MKM Building Supplies founder honoured with 'outstanding contribution to business' award

David Kilburn, founder of MKM Building Supplies, has been recognised with the prestigious 'outstanding contribution to business' award at the Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards 2023. The ceremony, which took place at Headingley Stadium, was attended by over 400 prominent business figures from the region and hosted by BBC Look North's Amy Garcia.

For the first time, the 'outstanding contribution to business' category was open to nominations, rather than selection by the judging team. This special award recognises Mr Kilburn as having demonstrated a lifetime of dedication to his industry and business.

Since founding MKM in 1995 with close friend Peter Murray, David has transformed the MKM Building Supplies from a single site in Hull to an expansive network of over 124 branches across the UK. His ongoing involvement in MKM and significant efforts in mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs in Hull and the East Riding have not gone unnoticed.

Chris Burn, business editor at The Yorkshire Post remarked: "David is a worthy winner of this important accolade in recognition of his tremendous contribution to the region and nation's business community over the course of his career.

"To play a central role in building a company from the ground up to the point where it has more than 100 branches, 3000 workers and even sponsors his favourite football club's stadium is a huge achievement.

"Business is as much, if not more, about people as much as the bottom line and after he was interviewed by The Yorkshire Post earlier this year, it was notable how many glowing comments online there were from people who have worked with Mr Kilburn and had nothing but praise for him."

Expressing his gratitude, David said: "I am both surprised and humbled to receive the award. Building MKM and seeing it grow has been a hugely fulfilling journey, and being able to contribute to the local community and beyond is something I don’t take for granted. This recognition is not just mine but a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone who has been a part of this journey. I’ve said it before that I have been very lucky as without the support from lots of people, my wife Linda, and lots of others, it wouldn’t have been possible."

Member of the judging panel, David Kerfoot MBE DL said David was ‘an outstanding success story, inspirational building something from scratch at a later age’.

2023 marks a milestone year for David, celebrating 60 years in builders merchanting in June, he received a CBE in the first list of the new reign for his service to the construction industry, and to charity. His community involvement extends beyond business mentorship. He has been instrumental in supporting local businesses, including his involvement with Hull City's MKM Stadium, Hull KR, and various community initiatives such as ‘For Entrepreneurs Only’ a local group dedicated to improving the local economy.

Under his guidance, MKM has launched a successful apprenticeship program, growing from three participants to over 70 apprentices, further demonstrating his commitment to nurturing young talent and contributing to local employment opportunities.