FMB launches its annual search for the best builders in Britain, the Master Builder of the Year Awards 2008, into an increasingly competitive building market, where accolades may make the difference between winning and losing contracts.
It's not all doom and gloom - latest research by the FMB has found that despite the credit crunch, homeowners still think that having a good builder in to extend or improve their home is a far better investment choice than buying ISAs, stocks or shares.
This year's search for the best builder in Britain is backed by C4 Grand Designs Trade Secrets, Naomi Cleaver, who took builders from London's quality refurbishment specialist, Eaton Gate Ltd, to the City to highlight their investment potential.
However, in a tougher market, clients have more choice of contractor and award-winning builders rise to the top of the pile. Given the growth in prestige and popularity of the Master Builder of the Year Awards and the national, regional and local media interest generated by the competition, simply entering the competition could set you apart from the rest.
Said Richard Diment, FMB Director General: "There is no doubt that Master Builder of the Year is the title that every builder aspires to. Past winners, be they regional or national, have all seen significant benefits in entering the awards. There are nine separate categories to match the type of work most small and medium sized building firms undertake spanning new build, refurbishment, energy efficiency and waste minimisation, plus a separate award for the Apprentice of the Year.
"New for this year is the "Investment in Workforce Training and Development" category, supported by CSCS, which aims to recognise the achievement of firms that offer their employees opportunities to improve their skills for the benefit of their business, their customers and the industry.
"We are also delighted that Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd has agreed to be our lead partner for a fifth year, and we thank all our Award partners for their continued support."
The overall winner - the Master Builder of the Year 2008 - will receive the brand new Nissan Light Commercial Vehicle of their choice worth up to £20,000, while their client will be rewarded with a £3,000 luxury holiday! The Apprentice of the Year 2008 will receive a cash prize of £1,000.
If you have just completed a project you are proud of, make sure you enter this year's Awards. You can enter online here or by calling 0870 162 0942.
The closing date for entries is 31st July and Naomi Cleaver will present the winners with their awards at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, on Thursday 13th November 2008.
8 May 2008
