Toolbank acquires Irish Distributors

Toolbank owner Dormole has invested in the Irish market with the acquisition of Dublin based tool and fixing distributors Tucks O’Brien Ltd (TOB) and Tucks Fasteners & Fixings Ltd (QFF).

Tucks O'Brien Ltd has been trading since 1877 and today sells 16,000 products from a 35,000 sq ft warehouse, whereas Tucks Fasteners & Fixings was established in 1979 and services the hardware, builders merchants and electrical wholesalers throughout Ireland. The wholesaler offers 6,000 products including a wide range of hardware products including screws, nails, fixings, power tools, ropes and chains.

Andrew Strong, chairman of Toolbank said: “We are proud to have developed our business in Ireland with great support from our customers, the total commitment of our sales team in Ireland and those within our business that support them.  However, we believe that if we are to continue to grow our business, offer our Irish customers the full range of products and services we have available, we also need to have access to a locally based team and distribution facilities – as we do in all other regions.”

“We have always been aware of the tremendous loyalty that TOB and QFF receive in the Irish market and whilst we both sell some of the same ranges there are thousands of extra products that we can make available to all retailers and builders’ providers in Ireland by combining our ranges and resources.”

Gardiner Group chairman Paul Duggan said of the sale: “Dormole’s total commitment to the tools, fixings and hardware trade means they bring more than financial investment. “We feel sure their support and experience will provide us with even greater resource to develop our products ranges, marketing and logistics and enable us to fulfil our ambition of helping all of our customers and suppliers improve their business - it’s a really exciting time.”

“TOB and QFF will continue to be Irish businesses with Irish leadership,” said the company. Bob Boxwell will continue as TOB managing director and Gary Hogan as managing director of QFF. Meanwhile, Toolbank’s Irish business will continue to operate as it has done for more than 20 years, under the leadership of regional director Kevin Carver.

For more information contact your local TOB, QFF or Toolbank representative.

Source: Insight DIY Team

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