PHAM NEWS | FEBRUARY 2026 Merchant & Distributor News 11 Tools and equipment out on open display
Specialist supplier of workwear, tools and equipment for trade professionals, ITS, has announced plans to open a new store in Luton. The new branch, located on Bilton Way, is scheduled to open its doors on 7th March and is promising to deliver competitive pricing and strong stock availability to the local trade community. ITS says its Luton branch will offer something noticeably
different from
traditional trade counters, with a strong focus on hands-on browsing and product choice. The new store will feature a huge number of tools and products out on open display, allowing customers to see, compare and explore before they buy.
Launch of first standalone TradePoint
B&Q TradePoint has announced the launch of a new standalone TradePoint concept, with the first store set to open in Barking, Essex, in March this year. Dedicated exclusively to trade professionals, the new facility promises a personal one-to-one service, competitive prices and speedy pick-up and delivery solutions. Customers will have access to an extended range of more than 25,000 products available for store collection or delivery to site. The store will offer extended opening hours (from 6am Monday to Saturday as well as opening hours on Sunday) and will include a range of collection and delivery fulfilment options. The launch is part of B&Q TradePoint’s broader strategy to build its trade business and grow loyalty among
trade professionals. In 2025 the division accounted for over 22% of B&Q’s total sales. Graham Bell, B&Q CEO, comments: “Our ambition is to make TradePoint a £1 billion business and as a key
milestone in helping us to achieve that, we’re excited to be testing this new standalone store concept and to welcome tradespeople to the first store in this format at Barking in March.”
One-stop shop in Congleton
Independent builders’ merchant, MKM Building Supplies (MKM), has opened a new branch in Congleton, Cheshire. Described as a one-stop shop for both trade and retail customers, the new branch will bring together a full range of building materials alongside specialist areas including plumbing and heating, wood burning and multi-fuel stoves, a large shop floor and a kitchen and bathroom showroom. The kitchen and bathroom showroom will offer a hands-on space where visitors can explore ideas, create mood boards and work with experienced designers to bring projects to life. Customers can also benefit from flexible credit terms, personalised pricing and dedicated account management, supported by free local delivery. Leading the new branch is Branch Director Ric Bauer, who brings 30
years of experience in the industry. Ric says: “Service is what really sets MKM apart. Every customer will have a personal point of contact and decisions are made here in Congleton, not at head office. That means we can react quickly, solve problems fast and always do what’s right for our customers.”
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