Building Materials and the Growth of Oadby and Wigston
Oadby and Wigston continues to evolve, with new housing developments, home extensions, school improvements and commercial refurbishments taking place across the borough. Every one of these projects depends on reliable building materials, from bricks and blocks to aggregates, timber, insulation and roofing. For builders, developers and homeowners, choosing the right supplier affects not only cost but also build quality, delivery schedules and sustainability.
Leicestershire is exceptionally well placed for construction materials. The county's geology supports major quarries in the Charnwood and Bardon area, and some of Britain's best-known brick and aggregate producers are headquartered nearby. This guide covers ten building material companies that serve Oadby and Wigston.
Why Local Supply Matters
Building materials are heavy and bulky, so transport is a significant part of their cost and carbon footprint. Sourcing from producers in Leicestershire and the wider East Midlands reduces delivery times and emissions. Local merchants also offer trade accounts, expert advice and quick collection, which helps small builders keep projects moving.
The Top 10 Building Material Companies Serving Oadby and Wigston
1. Ibstock
Ibstock is one of the UK's largest brick manufacturers and takes its name from the Leicestershire village where it is headquartered. It produces a wide range of clay bricks, as well as concrete products and building components. Ibstock bricks can be seen in housing developments throughout Oadby and Wigston, making it a genuinely local champion.
2. Breedon Group
Breedon Group, named after Breedon on the Hill in north-west Leicestershire, is a major supplier of aggregates, asphalt, ready-mixed concrete and cement. It has grown into one of the UK's leading construction materials businesses. Contractors across the county rely on its local quarries and plants.
3. Aggregate Industries
Aggregate Industries operates Bardon Hill quarry near Coalville, one of the oldest and most significant quarries in Leicestershire. It supplies aggregates, asphalt, concrete and building products. Its regional presence makes it a key partner for roadworks and large construction schemes around the borough.
4. Tarmac
Tarmac is one of Britain's leading sustainable building materials and construction solutions businesses. It produces aggregates, asphalt, cement and ready-mixed concrete, with operations across the East Midlands. Tarmac is investing in low carbon cement and recycled materials.
5. Heidelberg Materials UK
Heidelberg Materials, formerly Hanson, supplies cement, aggregates, concrete and asphalt nationwide. It is leading pioneering carbon capture work in the cement industry. Builders in Leicestershire use its products in foundations, floors and infrastructure.
6. Forterra
Forterra manufactures bricks, concrete blocks and precast products, including the well-known London Brick and Thermalite brands. Its products are widely used in UK housebuilding. Builders appreciate its range of aircrete blocks for energy-efficient construction.
7. Marshalls
Marshalls is the UK's leading manufacturer of hard landscaping products, including paving, kerbs and walling. Homeowners in Oadby and Wigston often choose Marshalls for patios and driveways, while councils use its products in public spaces. It is known for ethical sourcing of natural stone.
8. Travis Perkins
Travis Perkins is one of the UK's largest builders merchants, headquartered in nearby Northampton. It supplies timber, building materials, tools and plumbing products to trade customers. Its branches in and around Leicester offer convenient access for builders working in the borough.
9. Jewson
Jewson is a long-established builders merchant with a broad network of branches across the UK. It provides timber, insulation, roofing, landscaping and general building materials. Its trade accounts and knowledgeable staff make it a popular choice for local contractors.
10. MKM Building Supplies
MKM operates independently run branches that combine national buying power with local service. It supplies a full range of building materials and is known for strong relationships with tradespeople. MKM's branch model allows managers to tailor stock to local demand.
How to Choose a Building Material Supplier
Price is important, but reliability and quality are just as critical. Late deliveries can cause costly delays, while inferior materials can lead to defects. Ask suppliers about stock levels, delivery windows and whether they can provide technical data and certification for their products.
- Open trade accounts with more than one merchant to compare prices.
- Check that products meet relevant British and European standards.
- Ask about environmental product declarations for low carbon projects.
- Plan deliveries carefully, as access can be tight on residential streets in Oadby and Wigston.
Trends in Building Materials
Decarbonisation is transforming the construction materials industry. Cement producers are developing low carbon blends and carbon capture technology, while brick makers are improving kiln efficiency and switching to cleaner fuels. Demand is rising for insulation and airtightness products as building regulations push for greater energy efficiency. Modern methods of construction, including timber frame and precast systems, are becoming more common in new housing.
Recycled aggregates and reclaimed materials are also gaining popularity, supporting a more circular construction economy. For homeowners planning extensions, energy-efficient materials can deliver lower bills and greater comfort for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Oadby and Wigston benefits from being in a county that produces some of Britain's most important building materials. The ten companies above, including Leicestershire-based Ibstock and Breedon, offer quality products, strong local presence and expertise. Choose suppliers carefully and your building project will rest on solid foundations.
Want your brand featured in front of decision-makers? Publish a guest post or get a link insertion in our guides through AAMAX's guest post and link insertion service.
Helpful Links
Write for Us
Share your expertise with our readers. We welcome guest contributions from industry specialists.
Pitch your idea


