Building Sustainability Into Building Supplies

• Browse By Section
• Energy & Environment
• Building Sustainability Into Building Supplies

MKM Building Supplies, the builder’s merchant, is stepping up its sustainability game by cutting carbon and boosting energy efficiency at its 135 outlets, while backing greener building solutions across the board.

The company’s newly opened Cheltenham branch is the first to have the entire shell structure built to BREEAM Excellent standards.

Cheltenham is designed as an all-electric site including a roof-mounted solar PV array, air-source heating systems MVHR, movement-controlled LED lighting systems and intelligent energy management systems. Some 42% of the total annual electricity consumption will be provided by the PV system and with a REGO certified grid supply, the building achieves an operational carbon net-zero status for its energy use.

The branch also deploys electric forklift trucks, EV charging points and will shortly include an electric delivery vehicle.

Driving sustainability across the business

MKM’s environmental strategy goes beyond branch-level improvements, reflecting a long-term commitment to cutting carbon and improving energy efficiency across the business. As a builders’ merchant operating in a traditionally high-emission sector, MKM recognises the challenges it faces but it isn’t shying away from them. Instead, the company is taking a practical, proactive approach, backed by tangible initiatives that aim to drive real change throughout its operations.

“We know that construction has a significant carbon footprint, so we’re not pretending we have all the answers,” says Rachel Constable, the head of ESG at MKM. “What we do have is a clear and measurable plan to improve. We’re working within our own operations to cut emissions and we’re helping customers make informed choices about sustainability. Cheltenham is a great example of what’s possible but it’s just the start.”

Lease is the crease

One challenge MKM faces is that most of its branch buildings are leasehold properties. This means the company must work closely with landlords to implement sustainability improvements. However, attitudes are shifting and landlords increasingly recognise the long-term benefits of investing in energy-efficient properties, not only to comply with regulations but also to enhance the value of their assets.

“We don’t own all of our sites, which means we have to collaborate with landlords to make changes,” says David Shaw, the ead of special projects at MKM. “But we’re seeing landlords engage more actively in sustainability initiatives. Greener buildings are more attractive to tenants and investors alike. This aligns with our drive to operate more efficiently and responsibly. From that point, it’s up to us to make as many appropriate decisions as possible by choosing energy-efficient systems and operational best practices to ensure the entire building is as sustainable as possible.”

EcoVadis

MKM’s sustainability progress has also been recognised externally. In April, the business was awarded a Silver EcoVadis Medal, placing it in the top 15% of companies assessed for sustainability globally. The rating reflects strong performance across key areas including environmental impact, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement.

Picture: Since opening its Cheltenham branch, MKM has subsequently opened its 135th branch in Wolverhampton, creating 19 jobs and a trade-first service that’s open to everyone.

www.mkm.com

Article written by Cathryn Ellis
15th July 2025

Share

Related Articles