Charlie Carlton, Head of Digital at IronmongeryDirect, the UK’s largest supplier of ironmongery, has commented on the UK economy entering a recession and the outlook for the construction industry: “The UK has now officially, and inevitably, entered a recession, with the economy shrinking by 20.4% between April and June, compared
IronmongeryDirect has reported its most successful month in history, with June seeing record figures for both order numbers and revenue. With many people turning to DIY during lockdown, the UK’s largest supplier of ironmongery experienced an 80% year-on-year (YoY) increase in web traffic in June. This increase led to a 75%
Leading supplier of hardware components, Rothley, has partnered with the UK’s largest specialist ironmongery supplier, IronmongeryDirect, tolaunch Rothley Endurance – an innovative range of strong, durable and long-lasting tubes and fittings for multiple applications. Unlike similar products currently on the market, the Rothley Endurance range is crafted from grade 201
Almost three quarters of tradespeople in the UK are happy in their work, despite working long hours and regular weekends, according to a new survey carried out by the country’s largest online supplier of ironmongery, IronmongeryDirect. The poll, completed by over 950 tradespeople, saw 72% of respondents rate themselves as
UK’s leading supplier of ironmongery to the trade, IronmongeryDirect, has been named as one of the top internet retailers in the UK. The company has appeared, for the first time, in the Internet Retailing UK Top 500, entering within the first 350 businesses. The IRUK Top 500 report ranks retailers
Leading online trade supplier, IronmongeryDirect are celebrating the success of their graduate management scheme. The UK’s largest supplier of ironmongery have recruited two new graduates following the continued progression of the organisation’s previous intake of newly qualified students. One of the stand out performers is Dimitra Koutsochera. Dimitra joined IronmongeryDirect
The UK’s largest online ironmongery supplier, IronmongeryDirect, has been recognising some of its most long-serving staff. A series of awards have been recently presented to employees who have worked for the Basildon-based company for over 10 years. Sue James, Senior Contact Centre Advisor, celebrated her 21st work anniversary at the
For years, tradespeople have been unfairly tarnished with the reputation for prioritising football over work. Many members of the public see them as being a bit too eager to down tools and head to the nearest big screen. Nearly 20 million viewers tuned in to watch England in their first
Specialist UK supplier, IronmongeryDirect, has announced that an additional four staff are now have their GAI qualification, enabling them to provide enhanced in-depth technical assistance and support to customers. The qualification was undertaken by staff members from across the business: employees Jenna Cottis and Caroline Vaughan from the Contact Centre,
BDC 319 : Aug 2024
Charlie Carlton, Head of Digital at IronmongeryDirect, the UK’s largest supplier of ironmongery, has commented on the UK economy entering a recession and the outlook for the construction industry: “The UK has now officially, and inevitably, entered a recession, with the economy shrinking by 20.4% between April and June, compared to the first three months of 2020. “The construction industry has been hit hard by the pandemic, with the lockdown causing output to plummet since March. In April, it fell by a staggering 40.2% – the highest monthly fall since such records began in 2010. “However, while construction output remains around a quarter (24.8%) lower than it was pre-lockdown, there are certainly signs of recovery. The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics show that output increased by 23.5% between May and June, which was also a record. “The sectors which grew the most were repairs and maintenance of private housing (44%) and the building of private new houses (42.3%). “In other more positive news, the number of unemployed construction workers dropped by 3,000 in the months between April to June (compared with March to May), and this was joined by a rise in average weekly earnings, from £578 up to £590. While this is 9% lower than the equivalent period last year, it is the first increase in 2020, so hopefully it will continue to rise. “The slow, but visible signs of recovery are also evident in our sales figures, as IronmongeryDirect saw record numbers for both orders and revenue in June. We experienced an 80% year-on-year increase in web traffic and a 75% rise in transactions. “While there is undoubtedly still a long way to go before the construction industry fully recovers, it’s great to see that there are a few signs of progress after an incredibly challenging few months. While we are about to hit a hard time as a nation, there can be hope that we’ll recover in full force.” For more information about IronmongeryDirect, visit: www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/.
IronmongeryDirect has reported its most successful month in history, with June seeing record figures for both order numbers and revenue. With many people turning to DIY during lockdown, the UK’s largest supplier of ironmongery experienced an 80% year-on-year (YoY) increase in web traffic in June. This increase led to a 75% uplift in transactions, taking the total number of orders to unprecedented levels. The surge of interest in home improvements saw a slight shift in IronmongeryDirect’s usual consumer base, away from its usual trade focus and more into the domestic market. In fact, while online traffic from existing customers rose by 29%, the number of first-time visitors more than trebled (208% YoY). Categories that performed particularly well in June included: ● Locks and latches ● Door and cabinet furniture (front door furniture, handles and knobs) ● Screws and fixings ● Gate, fence and shed hardware ● Shelving and storage Charlie Carlton, Head of Digital at IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect, said: “In recent months, many people have used their extra time at home to do DIY and this trend is clearly evident in our sales data. “We’re delighted to have been able to provide for the nation during lockdown, whilst still supplying critical products to the NHS and schools in this difficult time. With restrictions starting to ease off, we expect to see a return to our normal trade patterns and will continue to serve the country’s construction industry as it recovers from the pandemic.” For more information about IronmongeryDirect, visit: www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/
Leading supplier of hardware components, Rothley, has partnered with the UK’s largest specialist ironmongery supplier, IronmongeryDirect, tolaunch Rothley Endurance – an innovative range of strong, durable and long-lasting tubes and fittings for multiple applications. Unlike similar products currently on the market, the Rothley Endurance range is crafted from grade 201 stainless steel, making it harder wearing and eliminating the need for the environmentally damaging chrome plating process. Due to their robust and rust-resistant properties, Rothley Endurance tubes are suitable for multiple interior and exterior applications including curtain poles, shoe racks, wardrobe rails, shower head holders and outdoor handrails in gardens. The range comes in two high-quality finishes, mirror polished or brushed satin, and is available exclusively at IronmongeryDirect with competitive trade prices and next-day delivery. Simon Cox, Sales and Marketing Manager at Rothley, said: “We’re delighted to partner with IronmongeryDirect to launch our latest innovative product range. We hope Rothley Endurance will provide a solution for those looking for premium, high-quality tubes and fittings with the added benefit of being suitable for indoor and outdoor use.” IronmongeryDirect has over 17,500 products in stock. Orders can be placed as late as 8pm for next day delivery from Sunday through to Friday and by 4pm on Saturdays. Free, no quibble returns are available on all products. For more information visit IronmongeryDirect.com or call their team of specialist advisors on 0800 168 28 28.
Almost three quarters of tradespeople in the UK are happy in their work, despite working long hours and regular weekends, according to a new survey carried out by the country’s largest online supplier of ironmongery, IronmongeryDirect. The poll, completed by over 950 tradespeople, saw 72% of respondents rate themselves as ‘happy’ or ‘very happy’ in their current role, with 70% saying they would recommend their job to others. This was despite almost half (46%) of those surveyed working over 45 hours every week, 54% regularly working weekends and almost a third (29%) taking less than two weeks holiday a year. The findings are in contrast to the overall decline in job satisfaction across the UK, highlighted by a recent survey* which found that workplace happiness has dropped steadily over the past three years, with only 41% of staff reporting being happy most of the time at work. Commenting on the survey findings, Wayne Lysaght-Mason, Managing Director of IronmongeryDirect, said: “For too long academic professions have been portrayed as the aspirational career routes to pursue while occupations in the trade sector are viewed as second class. This couldn’t be further from the truth. “There are a huge number of benefits for those taking up a trade and the results from our survey show just how fulfilling and rewarding a career on the tools can be. With acute skills shortages felt across the whole construction sector, it is the perfect time for young people to pursue a trade career and join this flourishing industry.” Skills shortages (reported by 64% of respondents), which are compounded by record employment levels, mean a trade career is likely to offer long-term job security. With 10% of the UK construction workforce made up of overseas workers**, the issue could be even further exacerbated if immigration is restricted under the terms of Brexit. Furthermore, 22% of current tradespeople are aged over 50 while 15% are in their 60s, so new talent is urgently needed to replace those nearing retirement. Trade skills can lead to lucrative careers, with half of the survey respondents earning £30k or more. There are also good prospects for self-employment, which offers added flexibility, control and the option to be selective when taking on work. This is reflected in the survey, with 78% of self-employed tradespeople rating themselves as ‘happy’ or ‘very happy’ at work. IronmongeryDirect has over 17,000 products available and in stock. Orders can be placed as late as 8pm for next day delivery from Sunday through to Friday and by 4pm on Saturdays. Free, no quibble returns are available on all products. For more information, visit IronmongeryDirect.com or call their team of specialist advisors on 0800 168 28 28.
UK’s leading supplier of ironmongery to the trade, IronmongeryDirect, has been named as one of the top internet retailers in the UK. The company has appeared, for the first time, in the Internet Retailing UK Top 500, entering within the first 350 businesses. The IRUK Top 500 report ranks retailers by revenue, store networks and website traffic as well as undertaking in-depth analysis into an organisation’s approach to customers. Wayne Lysaght-Mason, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect, said while they had experienced their best financial year to date, the Basildon-based wholesaler was not resting on its laurels – with further expansion planned in 2019 and beyond. He said: “We are thrilled to have made it into the IRUK Top 500 internet retailers. To be included in a list of companies that consist of the likes of Amazon, John Lewis and Argos is a great reflection of our achievements and is an indication of the positive direction that IronmongeryDirect is heading in. “In the digital age where the standard 9-5 working hours are becoming less applicable, IronmongeryDirect is leading the way and continually evolving our business strategy, placing our customers firmly at the centre.” IronmongeryDirect has recently completed a major expansion of its warehouse and is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary later this year. Wayne continued: “The expansion has enabled us to improve our service offering whilst continuing to grow our product range, bringing the total range to over 17,000 products. This further cements our position as the leading supplier of ironmongery and related products to the trade in the UK. IronmongeryDirect is the UK’s largest specialist ironmongery supplier, with over 17,000 products in stock, available for next day delivery when you order by 8pm Sunday to Friday and by 4pm on Saturday. Free delivery is available on orders over £45 together with free returns. For more information, visit IronmongeryDirect.com or call their team of specialist advisors on 0800 168 28 28.
Leading online trade supplier, IronmongeryDirect are celebrating the success of their graduate management scheme. The UK’s largest supplier of ironmongery have recruited two new graduates following the continued progression of the organisation’s previous intake of newly qualified students. One of the stand out performers is Dimitra Koutsochera. Dimitra joined IronmongeryDirect in 2013 after completing an MSc in Business Management and since starting as a graduate management trainee, has gone on to be promoted to Supply Chain and Inventory Planning Manager. Dimitra identified the diversity on offer in her role and the opportunities she was provided with to realise her best strengths as the major contributing factors for excelling in the scheme. Talking about the scheme, she said: “My university course gave me the tools and introduced me to the best frameworks for me to know what it takes to perform a job well. However, you are only going to learn if someone gives you the opportunity to apply this into practice, make mistakes, and learn from them. “This is the advantage of the IronmongeryDirect graduate scheme as you have the opportunity to work in various departments, build business acumen, earn further qualifications, and at the end of it all, identify what you really enjoy doing and start a career. You understand how each department links to each other and the impact that your decisions may have. Graduate schemes give you the flexibility to choose what is best for you and your future career, compared to going down another route.” IronmongeryDirect’s latest crop of graduates include Oliver Bull and Luke Scott. Oliver graduated from the University of Warwick having completed a Masters in MSc Biotechnology, Bioprocessing and Business Management and is already immersing himself in the new role: “I have just started my first three-month project, aimed at further enhancing customer experience. I have been welcomed and already feel valued and part of the team. “IronmongeryDirect offered the perfect opportunity for me to further expand my knowledge and experience in the field. It was clear the company invests time and effort into its employees, and despite its size, has maintained a family-like business environment, which in turn, has created a thriving workplace. A wide range of personal development opportunities are also available.” Luke, who graduated with a degree in Mathematics from Loughborough University also praised the wide-ranging nature of the graduate scheme: “The most attractive feature of the scheme was the fact that I would be working in lots of different departments throughout the programme, which meant I would be getting a full scope of how the business works. “There is a great work culture here; the whole team is friendly and always ready to lend a helping hand, with everyone, including the directors, available if you need a chat! I would definitely recommend IronmongeryDirect to somebody else.” Dimitra concluded with some final advice to any aspiring graduates: “Ask questions, loads of questions as this is your opportunity to learn. Also, take any feedback on board and do not hesitate to suggest ideas or solutions. Be proactive and take your own initiative to investigate and change things for the good of the department. It’s your time to shine and give your career strong foundations so make the most of it!” IronmongeryDirect is the UK’s largest specialist ironmongery supplier, with over 16,500 products in stock, available for next day delivery.
The UK’s largest online ironmongery supplier, IronmongeryDirect, has been recognising some of its most long-serving staff. A series of awards have been recently presented to employees who have worked for the Basildon-based company for over 10 years. Sue James, Senior Contact Centre Advisor, celebrated her 21st work anniversary at the end of June. She said: “I am very proud to have worked for IronmongeryDirect for such a long period of time. It’s a fantastic place to work, and I must have spoken to thousands of customers. The job brings me the satisfaction of knowing that I’m helping each tradesperson find what they need for their business or to improve their home.” Other long serving staff include, Jim Cook, Distribution Centre Team Member (17 years), Keith Harrod, Category Assistant (16 years), Debbie Butler, Executive Contact Centre Advisor (14 years), Norman Calvin, IT Support Analyst (13 years), Andrew Patey, Distribution Centre Team Member (12 years), Tom Ramshaw, Operations Director (11 years), Stuart Caddle, Distribution Centre Team Manager (11 years), Jamie Johnson, Senior Category Manager (11 years), Keith Gray, Distribution Centre Productivity & Project Manager (11 years), Terry Greene, Distribution Centre Team Member (11 years), Lance Warner, Distribution Centre Team Member (11 years), Angela Spelman, Executive Contact Centre Advisor (11 years), Gillian Thurkettle, Distribution Centre Team Member (10 years), Wayne Lysaght-Mason, Managing Director (10 years) and Victoria Gregory, Contact Centre Advisor (10 years). Wayne Lysaght-Mason, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect, has headed up the company for more than a decade, added: “We wanted to make sure that our staff knew how much their hard work and efforts are appreciated. Many of our staff have dedicated many years of their professional lives to the business and have seen IronmongeryDirect transform and advance a great deal. Without them and all of our staff, our success would not be possible.” IronmongeryDirect has also announced that more staff are now GAI (Guild of Architectural Ironmongers) level 2 qualified, enabling them to provide enhanced in-depth technical assistance and support to customers.
For years, tradespeople have been unfairly tarnished with the reputation for prioritising football over work. Many members of the public see them as being a bit too eager to down tools and head to the nearest big screen. Nearly 20 million viewers tuned in to watch England in their first world cup match on Monday 18th June, however, it is the daytime games that will put loyalties to the test in a clash of the World Cup vs work. However, recent research shows that 75% of tradespeople, including builders, carpenters and joiners, will always choose work over football if the two ever conflicted. According to a poll of more than 1,000 IronmongeryDirect customers, the vast majority of tradespeople claimed they would never consider skipping work to watch their team or the World Cup. Many poll participants are planning when and where they will be watching their team – but outside of work. If they were to ‘pull a sickie’ to watch their team play during the day, tradespeople offered some of the best excuses they would give, with the more elaborate ones including: “I’ve been called up as a late replacement by Gareth Southgate” “My boyfriend’s in labour.” “I’ve got soap in my eyes and can’t find a towel.” “I’ve been delayed at the airport on holiday…in Scarborough.” “My Auntie’s Gerbil is about to give birth and I’m the nominated birthing partner.” Some of the more convincing examples included: “I have a dentist appointment.” “The children are poorly.” “I’ve got the flu.” Employers are recognising that the World Cup is important to many of their staff. Many responded to the polls saying they would be more than happy to be flexible by offering them time off. One respondent stated: “As the boss, I always give my team the time off. It also saves them giving me the daft excuses!”. The research also revealed ongoing optimism among tradespeople, with more than half believing England will make it to the Quarter Finals. Also, half of those polled (49%) said they would give up alcohol for good to see England win the tournament. The UK’s leading online trade supplier, IronmongeryDirect, ran a series of polls to find out more about tradespeople’s attitude to work during the World Cup in June. Andy Wood, football enthusiast and Marketing Director of IronmongeryDirect, said: “The World Cup is an exciting time for many of us – tradespeople are no exception. We wanted to find out how our customers were preparing for the year’s biggest sporting event. The research was carried out in the name of fun, but it was great to see results challenging the outdated stereotype of contractors and other trades professionals neglecting their jobs for football! Tradespeople in Britain work hard, and we hope they enjoy watching World Cup 2018.”
Specialist UK supplier, IronmongeryDirect, has announced that an additional four staff are now have their GAI qualification, enabling them to provide enhanced in-depth technical assistance and support to customers. The qualification was undertaken by staff members from across the business: employees Jenna Cottis and Caroline Vaughan from the Contact Centre, Tomasz Stasiek from the Purchasing team and Kelly Wing from the Direct Sourcing team all completed the Level 1 course. The qualification provides the staff with professional industry knowledge and skills, including everything they need to know about the range of ironmongery products on the market, from how they are made to how they are used. Contact Centre Team Manager, Jenna Cottis, said: “The GAI qualification makes my job ten times easier. In my role I am asked a lot of technical questions and this course has given me the professional skillset and industry knowledge to provide customers with the best information and support. “This qualification gives our customers confidence in us and reassures them that we are a source of information they can rely on.” Wayne Lysaght-Mason, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect, said: “We are incredibly proud of all our employees who have achieved this highly-regarded qualification in architectural hardware. They have all worked extremely hard to complete their studies and are now able to provide the very best service for our customers, supporting our status as ‘masters of our trade’.”
