It was a momentous day for the LBS Group at the highly esteemed Builders Merchants Journal (BMJ) Industry Awards 2025, held at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in London. On Thursday, 25th September, the industry’s finest gathered to honour excellence, innovation, and emerging talent across the builders’ merchant sector – and the LBS Group stood proudly among the top contenders.
As the largest and leading independent builders’ merchant in South Wales, the LBS Group was shortlisted in an impressive eight categories, reflecting the dedication and hard work of its 470-strong team. The nominations spanned both branch-level and individual achievements, showcasing the breadth of talent and commitment across the organisation.
The LBS Group was thrilled to take home first place in six of the prestigious awards, a true testament to the passion, teamwork, and excellence that define the company’s ethos.
The group was honoured with the following accolades:
- Independent Merchant of the Year (9–20 branches)
- Timber Merchant of the Year
- E-commerce Initiative of the Year
Ben & Rachel Davies collecting the award for Independent Merchant of the Year (9-20 Branches) from Lawrence Dallaglio and category sponsor, Knauf UK.
These group awards highlight LBS’ continued investment in digital innovation, customer service, and sustainable growth across its network of branches.
In addition to the collective success, LBS celebrated remarkable individual achievements including:
- Independent Rising Star of the Year – Dayle Selvage, Manager, Total Plumbing Llanelli
- Branch Manager of the Year – Rob Matthews, Manager, LBS Neath
- Industry Personality of the Year – Rachel Davies, Managing Director
The LBS Group’s very own Dayle Selvage picks up the award for Independent Rising Star of the Year, sponsored by Unilin Insulation.
These individual honours reflect the outstanding leadership, drive, and influence of key team members who continue to inspire their colleagues and elevate the company’s reputation within the industry.
LBS also secured runner-up positions in two highly competitive categories:
- Bathroom Showroom of the Year – Total Plumbing Swansea
- Heating & Plumbing Merchant of the Year – Total Plumbing
Ben Davies and Rachel Davies, LBS Group Managing Directors said:
“We are so proud to be recognised at the BMJ Industry Awards. In our view, these awards reflect the continued investment in our LBS colleagues, and the hard work of all our team in delivering the LBS strategy. We are so thankful to our staff, suppliers and of course customers. You’re the guys who put us here, and these awards have been achieved by and are shared with the entire LBS Family. These days in London are a proud day for Team LBS.”
The BMJ Awards are more than just a celebration – they are a recognition of the people who make the builders merchant sector thrive. Every member of the LBS team plays a vital role in delivering quality, expertise, and service to communities across South Wales. These awards honour that collective effort and the culture of excellence that drives the business forward.
LBS extends heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and finalists. It was a fantastic day of celebration, camaraderie, and recognition, and LBS is proud to be part of such a dynamic and forward-thinking industry.
Here’s to continued success, innovation, and collaboration in the year ahead – raising the bar even higher for what’s possible in the builders’ merchant sector.
All winners at the BMJ Industry Awards 2025 celebrating with their trophies