Toolbank parent buys in Ireland

Dormole (the privately-owned business that owns Toolbank) has acquired the share capital of Tucks O’Brien Ltd (TOB) and Tucks Fasteners & Fixings Ltd (QFF ) – the leading tools and fixings distributors based in Dublin.

Dormole chairman Andrew Strong said: “We are proud to have developed our business in Ireland with great support from our customers, the total commitment of our sales team in Ireland and those within our business that support them.  However, we believe that if we are to continue to grow our business, offer our Irish customers the full range of products and services we have available, we also need to have access to a locally based team and distribution facilities – as we do in all other regions.

“We have always been aware of the tremendous loyalty that TOB and QFF receive in the Irish market and whilst we both sell some of the same ranges there are thousands of extra products that we can make available to all retailers and builders’ providers in Ireland by combining our ranges and resources.”

In the short term, there will be no change. Dormole has entered into an agreement with Gardiner to oversee the development of TOB and QFF with support and input from Toolbank. TOB and QFF will continue to be Irish businesses with Irish leadership. Bob Boxwell will continue as managing director of TOB, Gary Hogan as managing director of QFF. Toolbank’s Irish business will continue to operate as it has done for more than 20 years, under the leadership of regional director Kevin Carver.

Paul Duggan, chairman of the Gardiner Group (the previous owners of TOB & QFF), said: “Dormole’s total commitment to the tools, fixings and hardware trade means they bring more than financial investment. We feel sure their support and experience will provide us with even greater resource to develop our products ranges, marketing and logistics and enable us to fulfil our ambition of helping all of our customers and suppliers improve their business – it’s a really exciting time”