Shrewsbury based distributor Pipekit is celebrating 10 years in business and spearheading plans and ambitions for growth and development.
Pipekit, a leading independent specialist distributor of pipework systems and drainage solutions, was formed from the dining room table in March 2011 by Martyn Rowlands, MD, alongside Jamie McQueen, Head of Sales. There was one goal. To offer excellence in customer service and technical support, alongside quality products. Something that despite the constantly changing backdrop of technology and purchasing patterns, Brexit and of course Covid, remains at the core of this thriving business.
Over the last 10 years, Pipekit has worked closely with a core number of manufacturers to offer a choice of quality products and strong reliable distribution channels to support its customers. The website and online provision has continuously been developed to improve the customer user experience and is a key tool for driving sales and engaging with customers. With increased functionality, customers can easily source information, enquire and purchase remotely. A factor that has of course allowed Pipekit’s shop window to open to the world and its export business, from Iceland to New Zealand, to flourish year on year.
Commenting on the 10 year milestone, Martyn Rowlands said:
“When I started this business the UK and the world were just coming out of the banking crash of 2008. We had a vision to create a team that put customer service at the heart of the business and we haven’t looked back since. From the two of us who sat round that dining room table in 2011 to our dedicated team of people today, offering our customers the best service and support is a given. I am very proud of all of them and they make Pipekit what it is today; a people’s business.”
To future proof the business, Pipekit moved into larger premises in December 2019. Three months later, the pandemic hit, some staff were furloughed and challenges were faced. Like many businesses, Pipekit had to adapt and reevaluate and Martyn now feels the business is in good shape to go forward.
He adds: “We are beginning our tenth year in the same spirit as we have started every year; with plans and ambitions for growth, including new products and services to offer our customers. The way 2020 evolved took everyone by surprise. But as I look ahead now I see plenty of scope to move forward. We have our larger premises tailored to our needs, offering improved working facilities for staff, a better customer experience and essentially more warehouse space to cater for increased stock provision. We will use this to build on our offering in 2021 and are hopeful that the start of our second decade in business will have positives on which to secure future growth.”