For trade professionals and dedicated DIY enthusiasts across the UK and Europe, one name consistently comes to mind for tools, hardware, and supplies: Screwfix. With a reputation built on convenience, reliability, and a vast product selection, it has become a cornerstone of the industry. But how did this brand grow from a small mail-order company into a retail giant? This post explores the history, product range, and unique advantages that make Screwfix a top choice for countless customers.
We will look at the journey of the company, from its beginnings to its current status as a multi-channel retailer. We will also cover the extensive range of products it offers, the seamless shopping experience both online and in-store, and the customer-centric services that set it apart. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting a home project, you’ll see why Screwfix is a name you can trust.
From Mail-Order to a Retail Powerhouse
Screwfix wasn’t always the familiar network of stores we see today. The company’s story begins in 1979 as the Woodscrew Supply Company, a small mail-order business specializing in selling screws. Based in Yeovil, Somerset, its founders focused on providing a niche but essential product directly to the trade. The concept was simple but effective: offer a specialized range and deliver it efficiently.
This focus on direct supply was a key differentiator. The first catalogue, a single page dedicated entirely to screws, was launched. As its reputation grew, so did its product line. By 1992, the company had rebranded to Screwfix Direct, reflecting its expanded inventory and commitment to fast, direct service. The catalogue became a beloved “trade bible,” a comprehensive resource found in workshops and vans everywhere.
The turning point came in 1999 when Screwfix was acquired by Kingfisher plc, the international home improvement company that also owns B&Q. This acquisition provided the resources for massive expansion. In 2005, the first physical Screwfix store opened, marking a major shift in its business model. This multi-channel approach, combining a strong online presence with a rapidly growing network of local stores, proved to be a winning formula. Today, there are over 800 Screwfix stores across the UK and Ireland, making it more accessible than ever.
An Unrivaled Product Range for Every Job
One of the primary reasons for Screwfix’s success is its immense and carefully curated product inventory. The company stocks over 57,000 products across its online and catalogue channels, with over 11,000 items available for immediate pickup in-store. This vast selection caters to nearly every trade and DIY need imaginable.
Key Product Categories
- Power Tools & Accessories: From drills and saws to grinders and sanders, Screwfix offers a wide array of power tools from leading brands like DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, and its own high-value brand, Titan. An extensive range of accessories, including drill bits, blades, and sanding discs, ensures you have everything needed to get the job done.
- Hand Tools: The foundation of any toolbox is covered. You can find everything from screwdriver sets and spanners to hammers, saws, and levels. Brands like Stanley, Irwin, and Bahco are featured alongside reliable and affordable options.
- Plumbing & Heating: This is a core category for trade professionals. Screwfix stocks thousands of plumbing fittings, pipes, radiators, boilers, and water heaters. It serves as a one-stop shop for plumbers and heating engineers who need parts quickly.
- Electrical & Lighting: Electricians rely on Screwfix for essentials like cables, sockets, switches, consumer units, and a huge selection of indoor and outdoor lighting. All products meet the latest safety standards, providing peace of mind.
- Workwear & Safety: Staying safe on site is non-negotiable. Screwfix provides a comprehensive range of workwear, including durable trousers, jackets, safety boots, gloves, high-visibility clothing, and personal protective equipment (PPE) like hard hats and safety glasses.
The Seamless Screwfix Shopping Experience
Screwfix has perfected a multi-channel retail model that prioritizes speed and convenience. This flexibility allows customers to shop in the way that best suits their needs, whether they are on a job site or planning a project from home.
Click & Collect in as Little as One Minute
The standout feature of the Screwfix service is its industry-leading Click & Collect. Customers can check stock levels at their local store online, place an order, and receive a text message when it is ready for collection. In many cases, this process takes just a few minutes. For a tradesperson who discovers they need a specific part mid-job, this service is invaluable. It minimizes downtime and keeps projects moving forward.
In-Store Experience
Screwfix stores are designed for speed and efficiency. They are typically compact, warehouse-style outlets located in convenient trade parks and industrial estates. Rather than browsing aisles, customers fill out an order form from the catalogue or use the in-store digital terminals to select their items. The staff then quickly retrieve the products from the stockroom. This model ensures that you can get in, get what you need, and get back to work with minimal fuss.
Fast and Reliable Delivery
For items not available in-store or for customers who prefer delivery, Screwfix offers next-day delivery on thousands of products. Its efficient logistics network ensures that orders placed online or via the contact centre arrive quickly and reliably, whether to a home address or directly to a job site.
What Sets Screwfix Apart?
While other retailers offer similar products, several factors contribute to Screwfix’s dominant position in the market.
- Customer-Centric Service: The staff are known for being knowledgeable and efficient. The company focuses on providing a no-nonsense, helpful service that respects the customer’s time.
- The Screwfix Catalogue: Even in a digital age, the physical Screwfix catalogue remains an iconic and useful tool. It’s a comprehensive resource that many tradespeople keep in their van for quick reference.
- Transparent Pricing & Value: Screwfix offers competitive and transparent pricing. Regular promotions and deals provide excellent value, while the inclusion of its own brands like Titan and Forge Steel offers quality alternatives at a lower price point.
- Reliability and Stock Availability: The ability to check stock online before traveling to a store is a major benefit. This reliability means customers can trust that the products they need will be available, saving them from wasted trips.
The Go-To Choice for Professionals and DIYers
From its humble beginnings as a mail-order screw supplier to its current status as a retail powerhouse, Screwfix has built its success on a simple promise: to provide the tools and materials you need, when you need them. Its combination of a vast product range, a seamless multi-channel shopping experience, and a focus on speed and reliability has made it an indispensable partner for the trade.
Whether you are a professional builder, electrician, plumber, or a homeowner tackling a weekend project, Screwfix offers a convenient and dependable solution. Its unique blend of digital convenience and physical accessibility ensures that it will remain a go-to destination for years to come.