Screwfix appoints Colliers to identify sixty new store sites

Trade tool giant Yeovil-based Screwfix has called in Bristol-based Colliers International to help identify a further 60 store sites across the UK.

The business aims to identify 15 new sites each quarter to expand their existing network of 303 stores nationwide.

The 2014 programme follows hot on the heels of last year’s target launch – also for 60 stores.

Colliers International’s Danielle Hatton said the ambitious acquisitions programme amounted to hundreds of thousands of square feet across the country.

She said: “Screwfix has reported significant growth partly due to its rapid store expansion programme. While many major players are moving their retail operation online Screwfix have also invested heavily in their stores where their click and collect system is proving popular with both trade and public customers.

“They look at the long term prospects and put considerable effort into the fit out of their units.”

Danielle said the programme to bring 91 per cent of the population within a thirty minute drive of a Screwfix outlet would impact commercial property availability levels – which were already under increasing pressure thanks to the recovery.

“We will be looking very carefully at our regional portfolios as there is limited stock in many of our target areas.”

Colliers International has been briefed to acquire existing or new build units of between 4,500 and 11,000 square feet in areas offering good access to population centres.

Ms Hatton joined Colliers International’s Bristol-based industrial and logistics team last year and this is her biggest deal so far.

James Taylor, property manager at Screwfix, said: “2013 was a very busy year for Screwfix with 60 stores opened across the UK. The future looks really exciting for us with plans to open even more stores in the next few years. To achieve this plan we’re looking for more locations and are keen to speak to any landlords that might have suitable sites available to lease.”

Amongst last year’s round of openings Screwfix launched new branches in Plymouth and Clevedon.

Source : SouthWestBusiness.co.uk
www.southwestbusiness.co.uk/news/12032014122826-somerset-based-screwfix-appoints-bristols-colliers-to-look-for-60-new-store-sites/