Running a small building firm isn’t easy but as Neil Groom of NJG Building Solutions discusses with Jo Mulgrew, there are ways of avoiding the road blocks frequently put in the builder’s way. He’s discovered you’re never too old to grow your business, improve processes and manage time better. Can you relate ..read more

Can you talk the talk? Energy price pressures, the rising cost of living, economic uncertainty… it’s no surprise that homeowners want the most energy efficient solutions for their windows and doors. Not forgetting comfort - think air quality, acoustics, warmth. And then's sustainability too. So much to consider. This episode with Joanna Mulgrew from HBXL and Kevin Morgan, Commercial Director of Crystal Direct, will give you everything you need to know - knowledge that you can pass on to your customers. Help them achieve their energy efficient (and comfortable) renovation, extension, conversion ..read more

Construction has the highest insolvency rate of all industries. In April – June 2023, a staggering 18% of all insolvencies were in construction. Simon Lazarus of the Better Business Group believes this reflects a long-standing and serious problem with the way in which so many construction companies operate. In this episode, Joanna Mulgrew, HBXL's MD, finds out what building firms can do to better protect themselves ..read more

Are you quoting too low? Jo and Simon discuss common mistakes and explain how to put them right. They talk accurate quoting, overheads, and mark-ups. They touch on stage payments and cash flow, and more. With the right support, builders instead of just breaking even, can can go on to make decent money… This could be the start of something big ..read more

Toby Peacock is an electrician and the Screwfix Tradesperson of the Year 2022. And he’s making his name for breaking down the mental health barriers in the construction industry. His Podcast ‘Tearoom Talks’ discusses difficult topics honestly and openly. In our podcast Toby shares his thinking with Joanna Mulgrew, MD of the HBXL Group. He talks about his own struggles and suggests where listeners can get some help themselves. An important listen ..read more

Why is PVC-u still popular? What are the best products? How should you be purchasing them? And what do you say to customers so that you can take charge of ordering them? HBXL MD, Joanna chats with Kevin Morgan, Commercial Director of Crystal Direct who has lots to say on the subject! Sit back for half an hour, listen to them chat and get the inside track ..read more

We kick off our ‘Running a small building firm’ podcast series with a chat between Joanna Mulgrew, Managing Director of the HBXL Group, and Adrian Wild, founder and Chairman of HBXL and past building firm owner and property developer. Adrian explains what motivated him to switch from property developing to software developing. He also discusses the issues facing builders today and what would make life much easier for them. Want to know what that could be? Give yourself a well-earned break and see what he has to say ..read more