BMF confirms membership cost reductions from April 2012

Builders merchant organisation the Builders Merchants Federation has confirmed a new cost structure to be implemented from April 2012, which will mean a subscription rate reduction for most members.

The cost of membership will fall by approximately 30% or more, but the BMF is promising that there will be no reduction in the organisation's core services. Membership for suppliers, distributors and service members has not changed.

The move forms part of the BMF Board's recent structural review of the organisation, announced last month. BMF headquarters will be moving from London to a central Midlands location, with additional focus on training and support services and lobbying activity.

"In today's uncertain economic trading conditions everyone is looking for value for money and builders' merchants are no exception," said Terry Parker, chairman of the BMF. "We understand that margins are being squeezed, so we looked at how we could help by reducing the overall cost of BMF membership."

The new simplified rates comprise of eight bands and merchant members can see at a glance their rate for the coming year.

Merchant members may also choose to receive printed copies of all BMF publications by post for a flat rate charge of £85 per branch. Alternatively, they may receive the same information emailed in a digital format free of charge.

"We are delighted that we are able to offer this immediate financial support but, just as importantly, the subscription bands are now clear, simple and predictable," says Parker. "The previous system involved a complex calculation based on each merchant member's actual turnover, so they never knew in advance how much their subscription would be.

"We also hope to welcome back some members who left in the past owing to high costs and add new members now it is more affordable."

Parker will be writing personally to each merchant member to explain their new subscription rate, and that no merchant member should be paying more under the new banding system. It is likely that mid-sized merchants, the core of the membership, will benefit most and typically the majority will pay 30 to 50% less than last year.

For more information, please contact Terry Parker: t.lj.parker@btinternet.com

New BMF annual Subscription prices by turnover:

Under £1m - £300
Under £2m - £600
Under £5m - £900
Under £12.5m - £1,500
Under £50m - £2,500
Under £100m - £5,000
Under £250m - £7,000
Over £250m - £15,000

Source : Builders Merchants Journal
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net/news/news.asp?id=8240&title=BMF+membership+cost+reductions+revealed