This event will challenge traditional thinking around sustainability and explore why many of the issues currently affecting Building Materials sectors are not sustainability problems in themselves, but resilience, productivity and adaptation challenges.

A central theme of the discussion is the need to reframe sustainability. Too often it is viewed as a compliance burden, cost centre, or separate business function. This event will argue that sustainability is not a standalone strategy, but the outcome of building a business that is resilient, efficient, and able to adapt to changing market conditions.

Drawing on examples from both within and outside the industry, speakers will explore why traditional approaches to maintaining profitability are becoming less effective and where future sources of value and competitive advantage are likely to emerge. The discussion will focus on practical ways organisations can strengthen operational resilience by improving workforce stability, increasing productivity, building stronger supply chains, reducing exposure to external risks, and preparing for evolving regulation.

We will also explore the implications of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and what it could mean for the Builders' Merchant market. As carbon-related regulation increasingly influences material sourcing, pricing and supply chain decisions, attendees will gain insight into how CBAM may affect imported construction products, competitive dynamics, supplier relationships, and future procurement strategies across the sector.

The event will further examine how wider forces such as climate change, energy volatility, changing legislation, and skills shortages are becoming integral to commercial decision-making rather than separate environmental or social concerns. Attendees will gain insight into why short-term survival and long-term sustainability are now inseparable and how businesses can position themselves to thrive in an increasingly uncertain market.

To book your place at this forum, please make sure you are logged in.

For further information about this event, please contact Mike Tattam at [email protected]. 

Terms & Conditions

These events are free to BMF members, but please note that if you book a place and fail to cancel your booking a minimum of 2 working days before the event, a cancellation charge of £30+VAT will be charged to cover catering and administration costs.

All meetings will be held in accordance with the BMF's Competition Act compliance procedures, to the effect that at no time would there be any discussion on subjects that were prohibited by the Competition Act 1998 or the Enterprise Act 2002. In particular, the issues of prices and market share or any other issues covered by the legislation would not be raised or discussed. If they were, the chairman would immediately terminate the meeting.