Setting the Benchmark

MORE than 150 building professionals attended the official launch of Benchmark Green, the sustainable and environmentally-friendly department of Saddleworth-based Benchmark Building Supplies.

Established in January, the initiative helps with the uptake of environmentally-friendly products, newer technologies and energy-saving construction materials.

The launch was organised by Benchmark managing director Phil Brown and his business partner Roy Smith, from Denshaw, as a trade fair with 25 exhibitors featuring products such as solar heating, fencing, gates and membranes produced from recycled plastics, permeable paving products, ecological adhesives and cleaning materials and natural sustainable insulation produced from wool and natural fibres.

Builders, landscapers and developers, architects, local authority planners and self-builders found out about the latest developments in sustainable building and benefited from special offers available only at the trade fair.

Visitors were entertained by a three-piece folk group, served complimentary drinks and enjoyed traditional fresh fish and chips.

The building guests were also introduced to sustainable specialist Melvyn Thomas, who joined Benchmark this year to head up the Benchmark Green department.

Mr Brown told Chronicle Business: “We regularly exhibit at exhibitions and organise trade promotions but this was one of the biggest events we have held to date and we were delighted with the response.”

The event was held at the Portland Basin canal museum in Ashton.