KBzine: the original kitchen and bathroom industry e-news - since 2002
28th January 2021

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F & P bolsters building and plumbing expertise by welcoming new category manager

F & P, Primaflow & Connections, a leading UK distributor of plumbing, heating and bathroom materials, has appointed Gary Shields as the new category manager for bathrooms and fires.

Gary joins F & P with nearly 10 years' experience in the trade sector and over 10 years in the retail sector, having previously worked as a buying manager for Homebase and as a bathrooms category manager in the plumbing industry.

Andy Raine, commercial director at F & P, Primaflow & Connections says Gary will work closely with suppliers and supply teams to develop F & P's bathroom and fire range.

"With his background in the trade and retail industry, and his experience in working with international clients, Gary brings valuable experience to the sector and will be integral in driving our business development projects."

After completing a BA (Honours) degree in Business Studies at the University of North London, Gary went on to complete an MA in Retail Management at the University of Manchester.

He began his career in the retail sector with DIY and home improvement company B&Q, and later worked as a product development consultant with customers in Hong Kong and China.

"I am excited for the opportunity to grow my experience in the trade industry with F & P," he says. "I believe we have an excellent range of bathroom products, and I know I'm joining a really strong team with a great deal of industry experience. I'm looking forward to working with them to expand business within the bathroom and fires sectors."

In addition to a wide selection of branded items, F & P carries almost 4,000 own-brand plumbing products, offering merchants a higher margin alternative. F & P's experts operate from a network of nine UK distribution centres, providing next-day delivery and outstanding customer service to over 3,000 customers each month.

The company also supplies a wide range of brassfoundry, tube fittings, taps, mixers and related plumbing and heating materials from its Birmingham based Primaflow & Connections business to merchants, wholesalers and specialist trade distributors. With roots going back 40 years, F & P has established a reputation within the merchant sector for offering quality products and a first rate service at a competitive price.

E: [email protected]
W: www.fpwholesale.co.uk

11th November 2016