handsaw importers-UNITED KINGDOM
UK Tool Importers and Distributors Directory
Comprehensive List of British Companies Importing Hand Tools, Power Tool Accessories and Industrial Supplies
131
Companies
UK
Country
8202
HS Code
10+
Sectors
UK Tool Import Market Overview
The United Kingdom is one of Europe's largest markets for hand tools, power tool accessories, and industrial consumables, with a robust distribution network comprising hundreds of importers, wholesalers, and retail chains. The UK tool and hardware import sector serves a diverse customer base ranging from professional tradespeople and construction companies to DIY enthusiasts and industrial manufacturing facilities. British Standards (BS) and CE marking requirements ensure that imported tools meet strict safety and performance criteria, maintaining the high quality expectations of UK consumers and professionals.
The UK's tool import market is characterised by a mix of large multinational corporations such as Stanley Black & Decker, Snap-on, and Saint-Gobain, alongside numerous mid-sized specialist importers and distributors who serve specific market niches. Many of these companies have established long-standing relationships with manufacturers in Asia, particularly China, Taiwan, and India, as well as with European producers in Germany, Italy, and Spain. This global sourcing network enables UK importers to offer competitive pricing while maintaining product quality standards.
The retail distribution channel for tools in the UK is dominated by major chains including B&Q, Homebase, Wilko, Poundland, and ASDA, supplemented by specialist tool retailers such as Axminster Tool Centre, Toolstream, and Draper Tools. Additionally, a significant volume of tool imports flows through wholesale distributors like Cromwell Group, Bollin Group, and specialised industrial suppliers who serve the manufacturing and construction sectors. The e-commerce channel has also become increasingly important, with companies like Workshop Heaven and Route 66 Europe building strong online presences.
HS Code 82021000 (handsaws) and related tool categories represent a substantial portion of UK tool imports. The country's construction industry, which is one of the largest in Europe, drives consistent demand for both professional-grade and consumer hand tools. The renovation and home improvement market further contributes to import volumes, supported by popular television programmes and a strong DIY culture among British homeowners. Industrial sectors including automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing also generate significant demand for specialised cutting tools, measuring instruments, and precision equipment.
UK tool importers must navigate a complex regulatory environment that includes product safety regulations, environmental compliance for packaging and materials, and customs procedures that have evolved following Brexit. Companies that can efficiently manage supply chain logistics, maintain product compliance, and offer competitive pricing are best positioned to succeed in this dynamic market. The trend towards own-brand and private label products continues to grow, with many UK retailers developing their own branded tool lines through partnerships with specialist importers and manufacturers.
Company Directory
131 companies| # | Company Name | Profile |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 99P STORES LTD | Discount retail chain operating variety stores across the UK, importing consumer goods and tools. |
| 2 | A W TOOLS (EUROPE) LTD | Sheffield-based importer of hand tools and power tool accessories since 1923. HS 82021000 handsaw specialist. |
| 3 | A.D.S. PRECISION LIMITED | Precision engineering and tool supply company serving manufacturing and industrial sectors. |
| 4 | ADAMSON AGENCIES | Agency and distribution company handling imported tools, hardware, and industrial products. |
| 5 | ADP DIAMOND CUTTING SOLUTIONS LIMITED | Specialist importer and distributor of diamond cutting tools for construction and masonry. |
| 6 | ALFRA UK LTD | UK subsidiary of Alfra, importing specialist cutting, drilling, and fastening tools from European manufacturers. |
| 7 | ALLEN JOHNSON SANDRA BETTY JOHNSON | Independent importer and distributor of hand tools and hardware products. |
| 8 | ARCO LIMITED | One of the UK's largest safety equipment and workwear distributors, also importing hand tools for industrial use. |
| 9 | AROUND THE WORLD TRADING, LTD | Import and trading company sourcing tools, hardware, and general merchandise from global suppliers. |
| 10 | ASDA STORES LIMITED | Major UK supermarket chain (Walmart group) importing tools, hardware, and DIY products for retail. |
| 11 | AUTOMOTIVE & INDUSTRIAL CONSUMABLES LTD | Supplier of automotive tools and industrial consumables to the UK aftermarket and trade sectors. |
| 12 | AXMINSTER TOOL CENTRE LIMITED | Leading specialist tool retailer importing professional woodworking and engineering tools. |
| 13 | B & M RETAIL LIMITED | Large UK discount retailer importing tools, hardware, home, and garden products. |
| 14 | B&Q PLC | UK's largest home improvement and garden centre retailer. Kingfisher plc subsidiary. Major tool importer. |
| 15 | BCB INTERNATIONAL LTD | Specialist supplier of survival, medical, and military equipment including multi-tools and blades. |
| 16 | BEN BENNETT JR LTD | Hardware and tool importer/distributor serving the UK independent retail sector. |
| 17 | BENROSS MARKETING LIMITED | Marketing and import company specialising in own-brand and promotional tool products. |
| 18 | BIRO (UK) | UK distributor of Biro brand products including writing instruments and utility tools. |
| 19 | BLACK & DECKER | Global power tool brand (Stanley Black & Decker) with significant UK import and distribution operations. |
| 20 | BODDINGTONS ELECTRICAL LTD | Electrical wholesaler and industrial supplier importing electrical tools and accessories. |
| 21 | BOLLIN GROUP LIMITED | Major UK wholesale distributor of hardware, tools, and building products to independent retailers. |
| 22 | BRISTOL LABORATORIES LTD | Scientific and laboratory equipment supplier importing precision instruments and tools. |
| 23 | BUNZL UK LIMITED | International distribution and services group importing cleaning, hygiene, and safety products. |
| 24 | C.D.S. (SUPERSTORES INTERNATIONAL) LIMITED | International supermarket and retail group importing tools and consumer goods. |
| 25 | CANNON TOOLS LIMITED | UK tool importer and distributor specialising in hand tools and workshop equipment. |
| 26 | CARL KAMMERLING INTERNATIONAL LIMITED | Established UK importer of hand tools, drill bits, and accessories. Known for CK brand. |
| 27 | CENTURION EUROPE LIMITED | European importer and distributor of tools, hardware, and building materials. |
| 28 | CHARLIES STORES LTD | Independent retail chain importing tools, hardware, and household products. |
| 29 | CHRONOS LTD | Supplier of precision measuring instruments, watchmaker tools, and horological equipment. |
| 30 | CLARKE INTERNATIONAL LIMITED | UK manufacturer and importer of Clarke brand power tools, workshop equipment, and generators. |
| 31 | CLASSIC HAND TOOLS LIMITED | Specialist importer and retailer of traditional and classic-style hand tools. |
| 32 | CMT EQUIPMENT LIMITED | UK distributor of CMT brand router bits, saw blades, and woodworking accessories. |
| 33 | CONWAY SAW & SUPPLY COMPANY LIMITED | Industrial saw and cutting tool supplier serving manufacturing and fabrication sectors. |
| 34 | COOKSON PRECIOUS METALS LIMITED | Importer and supplier of precious metal products and associated specialist tools. |
| 35 | CQFD (UK) LTD | UK arm of French import group supplying tools and hardware to the British market. |
| 36 | CREST GARDEN LTD | Importer and distributor of garden tools, outdoor equipment, and landscaping products. |
| 37 | CROMWELL GROUP (HOLDINGS) LTD | One of the UK's largest industrial distributors, importing tools, PPE, and workshop supplies. |
| 38 | CURTIS HOLT LIMITED | Industrial tool and equipment distributor serving manufacturing and engineering sectors. |
| 39 | CUTTING-EDGE UK LTD | Specialist importer of cutting tools, saw blades, and abrasives for industrial applications. |
| 40 | DESIGNER HABITAT LTD | Home improvement and DIY product retailer importing tools and decorative hardware. |
| 41 | DISTRIBUTOR DOCTOR LTD | Distribution and supply chain consultancy handling imported tool and hardware ranges. |
| 42 | DRAPER TOOLS LIMITED | Major UK tool brand importing and distributing hand tools, power tools, and automotive equipment. |
| 43 | E P BARRUS LTD | Established UK importer and distributor of engines, power tools, and garden equipment. |
| 44 | EAGLE SCIENTIFIC LIMITED | Scientific equipment supplier importing laboratory instruments and precision tools. |
| 45 | ECLIPSE MAGNETICS LTD | UK manufacturer and importer of magnetic tools, lifting equipment, and magnetic assemblies. |
| 46 | EIE IMPORT GESELLSCHAFT MBH | German import company with UK distribution operations for tools and industrial goods. |
| 47 | ENTERPRISE DEPARTMENT LTD | Department store and retail group importing tools, housewares, and consumer goods. |
| 48 | GARRISON DALES LTD | Hardware and tool distributor serving the UK independent retail and wholesale market. |
| 49 | GEORGE MARSHALL (POWER TOOLS) LTD | Power tool and accessory importer/distributor serving trade and retail customers. |
| 50 | GIULIO D'ERAMO | Independent importer and distributor of tools and industrial products. |
| 51 | GREAT STAR EUROPE LTD | European import and distribution company supplying tools and hardware products. |
| 52 | GROUNDSMAN TOOLS AND SUPPLIES LLP | Specialist importer of grounds maintenance tools, arborist equipment, and landscaping supplies. |
| 53 | HAMBLE DISTRIBUTION LIMITED | Distribution company handling imported tools, hardware, and building products. |
| 54 | HIGHLANDER SCOTLAND LIMITED | Scottish-based outdoor and hardware product importer including tools and equipment. |
| 55 | HILKA TOOLS (UK) LIMITED | UK tool brand importing and distributing hand tools, power tools, and automotive tools. |
| 56 | HOLYWELL ENGINEERING LIMITED | Engineering supplies distributor importing cutting tools, abrasives, and workshop equipment. |
| 57 | HOMEBASE LTD | Major UK home improvement and garden retailer importing tools and DIY products. |
| 58 | IN EXCESS UK LIMITED | UK-based importer and distributor of consumer goods including tools and hardware. |
| 59 | INNOVATIVE MARKETING INTERNATIONAL LIMITED | Marketing and import company specialising in promotional and own-brand tools. |
| 60 | J & E IMPORTERS & DISTRIBUTORS (GREEN JEM) | Importer and distributor of tools, hardware, and garden products under multiple brands. |
| 61 | JACK SEALEY LIMITED | Established UK importer of automotive tools, diagnostic equipment, and garage workshop supplies. |
| 62 | JAK TOOLS LIMITED | UK tool distributor importing hand tools, power tools, and workshop equipment for trade use. |
| 63 | JAMES MARK BOWLING | Independent importer and trader of tools and hardware products. |
| 64 | JAVIS MANUFACTURING COMPANY LIMITED | Manufacturer and importer of specialist tools and equipment for industrial applications. |
| 65 | JOSEPH GLEAVE & SON LTD | Long-established UK tool and hardware importer/distributor. |
| 66 | K D P TOOLS LTD | Tool importer and distributor specialising in hand tools and workshop equipment. |
| 67 | KINGFISHER PLC | Parent company of B&Q and Screwfix. One of Europe's largest home improvement retail groups. |
| 68 | KROBAHN LTD | Import and distribution company handling tools, industrial supplies, and hardware products. |
| 69 | LANDSCAPE SUPPLY CO | Supplier and importer of landscaping tools, grounds maintenance equipment, and outdoor products. |
| 70 | MAXIM POWER TOOLS (SCOTLAND) LIMITED | Scottish distributor of power tools, hand tools, and workshop equipment. |
| 71 | MORGANITE ELECTRICAL CARBON LTD | Specialist importer of electrical carbon products and associated industrial tools. |
| 72 | MUNRO IMPORTERS LIMITED | Independent importing company sourcing tools and hardware from international manufacturers. |
| 73 | N & T INTERNATIONAL PLC | International trading company importing tools, consumer goods, and industrial products. |
| 74 | N.T. INTERNATIONAL PLC | UK-based international trading company with tool and hardware import operations. |
| 75 | NEILL TOOLS LTD | Importer and distributor of the Sealey brand tools, workshop equipment, and automotive tools. |
| 76 | NELLA LTD | UK distributor of Nella brand professional tools, particularly for the food processing industry. |
| 77 | NENPLAS LIMITED | Plastics and industrial products importer/distributor including tool storage solutions. |
| 78 | NEWELL EUROPE SARL | European arm of Newell Rubbermaid, importing storage, cleaning, and household products. |
| 79 | NEWELL RUBBERMAID EUROPE SARL | European subsidiary managing import and distribution of Rubbermaid and related brands. |
| 80 | NIGEL WALL TOOLS LTD | Specialist tool importer and distributor focusing on professional hand tools. |
| 81 | NIWAKI LTD | Importer and retailer of high-quality Japanese-style gardening tools and cutting tools. |
| 82 | NORTHERN DIAMOND SALES LTD | Specialist diamond tool importer serving the construction and stone working industries. |
| 83 | NORTHERN WHOLESALE TOOLS LIMITED | Wholesale distributor of tools and hardware products serving Northern England and Scotland. |
| 84 | OCEANEERING INTERNATIONAL SERVICES LTD | Offshore and subsea services company importing specialist cutting and welding tools. |
| 85 | OLYMPIA TOOLS (UK) LTD | UK distributor of Olympia brand hand tools, power tools, and tool storage solutions. |
| 86 | OLYMPIC FIXING PRODUCTS LTD | Importer and distributor of fixing products, anchors, and associated installation tools. |
| 87 | OVERSEAS TRADING LIMITED | International trading company importing tools, hardware, and general merchandise. |
| 88 | OX PRODUCTS GROUP UK LIMITED | UK distributor of OX brand hand tools, trowels, and building site equipment. |
| 89 | PABLA IMPORTS UK LTD | Import company sourcing tools, hardware, and consumer goods from Asian manufacturers. |
| 90 | PARKACRE ENTERPRISES LIMITED | Importer and distributor of tools, hardware, and outdoor equipment. |
| 91 | PHOENIX SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS LTD | Importer and distributor of surgical instruments and precision cutting tools. |
| 92 | POUNDLAND LTD | Major UK discount retailer importing tools, hardware, and household products at value price points. |
| 93 | POWERPLUS ENTERPRISES LIMITED | Importer and distributor of PowerPlus brand power tools and garden equipment. |
| 94 | PREMIER FARNELL UK LTD | Electronic components and tools distributor (now part of Premier Farnell group). |
| 95 | QD COMMERCIAL GROUP HOLDINGS LTD | Retail group importing tools, home, and garden products through QD Stores. |
| 96 | QEP CO.UK. LTD | UK subsidiary of QEP, importing tiling tools, diamond blades, and flooring installation equipment. |
| 97 | REALMIX LTD | Import and distribution company handling tools, hardware, and building products. |
| 98 | RICHARD CARTER LTD | Independent tool and hardware importer/distributor. |
| 99 | ROLSON TOOLS LIMITED | UK tool brand importing and distributing hand tools, power tools, and automotive tools. |
| 100 | ROUTE 66 EUROPE LTD | UK tool importer and online retailer specialising in automotive and motorcycle tools. |
| 101 | S A C ELECTRONICS LTD | Electronics and tool importer/distributor. |
| 102 | SAINSBURYS SUPERMARKETS LIMITED | Major UK supermarket chain importing DIY tools and household hardware products. |
| 103 | SAINT-GOBAIN BUILDING DISTRIBUTION LTD | Building materials distributor (Jewson, etc.) importing construction tools. |
| 104 | SAMUEL STANIFORTH LIMITED | One of the UK's oldest tool manufacturers and importers, established in Sheffield. |
| 105 | SAMURAI INCENTIVES & PROMOTIONS LTD | Promotional products company importing branded and custom tools for corporate clients. |
| 106 | SAMURAI SAWS UK LIMITED | UK distributor of Samurai brand professional saw blades and cutting tools. |
| 107 | SCOBIE AND JUNOR (ESTD 1919) LIMITED | Long-established Scottish tool and hardware importer/distributor. |
| 108 | SIMONDS INDUSTRIES LIMITED | Industrial tool and equipment importer specialising in saw blades and cutting products. |
| 109 | SNAP-ON UK HOLDINGS LTD | UK arm of Snap-on Incorporated, the global professional tool brand. |
| 110 | SORBUS INTERNATIONAL LTD | International importer and distributor of tools, hardware, and retail products. |
| 111 | SPECIALIST GROUP LTD | Specialist tool and equipment importer/distributor. |
| 112 | STANLEY WORKS (EUROPE) GMBH | European operations of Stanley Black & Decker, a major tool importer and manufacturer. |
| 113 | STRING PRODUCTS LTD | Import and distribution company handling tools and hardware products. |
| 114 | SUPER ROD LIMITED | Specialist importer and manufacturer of cable installation tools and fishing rods for electricians. |
| 115 | T H S TOOLS LIMITED | Tool importer and distributor specialising in hand tools and workshop equipment. |
| 116 | TECHNIP UK LIMITED | Energy industry services company importing specialist tools and equipment. |
| 117 | TESCO PLC | UK's largest supermarket chain, importing tools and DIY products through Tesco retail outlets. |
| 118 | THE TOOL CONNECTION LIMITED | UK tool distributor connecting international manufacturers with British retailers. |
| 119 | THE TRADITIONAL TOOL COMPANY LIMITED | Specialist importer of heritage and traditional-style hand tools. |
| 120 | THOMAS SUTTON (BIRMINGHAM) LIMITED | Birmingham-based tool and hardware importer/distributor. |
| 121 | THORNTREES AMENITY LIMITED | Supplier and importer of amenity, forestry, and grounds maintenance tools. |
| 122 | TODAYS TOOLS LTD | Tool importer and retailer specialising in modern hand tools and power tool accessories. |
| 123 | TOOLS OF THE TRADE LIMITED | Professional tool supplier importing trade-quality hand and power tools. |
| 124 | TOOLSTREAM LIMITED | Major UK tool distributor supplying independent retailers with hand and power tools. |
| 125 | TRAVIS PERKINS PLC | UK's largest builders' merchant, importing construction tools and equipment. |
| 126 | UNIKA COLOR PRODUCTS LIMITED | Importer of colour-matched tools, sealants, and installation products. |
| 127 | VETERINARY INSTRUMENTATION LTD | Specialist importer of veterinary surgical instruments and tools. |
| 128 | WILKINSON HARDWARE STORES LTD | UK high street retailer (Wilko) importing tools, hardware, and home products. |
| 129 | WINDOW INDUSTRY CONSUMABLES LTD | Specialist importer of tools and consumables for the window and glazing industry. |
| 130 | WORKSHOP HEAVEN LIMITED | Online retailer importing and selling premium hand tools and workshop accessories. |
| 131 | WORLDWIDE TOOLS LIMITED | Tool importer and distributor with a broad product range for trade and retail markets. |
Industry Highlights
The UK is one of Europe's largest importers of hand tools and power tool accessories.
Over 100 registered importers and distributors operate across the British tool supply chain.
Major retail chains including B&Q, Homebase, and ASDA drive significant import volumes.
HS Code 82021000 (handsaws) and related categories represent substantial UK import value.
Brexit has reshaped UK import logistics, increasing demand for efficient customs-compliant suppliers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main HS codes for tool imports to the UK?
Key HS codes include 82021000 (handsaws), 82041100 (hand-operated wrenches), 82052000 (hand-held drills), 82060000 (pairs of tongs), 8467 (hand-held power tools), and 8207 (interchangeable tool parts for hand or machine tools). Each code has specific duty rates and documentation requirements that importers must comply with under UK customs regulations.
How has Brexit affected UK tool imports?
Brexit has introduced new customs procedures for goods entering the UK from the EU, increased documentation requirements including rules of origin certificates, and potential tariff exposure depending on product origin. UK tool importers now manage separate compliance frameworks for EU and non-EU suppliers, which has increased logistics complexity but also created opportunities for non-EU manufacturers who can compete on more equal terms with EU-based suppliers.
What certification do tools need for the UK market?
Tools sold in the UK must comply with relevant safety standards including the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008, carry UKCA marking (replacing CE marking for Great Britain), and meet specific British Standards (BS) or EN standards where applicable. Electrical tools require additional compliance with the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016. Many UK importers also require ISO 9001 certification from their manufacturing partners.
Who are the largest tool retailers in the UK?
The largest tool and hardware retailers in the UK include B&Q (Kingfisher plc), Homebase, Wickes (Travis Perkins), Wilko (Wilkinson Hardware Stores), Poundland, and ASDA (Walmart group). Specialist tool retailers include Axminster Tool Centre, Draper Tools, Tool Connection, and Route 66 Europe. Online-focused retailers such as Workshop Heaven and Amazon UK also represent significant sales channels for imported tools.
This directory is published for informational purposes about UK tool importers and distributors.