DIYWEEK.net

Second generation family-run and owned General Building Plastics has announced a new senior management structure, spearheaded with the appointment of current co-director Alan Sutherland to the new role of managing director.

The retailer and specialist supplier of building products to the trade and DIY sectors, has its head office in Rugeley, Staffordshire and a network of office and trade counters in six key locations across the Midlands.

The company was founded in 1990 by Mr Sutherland’s mother, Janet, who still works in the business. He and sister Wendy Hill have jointly led the business as directors since 2008.

The change means Mr Sutherland becomes GB Plastics’ sole shareholder, whilst Ms Hill is to step down as joint director but will continue to work in the business as a consultant but will also explore new opportunities elsewhere.

Mr Sutherland explained: “Wendy and I have worked hard to create a clear vision for the future of GB Plastics, to form a clear management structure that will allow us all to move to a positive future.

“We see our joint decision as the start of a new chapter and us all moving forwards in the same direction to ensure continued growth and success for the business and all our staff.

“I am completely committed to the future and longevity of GB Plastics. We aren’t trying to reinvent the wheel, so it is very much ‘business as usual’.”

He said of his sister’s time with the company: “Wendy has played a pivotal role in the growth of the company and I know it will always have a special place in her heart. Wendy continues to be a valued member of the team and I hope will still be involved for years to come.”

Ms Hill added: “I feel privileged and honoured to have been able to work for my family business for the first 27 years of my career.  When I first joined back in 1990, we were a start-up business. During my time at GB Plastics, it has grown to a Midlands network of six branches and an annual turnover in excess of £4 million. 

“I believe Alan has the drive and determination to continue to grow and develop the business; he and his team have some great plans for the future.  I will still be working with GB Plastics, and am looking forward to working with the team to support them in continuing to realise their potential.”

Advice on GB Plastics’ succession planning was provided by Dani Saveker, family business specialist and CEO and founder of Families in Business (FiB), who added: “It was clear from the outset that both Alan and Wendy had GB Plastics, the family and all their employees’ best interests at heart, and I am pleased to have been able to assist them in achieving their goal.”