Leading merchant, Sydenhams, partners with Intact to drive digital transformation and future growth.
Sydenhams, one of the UK's most established timber and builders' merchants, marked its 150th anniversary in 2024 by signing a landmark partnership with Intact. The partnership marks a significant milestone in Sydenhams' strategic vision for digital transformation and positions the company for its next phase of growth
Sydenhams, one of the UK's most established timber and builders' merchants, marked its 150th anniversary in 2024 by signing a landmark partnership with Intact. The partnership marks a significant milestone in Sydenhams' strategic vision for digital transformation and positions the company for its next phase of growth.
A key factor in choosing Intact iQ business management software was its advanced functionality, specifically its ability to seamlessly manage and share information. However, what truly stood out to Sydenhams was Intact’s progressive approach to technology. For Oliver Sherborne, Sydenhams’ Director, Intact’s commitment to flexibility, openness, and its robust API - enabling integration with best-in-class technologies - was a major draw in making the change.
“After an extensive evaluation of software providers, we recognised Intact's best-in-class, out- of-the-box business management solution and flexible approach to customer needs as the perfect fit for us,” Oliver Sherborne, Sydenhams’ Director, explains.
What particularly impressed them was Intact's commitment to delivering customisable software solutions, backed by a talented development team's ability to integrate and adapt the platform to specific business requirements.
The natural synergy between the two organisations was evident from the start, with Sydenhams highlighting the strong alignment they felt with Intact's respectful understanding of their business needs. This partnership was further solidified by Intact's demonstrated philosophy of openness and flexibility, which Sydenhams witnessed firsthand through their conversations with industry peers, giving them complete confidence in their choice of technology partner.
"The Sydenhams Group is excited to partner with Intact as our new ERP provider. Their resources and solutions will bring new benefits to our customers and suppliers upon launch. Our closely aligned cultures and philosophies will also enable us to collaborate effectively in a fast-evolving future.” Oliver Sherborne, Director, Sydenhams
Sydenhams' confidence in Intact was further strengthened by the software provider's established presence in their target markets and proven track record of success. Having witnessed the tangible improvements Intact brought to industry peers and other Fortis members like PGR Timber and JT Atkinson, Sydenhams recognised the company's ability to transform businesses within their sector. This credibility, combined with Intact's history of helping similar organisations unlock their full potential, aligned perfectly with Sydenhams' vision for the next chapter of their business development.
Simon Barber, Head of Merchant Sales at Intact, highlighted the cultural alignment between the two organisations: "We're excited to welcome another senior Fortis member to Intact. Sydenhams, with its five generations of heritage and strong presence across southern England, is a perfect cultural fit as an independent family business. Following our discussions with the team, we’re excited about our future collaboration and the opportunities ahead."
This milestone partnership combines Sydenhams’ century-and-a-half of industry experience with Intact’s modern technology, creating a blueprint for future success.
About Sydenhams
Founded in 1874, Sydenham's has grown into a prominent force in the construction supplies sector. They operate an extensive network of builders' merchants, kitchen and bathroom showrooms, hire and timber centres, specialist plywood operations, and engineering sites across southern England and the Channel Islands. As a senior member of the Fortis group, the company has maintained its position as an industry leader through five generations of family leadership.
About Intact
Intact is a leading provider of business management software solutions, specialising in tailored systems for various industries, including building and material suppliers. With a focus on innovation and customer success, Intact empowers businesses to achieve more with less through advanced technology and dedicated support.
