Builders’ merchant value sales in Q1 2025 rose 0.9% year on year, though sales of timber and joinery products slipped -1.4%, according to the latest Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) report.
The figures show that across the quarter, volume sales increased +3.9%, while prices came down -2.9%, with no difference in trading days. It should be noted, however, that sales during March 2025 were up 7.2% – a significant rise on previous months.
Eight of the 12 categories examined in the BMBI report sold more in Q1 2025 compared to the same quarter a year before, with Services performing best (+5.3%). Heavy Building Materials (+2.0%) outperformed Total Merchants, while the next largest category – Timber & Joinery Products slipped -1.4% year-on-year. Workwear & Safetywear was the weakest category, falling -3.3%.
Quarter-on-quarter builders’ merchants’ value sales for Q1 2025 were +5.2% higher than the previous three-month period (October to December 2024). Volume sales increased +5.8%, while prices fell -0.5%. Eleven of the twelve categories sold more, with seasonal category Landscaping (+14.1%) growing the most, followed by Miscellaneous (+10.7%). Workwear & Safetywear (-0.8%) was the weakest category.
Emile van der Ryst, Key Account Manager – Trade & DIY – at NiQ GfK, said: “Timber & Joinery has continued its trend of value decline, with value down -1.4% against Q1 2024. Volume was up 2.9%, and price down by -4.2%. It’s however important to note that value decline is moving in the right direction, as Q1 2024 was down by -10.4% compared to Q1 2023. Sheet Materials has been the main driver behind this decline, with timber volumes relatively in line with overall market performance.”
