A Somerset-based builders merchant is celebrating 225 years in business.
Bradfords Building Supplies was founded in 1770 in Pibsbury, on the Somerset Levels, and has grown from a small local supplier to a network of more than 45 branches across the South West.
Over the last decade, the company has modernised its operations, from adopting new technology and logistics to developing new specialisms across its staff in plumbing, heating and renewables.
The business has invested heavily in transforming its transport fleet to meet customer demand, as well as expanding its branch network, including the opening of its first dedicated tool hire branch in Newton Abbot. earlier this year.
The company's chief executive David Young said: 鈥淭wo and a half centuries in business is an incredible achievement, and it鈥檚 something we鈥檙e hugely proud of.
"Bradfords has been part of the South West鈥檚 landscape for generations, helping to build homes, schools and local communities. That sense of history and continuity means a lot to us, and it鈥檚 what inspires us to keep moving forward.鈥
Mr Young said the company has always been proud of its ability to behave "like a younger, modern business".
"Bradfords has always adapted to what is in front of it 鈥 whether that鈥檚 changing customer needs, market conditions or global pandemics 鈥 we鈥檙e always evolving, and that willingness to look ahead and invest in our future is what keeps us relevant," he said.
The business has championed local and global initiatives, with Bradfords named one of the top Movember fundraisers in Europe last year, with 拢55,000 raised across its branches in 2024.
It has also continued to run its longstanding Bradfords Community Cup, which celebrates and nurtures grassroots sports across the region.
Andy Mees, deputy branch manager at Bradfords鈥 Yeovil branch, who recently celebrated 45 years with business, added: 鈥淚鈥檝e seen Bradfords grow from a handful of branches to a regional network, but what鈥檚 never changed is the spirit of the place.
"It鈥檚 a company that genuinely cares about its people, its customers, and the communities we serve. Being part of that journey for so long has been a privilege, and I鈥檓 proud to have played a small part in helping shape the Bradfords of today.鈥
