With a collective 45 years in the merchanting sector, Leigh Sadler and Rob Castle have a ton of industry experience and knowledge between them, and they can’t wait to put this to good use!  The pair have teamed up to become the new Branch Directors of MKM North Walsham. 

It’s a real success story for Leigh and Rob. Starting their careers as management trainees, they’ve learned the ropes from the bottom up, and are now looking forward to utilising all the experience they have gained to run their own branch.  

“We’re both extremely proud of where we’ve come from and to have this amazing opportunity to run our own business,” explains Rob, who started as a trainee, before working his way up to an assistant manager and then branch manager across several locations for 15 years within a national before joining MKM.  

Leigh adds, “Like Rob, I was also a management trainee, then specialised in plumbing and heating sales.  Over the last 16 years, I’ve been a branch manager overseeing various merchanting branches across Norfolk so I know the area and industry well.

Now the branch is officially open and ready to serve the local community, what ambitions do the pair have for Norfolk’s latest independent MKM builder’s merchant?

Rob said: “It’s about growing the branch, our team, our customer base and becoming an integral part of the local community, both in North Walsham and beyond.

“Of course, we want to be profitable too, but that comes with doing things the right way, with the right values and providing excellent service. We want to be the one-stop-shop for our customers and make sure that those who are coming in for one thing, know that we have a whole host of other products and services they can take advantage of.

“Our aim is to develop a reputation that sets us apart from the competition.  When people hear the MKM North Walsham name, we want them to think inclusivity, customer service, and a friendly atmosphere where everyone is welcome, trade and the public.”

Leigh adds: “We have specialists and experts covering a number of key areas, from heating and plumbing to landscaping.  We also have a kitchen and bathroom showroom that we believe is the best in the area.

“Most importantly though, we have a fantastic team that are ready to serve our customers.  It’s our people that sets us apart, with their willingness to go the extra mile to ensure every customer has a brilliant experience with MKM.”

The local community is obviously a key focus for the branch and its directors, with many opportunities to help those in the region already being progressed.

“We’ve partnered with The Benjamin Foundation, and we’ve already been discussing a number of potential fundraising activities and ways we can help the charity going forward,” said Rob.

“It’s a fantastic cause, one that is close to the hearts of the community.  We are also supporting the local rugby team too, the North Walsham Vikings.”

With plenty to do for both the branch and the community, the pair can be excused for not having much time to themselves, but when the opportunity presents itself, they can both be found relaxing in their unique ways.

Leigh says, “I’m a big family man, I love spending time with those closest to me. When I do have a bit of time to myself, I like to cycle or go to the gym. I enjoy eating out at new places too and love football, following Liverpool. Music is also important to me too, I quite like Craig Charles’ Funk Show, anything that’s easy listening to be honest.”

Rob says “As for me, I’m a big Norwich City fan and season ticket holder,” concludes Rob.  “I spend a lot of my time socialising and networking too.  I’m a huge fan of 60’s music and Brit pop, the Beatles, Stone Roses, some of my favourites, along with more modern stuff from bands like the Arctic Monkeys.”