The founders of the Masonry Association of Great Britain (MAGB) say that they have created their new trade body to include smaller companies that may not be eligible for membership of other trade bodies. They also seek to represent those working with block and stone and not just brick.
MAGB has been founded by Christian Watson and Malc Hancock, the founders of Phoenix Group, with Eve Livett as chief executive. Livett was previously chief executive of the Association of Brickwork Contractors (ABC), where she has been replaced by Stephen Brown.
Watson said: 鈥淭he formation of MAGB is a momentous step forward for the masonry sector. We understand that the challenges facing the industry 鈥� from skill shortages to increasing demand 鈥� affect companies of all sizes. We鈥檙e proud to lead the creation of an association that will bring everyone together, regardless of their size, to ensure a stronger and more unified voice for the industry.鈥�
As part of its mission, the association plans to launch the National Masonry Academy in Sheffield, offering apprenticeships as well as registered installer programmes. It also plans to establish five regional training hubs across the UK.
鈥淲e recognise that in order for the government鈥檚 ambitious building agenda to succeed, a skilled and motivated workforce is essential,鈥� Livett said. 鈥淭his is where the Masonry Association of Great Britain comes in. We鈥檒l be working closely with the government to ensure that the sector is adequately supported, particularly when it comes to apprenticeships, social responsibility and quality upskilling.鈥�
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