Chain snaps up Accrington builders merchant

Independent chain Haldane Fisher has strengthened its presence in Lancashire with the acquisition of Accrington's Greengates Builders Merchants.

The Greengates business adds to the most recent Morecambe branch, the already established Heckmondwike, Makerfield sites, and newly-refurbished Garstang branch. This now brings the total number of Haldane Fisher branches in England to five.

As part of the acquisition, the full team of more than 20 staff have been retained.

Simon Walling, who leads the Haldane Fisher brand in England and the Isle of Man, said: "This represents a very exciting opportunity for Haldane Fisher and will undoubtedly complement our existing branch network and plans to further expand our footprint in the North West of England."

Steve Pickup, former managing director of Greengates Builders Merchants, said: "Joining forces with Haldane Fisher marks an exciting chapter in the history of Greengates. We are confident that working together will bring about new opportunities, enhance our capabilities, and contribute positively to the continued success of the business."

Family owned since its inception in 1946, Haldane Group incorporates Haldane Fisher NI, Haldane Fisher - Isle of Man, Haldane Fisher - UK, GE Robinson, Plumbmaster, Prowood, Bathline and Key Hardware.

Haldane Group serves both trade and the general public, with 22 branches across Northern Ireland, England, and Isle of Man supplying 13,000 products across 800 brands.