People’s Champion finalist 2016: Mac Tools (Cumbria)

Start-up name: Mac Tools (Cumbria)
Founder: Gary Teasdale
Started in: 2015
Based in: Cumbria
Business description: Distributes Stanley Black & Decker’s hand and power tools

Shortlisted category:

Franchisee of the Year

The Mac Tools (Cumbria) story:

Only launched in April 2015, Gary Teasdale’s Cumbria branch of tool distributor Mac Tools has already created a leading reputation in the local community and started turning a profit.

As part of Stanley Black & Decker, Mac Tools manufactures and distributes a range of the latest “industry-leading” hand and power tools from a variety of international brands to customers such as car dealerships, repair shops, manufacturing units and engineering companies.

As an experienced mechanic, Teasdale says this knowledge has helped him build strong relationships with customers and stand out from competitors, by offering specialist advice on “exactly what tools they need for the job”.

The franchisee has taken advantage of local opportunities to build his brand and support the community including sponsoring his customers’ tractor pulling team in the European Championships with Mac Tools branded jackets, a number of charity events and supplying a children’s cricket team with raffle prizes. He also credits Facebook as a “great tool” for marketing and sales generation, posting pictures of customers with their new toolboxes or other purchases.

Why Mac Tools (Cumbria) made our shortlist:

Community-focused and customer-centric, Teasdale’s approach makes him the consummate franchisee and has seen his Cumbria branch go from strength to strength.

Where to find out more about Mac Tools (Cumbria):

Website: www.mactools.co.uk
Twitter: twitter.com/MacToolsUK