Travis Perkins plc business Toolstation has opened its 200th branch in an expansion programme that will see 210 stores trading in the UK by the end of the year.
The landmark 200th branch is based in Newton Abbot and the fourth to open in Devon, extending the company’s presence in the South West. The business also has sizeable estate networks in a number of large cities, with over 40 branches within the M25 and 11 in the West Midlands, as well as branches in many other towns and cities nationwide.
Craig Higgins, Retail Director at Toolstation, commented: “The opening of our 200th branch is a real landmark in what has proved to be a year of strong growth and it is great to see our network expanding across the UK. Our ultimate aim is to provide a great multi-channel customer experience at conveniently located branches, online or on our mobile website.
“In addition to the continued development of our branch network, this year has seen the launch of our online Click & Collect service to help meet our customers’ needs. What’s more, in response to the increasing use of smartphones and mobile devices, we have recently introduced Paypal onto the company’s mobile app. This mobile platform also allows customers to check stock, buy online and collect from their chosen branch just an hour later. We look forward to continued growth whilst retaining the low cost model approach that appeals to our customers.”
Adam Keates, Commercial Resources Director, who leads the expansion programme added: “We are competing for space with other growing businesses – not just in the building sector – and we also have to take into account potential customers and their needs when considering new properties. Naturally, we look at the catchment of any potential location; at the same time you cannot beat going to an industrial park and making an assessment of how many people from the building trades are already visiting it, and whether it is easy to find and to access.”
Toolstation says that its offering is “designed for customer convenience, giving them fast access to the products they need. Branches are open seven days a week, with opening times from 7am to 7pm Monday to Saturday and from 9-4 on a Sunday, meaning that tradespeople can visit at times that suit them (whilst) orders placed at home or on site by 7pm Monday to Saturday can be delivered to UK addresses next business day, with free delivery on orders over £10.”
