300 Built its in southern Africa

Well-known hardware franchise, Build it, announced in South Africa its chain of brandname stores have now exceeded the 300 mark.

Build it is a voluntary trading group of independent retailers in the hardware and building materials industry. Build it stores are found in most countries in southern Africa.

In 2001, with a store count of 62, Build it reported total retail turnover for the group at R231 million. In 2013, twelve years later, this figure has grown to a phenomenal R8.3 billion!

Build its vision is to dominate the supply of basic building materials to the market in southern Africa and it is evident that they are doing just that! Build it focusses primarily on the building of the basic urban house, the ‘township’ house, rural housing and all home improvements. Offering superior customer service, leadership in terms of stock and range as well as the best value for money, it is no wonder Build it is where it is today.

 

Build its business model of voluntary trading is what has put this group ahead of its game. Giving each member the advantage of great buying power, a comprehensive distribution and delivery network, a strong regional and national advertising programme as well as a full leadership and consultant service, to name a few, without having to sacrifice their independence, is a model that is clearly working for the group. This system of trading puts the retailer in a position where they are able to compete with the major chains and assists in combating increased opposition and competition.

Ray Whitmore, Managing Director of Build it, said “This is truly a great achievement for the Build it group. These past 13 years have seen our store numbers grow significantly. The foundation of this growth has been huge commitment and teamwork from our retailers, suppliers and Build it staff.