// Screwfix to open new stores and create up to 400 jobs despite Covid-19 pandemic
// It will open 30 stores in the UK and 10 in Republic of Ireland
Screwfix is set to open 30 new stores across the UK despite the Covid-19 pandemic posing a threat on its trading.
The DIY giant, owned by Kingfisher, will create around 300 jobs in the UK, and more than 10 new stores are planned for the Republic of Ireland.
The new openings demonstrate continued growth of the business and a growing demand for convenience, despite the challenges of Covid-19.
READ MORE: B&Q owner Kingfisher sales rise thanks to “strong demand”
Over the past decade, Screwfix has opened at least 50 stores each year.
The 30 new stores in the UK will create up to 300 jobs in areas such as retail management, service assistants and supervisor roles, by the end of January 2021.
Meanwhile, the 10 new stores in the Republic of Ireland will create up to 160 jobs over the same period.
Screwfix was listed as an essential retailer during the coronavirus lockdown and continued to trade as normal with extra protection in stores such as PPE for colleagues and perspex screens at tills to ensure safety.
The retailer has more than 680 stores, with a long-term target of 800 in the UK. It currently has five stores in the Republic of Ireland.
“Throughout the coronavirus crisis, customer and colleague safety has been our number one priority,” Screwfix chief executive John Mewett said.
“I am incredibly proud of all Screwfix colleagues for their support in continuing to provide our customers with the products they need to keep homes warm, safe and with power.
“The growing demand for convenience means we’re opening more stores to help our busy customers get their jobs done.
“We know that time is money for our customers and these new stores in the UK and Republic of Ireland will not only enable us to provide our customers with added convenience and certainty, but also allow us to provide even more job opportunities for local communities when they need it most.”
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