Celebrations as plumbing company opens new store

Williams & Co, a plumber’s merchant, was started in 1972 by the chairman of Portsmouth FC Ladies’ Mick Williams.

It began trading from a small shop in New Road, but has now grown to 30 branches with its new flagship store opening in Nevil Shute Road, Portsmouth at the end of last month.

Branch manager Derran Gates said: ‘I’m delighted to provide an improved environment to our customers.

‘The team of experienced staff are looking forward to building on the continued success story, giving local installers excellent service every day.

‘Going the extra mile comes as standard.’

He said the new location gives customers improved facilities, more parking and better accessibility.

Mr Gates added: ‘Due to progressive expansion we seriously outgrew the old place and the customers needed a bigger store.

‘Thirty of us worked through both Saturday and Sunday to get the move done and we finished late that night.

‘We were all knackered and had to be in by 6am for the opening the next day, but thankfully the customers love the new store and the place has been packed.’

He said they will continue to offer independent merchant services and products and the company plans to expand to 50 branches across the south in the near future.

He also said they were looking forward to a bright future, and building on this year’s success which has seen them named as one of the 1,000 most inspiring UK businesses by the London Stock Exchange, as well as one of the ‘Hot 100’ fastest growing businesses in Real Business Magazine.