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Anglesey-based independent builders merchant, Huws Gray, has bought Laycocks Timber Merchants in Wigan
The acquisition doubles the company’s presence in the area following the acquisition of Ainscough Building Supplies in Wrightington in August 2010, and further strengthens Huws Gray’s presence in the north-west.
Huws Gray chairman, John Llewelyn Jones welcomed the acquisition, saying: “We have been extremely pleased with our acquisition of Ainscough Building Supplies in August 2010 and are confident that we can strengthen our position in Wigan.
“We believe that Laycocks will be an extremely valuable addition to our portfolio as we expand our brand further into the north-west. A combination of the knowledge and experience of the existing Laycocks staff, allied to a healthy dose of the Huws Gray DNA and a substantial investment in mixed stock-holding will enable us to improve the branch, strengthen the company and improve the service offered to customers old and new.”
The company has also announced investment in an in-house training academy at the new branch location in Mochdre near Colwyn Bay, which opened its doors just before Christmas.
Managing director, Terry Owen, says this is part of the investment into a comprehensive training and development programme for all staff, beginning with the directors, area managers and branch management teams.
He says: “Training starts with management and I have as much to learn as anyone. I’m really excited about our commitment to develop our staff and am convinced that our new Academy in Colwyn Bay, allied to our existing training facilities at Queensferry, will be hugely beneficial for our staff as well as for the long-term health of the company.”
