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22 Oct 2025
The BMF (Builders Merchants Federation) has been recognised for outstanding leadership in apprenticeships and skills, for initiatives such as the BMF Apprenticeship Pledge, which are transforming how workforce development is delivered and understood across the home improvement supply chain.
At a ceremony at the House of Lords, BMF CEO John Newcomb was presented with the National Home Improvement Council’s (NHIC) prestigious Stunell Award. Named in honour of Sir Andrew Stunell, a long-standing advocate for sustainable homes, the award recognises those who have created positive, lasting change in this sector.
The award citation acknowledges the success of the BMF Apprenticeship Pledge – with over 15,000 commitments signed and more than 1,200 apprentices in post – and the BMF’s campaign for levy flexibility, which is helping SMEs to engage in apprenticeship schemes, and making workforce development more accessible across the sector.
Speaking at the event, Jon Vanstone, NHIC Chair, said:
“The BMF has shown what sustained, purposeful leadership can achieve. Its Apprenticeship Pledge and policy advocacy have changed the way our sector thinks about skills, opening doors for SMEs, inspiring young people and embedding apprenticeships as a driver of growth and quality.”
Anna Scothern, NHIC Chief Executive, said:
“BMF’s work on skills and apprenticeships exemplifies the collaborative, forward-thinking
spirit the Stunell Award was created to celebrate. Their leadership has built not only
opportunities for individuals, but long-term resilience for the whole home improvement
sector.”
John Newcomb, BMF CEO, said:
“I am honoured, delighted and somewhat overwhelmed to receive this prestigious award on behalf of the BMF. Our members’ response to the Apprenticeship Pledge has been immense, and I would like to thank the whole team for getting behind this initiative and promoting the opportunities it brings. I must give a special mention to Marianna Peet, who heads our Apprenticeship and L&D programmes, and whose influence and dedication to the project have been instrumental in its success.”
To find out more about the BMF Apprenticeship Pledge and how apprenticeships can support your business, please email marianna.peet@bmf.org.uk