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Screwfix
Screwfix
from Wikipedia

Screwfix Direct Limited, trading as Screwfix, is a retailer of trade tools, accessories and hardware products based in the United Kingdom.[6] Founded in 1979 as the Woodscrew Supply Company, the company was acquired in July 1999 by Kingfisher plc, which also owns B&Q, and is listed on the London Stock Exchange.

Key Information

History

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Screwfix store in Bedminster
Screwfix Volvo FH distribution lorry in Bristol
Screwfix store in Stratford-upon-Avon

Based in Yeovil, Somerset, Screwfix began as the Woodscrew Supply Company in 1979.[7] The company’s first mail order catalogue consisted of a single page, solely dedicated to screws; in 1987, this was increased to a four-page version named "Handimail" offering hardware to DIY and trade professionals.

The first catalogue to be produced in the name of Screwfix Direct appeared in 1992, and, with a turnover of £4 million, the company moved into larger premises at Pen Mill, Yeovil, in 1994. In 1998 its turnover increased to £28 million, and the company moved to a purpose-built site at Houndstone Business Park in Yeovil. [citation needed]

The first website was launched in February 1999, five months before the company was acquired by Kingfisher plc, whose holdings at the time included B&Q and Comet.[7][8] Later that year, the company expanded its site in Houndstone, with the opening of a new contact centre employing five hundred people. In January 2000, Screwfix announced a turnover of £58 million, and trading hours were extended to seven days a week.

In January 2001, turnover first exceeded £100 million, and after further expansion in the contact centre, Screwfix announced sales of £185 million in 2002. The thousandth employee joined the organisation in March 2000, and a month later, next-day deliveries within mainland United Kingdom were introduced.

The company relaunched the website later that year, and was awarded Retailer Of the Year.[9] In September 2004, to continue to meet the increased demand, a fully automated, 325,000 sq ft distribution centre was opened in Trentham, Stoke on Trent, fulfilling next day orders.[10] The Screwfix Community, an online forum, was also launched later that year.

In 2008, the company launched Plumbfix, offering qualified plumbers a wider range of specialist goods at better prices. This was followed by the launch of Electricfix the next year. In July 2011, Screwfix launched its "Click & Collect" service, enabling customers to order and pay securely online, and collect in-store in as little as five minutes.

Also that year, Screwfix's mobile website was set up, providing an easier shopping experience when not at home. Click & Collect was introduced onto this platform in January 2012, since then sales from mobiles have increased by 250%.[citation needed]

By 2013, Screwfix launched its 300th store. In 2014 it opened seven stores in Northern Ireland and four in Germany.[citation needed] Since 2013, the web and mobile site has been extended to include 33,000 products available online, and the contact centre has extended their opening hours to deliver a 24/7 service.

2015 saw the launch of Screwfix's Quickshop app, which allows customers to build their order on their smartphone and generates a QR code which can be scanned at the till point in store.

Screwfix.com and Screwfix app attract up to 7 million unique visitors per week. The Screwfix Click & Collect service enables customers to purchase supplies online (or over the phone) and then collect from store in as little as one minute.

In 2016, Screwfix won the "Teleperformance Customer Experience Initiative of the Year" at the Retail Week Awards. In 2018, Screwfix was awarded Retail Week's "Best Retailer over £250m" and "Digital Pioneer".[citation needed]

In 2021 Screwfix Sprint was introduced, allowing customers to place an order on the new Screwfix app and get it delivered straight to their location – either at home or on site – in 60 minutes or less. This service is currently available in over 325 eligible stores, reaching nearly 50% of the UK population. Screwfix Sprint was awarded ‘Best Innovation in Delivery’ at the eCommerce Awards 2023[11] and ‘Best Customer Experience’ at the Retail Week Awards 2022.[12]

In July of 2022, Screwfix opened its 800th store in Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire, bringing Screwfix closer to its medium-term target of 1,000 stores across the UK and Republic of Ireland.

Following the successful launch of its French website in 2021, in 2022 Screwfix opened its first five stores in France, initially located in the Hauts de France region, it now has 20 France stores located in Northern France, with more planned for 2024. In 2023 Screwfix launched its European website, serving customers in Spain, Poland, Netherlands, Austria, Belgium and Sweden.

In March of 2024, Screwfix celebrated the opening of its 900th store in the UK and Ireland[13] in Nottingham – Bilborough, marking a new milestone for the business which continues to grow.

Stores

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As of April 2024, Screwfix operates a network of over 900 stores across the United Kingdom, Ireland and France.

Screwfixs' entire store network is already powered exclusively by renewable electricity, and the retailer has begun to retrofit its existing stores with air source heat pumps. At the end of the 2023/24 financial year, more than 630 Screwfix stores were fitted with the low carbon technology, representing over 60% of the overall total, with more to be rolled out in 2024.

The Screwfix Foundation

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In April 2013, Screwfix launched its first charity, the Screwfix Foundation.[14] It supports charity projects involved in fixing, repairing, maintaining, or improving community buildings or facilities for those in need throughout the United Kingdom.

The Screwfix Foundation has donated over £15m since it was launched (as of February 2025).

References

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from Grokipedia
Screwfix Direct Limited, trading as Screwfix, is a British multinational retailer specializing in trade tools, power tools, hand tools, fixings, hardware, electrical supplies, products, and , primarily targeting tradespeople, builders, and DIY enthusiasts. Founded in 1979 as the Woodscrew Supply Company in , , the business began as a mail-order operation with a single-page catalogue focused on screws and fixings. Acquired by in 1999, Screwfix transitioned from a direct-mail model to an retailer, launching its first website that year and opening its inaugural physical store in in 2005. The company, headquartered in , operates over 950 stores across the and as of January 2025, with plans to open up to 35 more by January 2026, and an additional 30 outlets in as of early 2025, emphasizing ultra-convenient formats like click-and-collect and small urban "City" stores. Screwfix offers over 70,000 products through its online catalogue, app, and in-store inventory, supported by rapid fulfillment options including one-minute click-and-collect at eligible locations and next-day delivery. As part of , an international group with operations in seven countries across , Screwfix has grown into the UK's largest specialist supplier of trade tools and hardware, generating annual revenues exceeding £2 billion while prioritizing initiatives like refurbished product sales.

History

Founding and early years (1979–1999)

Screwfix originated in 1979 as the Woodscrew Supply Company, a mail-order business based in , , initially focused on supplying screws and fasteners to professionals. Operations began from a modest warehouse in the town, where the company produced its inaugural single-page catalogue exclusively featuring screws, which was mailed to potential customers for orders placed by post or . This lean model targeted builders and tradespeople seeking affordable, reliable fixings without the need for in-person shopping. Throughout the 1980s, the company gradually broadened its inventory to encompass fixings, ironmongery, hand tools, power tools, and general hardware, all geared toward professional users in the and DIY sectors. By 1987, had expanded to four pages to accommodate these additions, while distribution efforts intensified to reach a wider audience across the . Growth relied on efficient fulfillment and customer loyalty built through competitive pricing and quick delivery, with no physical stores in operation during this period; orders continued to be processed solely through mail and phone, serving thousands of trade accounts. In the early , reflecting its evolution beyond screws, the business rebranded as Screwfix Direct, with the first under this name launched in 1992. In 1994, turnover reached £4 million, prompting a relocation to a larger in Pen Mill, . The decade saw sustained expansion via enhanced circulation and product diversification, achieving annual turnover doublings through dedicated trade focus and operational efficiencies. This independent mail-order phase culminated in 1999 with the company's acquisition by .

Acquisition by Kingfisher and expansion (1999–present)

In July 1999, acquired the entire share capital of Screwfix Direct Limited through its subsidiary plc, integrating the mail-order specialist into its broader portfolio alongside . This acquisition positioned Screwfix as a key component of 's strategy to cater to trade professionals and DIY enthusiasts in the UK market. The company marked a significant shift in 2005 by opening its first physical retail store in , , transitioning from a mail-order-only model to a hybrid approach that combined online and in-store access for faster customer service. This move initiated a period of rapid expansion, with Screwfix opening its 100th store by 2008 and reaching its 300th by 2013, reflecting strong demand from the sector. In 2014, the company expanded internationally for the first time beyond the , opening seven stores in and four in ; the German operations were discontinued in 2018. Screwfix entered the French market in 2022, launching its first stores there alongside a localized , and by January 2025 had grown to 30 locations, primarily in the region. By 2021, the network had grown to 725 stores across the and , increasing to approximately 790 by early 2022 and exceeding 900 by 2025. Screwfix continued its expansion amid the , opening 30 new stores in the year to January 2021 to meet heightened demand for products. In the fiscal year 2024 (February 2024 to January 2025), the retailer introduced seven city-format stores designed for urban high-footfall areas, enhancing for customers. Looking forward, Screwfix plans to open up to 35 additional stores across the and Ireland by January 2026, which is expected to create more than 400 jobs. Throughout the and , the company has adapted to economic fluctuations, such as post-recession recovery and inflationary pressures, by emphasizing its core focus on trade professionals through efficient, no-frills retail formats.

Business model and operations

Products and services

Screwfix specializes in a broad assortment of products designed for DIY and applications, with fixings and fasteners forming the foundational category since the company's origins. Key product ranges encompass power tools such as drills, saws, and impact drivers; hand tools including hammers, screwdrivers, and pliers; electrical supplies like wiring accessories, lighting, and circuit protection; and heating items such as radiators, pipes, and ventilation systems; security products including locks and alarms; and like safety boots and . The retailer stocks over 70,000 products from more than 1,000 brands, featuring established names like DeWalt for power tools, Bosch for electrical equipment, and Screwfix's own-label offerings such as Magnusson hand tools and Erbauer power tools, ensuring a mix of professional-grade and affordable options. In addition to its product inventory, Screwfix provides customer services tailored to trade users, including trade credit accounts that offer up to 60 days of free credit, flexible limits, monthly statements, and dedicated account management without an annual fee. Bulk pricing is available for larger orders, alongside frequent promotions and a next-day delivery guarantee on in-stock items ordered by specified cut-off times. The company emphasizes accessible trade pricing for all customers through its core tagline of delivering "trade prices" on essential hardware. Expert advice is accessible via online buying guides and in-store support at service counters.

Retail stores

Screwfix operates a network of 959 physical stores across the and as of November 2025, primarily located in urban and suburban areas to provide convenient access for trade professionals, with an additional approximately 30 stores in as of January 2025. The company opened its first store in in 2005. The stores employ a compact counter-service model, with typical sizes ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 square feet, emphasizing efficiency for time-pressed customers by eliminating browsing. Customers place orders at dedicated trade counters—often using digital kiosks or catalogs—and staff retrieve items from an adjacent warehouse area for immediate collection, facilitating rapid "drive-thru" style visits. Operational features are tailored to the needs of tradespeople, including personalized service at trade counters where staff offer expert advice on products and applications. Ample on-site parking accommodates vans and larger vehicles, supporting quick drop-offs and pickups. Stores maintain extended hours, generally operating from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and shorter times on weekends, to align with trade schedules. Additionally, select locations host in-store events such as product demonstrations to showcase tools and hardware in action. In response to demand in densely populated areas, Screwfix introduced the "" store variant in , featuring ultra-compact formats between 1,200 and 4,000 square feet for high-footfall urban sites. Seven such stores opened during the ending January 2025, with plans to prioritize this format in future expansions, including up to 35 new stores across the and by January 2026.

E-commerce and delivery

Screwfix's platform, accessible via screwfix.com, was launched in 1999, enabling customers to browse its full product catalog, manage accounts, and track orders online. This digital shift complemented the company's existing catalog-based model, providing tradespeople with 24/7 access to over 70,000 items without needing to visit physical stores. The integrates seamless order placement, secure payment processing, and real-time checks across its network of distribution centers and stores. The , first introduced in the UK in 2015 as the Quickshop app, allows users to build orders on smartphones and generate QR codes for in-store scanning, enhancing speed for on-the-go professionals. A redesigned version launched in 2021 improved the for faster product discovery and order management, while the app's 2025 extension to supports localized browsing and exclusive offers for Irish customers. Key features include personalized recommendations based on purchase history and voice-activated search capabilities, driving user engagement among busy tradespeople. Delivery options emphasize rapid fulfillment to meet trade demands, with next-day delivery available seven days a week on most orders when placed before specified cut-off times, such as 9 p.m. on weekdays. Same-day service via Screwfix Sprint operates in select urban areas, delivering thousands of products in as little as 20 minutes through partnerships with logistics providers like Gophr. Click-and-collect enables pickup in as little as one minute from over 900 stores, while van deliveries handle bulky items directly to sites or homes, prioritizing "ultra-convenience" for professionals. By 2025, digital channels accounted for over 50% of Screwfix's sales, reflecting strong multichannel integration where orders are often fulfilled from local stores. Recent innovations, including the Irish app rollout and expanded Sprint coverage to 60% of the UK population, underscore commitments to express and trade-focused urgency.

Corporate affairs

Ownership and governance

Screwfix has been a wholly owned subsidiary of Kingfisher plc since its acquisition by the company in 1999. Kingfisher plc, a multinational home improvement retailer, is a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index and is publicly listed on the London Stock Exchange. As a subsidiary, Screwfix operates under the oversight of Kingfisher's board of directors, with its management team reporting directly to Kingfisher's chief executive officer. This structure ensures alignment with group-wide strategies while allowing operational autonomy for Screwfix's day-to-day activities. Both Kingfisher and its subsidiaries, including Screwfix, adhere to the UK Corporate Governance Code, which emphasizes principles of leadership, effectiveness, accountability, remuneration, and relations with shareholders. Within Kingfisher's broader portfolio, Screwfix forms part of the company's European operations alongside brands such as in the and , and and Brico Dépôt on the continent. Despite this integration, Screwfix maintains a primary focus on the and markets, with limited expansion into select European locations. The company's , located at Trade House in , , serves as the central hub for its operational and administrative functions.

Financial performance

Screwfix has experienced significant sales growth over the years, reaching £2 billion by 2021. In 2025 (ended January 2025), sales reached £2.6 billion, up 4.0% year-over-year, accounting for about 20.6% of plc's of £12.8 billion. The company's profitability has remained robust, contributing to the & retail profit of £558 million in FY25, reflecting a 0.6% year-over-year increase. Key financial trends highlight Screwfix's resilience and momentum, including a strong first half of FY26 (to July 2025) where sales rose 4.4% year-over-year, propelled by heightened trade sector demand. During the 2020–2022 , the business sustained growth exceeding 15% annually, underscoring its adaptability to market disruptions. Screwfix continues to invest in store expansions and digital infrastructure enhancements, including the opening of 33 new stores in the UK in FY25.

Key executives

John Mewett has served as of Screwfix since 2018, having joined the company in 2008 initially as Marketing and Director. With a background in retail operations, including roles as Group Digital Director at parent company and Managing Director of PC City Italy at DSG International, Mewett oversees the company's overall , expansion efforts, and growth, which surpassed £2 billion annually by 2021. Under his , Screwfix has emphasized in customer convenience and trade-focused services, such as the launch of loyalty programs and enhancements. Max Britten serves as Managing Director for the and , a role he assumed in 2022 after joining Screwfix in 2018 as Finance Director. With prior experience at , Britten is responsible for retail store operations, platforms, and initiatives, contributing to the integration of digital tools that support professionals' needs. His tenure has aligned with expansions in store formats and digital awards, including recognition for digital excellence in 2025. Kersty Drinkwater holds the position of Finance Director, managing financial planning, budgeting, and reporting, including oversight of 2025 allocations amid ongoing growth. Scott Parsons acts as Operations and Property Director, focusing on , efficiency, and property development to support store expansions, such as the planned opening of up to 35 new locations by January 2026. These executives, along with other senior leaders like Supply Chain & Director Ian Howe, form the core team at Screwfix's headquarters, reporting within plc's governance structure and prioritizing trade customer loyalty through innovative service models.

Screwfix Foundation

Establishment and objectives

The Screwfix Foundation was established in 2013 as a registered charity (No. 1151375) by Screwfix, a leading UK trade retailer, to address community needs through targeted support. Initial funding came from allocations of company profits alongside customer contributions, reflecting Screwfix's commitment to community engagement as part of its trade-oriented operations. Headquartered in Yeovil, Somerset—the same base as Screwfix—the foundation aligns its activities with the company's ethos of practical, hands-on assistance for tradespeople and communities. The foundation's core objectives center on raising funds to benefit local charities and not-for-profit organizations that assist vulnerable populations across the , with a particular emphasis on enabling home improvements and repairs for those in need, such as the elderly, disabled individuals, or families facing hardship. By focusing on practical interventions like property maintenance and facility enhancements, it aims to foster safer, more accessible living environments without duplicating broader welfare services. Funding is sustained through a model that includes customer round-ups at checkout via micro-donation schemes and direct contributions from Screwfix, ensuring ongoing support for grant-making activities. The foundation operates under an independent board of trustees, providing strategic oversight while maintaining close ties to Screwfix for alignment and resourcing. In 2023, it marked its 10th anniversary by highlighting its growth in national reach and sustained impact on community projects.

Programs and achievements

The Screwfix Foundation's core program centers on awarding to UK-registered charities and not-for-profit organizations for capital projects that repair, maintain, or improve homes and facilities serving vulnerable populations. These , typically up to £5,000 with no matching required, support practical adaptations such as installing ramps, repairing heating systems, renovating youth centers, and upgrading electrical installations in hospices and schools. Since its establishment in 2013, the Foundation has distributed over £15 million in by early 2025, enabling more than 3,000 local projects and benefiting an estimated 1.5 million individuals across the . Key initiatives include strategic partnerships to leverage volunteer expertise from tradespeople. A notable collaboration with Volunteer It Yourself (VIY), launched in 2024, mobilizes Screwfix employees and local trades professionals to provide hands-on labor for Foundation-funded projects, such as transforming disused spaces into community hubs. For instance, in late 2024, 20 Screwfix volunteers from stores, alongside trades mentors, renovated a former launderette into an improved foodbank facility over two weeks. The partnership was renewed for 2025–26, supporting additional projects including those in partnership with organizations like and . From 2023 to 2025, the Foundation emphasized post-pandemic recovery by prioritizing grants for support, youth programs, and essential home repairs amid economic challenges, funding hundreds of projects annually—such as 405 in the year ending 2024 alone. Screwfix's Voice of the Trade reports during this period, based on surveys of over 700 tradespeople, underscored broader industry needs like skills development and community support, informing the Foundation's focus on trade-related charitable efforts. In November 2025, Screwfix colleagues raised over £200,000 for the Foundation through the two-week SF500 challenge, further supporting its grant-making activities.

References

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