GPH Builders Merchants has secured three finalist places at the Trades Awards 2026, recognising the Aberdeenshire-based independent merchant for its people, contribution to the construction industry and commitment to the local community.
GPH has been shortlisted for Construction Supplier of the Year, while Landscaping Specialist Craig Forbes has been named a finalist for the Rising Star Award. The company's support of the MISS ‘Forget Me Not’ Garden, in partnership with MISS Miscarriage Support, has also earned a finalist place in the Community Engagement Award.
The achievement comes in a record-breaking year for the Trades Awards, with organisers reporting their highest level of entries and one of the strongest shortlists in the event's history.
Founded in 1982, GPH Builders Merchants operates branches in Inverurie, Westhill, Stonehaven and Ellon and has built its reputation supplying construction, landscaping and home improvement customers throughout the North East of Scotland.
The Construction Supplier of the Year nomination recognises a significant period of investment and development for the independent merchant. Recent activity has included the opening of the new GPH Trade Supplies operation in Ellon, continued investment in the company's specialist Garden & Landscaping offering and the ongoing development of its product ranges and services for trade customers.
Managing Director Grant Shewan said: "To have GPH recognised in three different categories is something everyone across the business can be extremely proud of. What's particularly pleasing is the range of the nominations. They recognise the strength of the business, the development of our people and our commitment to supporting the communities in which we operate.
"We are an independent business that has been part of the North East construction industry for more than 40 years, and these nominations are really a reflection of the work our team puts in every day to look after our customers and continue moving the business forward."
Craig Forbes
Rising Star recognition for Craig Forbes
The Rising Star nomination recognises Craig Forbes, Landscaping Specialist at GPH Westhill, who has become one of the company's leading experts in garden and landscaping products.
Craig joined GPH 12 years ago and has developed an outstanding reputation among customers and colleagues for his technical knowledge, customer service and willingness to help others.
Customers regularly ask for Craig by name, while colleagues across GPH look to him for advice on landscaping products and more complex customer projects. He is also recognised internally as the company's Garden & Landscaping Champion.
Craig has continued to invest in his own development, enrolling on the Builders Merchants Federation Diploma in Merchant Management in November 2024. Although designed as a two-year programme, he completed the qualification in just 18 months.
Grant added: "Craig is a fantastic example of the type of person we want to develop within GPH. He has built an enormous amount of knowledge and, just as importantly, he is always willing to share it. He has earned the trust of customers and colleagues over many years and thoroughly deserves the recognition."
Community support recognised
GPH's third finalist place comes through its involvement with the MISS ‘Forget Me Not’ Garden, which has been shortlisted for the Community Engagement Award.
MISS Miscarriage Support provides free and confidential support to people across Scotland affected by pregnancy loss. The Forget Me Not Garden was created as a peaceful and reflective outdoor environment where individuals and families can remember loved ones, find support and spend time in a calm and welcoming space.
GPH supported the development of the garden through the provision of materials, practical advice and ongoing assistance.
Kevin Fraser, Sales Director at GPH Builders Merchants, said the project had a particularly powerful meaning.
"The MISS Forget Me Not Garden provides families with somewhere they can remember their babies, reflect on their journey and find comfort in the support of others. As a parent, the meaning behind the project really resonates with me.
"We are incredibly proud to have played a part in creating something that will continue to provide support to families for many years to come. Community involvement has always been important to GPH, but projects like this demonstrate the difference that businesses, charities and volunteers can make when everyone works together."
The Trades Awards are now in their 14th year and celebrate the businesses, individuals and projects making an impact across the North of Scotland's construction industry.
The winners of the Trades Awards 2026 will be announced at the awards ceremony at Ardoe House Hotel, Aberdeen, on Friday 30 October 2026.
For more information, visit www.gph.uk.com.