Independent builders merchant MKM has acquired Dumfries-based bathroom design and installation company Rab Corder Bathrooms.

Rab Corder founded his bathroom design and installation company in Castle Douglas in 2011 before opening a showroom in the larger Scottish Borders town of Dumfries in September 2018.

KBS Corporate facilitated the company sale to align with Rab Corder’s retirement plans.

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Rab Corder Bathrooms now becomes MKM Dumfries St Mary’s, its 126th branch, and will be supported by sister outlets MKM Dumfries and MKM Dumfries Timber.

The business will continue to provide bathroom design to the trade and public and benefit from MKM’s logistics and free local delivery services.

There will also be investment to enhance the existing bathroom showroom, which features 14 displays, expand the plumbing and heating offer and introduce a kitchen showroom.

Rab Corder has stepped down from his position as CEO with immediate effect, but all other employees remain with the business as it transitions to MKM Dumfries St Mary’s.

The acquisition and expansion of the plumbing and heating services will create three new full-time jobs over the next two months.

A plumbing and heating specialist will join the team in April 2024 to work alongside branch directors of MKB Dumfries Graeme Thomson and Graeme McWhir.

Commenting on the sales of the business Rab Corder commented: “It’s bittersweet to officially step down from a business I’ve built over two-plus decades. I’d like to say thank you to all my customers and the team.

“I’ve always admired MKM’s commitment to supporting the local community as well as the company’s dedication to stocking the best range of products and employing the best people.

“My wife, Vicky, remains with the business and I look forward to seeing how the team expand our current services and grow it into something very special for the area.”

MKM’s business operations director Andrew Popple added: “Rab has built an outstanding reputation in Dumfries and we are delighted to retain the whole team.

“This acquisition is a fantastic opportunity for MKM to further strengthen our presence in Scotland, enhancing our services with the capabilities of Rab Corder Bathrooms.”