MKM Building Supplies has opened in Newent, creating 14 jobs.

The branch at Newent Business Park is the builders' merchant's 48th nationally.

With a product range catering to the public as well as trade, MKM Newent will contain the merchant's usual array of landscaping, plumbing, roofing, heating, timber and building supplies.

The branch will also have state-of-the-art kitchen and bathroom showrooms. With a dedicated kitchen design specialist, the showroom will help customers to be create their dream home environment.

With branches mainly in Scotland and the north of England, Newent is the company's fourth branch in the south and part of the 22-year-old merchant's ongoing national expansion plan.

The new opening is being celebrated with several offers and competitions.

Paul Donaldson, one of two branch directors at the Newent site, said: "We've put together a fantastic team of local people here at MKM Newent. We'll be showing Newent and the surrounding areas what MKM's award-winning brand is all about - fantastic product range, great prices and unbeatable customer service.

"My team are delighted to have this opportunity to strike up some fantastic relationships with the public and trade - pop in for a coffee, butty and a chat!"

Here at Punchline, we think it's great that the company has chosen Newent for its expansion into the South-West, above Bristol, Exeter and other more obvious contenders. MKM obviously saw potential for its business in the Forest of Dean and surrounding area. The new jobs for local people are very welcome too.

What do you think? Email mark@moosemarketingandpr.co.uk