Agenda

Setting the day's agenda: the industry changes independent merchants most need to get ahead of in 2026 and beyond.

An update from NMBS on how it’s going to continue to support merchants.

(15-minute presentation, followed by 5 minutes of audience Q&A)

• What do current market conditions mean for construction and independent merchants?
• What construction challenges and opportunities lie ahead over the next two years?
• How do market prospects vary across UK regions and construction sectors?

A practical look at recruitment, retention and the funding and apprenticeship schemes currently available to merchants.

(15-minute presentation, followed by 5 minutes of audience Q&A)

• What responsibilities do merchants have when supplying construction products under evolving fire safety regulations?
• What practical steps can merchants take to reduce compliance and liability risks?

(15-minute presentation, followed by 5 minutes of audience Q&A)

• How can merchants access compliant procurement frameworks and unlock opportunities in the social housing sector?
• What practical steps can merchants take to become framework-ready?
• What criteria do social housing providers consider when appointing and retaining merchant partners?
• What commercial benefits does framework participation offer?

• What are the biggest cybersecurity risks facing merchants and their supply chains today?
• How can merchants improve cyber resilience and minimise operational disruption?
• Note: This session is off the record — no recording or photography, in line with NCSC's own requirements.