Member Article

Handy Andy targets business expansion

A local entrepreneur who launched his hardware business less than two years ago is targeting expansion after seeing his turnover almost double.

Andy Wainwright opened The Toolbox in Hartlepool in August 2011 after working for 20 years in the industry for other people.

And after seeing the business grow month-by-month and building up an established client base of local businesses and individual customers, the 38-year-old has announced plans to open a decorating store next door to his current premises at Longhill Industrial Estate in Hartlepool.

Andy, from the Clavering area of Hartlepool, said: “Since I opened Toolbox in 2011 things have gone really well. We’ve built up a loyal client base and through word of mouth, have almost doubled turnover. That’s a great achievement considering we’re so new.

“I’m really keen on expanding the business and have drawn up plans to open a decorating unit next door. I’ve spoken to the landlord and I’m confident this will come off.”

Toolbox sells everything from paint and industrial footwear to padlocks and work tools. It counts local businesses J & B Recycling, Niramax and Lindens amongst its industry clients whilst it also delivers to customers in Peterlee, Middlesbrough and Stockton.

Dad-of-two Andy has one employee on his books, Tony Carter, while his wife Dawn also helps out when she can. He added: “I am really enjoying being my own boss. Yes, it’s hard work and at the moment I’m probably working 15-hour days. But it’s worth it. I worked for other people and businesses for 20 years and I was so stressed so I thought, if I’m going to be stressed for other people I might as well try working for myself.”

For any enquiries please contact toolboxsupply@btconnect.com or for free local deliveries call 01429 267226

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Publicity Seekers PR .