26-10-2017, 04:22 PM
Toolstation was started by some people who left Screwfix. In quite a few locations they are on the same trading estate. At New Southgate near me SF and TS are adjacent, with Selco across the road.
What is slightly less well known is that SF have their Electricfix/Plumbfix trade counters where those who are registered get lower prices on a whole range of items. I get Electricfix due to my IET membership. Otherwise if you're an RGI, member of NECEIC or other recognised trade body you can get in the scheme. Toolstation is completely egalitarian which I prefer as a way of doing business. Although I'm in the Electricfix scheme and get privileged treatment as a result I would prefer it not to be that way.
As for Maplin, selling small components on the high street/retail park has to be a dead business. When you have RS, Farnell/CPC and Rapid all with efficient online ordering systems who needs the hassle of going to a shop. RS isn't friendly to non-business customers but the others are fine. Beyond those big guys there are many smaller suppliers such as Cricklewood Electronics and loads more on Amazon and ebay. With so many counterfeit parts around I'd usually prefer to pay RS etc prices and have an assured supply chain.
What is slightly less well known is that SF have their Electricfix/Plumbfix trade counters where those who are registered get lower prices on a whole range of items. I get Electricfix due to my IET membership. Otherwise if you're an RGI, member of NECEIC or other recognised trade body you can get in the scheme. Toolstation is completely egalitarian which I prefer as a way of doing business. Although I'm in the Electricfix scheme and get privileged treatment as a result I would prefer it not to be that way.
As for Maplin, selling small components on the high street/retail park has to be a dead business. When you have RS, Farnell/CPC and Rapid all with efficient online ordering systems who needs the hassle of going to a shop. RS isn't friendly to non-business customers but the others are fine. Beyond those big guys there are many smaller suppliers such as Cricklewood Electronics and loads more on Amazon and ebay. With so many counterfeit parts around I'd usually prefer to pay RS etc prices and have an assured supply chain.
www.borinsky.co.uk Jeffrey Borinsky www.becg.tv
