Wolseley's Pipe Center has become the UK's first construction materials distributor to launch a modular engineering service - to meet growing demand for off-site manufacture.
Wolseley has launched its modularisation service, in response to customer demand for the all-in-one off-site design and manufacture of major aspects of a construction project, including ducting, pipework and electrical components.

Wolseley will ensure such pre-fabricated elements will be assembled offsite and fitted to the new building as one whole unit, saving time, labour and removing the need for onsite manufacturing.

Bob Hughes is the general manager of Pipe Center Modular Engineering, which operates from a new factory in Worcester. Hughes brings his experience in modularisation, most recently with Balfour Kilpatrick.

Bob Hughes said 'Pipe Center Modular Engineering is in the unique position of being able to offer customers both the manufacture and distribution of pre-fabricated modules direct to site - all backed by Wolseley's efficient and established supply chain. We will be investing heavily in industry-leading computer software to ensure sophisticated design and the best service level possible.

He said 'There are significant growth opportunities in this area as more companies are embracing the benefits of modularisation - from helping to achieve tight timescales in the construction of a building, to reducing the health and safety risks associated with manufacturing the equipment onsite'.

He added 'Modularisation is also cost effective, offering an average 10% saving on installation for example, along with minimising waste and overcoming problems of onsite labour shortages.'

Pipe Center Modular Engineering complements Wolseley's pipe fabrication facility based in West Horndon.