ONE of the region's MPs was among the first to check out a UK-first at a popular local building supplies firm.

Thorncliffe Building Supplies has launched its Fibo Collect facility, first fully automated, self-service, at the Alltami site.

Already becoming popular in Europe, the Danish technology is essentially a drive-thru station where builders can instantly pick up a small to medium load of concrete, mortar or screed with just a wave of their bank card.

The teams at Thorncliffe and Fibo hope that their system will help customers to tackle the 'small-loads' challenge.

Last week, Mark Tami, MP for Alyn and Deeside, was given a demonstration of the new equipment by Thorncliffe director Adam Harper, and Stuart Cranfield of Bell Meadow Bespoke Home Builders.

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Mr Tami said: "When builders need a small batch of concrete or mortar, mixing it themselves is time-consuming and going to a conventional concrete supplier can mean big queues. Deliveries are subject to minimum quantities, so this is an ideal solution.

"I was really impressed with the set-up here at Thorncliffe and it should complement and expand their already thriving business."

Mr Harper said: "We were initially drawn to the flexibility and ease of the set up and what it could offer our customers. The Fibo Collect machine is state-of-the-art mixing technology that produces a quality and consistent product every time.

Stuart Cranfield of Bell Meadow Bespoke Home Builders with Mark Tami MP.

Stuart Cranfield of Bell Meadow Bespoke Home Builders with Mark Tami MP.

"This will help so many of our customers, including bricklayers, landscapers, builders and groundworkers."

Customers will be able to access the collection service following a simple four-step method in the branch: order at the till, collect your barcode, position your vehicle or tub under the conveyor belt, scan your barcode at the Fibo Collect touch screen terminal to start mixing.

For a small load of concrete under 0.8m3 the entire mixing and pouring process can be complete in under five minutes, and is cost effective, only paying for what you use.