FIRST opening its doors in Warrington in 2011 Axminster Tools started life 50 years ago in the rural market town of Axminster in East Devon.
In an age before computers, when virtually all jobs were done manually, two sons joined their father and together they opened a high street shop.
The early years were hard; the hours were long and at times it was difficult to make ends meet. A passion for great craftsmanship and a job well done got them through and before long, the family business earned a reputation as a trusted tool shop run by friendly and knowledgeable experts, with a service second to none.
Even though Axminster Tools is now a global mail order retailer, its stores remain at the heart of the company. The Warrington store is one of eight stores across the UK continually striving to support and inspire the woodworking community.
Much has changed since 1972 but the company roots remain firmly embedded in a passion for woodworking, a sense of family belonging and a set of values that ensure they always put the customer first. In recent years Axminster Tools has invested heavily in its future, manufacturing an increasing number of own branded products in their Devon-based manufacturing facility.
Alan Styles, Managing Director of Axminster Tools said: “As we celebrate our past, it’s important to look to the future. We do what we do to support a sustainable future for Axminster Tools, for the prosperity of our staff and the communities we support and engage with.
My family taught us the value of hard work and never giving up on your goals. We too will work hard to live up to the high standards set over the past 50 years. When you work together anything is possible and together we will continue to grow our community; for the benefit of the whole Axminster Tools family.”
If you’re interested to know more about the story behind one of the nation’s favourite tools shops, go to axminstertools.com and search for ‘The Axminster Tools Story’, as told by the family behind the business.
