Welsh builders’ merchants continues rapid UK expansion with new-look Stoke store

THE revamp and expansion of a long-standing building supplies store has been welcomed by customers.

Since acquiring the former Audley Builders Merchants in November, Huws Gray has made significant investment in refurbishing the site, including a new yard, improved layout and a wide range of product lines.

The 2,800 square foot building, near Stoke, employs nine staff and forms part of a vast expansion by the Anglesey company, which now has more than 100 sites across the UK following the acquisition of East Anglia building chain, Ridgeons.

The original Audley Builders Merchants was opened by former Stoke City director Maurice Nield in 1969.

Branch manager Ben Snutch says customers have responded positively to the revamp and rebrand, with many more now visiting the Hougher Wall Road premises.

“There have been a lot of changes and they’ve been well received,” said Ben.

“Previously there was no yard and the store focused on landscaping; now we have a huge range of Huws Gray products, there has been a change in the layout, the warehouse is bigger, and the yard is attracting a lot of interest from local trades.

“We have more stock and people are commenting on how impressive it all looks. We are delighted with our start to 2019 and would like to thank our new customers, and those who have been coming to the Audley site for many years, for your continued support.”

At just 25 years old Ben is a testament to the Huws Gray ethos of promoting young and loyal staff, highlighting firm commitment to personal development and training.

“I was previously at the Stafford store and just love working for this company,” said the former cabinet maker, from Stoke.

“This is a great opportunity for me, and I’m passionate about making it a success. Things have really taken off at Audley in the last six months and the team is working hard to see that continues for many years to come.”

Managing director Terry Owen echoed those words and said the company will continue to grow, with staff and customers at the heart of everything they do.

“While we are delighted with the way the store now looks and the response of customers and the public, what’s important is we continue to build on the fantastic work the previous owners have done here,” said Terry.

“The team are excited with the changes, and we as a business are thrilled with how things have progressed in the last 12 months – long may it continue.”