_____________________________________________________________________________________________ EFG
Housewares
From hardware to kitchenware, toiletries and tableware to toys, clothing and electrical goods, if you can think of it, you can probably find it at EFG Housewares. Founded in 1976, the company has transformed from a regional retailer to an international wholesale powerhouse. As the UK’ s largest independent wholesaler, EFG Housewares’ expansive product range boasts over 50,000 SKUs across more than 500 of the world’ s leading brands. Today, as the company edges closer to its 50th anniversary, it continues to further innovate its operations and expand its global footprint.
When Retail Merchandiser last sat down with Mike Smith, Head of Commercial at EFG Housewares, in 2024, he shared insight into the company’ s history, as well as the role that technology continues to play in strengthening its strategic partnerships and expanding its market presence. One year later, Mike returns to offer an update on how EFG Housewares has progressed since we last spoke and how it’ s mitigating current challenges amidst new legislations.
“ This year has presented some issues for us with some of the new rules brought in by the government, which have really affected us in terms our cost base. Despite that however, we are seeing an excellent year so far,” Mike affirms.“ We’ ve invested a lot into improving our business, our software and our brand offering.
“ Over the last couple of years, for example, we’ ve invested in a new POS system for business ordering, stockholding, cash and carry purchase orders, credit accounts, accounts payable and receivable, etcetera. We’ re just about to roll out the second phase of that now, which will automate a lot of those procedures. We’ re also using handheld scanners now, which have sped up our picking processes. These investments have really helped to streamline our operations.”
Such investments and developments continue to be one of the driving forces behind EFG Housewares’ growth. Last year, Mike revealed that the company had been focusing on expanding its digital presence, investing in a new website with an innovative AI search element. Now, by continuing to leverage new technologies and innovations, EFG Housewares has been able to significantly expand its own label brand, Bright & Homely, which stocks a variety of different homeware and garden items and accessories, such as plungers, garden wires, hoses, non-slip mats, and kitchen utensils.
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