Market research carried out by the UK’s leading non-food wholesaler has unearthed strong performance trends and positivity in the market despite challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Whilst uncertainty gripped the nation, Stax Trade Centres helped keep the wheels turning and the supply chain moving. A survey completed by the company showed relationships between wholesalers, customers and suppliers remain stronger than ever before.

Maintaining stock levels was a challenge, however, the company dealt with it as best they could to keep up with demand. Several areas of the market were even boosted by increased sales figures despite the current situation, as Joint Managing Director David Hibbert explains:

“Suppliers told us that demand for their products has increased during recent months, in some cases by very significant margins, with DIY and gardening products being a prime example. Some respondents felt this had significantly increased the importance of the supplier/wholesaler relationship, and the wider route to market which the wholesaler provides.

“Whilst we realise the past six months have not been perfect, our own experience certainly bears this out. We have seen stock going out of our stores as fast as we can bring it in, which has given us many challenges to contend with. We’ve had to adapt and find new ways of doing things, but the results of our efforts are certainly reflected in our latest set of financial accounts which will be published shortly.”

As part of the research, many of the independent retailers who rely on Stax were quick to point out how their ability to be more flexible and agile than their larger rivals has been a  key advantage. 

Groundbreaking improvements to Stax’s digital presence also helped customers respond effectively to challenges such as purchasing stock and adapting to new trading conditions, allowing them to remain busy throughout the pandemic. 

“Suppliers realised that online trading has been more important than ever before,” said David. “It has helped to fill the gap created by the lack of face-to-face contact between people, and has played an important part in helping get their product out into the marketplace and into the hands of their customers.”

Key brands such as Dulux, Sikkens and Primeur enjoyed a secure supply chain through Stax throughout the pandemic. Horticultural giants SBM Life Science, whose brands include  Baby Bio and Provanto, were also quick to note the benefits of having Stax as their chosen distributor. 

"We have a strong relationship with the team at Stax and have always been impressed with the dedication they have shown our business, especially during recent months," said Scott Williams of SBM.  "Over the past six months, they have ensured the supply chain is as solid as it could be during a difficult time, and that's why we had absolute confidence in making them our preferred distributor," he added. 

Stax is the UK’s number one non-food wholesaler and provides genuine trade-only support for independent retailers throughout the nation. Its offering spans an eye-watering selection of market sectors including gardening, hardware, building, decorating, electrical, plumbing, homeware, bathrooms and kitchens.