NEWS | Industry-first BBA Certification Achieved for Welded Masonry Support System

IG Masonry Support is delighted to announce that our Welded Masonry Support (WMS) system is British Board of Agrément (BBA) certified, becoming the first masonry support manufacturer to receive this certification for a masonry support system. This important third-party endorsement of the product’s performance provides specifiers and contractors with added confidence that our WMS system has been rigorously tested to meet industry standards.

The British Board of Agrément is one of the UK’s leading notified bodies offering approval, certification, and test services to manufacturers of products and systems supplying the construction industry. BBA approval is recognised by building control, government departments, architects, local authorities, specifiers, and industry insurers like the National House Builders Council (NHBC).

Commenting on the BBA certification, Kyle Alexander, General Manager of IG Masonry Support, said: “We are thrilled to achieve this independent certification on our product, which is as important to us as a business as I believe it is for our customers.

“The certification provides that added re-assurance and confidence needed at a time with legislation changes such as Approved Document B and most recently the Building Safety Act. It makes us proud to know that IG Masonry Support continues to raise the bar and be at the forefront of positive change in our industry.”

We’re proud to add this latest BBA certification to our extensive portfolio, which already includes B.O.S.S., B.O.S.S. A1, Brick Slip Lintels, Brick Panel System – further strengthening our position as a leading supplier of masonry support systems. It reinforces our commitment to going above and beyond for its customers, providing peace of mind at every stage of a project.

This dedication lies at the heart of our Sleep Like A Baby campaign, which highlights our focus on Building Safety Act compliance, in-house manufacturing excellence, and the consistent delivery of fully accredited, industry-leading products.

View our BBA certificate.

Paul Graham Celebrates 20 Years with Keystone Group

Paul Graham, Director within IG Masonry Support, celebrates an incredible milestone – 20 years with the Keystone Group. To mark the occasion, we sat down with Paul to reflect on his career journey, revisiting standout projects, key achievements, and the memorable moments that have shaped his two decades with the business. 

 

Q. Looking back over your 20 years within the Keystone Group, what has been your proudest achievement within the company?

A. There’s been a lot of great moments, but the last few years, being involved in our expansion into North America, that’s definitely up there. It was a big challenge, but to play a key part in getting IG Masonry Support established over there has been a huge highlight for me. When I think back to where we started, it’s amazing to see how far we’ve come.

 

Q. What’s one lesson you’ve learned in your career that you think has been key to your success within the Keystone Group?

A. For me, it’s all about being adaptable. Things change so quickly – new products, new markets, new management or new teams. You’ve got to be willing to learn and adjust. And persistence too – nothing worth doing comes easy, but if you keep at it, you’ll get there

 

Q. How have you seen the company evolve over the past two decades, and what has been your fondest memory?

A. The company has completely transformed. From one site and a small team to multiple sites, loads of new products, and now a presence in different continents – it’s been incredible to watch. My favourite memories are those big milestone moments – like opening new facilities or getting our first order in London or Toronto or New York. Those are the times when you stop and think, “Wow, we’re really doing this.”

 

Q. If you could go back to your first day in the job, what advice would you give your younger self?

A. I’d tell myself to have a bit more confidence and not be afraid to jump in at the deep end. The best learning comes when you push yourself, and looking back, I’d say take those opportunities sooner rather than later. Keystone Group has so many opportunities –  my advice to anyone who wants to develop or progress in the Group – put your hand up and jump in with two feet!

 

Q. What excites you most about the future within IG Masonry Support and the wider Keystone Group?

A. Definitely the opportunities ahead. We’ve got innovation, sustainability, and a real ambition to develop further into Europe and North America with all our Group products. It feels like there’s so much still to come, and being part of a team that’s shaping the industry both here and across the world is really exciting.

 

Owen Coyle, CEO of the Steel Division, Keystone Group, said:  

“Any major milestone or achievement in the Keystone Group was usually carved out by a small group of focused and dedicated people- Paul has been one of those people, on a number or projects and major milestones. A great asset to the team and The Keystone Group.” 

 

Andy Neal, Managing Director of IG Masonry Support, added: “Paul’s dedication and leadership have been central to the growth and success of IG Masonry Support. His commitment to excellence and innovation continues to make a lasting impact, and we’re proud to celebrate this milestone with him.” 

EVENT | Brick Works Glasgow with IG Masonry Support

IG Masonry Support is proud to present the next stop in the 2025 Brick Works Series, a national programme of inspiring evening events focused on modern brick architecture and the future of masonry support systems.

Hosted exclusively by IG Masonry Support in partnership with the Brick Development Association (BDA), the Brick Works Series celebrates the design flexibility, performance, and enduring appeal of clay brick in today’s built environment. Each event offers a platform for architects, contractors, and construction professionals to connect, share insights, and earn continuing professional development (CPD) credits.

Attendees can look forward to engaging presentations from leading architectural voices, exploring how innovative brickwork is shaping cities across the UK. The series places a spotlight on real-world projects, technical excellence, and the craftsmanship that drives creative brick solutions.

Brick Works Glasgow will take place on 16th October 2026, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, at Boxhub Bridge Gardens. This event will bring together professionals from across the design and construction industries to explore current trends in brick architecture and discuss sustainable approaches using clay brick.

As a proud champion of masonry innovation, IG Masonry Support is excited to host an evening of learning, collaboration, and conversation – all set within the dynamic architectural landscape of Glasgow.

Places are limited. For further details and to reserve your spot, please visit the BDA Brick Works Series website.