MHI helps transform Devon builders’ merchant
6th May 2026
UK: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) air conditioning systems have transformed comfort levels for customers and staff at a relaunched builders’ merchant/DIY store and retail centre in Devon.
Beijer Ref UK supplied contractor local Crediton-based Kirton Air Conditioning with seven 10kW MHI ceiling cassettes, served by four outdoor units, as part of the upgrade at CMC Eakers, in Crediton.
Founded in 1975, CMC Eakers has developed over the years into a full-scale builders’ merchant and home improvement centre. It was purchased by Crediton Milling Company in 2024, who undertook a major renovation ahead of relaunching the business to include a new retail floor with café and barber shop.
Kirton Air Conditioning founder Ashley Cann designed a solution comprising one 10kW split system for the barber shop, two twin-split systems (4x10kW cassettes) in the open plan store area, and one twin split system (2x10kW cassettes) in the new café. The cassettes are installed to a high-quality ‘industrial’ spec finish, due to the absence of a ceiling grid to hide pipework etc.
The top floor café and barber shop needed to be a comfortable environment for both customers and colleagues. Previously, the metal roof meant it often suffered from being either too hot or too cold.
Cann reports that the systems are performing beyond expectations, and the customer happy with the flexibility they provide.
“The café area can be kept at a comfortable temperature for customers, while the shop floor can be left to range slightly, but kept within limits. The barber shop functions as an independent system, which they’re also happy with,’’ he said.
