A PUDSEY builders merchant is offering free advice sessions to help builders and construction firms build their way out of the COVID-19 crisis.

Despite building and construction being one of the areas that has seen the biggest pent up demand following the easing of lockdown restrictions, Pudsey builders have seen supply dry up with the closure of a number of merchants owned by national chains.

Now Gibbs & Dandy, located on Richardshaw Lane, is holding a ‘Welcome Week’ for businesses that may have been affected by the closures and other supply issues such as availability of key items.

The ‘Welcome Week, which started on Monday (August 31), will give builders the chance to talk to the Gibbs & Dandy branch team about everything from trade terms to ensure the best possible price right through to attracting new building commissions in the local area.

As part of the ‘Welcome Week’ initiative, there will be in-branch special promotions for new customers throughout the week, including selected free items when they open a new account.

Gibbs & Dandy Pudsey branch manager Nik Beedham said: “It has been a really turbulent time for everyone and many supplier businesses in our industry have now said they will not be re-opening, leaving long-standing customers very nervous about what to do next.

“There is a massive opportunity for businesses in the Pudsey area to really accelerate their recovery with the Government’s ‘Build, Build, Build’ campaign and it is important not to get left behind.

“We have organised the ‘Welcome Week’ so that we can ensure builders in this area have access to the knowledge and expertise within our business as well as the very best trading terms and support tools to make their jobs easier.

"For instance, we have services like Build Aviator which will cost, scope and deliver a project for a customer from initial quoting to final completion, so they can spend their time where it matters most. Build Aviator can also offer advice on compliance throughout and carry out acoustic and airtight testing, giving a smoother route to Building Control sign-off.

“This can be the difference between winning and losing an opportunity against a competitor and our goal is to ensure that every building firm in this area has a chance to compete and grow the local economy.”

Anyone wanting further details of the Gibbs & Dandy welcome week should call the branch on 0113 2209128