Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
Trade supplies merchant Flame Heating Group is expanding into Scotland with the opening of outlets in Glasgow, Ayr and Edinburgh.
The move into Scotland will lead to the creation of at least 10 jobs across the three locations, with scope for further expansion.
North East of England-headquartered Flame has initially opened branches in Glasgow and Ayr, with a further outlet to launch in Edinburgh this spring.
Stuart McTurk will lead the 4,285 sq.ft branch in Glasgow, with the support of Darren Kipling, Commercial Manager at Flame, while Kenny Ireland will direct the 3,000 sq.ft trade counter in Ayr.
McTurk, 30, from Kilmarnock, possesses more than 13 years’ experience in the industry, having started his career at a national merchant working his way up to Branch Supervisor, before his appointment as Spares Manager at another merchant.
Ireland, 46, from Ayrshire, has previously worked for national merchants, starting out as a YTS apprentice before progressing into management roles.
Established in 2011, Flame currently operates 10 branches, employing in excess of 50 staff. Turnover soared to £14.5m last year, building on its £6.4m revenues in 2016.
The company specialises in heating spares for commercial and domestic applications, renewable energy solutions and bathrooms, working with a number of leading, global manufacturers.
John Savage, Managing Director of Flame Heating Group, said: “This has been a long time coming and I am delighted that we are in a position to export our services to the Scottish market, which marks an exciting period in our short history. Launching outside of our traditional North East roots has always been an ambition of mine, which will support the strong growth we have enjoyed over the last seven years.
“Further launches will follow, as we identify key areas and locations in Scotland, while also opening further branches in the North East. I am confident we will replicate the success Flame has enjoyed, in Scotland, as we continue to grow our customer base, take on new contracts and increase our geographical reach.”
