In a significant development within the construction industry, two of Britain’s oldest trade associations have agreed to merge. This union is expected to enhance the representation and services offered to members across England, Wales, and Scotland. The consolidation plans have been in motion following extensive collaboration over two years. Leadership from both federations expresses optimism for the future. The merger aims to strengthen influence on critical industry policies.
In a move poised to reshape the British construction landscape, the National Federation of Builders (NFB) and the Scottish Building Federation (SBF) have agreed to merge. This decision, deemed historic by industry insiders, will consolidate over two centuries of combined industry experience to enhance service offerings and better represent building firms throughout England, Wales, and Scotland.
The NFB, boasting a membership exceeding 1,400 firms in England and Wales, and the SBF, representing over 300 businesses in Scotland, have long been pillars of the construction community. After a meeting held in Glasgow on 6th June 2024, delegations from both organisations resolved to unify into a single entity within the next 18 to 24 months.
This decision follows a significant period of joint collaboration beginning more than two years ago, culminating in a partnership accord released in 2023. Both federations share a storied history, with the NFB tracing its roots back to 1880 and the SBF established in 1895, reinforcing their longstanding commitment to the construction industry.
Richard Beresford, the Chief Executive of the NFB, articulated the strategic vision behind the merger, highlighting the mutual respect and historical relations between the two organisations, stating, “We have long considered the SBF to be our ‘sister’ organisation and have enjoyed many decades of cordial relations, culminating in a significant level of partnership working in recent years.”
Paul Mitchell, Operations Director of the SBF, further echoed this sentiment, recognising the critical timing for such a union, “The construction industry can suffer at times due to fragmentation or divisions that make it harder to secure the support we need. By joining together, we can maximise our influence on critical policy areas whilst also delivering significantly enhanced services and benefits to our combined membership.”
The merger signifies a forward-thinking step towards unified representation, promising enhanced influence and services for industry members.
