How Huws Gray went from local builders’ merchant to industry leader through impressive growth and turnover

The company’s remarkable expansion has been fuelled by strategic acquisitions, strong customer relationships, and a deep understanding of the construction industry’s needs.

Initially focused on serving local builders and tradespeople, the company’s early success was built on providing excellent customer service, competitive pricing, and a deep understanding of the products that builders needed. From the outset, the founders aimed to create a builders’ merchant that put the customer first and provided a comprehensive range of building materials and services.

While organic growth has been an important part of Huws Gray’s success, the company has also pursued an acquisition strategy that has transformed it from a regional to national. Over the past decade, Huws Gray has acquired numerous independent builders’ merchants and regional chains, helping to rapidly expand its presence across the UK.

Huws Gray’s acquisition strategy has played a pivotal role in its growth. The company has acquired several notable players in the industry, including Buildbase, Ridgeons, and PH Timber, among others. These acquisitions have enabled Huws Gray to expand its geographic footprint, increase its customer base, and enhance its product offerings. By integrating these businesses into its operations, Huws Gray has been able to grow rapidly while maintaining its high standards of customer service and product availability.

Huws Gray’s financial performance has mirrored its rapid geographic expansion. Over the past few years, the company has achieved impressive turnover figures, reflecting both its organic growth and its successful acquisitions. As the company has grown, it has continued to invest in its operations, expanding its product range and improving its infrastructure to support increased demand.

Following the acquisition of Buildbase and other key businesses, Huws Gray’s turnover skyrocketed, surpassing £1 billion in recent years. This significant growth in turnover showcases the company’s ability to integrate acquired businesses seamlessly into its operations while continuing to deliver strong financial results.

Despite its rapid expansion, Huws Gray has maintained a solid profit margin, reflecting its operational efficiency and strong market positioning. The company’s ability to control costs, optimise its supply chain, and focus on customer satisfaction has enabled it to achieve consistent financial performance, even in challenging market conditions.

Like many businesses in the construction sector, Huws Gray has faced challenges, including fluctuating demand for building materials, supply chain disruptions, and rising costs. However, the company’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions and its strategic acquisitions have positioned it well for continuous growth.

Looking ahead, Huws Gray is on track for continued success. The company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer service will help it capitalise on emerging trends in the construction industry, including the shift toward green building and the increasing demand for digital solutions in the supply chain.

Shalini Khemka CBE, CEO and Founder of the entrepreneurial community E2E, comments on the success of Huws Gray: “This company has shown admirable perseverance within the construction sector, and this is evidenced by its continually impressive turnover results.

“Like the other companies in the E2E Dynamic 100 list, Huws Gray is an example to other businesses in the UK about how through combining organic and strategic growth, you can continually expand and generate those outstanding turnover results.”

For more information and to see the full E2E Dynamic 100 2024 list click here.