on the building regulations to be aware of for 2016, what’s current and what’s coming, alongside product certification.

GO CONSTRUCT

Nathaniel Cooke, Project Manager, CITB covered apprenticeships, and the new industry-owned careers service, Go Construct, and how it can benefit your business.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PRODUCTS

Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, British homestyle consultant and TV guru, drew upon his own personal experiences building and renovating homes to talk about how choosing the right products and solutions can leave a lasting legacy. He said: “For British people, our homes are an iconic part of our lives”