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Does the builders brew still cover it?
A Chichester builders merchant aims to find out
On Tuesday 7th May, Covers Timber & Builders Merchant in Chichester was offering free tea and coffee to all customers, to celebrate the launch of their Builders Brew survey. In addition, each customer received a free box of Covers branded tea-bags.
Covers is aiming to find out whether the traditional drink of choice for the industry, a nicely brewed cup of tea, still cuts it amongst the growing trend of coffee shops. Perhaps a cappuccino or latte has taken the crown. On the other hand, maybe our health-conscious nation has pushed herbal teas to the fore.
Henry Green, Commercial Director at Covers, commented: “There was a real interest surrounding the survey on the day of the launch and it certainly created quite a stir at the branch. We face a number of stereotypes in our industry, many of them false, and we want to discover whether this one still rings true. A number of people filled the survey out on the day so it’s off to a good start. I’m looking forward to seeing the results.”
The survey can be completed at any Covers branch or via the link here. The final date for completing the survey is Friday 31st May.
Chichester builders merchant employee takes on 50 mile charity challenge
An employee from the Chichester branch of Covers Timber & Builders Merchants has got his boots on ready to walk 50 miles in 24 hours. The challenge is part of Trek50 and will raise much needed funds for MedEquip4Kids.
Alastair Dymock will be joining colleagues from the Alresford branch and the team are hoping to raise £2,000 for the charity. The 24 hour walk, taking place between 22nd and 23rd June, will take the team around the Pennines on the Lancashire and Yorkshire border achieving a height gain equivalent to climbing Mount Snowdon or Ben Nevis.
Alastair Dymock commented:
“I’m really up for the challenge and the team is training hard. MedEquip4Kids is a fantastic charity and, at the outset, I’d like to thank everyone who shows their support and helps us to reach our target.”
Portsmouth builders merchant employee takes on 50 mile charity challenge
An employee from the Portsmouth branch of Covers Timber & Builders Merchants has got her boots on ready to walk 50 miles in 24 hours. The challenge is part of Trek50 and will raise much needed funds for MedEquip4Kids.
Sue Bailey will be joining colleagues from the Alresford and Chichester branches, and the team are hoping to raise £2,000 for the charity.
The 24 hour walk, taking place between 22nd and 23rd June, will take the team around the Pennines on the Lancashire and Yorkshire border achieving a height gain equivalent to climbing Mount Snowdon or Ben Nevis.
Sue Bailey commented:
“I’m really up for the challenge and the team is training hard. MedEquip4Kids is a fantastic charity and, at the outset, I’d like to thank everyone who shows their support and helps us to reach our target.”
Burgess Hill builders merchant takes on 50 mile charity challenge
Staff and customers from the Burgess Hill branch of Covers Timber & Builders Merchants have got their boots on ready to walk 50 miles in 24 hours. The challenge is part of Trek50 and will raise much needed funds for MedEquip4Kids. Covers’ Burgess Hill Branch Manager, Terry Lace, is being joined by three Covers customers, George Couchman from Bishophurst Ltd, John Farrall from John Farrell Building and Keith Ryan who are hoping to raise £2,000 for the charity. The 24 hour walk, taking place between 22nd and 23rd June, will take the team around the Pennines on the Lancashire and Yorkshire border achieving a height gain equivalent to climbing Mount Snowdon or Ben Nevis.
Terry Lace commented:
“We are all really up for the challenge and training hard. MedEquip4Kids is a fantastic charity and at the outset I’d like to thank everyone who shows their support and helps us to reach our target.”
Covers of Alresford builders merchant takes on 50 mile charity challenge
Staff from the Alresford branch of Covers Timber & Builders Merchants have got their boots on ready to walk 50 miles in 24 hours. The challenge is part of Trek50 and will raise much needed funds for MedEquip4Kids.
Covers’ Alresford Sales Representative, Jamie Dent, and employee Steve Bracher are hoping to raise £2,000 for the charity.
The 24 hour walk, taking place between 22nd and 23rd June, will take the team around the Pennines on the Lancashire and Yorkshire border achieving a height gain equivalent to climbing Mount Snowdon or Ben Nevis.
Jamie Dent commented:
“Steve and I are really up for the challenge and training hard. MedEquip4Kids is a fantastic charity and, at the outset, I’d like to thank everyone who shows their support and helps us to reach our target.”
Highbury College students renovate house in Fratton
Construction students at Highbury College are getting on the job experience by applying the skills they have learned during their time at the College to renovate a house in Fratton.
The three bedroom house was bought by the College at auction last September for the purpose of providing students studying carpentry, plastering, brickwork and various other trades at the Highbury Northarbour Centre with the opportunity to gain valuable experience of working in a realistic environment.
Once renovated, the College hopes to sell or rent out the house, with the proceeds being used to fund other housing projects and similar opportunities for the students to work on.
Rob Higgins, Head of Department for Construction and Multi-Crafts at Highbury College, explained the thinking behind the initiative: "Students are taken out of the workshops and classrooms and are put into a real working environment. This means they can put what they've learnt at college into practice and gain work experience to put on their CV.
"There is still a lot of work to do but it's a house with great potential. There are three good sized bedrooms, two toilets, a good sized living area and a large garden. I know the staff and students are really looking forward to seeing the end result."
Multi-crafts student Ben Bednall, 18, has been working on the house for two days. He said: "I've worked on a few houses before and it's always helpful to get more experience. It's a different kind of learning from our usual college day. It's even more practical and more of the kind of thing we will be doing in our working life."
Highbury College is a member of the Gazelle Colleges Group - a group of 19 further education colleges who are focused on providing a new style of commercial learning opportunity to their students. The group believe an emphasis on practical, real-world experience will help students to find employment, or create their own, in an uncertain economy.
Les Little, Senior Workshop Instructor and Assessor believes in the benefit a real working environment can make to his students' attitude and behaviour. He said: "This is the best I've seen my group work. They are getting stuck in and are really enjoying themselves."
The renovation has been supported by a number of local contractors and suppliers. Walker Electrical Services, from Copnor, have completely re-wired the property while Covers Timber and Builders Merchants have given very competitive prices for all of the materials. This has helped the renovation to be viable and will make future projects possible.
The renovation is due to be completed in three to four months and Highbury College building trades students will continue to benefit from other real life working opportunities after the sale.
Local tradesmen receive some love thanks to Builders Merchant
Local tradesmen were shown some love by the Tunbridge Wells branch of Covers Timber & Builders Merchants during their Valentine’s trade day by being given the chance to win some romantic prizes. The top prize of a spa day for two was won by Michael Freeman. Other winners from the local community included George Springate, Tom Watters, Dan Patience and Steve Satchell. From 7.30am until 5pm, suppliers were at the depot with special offers to tempt the customers. Covers also had some offers of their own throughout the day and those who attended were treated to a free burger and a hot drink.
Simon Vyvyan, Commercial Manager at Covers, commented:
“Since we acquired the site last August, we have had a great response from the local community. This day was all about saying thank you to our many loyal customers for their support. As the branch stocks the largest range of timber in the area, it was also the perfect chance to showcase the products that are available within our depot.”
Covers’ Tunbridge Wells branch is situated on the North Farm Industrial Estate.
Builders Merchant shows traders some love this February
Covers Timber and Builders Merchant will be holding a trade day at their Tunbridge Wells branch on Thursday 14th February.
From 7.30am until 5pm, suppliers will be at the depot with special offers to tempt the customers. Covers will also be running some offers throughout the morning and those attending will be treated to a free burger and a hot drink.
As it is Valentine’s Day, there will also be a love theme with the chance to win a luxury weekend for two plus other prizes.
Henry Green, Commercial Director of Covers, commented:
“Since we acquired the site last August, we have had a great response from the local community. This day is about saying thank you to our many loyal customers for their support. As the branch stocks the largest range of timber in the area, it is also the perfect chance to showcase the products that are available within our depot.”
Local builders merchant thanks the Chichester community for donating to their Bag-athon event!
Covers Timber & Builders Merchants is thanking all the generous tradesmen and women of Chichester who donated a bag to their Great British Bag-athon event, which came to an end on Thursday 31st January. The donated items will now go on to be sold in British Heart Foundation (BHF) shops in the area.
The Great British Bag-athon challenged the local community to donate clothing, toys, DVDs, accessories and CDs with 100% of the proceeds made from the donated items being invested into the fight against heart disease.
In excess of 160 bags of items were received by Covers, which could go on to make £3,200 for the charity.
Martyn Beck, Chichester Branch Manager at Covers, commented:
“On behalf of everyone at Covers I would like to thank all those who took part in the Bag-athon challenge and donated bags. The items really will make an enormous difference to the thousands of people in the region who suffer from heart disease. We tried to make it as easy as possible for people to donate by encouraging our customers to bring in a bag of items when they came to pick up supplies.”
There’s still time to contribute to The Great British Bag-athon by donating a bag of items to your nearest BHF Shop.
Local builders’ merchant employees celebrate 300 years of service
Covers Timber and Builders Merchant recently celebrated the loyalty of its staff with their Long Service Awards. Eleven employees were rewarded for being with the company for 25 years or more, totalling 300 years of service between them. This is the highest collective amount of years that the company has had in one year since records began. Each member of staff received a certificate of recognition.
Henry Green, Commercial Director of Covers, commented:
“I think this is a real credit to both our company as a whole and our individual staff. I am delighted that so many of our employees have spent the majority of their careers with us and I hope that our employee retention rate will continue into the future. The job market is facing such a turbulent time at the moment but this is a really positive message to send out to our new employees.”
Andrew Waters, Purchasing Director for Covers, commented:
“I can’t quite believe that I am celebrating my 30th year at Covers; the time really has flown by. It has been a great company to work for, where my work has been personally rewarding, which I think is one of the reasons that so many of us have stayed for such a length of time. I am looking forward to my remaining years here and I would encourage all of the newer members of staff to make the most of working for such an established company.”
Builders’ merchant wins marketing award
Covers Timber and Builders Merchants is celebrating success after receiving the Best Builders’ Merchant Marketing Initiative Award at this year’s Builders’ Merchants Awards of Excellence, which took place at the Lancaster London last Friday 23rd November. The awards have been running for 11 years and are held with high regard in the industry. Covers were delighted to receive the award for the rebranding of their home improvement store at their Chichester site.
Ben Gale, Marketing Co-ordinator, commented: “We made a stringent decision to market our Home Ideas store to both consumer and trade customers and I’m absolutely thrilled that we have gained this kind of recognition for that move. It is a real achievement and makes all of the hard work that we put in worthwhile. The whole day was fantastic and finding out that we had won just topped it off.”
Henry Green, Commercial Director of Covers, commented: “I would like to congratulate Ben and the staff of Covers Home Ideas on this win. It is terrific to receive this kind of accolade and I look forward to many more successes in the future.”
Covers Home Ideas range is based at the Chichester site on Quarry Lane and includes a kitchen, bathroom and flooring showroom, a well-stocked DIY offering together with a wide selection of eco products.
23rd November 2012
Covers launch Great British Bag-athon!
The Mayor of Chichester, Councillor Anne Scicluna officially launched the Chichester branch of Covers Timber & Builders Merchants' Great British Bag-athon event on Monday 12th November by being the first person to donate a bag of unwanted items to British Heart Foundation (BHF) Shops campaign.
The Town Mayor of Bognor Regis officially launched the Bognor branch's event and the Chairman of Horsham Council donated the first bag of items to the Horsham branch's event.
The Great British Bag-athon at Covers is asking the local community to pull together and challenging them to raise as many bags of lovely things as possible, which will then go on to be sold in local BHF Shops helping the fight against heart disease.
Bags of clothing, toys, accessories, shoes, CDs, DVDs, books, toys etc can be taken to the drop off point in Covers until Monday 31st December.
Henry Green, Commercial Director at Covers commented:
"It's wonderful to see people in the local community getting involved in the campaign. Whether groups are getting together to donate 5, 10, or 20 bags, or individuals are donating just one bag, it's all extremely gratefully received and will help the BHF to continue its life saving work."
5th November 2012
Local Builders Merchants Going Tache-tastic this Movember!
On Thursday 1st November, staff from Covers Timber & Builders Merchants kicked off Movember in style at their launch event. 50 men from Chichester and the surrounding areas came down to sign up. All the men will be donating their top lips to help raise awareness and funds for men’s health issues.
Having originally started in Australia, the annual Movember charity campaign is now supported by over 1.1 million people worldwide, all pledging to forsake shaving for the month. The money raised by the UK participants all goes towards funding programmes directed by Movember and their partners Prostate Cancer UK and the Institute of Cancer Research.
Those who signed up were also given a welcome goody bag which included tache-tastic freebies and a fundraising kit.
Those who were not able to attend the launch can still join the Covers Movember team – Covers Mo Bros – at www.covers.biz. By signing up, not only will the tache lovers be joining a team of like minded folk, but their family, friends and colleagues will also be able to sponsor them directly and leave them words of encouragement.
Henry Green, Commercial Director at Covers commented:
"It was fantastic to see all of the local men coming together for this cause. I hope we raise a substantial amount whilst at the same time increasing awareness. I'm looking forward to seeing the end results on 30th November."
5th November 2012
Great South Run for Builders' Merchant Employee
Covers Timber and Builders Merchant is proud to announce that Phil Clare, an employee at their Chichester branch, has raised just under £400 so far for St Wilfred's Hospice after taking part in the Great South Run on Sunday 28th October with an impressive time of just 72 minutes.
St Wilfrid's Hospice in Chichester provides high quality specialist palliative and end of life care to adults in the local community free of charge, complementing NHS and other services. The hospice relies on public support to raise 86% of the annual running costs, which this year will exceed £5.8 million.
Henry Green, Commercial Director of Covers, commented:
"This is a huge achievement for a very worthwhile cause. We always encourage our staff to support charities and Phil has done exceptionally well, especially considering this is his first race. Congratulations from everyone at Covers!"
Phil Clare said: "This was the first big race that I’ve done so I was really chuffed with my time. It was a great atmosphere and I’ll definitely be running it again next year. It's a cause very close to my heart as St Wilfrid's Hospice looked after my family and cared for my grandmother during her last few days, something which we will be eternally grateful for. This is a small way to say thank you and give something back. I'd like to thank everyone who has sponsored me."
5th November 2012
Local Builders' Merchant Makes Waves with Homemade Boat
A retired Covers Timber and Builders Merchant employee has restored a sailing boat entirely out of Covers plywood and hardwood.
Peter Rice, who was a kitchen planner for Covers from 1990 to 2001, is an expert carpenter and has named the yacht, Rhubarb. He purchased the sunken wreck from Dell Quay 30 years ago and has been working on it in his free time ever since.
Henry Green, Commercial Director at Covers, commented:
"I’m thrilled that a Covers veteran has come back to us for supplies for his hobby. Things like this really boost staff morale. The boat looks very impressive. It’s a real achievement and, on behalf of everyone at Covers, I would like to congratulate Peter on this feat."
Peter Rice said:
"I have always had an interest in restoring old boats and this has been on-going for a number of years. Since my retirement, I have been able to really crack on and it’s fantastic that it’s finally finished. It seemed extremely fitting to source the materials from my old company. It sails very well and I’m looking forward to spending some time enjoying it now that the hard work is finished."
5th November 2012
Hairy Scary for a Good Cause at Covers
Covers Timber and Builders Merchant is delighted to announce that their employees have raised a staggering £2,270.13 for the Breast Cancer Campaign over the last year. During the course of six months, from 1st October 2011 to 1st May 2012, five members of staff at the Portsmouth depot grew their hair and let their faces go furry in return for sponsorship money.
James Harding, Heavyside Manager, commented:
"Breast cancer is something which affects many women and some of the guys here have been touched by it in some way. We wanted to do something for the ladies and I’m delighted that we managed to raise so much, thank you to everyone who supported us."
Henry Green, Commercial Director of Covers, commented:
"It’s great to hear that the boys did this off their own back. We always try and encourage charity work amongst our employees. They have raised a phenomenal amount for a very worthwhile cause and they deserve a very big pat on the back."
9th August 2012
THIRTEEN IS THE LUCKY NUMBER FOR NEW TUNBRIDGE WELLS COMPANY
Customer Glen Lester of Lesters Tunbridge Wells Ltd will be cutting the ribbon at 7.30am. In addition, Councillor Jane March, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, will be in attendance from 10am. On the day, there will also be a raffle to win an iPad as well as a bacon sandwich for everyone who makes a purchase.
The acquired depot will be the first Covers Timber & Builders Merchants in Kent and complements their depots in Hampshire, Surrey and Sussex.
Covers are keeping all of the existing staff from the former Build Centre to ensure that no-one loses their job and that customers continue to receive the same high level of personal service.
Commercial Director of Covers, Henry Green, commented: “Our ambition is to increase our product and service offering across the South of England. We were excited to seize the opportunity of opening a depot in the beautiful town of Tunbridge Wells and its geographic location now enables us to service customers locally and in the surrounding towns and villages in Kent.”
He continued: “The depot currently operates successfully and so we wish to maintain the existing business as well as supporting the team’s plans to improve the stock range and facilities as well as extending an enhanced collection and delivery service to existing and new customers.”
10th July 2012
Frank Hellyer: 1928 - 2012
Frank was a legend within Covers after working for more
than 66 years, starting as a Yardman in 1942 rising to a
very well respected Timber Director retiring in September
2008.
Frank's death is the end of an era for Covers. He will be
greatly missed by all those who knew him and worked
with him.
We are all extremely grateful to Frank for his tremendous
contributions to the company over so many years. Frank
was a major influence on the growth of the business and his work ethic was second to none. His timber knowledge
and the interest he showed in it was phenomenal. Frank was truly a special 'one off'.
Frank's funeral will be at the Chichester Crematorium on Monday 23rd July at 4.15pm. The company will make
arrangements for those wishing to attend. In addition the funeral cortège will drive past Covers, Quarry Lane at
approximately 3.45pm for those not attending the Crematorium and who wish to pay their respects.
Covers 6 A Side Football Tournament 201
Congratulations to The Wolf Pack who won this years Covers 6 A Side football tournament held at Mundham playing fields on Sunday 1st July 2012.Staff from all over the Covers group entered teams into the annual event which was played on a league format. Each team played 5 games of 14 minute matches with The Wolf Pack gaining the most points.
(bottom row) - Kevin Starling
Covers Home Ideas Summer Fayre
Celebrity chef Nik Westacott took charge of the BBQ during a fun-filled Summer Fayre at the Chichester branch of Covers Home Ideas on Saturday.
Nik was joined at the Quarry Lane store by a record number of customers and visitors, drawn by the heat wave, the special offers and a range of family activities.
As well as tucking into Nik’s cooking and enjoying BBQ demonstrations, guests enjoyed a bouncy castle, magic tricks and an appearance from children’s TV character Handy Manny.
Henry Green, Covers Home Ideas Commercial Director, said: “The combination of the unseasonably hot weather and great entertainment really brought people out for the day and had our best ever event.
“Nik’s food went down a storm and everyone who came along seemed to really get into the spirit – as well as taking full advantage of our 20 per cent off everything promotion.”
A number of other fun events are being planned at Covers Home Ideas over the coming weeks.28th May 2012
Song for Horsham
Staff at the new-look Horsham branch of Covers were given a sneak preview of the new town anthem last week.
Singer/songwriter Ben Chambers, whose song Horsham Town was picked as the winner of the recent Song for Horsham competition, dropped in on the depot on Thursday to give an impromptu solo performance.
The preview was a thank you to Covers for being a major sponsor of the event alongside leading local estate agents Courtney Green.
Horsham branch manager David Robbins said: “It was a really nice surprise for Ben to come along and sing for the team here. It’s a good song and I’m sure it’ll go down really well in the town.”
The song was officially revealed to public by a volunteer choir, which performed live on the Carfax bandstand last Saturday (26th June).
Strongmen break world record in Horsham
On Thursday 19th April, Covers in Horsham became the host of a world record-breaking event this week as two of the country's strongest men succeeded in their attempt to break the record for the number of bricks lifted in one go.
Current and former UK Strongest Man, Ed Hall and Glenn Ross, were the special guests at Covers' first trade day since the company's move to new purpose-built facilities on Foundry Lane.
Both men achieved their goal of lifting 25 bricks, beating the current world record of 24, held by Geoff Capes since 1981. The duo demonstrated their incredible strength to the tradesmen throughout the morning by taking part in a series of events including a 'crucifix' lift and towing a Covers lorry by harness down a 30m track.
Independent timber and builder's merchant Covers, which officially opened the new one-acre site 300 yards from their old premises last month, invited hundreds of local tradespeople to the special trade event, which also saw a punch bag challenge take place between customers as well as a free hog roast and a range of discounted trade stalls.
http://www.wscountytimes.co.uk/news/local/breaking-news-uk-s-strongest-men-smash-world-record-in-horsham-1-3751926
Apprentices scheme hailed a success
The apprentice scheme can only run with extra funding from grants and sponsorship. This year's sponsors, Covers and Spokenfor, have both seen how taking rugby into the local community can benefit all involved. Main sponsor, Henry Green from Covers commented, "We are major supporters of taking youth sport into the community. This scheme has the potential to help thousands of young people across the local area, plus it has improved the self-esteem of the Apprentices themselves. It is brilliant to see it delivering such positive results in such a short time."
Air Source Heat Pump installed at Covers Home Ideas
Covers Home Ideas of Chichester have installed cutting edge technology to heat their kitchen showroom. A 17kW air source heat pump delivers heat via warm air radiators to bring the temperature throughout the showroom to a very cosy 23 degrees in any weather. In the summer the heat will be reversed so the same radiators will provide cold air conditioning. With a very low running cost and no maintenance required the heat pump is an excellent solution to varied range of applications.
Please call Covers Eco Centre on 01243 791478 for more information on Air source heat pumps.
12th March 2012
Valued customer opens new Horsham branch
Local independent building and timber merchant Covers is now open for business at its new Horsham depot, having invited one of its most loyal customers to cut the ribbon at the official opening.Mick Holmes, of M. Holmes Construction Ltd, has been a regular at the Covers Foundry Lane branch for over four years.
On Monday 12th March, Mick was the guest of honour at the ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the launch of the all-new warehouse and depot, also located on Foundry Lane.
Mick said: "I have always used Covers because of their competitive prices, excellent service and friendly staff, so I'm delighted to be asked to officially open their new premises.
"The facilities at the new depot are fantastic with a huge yard, plenty of parking and a much bigger stock range. It's great news for tradesmen in the Horsham area."
The new depot is set over a full acre and boasts a saw mill, loose aggregate bins and a vast warehouse, showroom and trade counter.
Covers Commercial Director, Henry Green, said: "Mick is one of a large number of loyal and valued customers in the area and we're pleased he agreed to cut the ribbon at this new facility.
"For the first time in Horsham, we are now able to offer a purpose-built, fully stocked depot for our existing customers and a friendly, welcoming environment for new ones."
The new Horsham depot will now have a week of special offers for its customers to enjoy.
Although delighted to have completed his first marathon back in 2008 the finishing time of six hours was a disappointment. Remembering the day well Ray can recollect how his hamstrings caused concern from the midway point of the course though he was determined to finish he would have taken twice as long as long as he got to the finish line. Again the ambition is to finish obviously but also the goal is to take an hour off his time in 2012.The 2012 run will also see two charities benefiting from his run. As previously Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital, which is where one of his twin boys, Ian Murphy, (now aged 29) spent the first few weeks of his life in an incubator recovering from a split intestine weighing less than three pounds having arrived some six weeks early, will be a recipient. This is just some way of being able to repay the tremendous work the hospital carried out during those weeks.
Having gained an entry into the Marathon on a ballot Ray is allowed to nominate two charities that can have donations made too. The other Charity that Ray is hoping to complete the 26-mile course for is Saint Francis Hospice whom cared for both his parents who passed away in 2011 in a six-week period between July and August. Of the hospice Ray mentions that although he had obviously been aware of the cancer disease, this was really the first time that he had been close to the effects of the disease and was comforted by the excellent work that the Hospice carried out for his parents.
David Covers and Sons a large independent Builder merchant has recently launched a brand new customer-focused website http://www.coversdoors.co.uk
The new site has been specifically designed to promote its extensive range of aspirational internal and external timber feature doors.
The website allows customers to view and select the perfect doors for their home and order on-line for direct home delivery
To see our extensive range of timber doors visit us at www.coversdoors.co.uk
Covers attended this years Builders' Merchants Awards on Friday 25th November as finalists for two awards and came away winners!Covers won the award for Best Builders' Merchant Environmental Initiative and came runner up for Best Website.
Graeme Clements, Covers Domestic Energy Advisor picked up the award which was staged at the Lancaster Hotel and hosted by ex-England Rugby player Lawrence Dallaglio.
A big well done to the Eco team and everyone involved in this big achievement.
16th September 2011
Covers Timber and Builders Merchants have won the Education and Training award at this years Southern Business Awards held at the Brighton Grand Hotel on Friday 2nd September. Congratulations go to the Covers HR and Training team who are Rhea Sampson, Hannah Sayward and Chloe Stanton
The team who won at the local Observer award earlier in the year, were automatically entered into the regional final. They were competing against Northbrook College and Stevens Rowsell, so very good competition.
Rhea Sampson , HR and Training Manager said "To win at the regional final is a great achievement for my team and for Covers. This is well deserved and shows the commitment that Covers has towards the training of our staff and their long term careers".
24th August - Covers supply to Silver Medalist at Hampton Court Flower Show
Their entry into the flower show was titled “The Potential Feast” which was designed for a young, environmentally conscious, working couple. Their idea is to dine al fresco in an edible garden, crammed full of their own, richly coloured, delicious produce. Created in a temporary style, the garden is both ornamental and productive, making practical use of limited space by including features such as vertical wall planters packed full of scented herbs. The calming sound of water decorates the atmosphere.
Rudgwick manager, David Robbins said “To know that our materials helped contribute towards our customer winning an award at a prestigious event is a great feeling and gives job satisfaction”.
20th July - Covers Timber and Builders Merchants Inspiring the builders of the future
The Alresford branch of Covers has sponsored an outdoor play construction set, including realistic house bricks, sand and safety equipment and the kids are having lots of fun practising their building and DIY skills.
Taryn Stroud, team leader of 345 Pre-school said, 'The construction set is a great bonus to the Pre-school and the kids love it. They mix sand and water to make cement and have built all kinds of things with the life-size bricks. Children learn best through play and this construction set supports different elements of their development, from creativity to co-ordination."
Gareth Rich, Manager of the Alresford branch of Covers Timber and Builders Merchants said, 'Covers is committed to supporting its local communities and it's great to see the kids having fun and learning new skills.'
Covers Timber & Builders Merchants has 12 depots in Hampshire, Sussex, and Surrey. With an extensive portfolio of products, Covers can offer all the building materials and timber products needed for any industrial or domestic building project.
Taryn continued, '345 Pre-school is very grateful to Covers for sponsoring the construction set. The current and future children of 345 Pre-school are guaranteed to have lots of fun and, who knows, it may even inspire them to become builders, architects or DIY enthusiasts in the future!"
31st May 2011 - Covers to install solar AZUR SOLAR PV systems on the roofs of all suitable branches
Committed to developing its business sustainably, Covers is to install AZUR SOLAR Systems' solar PV systems on the roofs of all its suitable branches including its Chichester, Bognor, Portsmouth and Brighton locations.
Solar PV will enable Covers to meet a significant proportion of its own energy needs. Importantly, the installations form part of a wider commercial relationship with AZUR SOLAR. Each branch will operate as an AZUR reference site, allowing Covers to promote the financial and practical advantages delivered by solar PV systems to its customers. Covers will also market 'AZUR SOLAR Power Kits' to its customers so that they can also reap these benefits.
A total of 678 kWp is due to be installed across seven sites which are expected to generate approximately 600,000 kWh annually, through over 2,500 solar PV panels. The CO2 saving is estimated at 50% of Covers' current CO2 emissions from electricity. Covers is leading the way in reducing CO2 emissions across Hampshire & Sussex. Determined to develop its business in a sustainable way, Covers has sensibly adopted solar PV panels to reduce both its electricity costs and CO2 emissions. The majority of electricity Covers requires is for lighting, general business systems and powered saws, however surplus electricity generated by the rooftop solar systems will be fed back into the National Grid, delivering a further financial return on the investment.
"We are delighted to have chosen AZUR SOLAR as our partner to develop Covers' Solar PV potential both as an investment on our branch roofs and in helping us to promote the benefits to our customer base. As well as being a good financial investment for us, the estimated saving of over 250 tonnes of CO2 each year is important in helping us play our part in mitigating climate change," explained Rupert Green, Finance Director at Covers. AZUR SOLAR will provide continuing remote monitoring and preventative maintenance to Covers.
"We first met AZUR SOLAR at Ecobuild earlier this year and were impressed with its products, its professional approach and the speed at which it could develop and deliver a practical solution for us. They offer quality and innovative German manufactured products that are competitively priced, all backed up by credible guarantees."
Due to the seaside location of several of its branches and the possible issue of sea salt and other particles covering the panels, Covers opted for AZUR panels that include its unique self cleaning, self healing 2P coating. The AZUR 2P transparent coating helps achieve a 5% increase in output efficiency for the panel plus AZUR guarantees that module degradation will be reduced to typically less than 2% over the first 20 years of the systems' lifespan. This represents a major improvement on the industry standard guarantee of 20% degradation over 25 years.
A key feature at many Covers branches is the development of an Eco Display where appropriate sustainable products can be featured and promoted to customers. As part of its approach to sustainability, Covers is replacing its lorries and cars with higher efficiency vehicles, is replacing lighting with much higher efficiency solutions and is encouraging cycling to work with interest free loans. It is also changing its waste management system to maximise recycling.
"This is a significant contract for AZUR SOLAR as it not only means that we will deliver a number of installations over the coming months, but through our continued relationship with Covers, we will together promote the environmental and economic benefits that a solar PV system delivers to a wider audience," stated Robert Markus Feldmann, MD at AZUR SOLAR. "Our 2P coating on these panels also means that, unlike some competitive solutions, an AZUR installation will continue to consistently perform with negligible deterioration in the panel or overall system performance. This maximises energy production by yielding significantly more kWh and thus provides superior return on investment over its operational lifespan."
27th May - Covers Rovers
Covers at Aldershot put a team forward for the Business 6-a-side tournament played at Aldershot Football Club on Sunday 8th May. 16 teams took part and Covers Rovers got knocked out at the final group stage, but nevertheless did us really proud. Some superb goals from Steve Cooper, John Taylor and Chris Clarke. All of the lads really played their hearts out. Outstanding performance of the day was by David Deakins our super goalie who made some terrific saves. We also got the accolade of loudest supporters of the tournament as the players families and colleagues came to support our team and whooped with delight every time one of our boys scored. Coached by Justin Phipps (Cloughie), you would never had guessed this is the first time the guys have played together as a team and are now going to be getting their heads down training for next years tournament. Well done Covers Rovers!!!
Squad (left to right from back) John Taylor, Steve Cooper, Teddy Charters, Chris Clark, Ben Murphy, Ernie Clifford, Paul Hawthorne (Cpt), David Deakins, Paul Aris and Lee Geere.
30th March 2011 - Covers Wins at local Observer Business Awards 2011
Covers have won the Training and Development award at this years Observer Business Awards.
Congratulations to the HR team, Rhea Sampson and Hannah Sayward of Head Office, Chichester who provide the Training and Development to Covers.
Covers are now automatically entered into Southern Business Awards final in September where we are competing against other regional finalists. Watch this space!
We also received a certificate for being Highly Commended for Going Green. Congratulations again to all those involved in helping win this award.
22nd February - Covers raise money for local charity by holding a "Loudest Shirt Day"
Covers Timber and Builders Merchants of Chichester, West Sussex helped raised £240.00 for local charity, Chestnut Tree House by holding a Loudest Shirt Day on Friday 18th February 2011.The idea of the day came about when one of the directors noticed an office member of staff wearing slightly daring shirt on an ordinary working weekday and jokingly told him – "He should pay to wear that shirt!" After a few quips from his work mates, the "Loudest Shirt Day" was invented.
The Covers' members of staff were allowed to wear the brightest, loudest shirt they have in their wardrobe in return for donating to the well deserved charity based in Poling, West Sussex. The charity looks after children and young adults from 0-19 years of age with progressive life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses.
Henry Green, Commercial Director of Covers said "To have days like this is great for team spirit and creates few laughs amongst the staff and customers but at the same time helps raise money for the charity. However, it is quite worrying to know that some of our staff have such bad dress sense! ".
Overall winner of the "Loudest Shirt" day was Ben Chiffin who deservedly won a bottle of wine for his efforts – for looking so bad!
Cov
ers 6 A Side Football Tournament
Local tradesmen were shown some love by the Tunbridge Wells branch of Covers Timber & Builders Merchants during their Valentine’s trade day by being given the chance to win some romantic prizes.
The top prize of a spa day for two was won by Michael Freeman. Other winners from the local community included George Springate, Tom Watters, Dan Patience and Steve Satchell.
From 7.30am until 5pm, suppliers were at the depot with special offers to tempt the customers. Covers also had some offers of their own throughout the day and those who attended were treated to a free burger and a hot drink.
Simon Vyvyan, Commercial Manager at Covers, commented:
“Since we acquired the site last August, we have had a great response from the local community. This day was all about saying thank you to our many loyal customers for their support. As the branch stocks the largest range of timber in the area, it was also the perfect chance to showcase the products that are available within our depot.”
Covers’ Tunbridge Wells branch is situated on the North Farm Industrial Estate.
