Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
Hand tool manufacturer KNIPEX has released new research on what plumbers want from merchants.
The findings, pulled together from surveys, focus groups and merchant visits across the UK, claim 61% of plumbers say quality is their main priority, with just 9% putting price first.
The research also highlights that trade counters remain central to how plumbers buy, with around 70% still purchasing in branch. More than 80% however, are also buying online at least occasionally.
The findings also show that, with the growth of heat pumps, smart controls and more complex systems, electrical work is becoming part of the plumbing role. According to the report, almost half of plumbers have already trained in electrical skills, with many more planning to do so in the near future. That crossover is opening up new opportunities, as tools like VDE pliers, cutters and crimping equipment becomes increasingly relevant to plumbers as well as electricians.
Product and technical support at KNIPEX, Jason Cunningham, “Our research uncovered some really interesting trends around how plumbers are buying tools and how the job itself is evolving, particularly with the move into electrical work. At the end of the day, it still comes down to the basics. Plumbers want tools that fit the job and just work – something that can handle tight spaces, cut cleanly and feel comfortable to use all day. If it saves time and does the job properly first time, plumbers will invest in it.”
