A LIFETIME OF SERVICE – MIKE GREENUP MB DIY
For over four decades, Mike Greenup has been a cornerstone of the fenestration industry, building a legacy that combines entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. As the Managing Director of MB DIY, Mike has transformed a modest venture into one of the leading suppliers in the UK’s fenestration sector. His recent receipt of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Fenestration Awards is a testament to his enduring impact and dedication to the trade.
The story of MB DIY begins in the late 1970s, when a chance conversation with a supplier revealed a gap in the local market. Inspired by this opportunity, Mike, with the support of his wife Brenda, converted a spare office into a trade counter. It was a modest start, selling silicones, adhesives, and fixings. Yet, the vision was clear: provide essential products to small businesses and tradespeople in the region.
By 1979, MB Distribution (later MB DIY) was born. The company quickly gained traction, evolving from its humble beginnings into a trusted name in Middlesbrough and beyond. The decision to separate the business from Mike’s joinery and glazing company marked a pivotal moment, allowing MB DIY to focus on its growth and diversification.
Under Mike’s leadership, MB DIY grew steadily, moving from a 1,500 sq. ft. industrial unit to progressively larger premises, culminating in the state-of-the-art 35,000 sq. ft. facility it occupies today. This journey was marked by key milestones, including the introduction of new product lines such as wall, ceiling and floor coverings, and innovative door and window hardware products, including cylinder locks, handles and hinges to name a few. Mike worked closely with his son Michael to take calculated risks, importing high-quality wall cladding solutions under the brand name Decorwall — a bold move that has solidified MB DIY’s position at the forefront of the industry.
Reflecting on the company’s growth, Mike credits the team and community for its success. “From employing our first staff member to now having over 80 employees, it has always felt like a family,” he says. This ethos
extends to the company’s approach to customer service. Whether assisting ‘the man-in-a-van’ tradespeople or larger fabricators, MB DIY’s dedication to providing tailored solutions and maintaining stock availability has earned it a loyal customer base.
At the heart of MB DIY’s success is the partnership between Mike and Brenda — a dynamic duo whose shared vision has driven the company’s growth. Brenda’s behind-the-scenes influence complements Mike’s strategic leadership, creating a synergy that has propelled MB DIY to where it stands today. Their dedication to family values and community, coupled with their tireless work ethic, sets them apart as a team whose influence will be felt for generations.
Brenda Greenup has been an integral part of this journey. From early decision-making to the present, her insights and support have been pivotal. The purchase of the company’s first major property on Skippers Lane, for instance, was a joint decision, with Brenda’s belief in the vision underscoring its success. “We took a gamble, but we knew it was the right move,” Mike reflects. Brenda’s role has been as much about steering the ship as it has been about nurturing the company culture that MB DIY is renowned for today.
Mike’s recognition at the National Fenestration Awards this year is particularly significant, not just for its acknowledgment of his contributions but also for highlighting the collective efforts of the MB DIY team. “This award isn’t just about me—it’s about everyone who has been part of this journey,” Mike emphasises. Over the years, MB DIY has received several accolades, including the ‘Best Trade Counter of the Year’ in both 2023 and 2024, further solidifying its reputation for excellence.
Looking ahead, MB DIY continues to innovate. The company is poised to expand, offering solutions to architects, specifiers, and large-scale refurbishment projects. Investment in advanced locking solutions like the EROS 3 Star Cylinder reflects its commitment to sustainability and staying ahead of the game.
For Mike, the most fulfilling part of his journey has been the relationships forged along the way. “The fenestration industry is a great place to work and progress in life. You meet fantastic people, and you learn a lot,” he shares. This sentiment extends to MB DIY’s impact on the local economy, employing residents while serving customers nationwide.
As Mike reflects on his legacy, he does so with gratitude and pride. “If the initials MB are above the door and people remember what we stand for, that will be enough for me and Brenda,” he says. For the fenestration industry, MB DIY is not just a name; it is a symbol of trust, innovation, and service — qualities that we continuously live by.
For further information on MB DIY and their products please contact their sales team using one of the methods below.
Telephone: 01642 455945
Email: sales@mbdiy.co.uk
Website: www.mbdiy.co.uk
Address: MB DIY, South Bank Road, Middlesbrough, TS3 8AN
