Lawsons joins Fortis

Independent builders merchant buying group Fortis has welcomed London-based Lawsons as its latest member.

The addition of the South-East independent merchant to the group will increase the membership to 40 with a combined turnover in excess of £1billion.

Fortis chairman, John Parker, said: “We would like to welcome Lawsons to the group, who have the same strategic approach to the market and want to work with us to offer suppliers the first credible alternative to the nationals.”

Established in 1921 as a supplier of timber and fencing, Lawsons trades via its 3 brands of Lawsons (Whetstone) Ltd, Crowthorne Fencing and Sharvatt Woolwich Ltd.

The merchant has over 300 employees and supplies timber and building materials from 17 branches throughout London and the South East.

Lawsons managing director, Tony Munkley, said: “Following open dialogue with the Fortis team and careful consideration, the decision to become a member of a dynamic buying group was a logical one.

“We are looking forward to becoming an active contributor to Fortis and developing strong relationships with our fellow members and suppliers”