The IBA Buying Group Ltd was founded in 1993 in the North-West of England by 10 independent electrical wholesalers. From those beginnings, the Group has grown steadily into one of the UK’s most trusted buying groups for the electrical wholesale sector. Today, the IBA brings together over 90 Members operating more than 120 branches nationwide, with a combined turnover of around £225 million.
Our history reflects our strength: many of our founding Members remain active in the Group, a testament to the long-term value of belonging to a community built on collaboration, trust, and independence.
The IBA exists to give independent electrical wholesalers the buying power, supplier access, and support they need to thrive in a competitive marketplace. By working as one, Members gain the scale and leverage usually reserved for national chains—while staying fully independent.
Key benefits of membership include:
- Exclusive supplier partnerships with over 100 preferred and recognised suppliers.
- Competitive deals and rebates that return 100% of the financial benefit back to Members.
- Networking and shared expertise, helping Members support & learn from each other.
- Marketing and sales support, including our national catalogue, trade shows, and supplier promotions.
The IBA is proud to be run by Members, for Members. Every Member has an equal vote in shaping the Group’s future, ensuring fairness and transparency.
An elected Executive Committee of Directors and Electrical Committee oversee decision-making, while our dedicated head office team in Newton-le-Willows supports supplier relationships, member services, and day-to-day operations.
Apart from annual membership fees used for administration, all negotiated rebates and deal benefits flow directly back to our Members.
Our strength lies not just in numbers but in relationships. The IBA works closely with over 100 leading suppliers across the electrical industry—developing long-term partnerships that deliver:
- Competitive invoice prices
- Reliable payment terms
- Annual rebates
- Carriage-paid order levels
- Marketing and promotional support
By concentrating spend with trusted suppliers, we create meaningful, lasting partnerships that benefit every Member.
Community is at the heart of the IBA. We bring Members together through:
- Quarterly national meetings, which combine business updates with opportunities to connect and collaborate.
- Regional meetings, offering additional forums for input and discussion.
- Trade shows and an annual golf day, where suppliers showcase products and strengthen relationships with Members.
- The IBA catalogue, a proven sales tool which can be linked to our Members’ own websites.
These touchpoints ensure that our Members don’t just benefit financially—they also gain from the shared knowledge, experience, and friendships that come with belonging to The IBA.
From our founding in 1993 to today, our mission has remained the same: to help independent electrical wholesalers compete, grow, and succeed—without losing the independence that makes them unique. As the sector evolves, the IBA will continue to strengthen supplier partnerships, deliver value for Members, and champion the voice of the independent.
Find out how membership can help your business grow while keeping you independent.
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