Something big has arrived at the trade counter.
If your local independent merchant or showroom is part of The IPG, there’s now an even better reason to visit. Launched on 16 February, 2026, the IPG App has been created to reward installers for the trips they’re already making – while bringing new energy and opportunities into independent stores across the UK.
This isn’t just another app. It’s a smarter way to connect with your local merchant.
Visit, Tap & Collect Entries to Win!
The concept couldn’t be simpler.
Every time you visit a participating IPG member store, you tap at the counter and collect entries into live prize draws. You can collect up to 3 entries per day, stacking up your chances to win. That’s it. No complicated rules. No collecting points for months. Just download, tap and you’re in.
Big Prizes. Regular winners
The IPG App features a rolling programme of standout competitions, with headline prizes running alongside shorter-term sponsored giveaways that refresh every month.
Right now, installers can enter to win up to £3,000 towards a four-night, New York holiday for two* (including return economy flights), sponsored by Bristan, with entries closing on 30 April, 2026. (*Full Terms & Conditions apply.)
Alongside major prizes like this, the app also features regular sponsored competitions and product bundles. Recent and upcoming giveaways have included:
Bosch 18V Multi-Tool Bundles, sponsored by Worcester Bosch
A Nintendo Switch 2 bundle, sponsored by Wavin
With different prizes appearing monthly and some changing every few weeks, there’s always something new up for grabs.
It means more winners, more often.
And the best part? You’re automatically entering just by making a trip to the merchants you need to make anyway.
Bringing a buzz back to the counter
During testing, member stores reported a genuine lift in atmosphere and engagement.
Mike Barton from Croxley Plumbing Supplies saw it firsthand:
“I’ve found the app really positive; it’s created real excitement around the trade counter. The customers who took part in the test were coming in eager to get their entries scanned and we already have one customer who’s absolutely over the moon with his prize.
“For Croxley Plumbing Supplies to have an app that rewards customers for their loyalty is something I would have laughed at a few years ago, but now we can offer something on par with the big chains. Some people think independents can’t compete at that level, but this really helps break that down.
“That’s exactly what the IPG App is designed to do. It gives independent merchants a powerful loyalty platform, one that delivers the kind of digital engagement installers increasingly expect, while keeping the personal service and relationships that make shopping local different.”
James Bacon from AMCO Distribution also saw an immediate impact:
“Our client engagement was really positive. The counter had a buzz first thing and it’s refreshing for our client base to see an independent offering something they’d normally associate with the larger chains. The customers who tested this wanted to know when it would go live! The response was clear: installers want this.”
More than just a prize draw
While the competitions grab attention, The IPG App goes far beyond prize entries.
It creates a direct connection between local merchant and installer, delivering:
Exclusive app-only deals
Bespoke offers tailored by your merchant
Promotions on the products you actually use
Invitations to breakfast mornings, supplier demos and in-store events
Real-time updates and seasonal campaigns
Instead of missing offers or hearing about events after they’ve happened, everything is in your pocket – ready when you need it.
It’s faster.
It’s easier.
And it keeps you one step ahead.
A powerful tool for independents
The IPG App isn’t just exciting for installers. It’s a major step forward for independent merchants and the suppliers who support them.
Suppliers within The IPG network can sponsor competitions, run targeted promotions and spotlight key product ranges directly through the app, at the moment decisions are being made.
For installers, that means more relevant offers and better visibility of new products.
For merchants, it strengthens loyalty, increases repeat visits and keeps their business front of mind between counter visits.
It’s a joined-up approach that benefits everyone in the supply chain.
Why it matters
Independent merchants have always competed on service, trust and expertise. The IPG App adds another dimension: a modern loyalty experience that rivals bigger operators in the market.
As Mike Barton puts it:
“Merchants don’t just need buying power, they need everything that comes with running a business. Signage, social media, website, screens and now an app.”
For installers, that evolution means the best of both worlds — the personal service of an independent, combined with the rewards and technology expected from a major retail brand.
Getting started
Download The IPG App using the QR code and start collecting entries in participating member stores.
Once installed, it’s simple:
Shop as normal
Tap the app
Build up your entries
Check out exclusive offers
See if you’re one of the latest winners
With headline prizes, regularly refreshed competitions and exclusive offers built in, The IPG App turns everyday merchant visits into something much bigger.
Because loyalty should be rewarded.