This piece was written and provided by FTMA Supporting Partner, Independent Hardware Group.
Now more than ever, independent trade operators face a crucial opportunity for unity. Brett Martin, National Operations Manager at Independent Hardware Group (IHG), highlights how independent timber merchants and fabricators can harness collective strength to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
With the $16.4 billion trade market remaining highly fragmented, there’s no dominant player serving the sector on a national level. Market consolidation and rationalization are on the horizon, underscoring the need for independents to join forces and create a superior trade offering for customers.
As Australia’s largest hardware and timber wholesaler, Independent Hardware Group (IHG) stands as the largest channel for independent home improvement, Trade and Fabricator operators. Formed by the merger of Mitre 10 and Home Timber & Hardware under Metcash’s ownership, IHG represents a $4 billion entity and the second-largest market player.
Our collective strength is our greatest asset, allowing us to keep members competitive and advocate on their behalf against larger competitors. Today, IHG proudly supports over 700 ‘bannered’ stores and 1,000 ‘unbannered’ independent retailers, specialist outlets and Fabricators with:
- Unmatched buying power derived from our $4.0 billion wholesale business
- 65% of our operations focused on trade
- A leading position as one of Australia’s largest timber merchants
- Significant involvement in the frame and truss market with 40 fabricators, contributing to a market value exceeding $250 million
Our mission is to enhance and safeguard our members’ competitive edge, profitability, and market share. By fostering strong partnerships with members and key suppliers, we aim to shape and grow the trade industry.
We achieve this by supporting our members with not only quality products but also with business support tools and services, financial rewards for loyalty, and collaborative efforts within trade cluster groups. Our transparent, low-cost trade model is designed to provide independent businesses with superior returns and a competitive advantage, focusing on key aspects such as:
- Rebate structures that reward volume and loyalty, with over $90.0 million in rebates delivered to members in FY24
- Leveraging our scale to secure better buying conditions for members across all key trade categories
- Investing in technologies that reduce business costs, enhance customer loyalty, and increase sales
- Offering business support programs and training that promote sustainable growth
- Emphasizing a business model that values local ownership, trade heritage, and strong relationships
With decades of experience in servicing the trades, IHG and its members are proud of the deep family heritage within our network. We stand united with our members, representing their interests and positioning independents as the most reliable, long-term partners for tradespeople. Together, we are well-positioned for growth, using our scale and reach to support independent businesses effectively.
Brett Martin
Business Manager – Trade Operations
Independent Hardware Group | 19 Corporate Drive Heatherton Victoria 3202
P: 0419 734 178| E: brett.martin@mitre10.com.au
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