Two Portadown builders’ merchants’ unsung heroes are recognised in all-Ireland awards
Two builders’ merchants from Portadown have been recognised in all-Ireland awards with colleagues nominated in recognition of their outstanding contributions to their respective businesses.
Randal Morwood of Haldane Fisher in Castle Street and David Wood of JP Corry have both been nominated for the Unsung Hero title of the 2026 Octabuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards.
The award recognises individuals whose dedication and contribution have made a lasting impact within their businesses.
Randal Morwood has been a valued member of Haldane Fisher for almost 29 years and is renowned for his outstanding customer service, professionalism and positive attitude.
A trusted colleague and natural mentor, Randal has built lasting relationships with customers while consistently supporting his team in every aspect of the branch. His knowledge, humour and willingness to help have made him a defining presence within the branch.
David Wood, meanwhile, has been a valued member of the JP Corry team for 28 years, progressing from the trade counter to assistant branch manager.
Renowned for his exceptional reliability, operational expertise and extensive product knowledge, he is a trusted mentor to colleagues and a valued source of support across the wider business. His behind-the-scenes influence is fundamental to the branch's smooth and successful operation. Now approaching four decades, the Octabuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards recognise businesses and individuals setting the benchmark for excellence across the builders' merchant sector. This year, 22 businesses are in contention across eight award categories, alongside nine Rising Star and 23 Unsung Hero nominees.
Following visits to the shortlisted merchants throughout recent weeks, judges Phil Derby and Steve Collinge praised both the quality and depth of this year’s entries.
Speaking on behalf of the judging panel, Phil Derby said: “The standard of entries this year has been exceptionally high, and it was clear at every stop that merchants are genuinely investing in their businesses – in stores, yards and merchandising, but just as much in people, training, digital capability, sustainability and customer experience.
"Reaching this stage is the result of a rigorous judging process, and every shortlisted business should take real pride in what they’ve achieved.”
Speaking on behalf of the eight Octabuild members – Bostik, Etex Ireland, Glennon Brothers, Grant Engineering, Gyproc, Irish Cement, Keystone and Kingspan Insulation – Octabuild chairperson Mike Glennon added: “The response to the 2026 awards has been phenomenal, with a record number of submissions received – the highest in the history of the Octabuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards.
"That level of participation speaks volumes about the pride, ambition and commitment that exist across our industry.”
He added: “These awards are about celebrating excellence and recognising the people and businesses that continue to strengthen our industry. Congratulations to all of this year’s entrants and we look forward to celebrating with the builders’ merchant community in the Round Room at the Mansion House in October.”
The winners will be announced at the Octabuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards gala dinner which is being held in The Round Room at the Mansion House, Dublin, on Thursday, October 1.