Recently David Hibbert, Joint MD of Stax Trade Centres did an interview with Housewares Magazine. We felt it provided great insight into how Stax operates and his daily life in general, so we thought we would share it with our customers and readers.

What's your career background?

Joined Stax in 1981 helping to set up the fledgeling operation, responsible for the Stock Control and Replenishment at the new Manchester Branch. Joined International DIY (18 store retail chin before it eventually became part of Focus DIY.) as Senior Buyer responsible for DIY, Tools and Hardware. Moved back to Stax a year later as Range Coordinator based at the Head Office in Leeds. Moved back to Manchester branch in early ’85 to look after Buying and Marketing for the Branch alongside the Manager there Eddie Brady. The two of us successfully completed an MBO in September 1986 and I've had the same job title ever since. 

Tell us about Stax Trade Centres…

Stax is a Multi-channel wholesaler of the widest range of products in the industry. We operate out of 6 depots throughout England and Scotland and currently employ over 600 people, many who have been with us for most of their working lives. Turnover at wholesale prices is forecasted this year to reach £125 million and we carry £20million in stock. Our range covers Housewares; DIY; Tools and Ironmongery; Gardening and Seasonal products; Kitchens and Bathrooms; and Electrical accessories and appliances. 

How did you feel when you heard the news that you and your staff had received The Rainy Day Trust Philanthropist Award?

Shocked stunned and a little amazed as Billie Connolly once said. Whilst I was a little embarrassed personally I felt pleased that the award recognised the work of all staff at Stax.

Do you have any fund-raising events planned for this year? 

Each Branch runs their own activities with raffles and collection tins etc. I will be organising the 24^th Rainy Day Trust Go Karting event in June which always proves a great day out. 

What’s your working week like?

Nonstop really. I start relatively late to avoid the traffic and work on emails at home before setting out. I usually finish around 7.00. and very rarely work at weekends except for reading the 20 reps reports that come in.

What’s keeping you busy?

With 600 staff; 50000 customers and 750 suppliers it’s not difficult to find something to do.

What’s on your agenda?

Managing the changing work environment is right up there. GDPR; Brexit; online trading; the rise of the discounters; Customer recruitment and retention; they are all on the agenda.

Most rewarding aspect of your job?

Knowing that we are providing a source of income not only for such a large number of employees but their families as well is a big responsibility.

Most challenging aspect of your job?

Providing our customers with what they are looking for and making money out of it at the same time. 

What do you do to relax?

Season ticket holder at Manchester United; weekly Snooker player (or should that be weakly) and eating out with friends and family.

What’s the biggest challenge & opportunity facing the housewares industry’s retailers?

All retailers need to embrace the threat from online trading and adapt their offer to encourage customers to their shop. Footfall is the greatest threat I see. All avenues of communicating with consumers must be explored and developed. If retailers don’t keep evolving then they will not survive.

What’s the biggest challenge & opportunity facing the housewares industry’s suppliers?

The development of the discounters and the online retailer has created opportunities for suppliers, but they need to be clear on their strategy and not allow Brands to be devalued and channels of distribution to be blocked off.

What’s the biggest change you’ve seen since your joined the housewares industry?

The number of wholesalers out there has declined at an enormous rate. Although the temptation to deliver direct to retailers is clear, once the wholesaler has gone it will be difficult to replace.  

What one change would you like to see in the housewares industry?

A fair and level playing field for bricks and mortar retailers to allow them to compete with Online retailers who do not have the same legislative taxes to bear.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in the housewares industry?

Whatever you do watch the cash!