Following its recent acquisition of Bennetts, Hughes Electrical has launched a new business supply brand aimed at trade and business customers, which will trade as TED or Trade Electricals Direct. The company plans to open seven TED branches at the following locations: Norwich, which will also become national headquarters; Ipswich; King’s Lynn; Peterborough; Colchester; Birmingham and Chelmsford, which will cover London.
The new operation will employ over 20 staff and already has sales and contracts in excess of £10m for the current year supplying businesses across the UK, including small independent retailers, builders, care homes, schools, housing associations, local authorities and universities.
Paul Chisnall, who previously ran Hughes’ trade operation for five years, and has been in the business for 24 years, will become TED’s general manager.
“These are exciting times and we are looking to develop ‘TED’ into a true national brand for the supply of major domestic appliances and audio visual products to trade customers,” said Paul Chisnall. “Our aim is to build long term relationships with customers rather than go for a one-off sale – a sort of personal shopper for business.
“That is why we employ a team of advisers who are always happy to discuss a customer’s requirements and make suggestions to the best solution. We will continue the Hughes ethos that customer service will always be our number one priority. Our size means we buy in bulk and pass savings onto customers who are welcome to call into our branches, or we have access to our group fleet of 150 commercial vehicles if delivery is required.”
