Company History

Wickes currently has a portfolio of more than 200 stores.

Our stores and website stock a wide selection of own-brand home improvement products designed to meet the requirements of all DIYers and tradesmen undertaking DIY projects, general repairs and maintenance.

We believe that Wickes provides the best value for money in the DIY market, and we are committed to strengthening our position as the destination DIY and home improvement store for tradesmen and DIYers of every level.

There are currently over 10,000 products in the Wickes range available to order in-store, online or by telephone. We have a number of themed in-store showrooms highlighting our range of kitchens and bathrooms, and also stock a comprehensive range of FREE 'Good Idea' and 'Build Your Skills' leaflets, which have been designed to inform and advise customers on a number of key DIY topics (you can also find these online).

As a company, we are always looking for ways to help improve the environment - for example, by recycling waste packaging material generated by our stores. Whether they are located in the UK or further afield, manufacturers and suppliers of Wickes products must meet our high standards for environmental awareness. We ensure that they minimise the impact that their production activities have on the immediate surroundings, and only produce goods that meet or exceed our demanding quality targets.

Key Dates

Wickes opened its first store in the UK in 1972 at Whitefield in Manchester. The concept was launched as a joint venture between the US group, Wickes Corporation, and the UK builders merchant, Sankeys.

In 1987, Wickes was floated on the London Stock Exchange. At that time the company was trading from 41 units in the UK.

In 1996, Wickes underwent a change of management followed by a rights issue and the sale of its European stores in 1997.

In September 2000, Wickes was acquired by the Focus Group. The majority of the key operational management was retained and remains with the Wickes business today.

Within the Focus Wickes Group, Wickes was able to grow significantly with an increase in store numbers from 131 at 29 October 2000 to 172 at 31 March 2004, including the conversion of 36 Focus outlets to Wickes stores.

In February 2005 Wickes was acquired by Travis Perkins plc. For further information regarding the Travis Perkins Group visit their website at www.travisperkins.co.uk.

In 2011, the opening of new stores in Beverley and Maldon took us past the 200 store milestone.