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PRODUCTIVITY: THE KEY TO SUCCESS Screwfix’s Trading Director, Matt Compton, discusses ways in which electrical contractors can boost their productivity this year.
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e are living in a world where everyday tasks are becoming quicker, more efficient and even automated, and with this comes the opportunity for electrical contractors to boost their productivity in 2020. This is why, at Screwfix, we are always looking for ways in which we can help our customers boost their productivity, whether this is through the introduction of new product lines, or via streamlined purchasing processes – the key thing is making electricians’ lives easier, meaning they can spend more time on the job. One of the biggest impacts on productivity is undoubtedly the impact of tool theft. After conducting research amongst our customers, 46% of respondents stated they have had their tools stolen, and 39% said they’ve had them stolen at least twice, meaning they have had to pay out up to £5,000 in replacement tool costs and lost valuable time on the job. More than half (56%) also stated they feel more should be done to help protect their tools and vans. It is with this in mind that we have been showing our support through tool marking. We have been working with local authorities to host events across our network of more than 650 stores to help prevent tool theft, driving awareness and providing tips to prevent future thefts.
A platform to locate missing tools Milwaukee One-Key enables users to easily pinpoint missing tools
To provide further support to electrical contractors, we work with our suppliers to help introduce new lines that prevent theft and offer our customers increased protection, with the latest addition being Milwaukee One-Key.
Screwfix is a proud distributor for Milwaukee’s range of power tools and accessories
One-Key is a digital platform integrated into several premium products and enables users to easily pinpoint missing tools quickly. The tool can be remotely locked whilst in range of the One-Key app, making it unusable, even if taken out of range. Screwfix’s survey showed that 60% of tradespeople would be interested in buying power tools with this type of functionality installed. In addition to addressing industry specific issues, electrical contractors can take advantage of certain services, offers and market opportunities to help boost their productivity and grow their business.
The rise of the smart home One such market opportunity is the significant interest in and adoption of smart home technology. With £10.8 billion estimated to have been spent on this market in 2019, there is business there for those who are up-to-speed with the latest trends and technology. Furthermore, according to the Future Homes report, more than one third of the public feel that new homes built today will not be fit for purpose in 30 years. This presents an opportunity for those electrical contractors who can advise their customers on what products they should be fitting to ensure their homes are future proof.
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Another way the trade can reduce downtime is by taking advantage of the services on offer at Screwfix allowing them to order, and collect, their supplies in a more efficient manner. We have been working closely with the trade since 1979, so have developed a deep understanding of what tradespeople need to help them get the job done quickly, affordably and right first time, and waiting around for an order is one thing sure to cause frustration. To eliminate this, we launched our industryleading click and collect service, which is now used more than 10 million times each year and allows tradespeople to order over the phone or online and pick-up goods in store in as little as one minute. We are also able to offer next day delivery every day, on the vast majority of items, thanks to an enhanced infrastructure allowing us to move stock quickly and efficiently. A big part of this is down to our distribution centre in Stafford, allowing us to reach many more customers in less than 24 hours. Finally, through Electricfix, we offer bulk savings, exclusive deals and trade rated products for electrical contractors. In addition, there is a dedicated trade counter in all of our stores, which allows our customers to build relationships with their team and get the industry-leading products they need, as quickly as possible. Screwfix, screwfix.com
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