Profile: Celebrating 25 years of the Toolshed

The ToolShed offers a host of tool and machinery options for everyone from DIYers to tradies

Like many multigenerational businesses, The ToolShed has evolved from humble beginnings with founder Colin Giles selling tools out of his iconic green van (trading as Giles Industries Ltd). His eldest son, Graeme, joined the business, followed by his younger brother, Wayne, 12 months later.

Eventually, the sons brought the business and later renamed it to The ToolShed, but the green remained. Together, they’ve built it up to the company it is today, with 29 stores nationwide and employing a team of more than 130 people throughout the country.

Graeme and Wayne remain involved in the business directing at a board level and many of their family members work within the business across several sectors, including management, warehousing, web store, product imports, and marketing.

Some of them have trade backgrounds in building, electrical, and as service technicians. This enables them to relate to customers in the field and understand specific industry requirements. Their grandfather would no doubt be proud of their achievements and the legacy he has left behind.

This year marks the 25th Anniversary of The ToolShed, and with its annual conference fast approaching, it will be an opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge the efforts of staff.

There have been a lot of changes in how the business is modelled and operates over its lifespan, especially with adapting to the challenges of trading through a pandemic. However, a strong dedication to its customers and offering quality service remains at the heart of the business and provides a strong platform for its continued growth.

Specialising in sourcing global brands and catering to an impressively diverse customer base, The ToolShed is one of New Zealand’s leading suppliers of air tools, compressors, cordless tools, hand tools, outdoor tools, safety equipment, workshop machinery, accessories, and consumables.

As authorised stockists of DeWalt, HiKOKI, Makita, Milwaukee, and their own directly imported ToolShed brand, The ToolShed offers a host of tool and machinery options for everyone from DIYers to tradies.

Whether you’re an apprentice looking to start your tool collection, a seasoned tradie wanting to expand your kit, or a lover of all things DIY, The ToolShed team brings speciality service and knowledge to help ensure every customer gets the right tool for the job. If you happen to need something they do not stock, they will happily help source it.

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