OUR COMMITMENT TO SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS

Why we champion the use of suppliers owned and run by the people of Peterborough.
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For Fix First Heating, supporting our community is the heartbeat of our business. As a trusted heating company serving homes and across our region, we know that every purchasing decision we make has the potential to strengthen the local economy and build a more prosperous future for everyone.

That’s why, at Fix First, we prioritise the use of local businesses. We buy our boiler parts and plumbing materials from smaller, independent merchants. Our marketing and office supplies are bought from nearby suppliers. We are proud members of BNI, an active network of 50 + business owners from around our local area.
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In this blog, we’ll demonstrate how Fix First Heating puts local businesses first: why we choose family-run, independent suppliers over multinational companies, how this decision benefits our customers and our community, and how our BNI membership enables us to support and collaborate with other local enterprises.

​Why Local Matters

When you think of heating, you might picture boilers and radiators, but at Fix First, we see heating as something far greater: a vital service that brings warmth, comfort, and security to families, schools, and businesses. Every project we undertake is rooted in relationships, with our customers, our team, and the wider community.

One of the most profound ways we nurture these relationships is by supporting independent, locally owned businesses. In today’s globalised world, it’s often more convenient to buy from a massive international company, with their vast stocks, and streamlined logistics. But what’s the real cost of choosing these corporate giants over family-run suppliers right here in our region?
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The answer is clear to us at Fix First: local suppliers are the backbone of our community. By investing in them, we help create jobs, stimulate the local economy, and retain wealth within our area. When £1 is spent in our local community, it stays in the local community. It’s not used to boost the portfolio of international investors. We believe that when local businesses succeed, we all benefit.

Our Approach: Partnering with Family-Owned, Independent Suppliers

At Fix First Heating, most of our suppliers are local, family-owned businesses. From the copper pipes and boilers, to leaflet printing and graphic design, we source as much as possible from independents who are invested in our community’s future.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:
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• Personal Relationships: We know our suppliers by name. We visit their premises, shake their hands, and exchange stories about our families and our plans for the future. These aren’t faceless corporations; they’re our neighbours, friends, and partners.
• Reliability and Accountability: Family-owned businesses depend on their reputation. When we work with local suppliers, we know we’re getting more than just the product. We’re getting quality, service, and accountability. If an issue arises, there’s no call centre halfway around the world; there’s a direct line to someone who genuinely cares.
• Quality and Craftsmanship: Local suppliers take pride in their products because their name is on the line. This pride translates into better materials, superior craftsmanship, and greater attention to detail. Our customers benefit from the kind of quality that only a close-knit, dedicated team can deliver.
• Unique Solutions: Multinational corporations might offer one-size-fits-all solutions, but local businesses are nimble and responsive. Our suppliers understand the distinct challenges of our region and can adapt to our needs, ensuring we always have the right materials and support for any project, no matter how unique.
• Keeping Money in the Community: Every pound we spend with a local business circulates within our economy, creating jobs, boosting public services, and helping other small businesses. By working with local organisations, we are contributing thriving community.

Use them of lose them

Let’s be clear: multinational corporations have their place in the modern economy. They can offer scale, consistency, and sometimes lower prices. But at what cost?

If we don’t use our local suppliers, they could disappear from our high streets and industrial areas, to be replaced by faceless multinationals with no interest in the preservation of local communities.

When local merchants are bought out by multinational companies, the priorities often shift away from the community. Decision-making moves to distant head offices. Jobs are consolidated or lost. Profits are extracted and sent far away, instead of being reinvested locally. The unique character of our high streets fades, replaced by a sea of identical brands.
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At Fix First Heating, we believe there’s a better way. By choosing local, family-owned businesses as our primary suppliers, we keep our region vibrant, diverse, and resilient. We maintain real relationships, and we know that our success is intertwined with the success of our partners.

​Our local partners

 We use a number of local merchants to supply our boilers, spare parts, heating components and plumbing materials. These are our first choice for all heating projects:
 
PHC Supplies

PHC Supplies are a local, independently run business, priding themselves on their excellent reputation and customer service.

“We always ensure the customer’s experience is our top priority, whilst providing the right stock at the right price.”

BK Supplies – Bathroom Showroom and Design Service in Peterborough

After many years’ experience of working in the plumbing and bathroom industry for other companies Barry and Kevin (father and son duo) wanted to ‘give it a go’ for themselves – and BK Supplies was born.

Originally opened as a trade counter in October 2006; they could have only dreamed of how the business would grow.

James Hargreaves – Peterborough Plumbing Supplies

They have a team of local and friendly staff at our Peterborough Plumbing Supplies Branch located on Harvest Way, Fengate.

James Hargreaves extends beyond the tap, boiler, shower or any item that our customers need, to include the advice, understanding and assurance that comes with buying from people who know their stuff. Product Experts!

​Supporting Local Businesses Through BNI

Synergy BNI (Peterborough)
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Our commitment to local businesses goes beyond our suppliers. Fix First Heating is an active member of BNI (Business Network International), one of the world’s most successful business networking organisations.

So what does that mean for our community?

BNI is built on the principle of “Givers Gain”, the idea that by helping others succeed, we create more opportunities for everyone. Through our membership, we connect with dozens of other local businesses: tradespeople, service providers, retailers, and professionals from every walk of life.
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• Referrals and Recommendations: We actively refer our customers to other trusted local businesses, and in turn, receive referrals from our network. This creates a virtuous cycle of support that helps keep money and jobs in our region.
• Shared Learning: Through BNI, we participate in workshops and share best practices with our peers. This constant exchange of ideas helps us innovate and provide even better service to our customers.
• Community Initiatives: BNI groups often organise charitable events, fundraisers, and volunteer projects. We proudly support our local chapter’s charity member, Peterborough Rape Crisis Care Group (PRCCG) Homepage - Peterborough Rape Crisis Care Group
• Mentoring and Growth: As seasoned professionals, we’re able to mentor new businesses joining our BNI group, helping them navigate the challenges of growth and establishing their place in the local economy. We benefit from their fresh energy and ideas, and they benefit from our experience and support.

The Customer’s Perspective: Why It Matters

How does our commitment to local businesses impact you, the customer? In more ways than you might think.
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• Faster Response Times: When you need a repair or installation, time is of the essence. By sourcing from local suppliers, we avoid supply chain delays and have greater flexibility to respond quickly to your needs.
• Better Service: Local suppliers are invested in our relationship and, by extension, in your satisfaction. If a part isn’t right or something goes wrong, we can sort it out quickly, with people we trust.
• Ethical Choices: Many customers today are looking for ways to make a positive impact with their purchasing decisions. By choosing Fix First Heating, you’re supporting a business that prioritises community wellbeing and sustainability in every choice it makes.
• Transparent Pricing: While multinationals may advertise lower costs, hidden fees and fluctuating pricing can quickly add up. Our local suppliers offer transparent, fair pricing, meaning you know exactly what you’re paying for, and where your money is going.

Building a Stronger Future Together

Our mission at Fix First Heating is about more than warmth and comfort. We want our community to thrive, not just today but for generations to come. We provide training opportunities for young people coming into our industry, which boosts the skills base around our city.
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By supporting local businesses, we’re helping to create a vibrant future where young people can find meaningful work, where family businesses can continue their traditions, and where our town remains a source of pride for everyone who calls it home.

Looking Ahead: New Initiatives and Ongoing Commitment

As we grow, we’re constantly looking for new ways to deepen our support for local businesses.

We’re committed to transparency: if you ever want to know where your parts come from, just ask. We’re proud to share the stories behind every project.

How You Can Support Local Businesses With Us

Supporting local isn’t just something Fix First Heating does, it’s something we invite our customers and community to be a part of. Here’s how you can join us:

• Choose local contractors and suppliers for your home or business needs.
• Participate in community events, trade fairs, and open days that showcase local talent.
• Share your experiences with friends and family, and leave reviews for the businesses you love.
• Ask questions about where your products and services come from – transparency helps everyone make informed, ethical choices.
• Consider joining local business networks like BNI to expand your own connections and support others.

​Conclusion: The Fix First Heating Difference

At Fix First Heating, supporting local businesses isn’t just a business strategy. It’s a core part of who we are. We believe that by choosing to work with independent, family-owned suppliers, by engaging actively with our BNI network, and by always putting people before profit, we can make a meaningful difference.

The next time you call Fix First Heating, know that you’re not just getting top-quality heating services. You’re helping your community thrive. Our promise to you is simple: we’ll keep putting local businesses first, building relationships that last, and delivering warmth you can count on, season after season.

If you’d like to learn more about our local partners or find out how you can get involved, please contact us directly or visit our website. Together, we can keep our community strong.

​Thank you for choosing Fix First Heating. Where supporting local is always our first priority.