Screwfix plans to open 50 new stores this year, creating about 600 new jobs across the UK and Republic of Ireland. Of the total, 40 will be in the UK and 10 in Ireland.
At the same time, the multichannel trade counter business, which currently has 711 branches, is raising its overall store target to more than 900 across the two markets, from 800 previously. The new stores are set to be opened following the identification of opportunities in both inner cities and in rural areas.
On average, Screwfix has opened one shop a week over the last five years – while growing annual sales from £1bn five years ago to £2bn in its latest financial year. The fast pace of store openings is part of a multichannel strategy that has also seen the retailer use its stores as fulfilment centres for click and collect during the Covid-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns. Screwfix has recently launched its latest mobile app, with improved features based on feedback from customers.
John Mewett, chief executive of Screwfix, says: “We’re delighted to be opening 50 new stores this year, creating 600 jobs. The growing demand for convenience means we now see scope for over 900 stores in the UK & Ireland, which will help our busy customers get their jobs done. We know that time is money for our customers and these new stores in the UK and Republic of Ireland enable us to provide our customers with added convenience and certainty, and provide even more job opportunities for local communities when they need it most.”
Screwfix is part of the Kingfisher group which has 1,380 stores in eight countries in Europe, trading as multichannel retail brands B&Q, Castorama, Brico Dépôt, TradePoint and Koçtas as well as Screwfix.
Screwfix is a Leading retailer in RXUK Top500 research.
