THS – Francis Kirk and Son Ltd – Fastener Specialist since 1868 and the development of a New Trade Counter
Francis Kirk and Son Ltd was founded in 1868 and the company is widely acknowledged as an expert in the engineering and fastenings business. With their extensive stocks of engineering products and a highly experienced and knowledgeable staff, the company serves a broad range of customers both nationally and internationally. Since 1989 Francis Kirk (Socket Screws) has been incorporated into the FK Group of companies and has been a major supplier of socket screws made by Unbrako and Holokrome. More recently, due to its ISO9001 rating, it has been appointed the sole European supplier of Durlok anti-vibration bolts.
The company aims to stock the highest quality fastener product ranges as well as other engineering requirements from premium brands such as Gedore, Draper, Makita, Dormer, Stanley and Philidas
One of the main reasons why I visited the modern, purpose-built Manchester office and 24000 sq foot warehouse complex on a 1.5 acre site, was to talk to Tom Kirk, the Business Development Manager, about the newly refurbished Trade Counter business. This development is so new that, metaphorically, the paint is barely dry, but it seems that already the signs of a flourishing business are present. Tom is the main driver behind revitalising the trade counter business. He noticed that the large warehouse had a lot of underused potential and set about designing, developing and building a new mezzanine floor and refurbishing the older counter area. This now has a slick and uncluttered look where there is enough space for customers to select freely from a range of products from the extensive displays. The modern look and feel of the area was a conscious choice to plug into the way in which both passing trade and established customers shop for their needs these days. As Francis Kirk and Son have been long standing THS members, Tom told me
a great deal about how various suppliers were chosen to fit the profile of the new venture. Tom was keen to promote work and safety-wear, a range of power tools and
a good choice of specialist products with an engineering bent. To this end he arranged an intensive two day “interview” process in which various suppliers were invited to come to Manchester and discuss the opportunities available. From the thirty-five companies that were invited, eight or nine were chosen as having suitable product ranges and willingness to work within the constraints of a trade counter business. Quality and business philosophy were important factors too, as Francis Kirk and Son has an enviable reputation to maintain. Trying to second guess purchasing decisions is very difficult as most traders know, but Tom decided that initially he would opt for a “Top 50 Products”
24 ToolBUSINESS+HIRE
www.toolbusiness.co.uk
Reply No. 208
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