Paul Read

Paul Read is the Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of IBC, one of the UK’s leading buying groups for independent builders’ merchants. Established in 2009, IBC now supports a network of more than 220 independent merchant partners operating across over 300 trading locations nationwide.

With over four decades of experience in the construction supply sector, Paul has held senior roles across both merchant distribution and manufacturing, including working with major national builders’ merchants and global manufacturer Lafarge Plasterboard. His broad industry perspective spans procurement strategy, supplier partnerships, and independent merchant development.

Alongside his role at IBC, Paul also co-founded Capital Drywall, the drywall distribution division of the Allneeds Group, further strengthening his hands-on experience within specialist building materials distribution.

Paul is a passionate advocate for the independent merchant sector and the vital role it plays within the wider construction supply chain. He comments:

“Our industry is full of exceptional businesses and talented individuals. It’s a privilege to serve on the Builders Merchants Awards judging panel and to recognise the innovation, commitment and leadership that continue to drive our sector forward”