Fire-hit Wolverhampton merchant Carvers Building Supplies has pledged to “recreate what we had and better” following a staff meeting on Monday.
A massive fire destroyed most of the company’s main Littles Lane site last week, prompting a flood of support from across Wolverhampton for the popular 116-year-old £28m turnover firm.
Wolves football legend Steve Bull, DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles and the mayor of Wolverhampton were among those giving messages of support.
Director Henry Carver thanked people for the support they gave during the launch of this year’s Wolverhampton City Marathon, which Carvers sponsors, saying “from adversity and depression we can do better and create opportunities”.
“We have started to put a plan together to move forward. I am just thankful no-one was hurt – bricks and mortar can be rebuilt.”
Despite the devastation, the company is open for deliveries and is fulfilling outstanding orders with a team working “around the clock”.
Most of the 200 staff have temporarily relocated to the Carvers’ timber production site based in Neachells Lane, Willenhall.
Over the next four to six weeks the charred depot at Littles Lane will be demolished and temporary buildings will be erected to house trade counters and stocks.
Wolverhampton’s mayor councillor Bert Turner said he was “shocked and saddened by the fire” and that the council will “offer assistance and do all that we can as a council moving forward”.
Local football legend Steve Bull said he had every faith that Mr Carver would work “relentlessly to ensure his business survives and flourishes in the future”.
