From launching his first builders’ merchant in Scarborough in the 1980s to founding MKM Building Supplies in Hull in 1995, David Kilburn has always believed in the power of people and the value of entrepreneurial spirit.

It’s a belief that has seen him transform MKM from a single-site operation into the UK’s largest independent builders’ merchant, with over 135 branches the UK and a turnover exceeding £1.1 billion. His journey began in the wake of redundancy, when David – then 50 – teamed up with close friend Peter Murray to start a new venture with a simple goal: to make a living and be the best in the area. What followed was a story of resilience, innovation, and community-driven growth.

 

 

In the early days, MKM operated from a modest warehouse on Clough Road in Hull, with a team of six and a rented truck for deliveries. Orders were celebrated with the ringing of a fire bell – a tradition that quickly became impractical as sales soared. Just a year into trading, MKM opened its second branch in Driffield, and the business model that would define MKM was born: empowering Branch Directors with a 25% stake in their own operations. This unique structure gave managers autonomy, ownership, and a vested interest in success – a model that remains the heartbeat of MKM today.

David’s leadership style has always been people-first. During the 2008 financial crisis, while competitors laid off staff, MKM chose to retain its workforce, trusting that loyalty and hard work would see the business through. That decision paid dividends, with MKM weathering the storm with minimal losses and emerging stronger.

Over the years, David has steered MKM through exponential growth, private equity investment, and a changing industry landscape. In 2020, he appointed Kate Tinsley as CEO, marking a new chapter for the business. Under her leadership, MKM has continued to thrive, with ambitious plans to reach 250 branches in the next decade.

 

 

Beyond business, David is deeply committed to his community. He has chaired the Regional Growth Fund, founded the peer-to-peer support group For Entrepreneurs Only, and played a pivotal role in mentoring young talent through MKM’s apprenticeship programme. His contributions were recognised in 2023 when he was awarded a CBE for services to the construction industry and charity, and again when he received the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Business’ award at the Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards.

 

Despite MKM’s scale, David remains grounded in the values that started it all: trust, relationships, and having fun at work. Whether it’s sponsoring Hull City’s MKM Stadium or receiving a heartfelt Christmas Day call from a Branch Director, David’s legacy is one of impact, integrity, and inspiration.

 

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