The IPG is the fastest growing membership group in the plumbing, heating and bathroom sector.

In 2013, it was founded on the belief that independents should have a better voice in today’s competitive market, a value that is still upheld and fiercely advocated by the group – championing the great British independent, helping them to grow and compete. Independent plumbing/heating stores and bathroom showrooms, like those represented by The IPG, have built up their expertise over many years and the group strongly believes that to see that specialist knowledge and friendly, local service disappear would be a travesty.

At its core, The IPG are determined to bring independent businesses together, and in turn, give their customers the opportunity to buy the best brands locally at great prices. Since its inception, the group has supported members in making their businesses a real success.  In the last quarter of 2019, this culminated in the opening of flagship stores with three of its key members in Enfield, New Milton and Dudley.

Each store was given a facelift, with new jointly branded store signs inside and out, improved store layout and the added benefit of digital screens for promotional messaging - the aim was to improve the customer shopping experience. The IPG recently revisited one of these stores (Plumb Inn, Enfield) to discover why they had decided to participate in this project and the impact it had on their business. 

When asked how joining The IPG and becoming a flagship store helped with their future business objectives, their answer was simple, they believed that working with the membership group created a fresh perspective to push independents to do something different to drive footfall into their locations. 

Ray Andes, Managing Director at Plumb Inn, said: “We are now not just a member, we have joined the IPG family and together we can only become stronger. We have a new look trade counter and showroom, a new look website and an opportunity to be involved in marketing initiatives that as an independent merchant we could not achieve on our own. The IPG’s support of the independent sector will be pivotal to the development and growth of our business and our team are all looking forward to an exciting future”

The launch was promoted locally by The IPG, there was an increase in bathroom showroom footfall during the launch which converted into sales to the trade counter. Plumb Inn were happy with the initial business outcomes. With the continued support of The IPG, Plumb Inn are confident this will continue in 2020 and beyond.

Support your local independent, you might be surprised to hear that alongside unrivalled service and unbiased honest advice your shopping basket at the end of your visit is likely to be cheaper!