The headquarters launch event this week attracted 160 people from BMF member companies, prospective new members and other trade industry bodies. The building was officially opened by England 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning captain Martin Johnson.
"Over the last 18 months, the BMF has undergone significant changes in response to market conditions to meet the changing needs of members and reshape the organisation for the future," said Mr Newcomb. "The completion of our new HQ and relocation here marks the completion of a process and we can now look forward."
The reorganisation, he added, comprised streamlining the Federation and selling its long-established central London base in Soho Square to move to the Midlands.
"We now have a team of 10, including our chairman, compared with 30 not so long ago," said Mr Newcomb. "That has been a major step, but has been appreciated by members who have had to go through similar experiences in the current economic climate."
The BMF says the relocation to Coventry also makes it more accessible. "The Midlands is perhaps the perceived heart of the builders merchants trade and our new site has excellent links to the M6, M1, M40, good rail connections and of course Birmingham airport half an hour away. We also have plenty of parking."
As part of its overhaul, the BMF has cut membership fees an average of 25%.
"We’ve also simplified the fee structure, basing it purely on turnover bands," said Mr Newcomb. "As a result, we’ve seen membership increase after five years of decline, both with new companies joining and past members returning, and the total currently stands at around 330, made up two-thirds of merchants and a third suppliers."
Among the latest merchants to join, he added, were Sydenhams, Cartmore and Grant & Stone, while new supplier members include Hamilton Acorn and Velux.
"We’ve have a new programme of engagement to recruit and retain members," said Mr Newcomb. "I’ve visited around 80 members in my first nine months in the role and we’ve also recruited two new regional managers."
The new BMF HQ has been refurbished to showcase latest building products, with a focus on UK-made. It is also designed for energy efficiency, with a sustainable strategy for the refit undertaken by member the Green Energy Centre.
