BMN talks to James Robinson, Sales and Marketing Director of Samac Fixings, about trends and innovations shaping the screws professionals rely on.
BMN: What innovations should merchants look for when buying screws?
JR: Most professionals who shop at the trade counter are all about speed, strength and simplicity – features that make their work quicker and more reliable. Making sure screws have the Type 17 cut point, for instance, means they will bite straight into timber without the need for pre-drilling even in some of the hardest woods, which saves time and hassle. Plus, features like serrated threads cut into timber more efficiently, reducing splitting and ensuring a strong hold, even in tougher materials.
What are the advantages of stocking a well-known brand versus an own-brand range of screws?
JR: For professional customers who rely on consistency and high performance, branded products are often the first choice. Stocking leading brands enhances credibility and positions a merchant as a go-to supplier for quality products.
Own-brand ranges, on the other hand, offer advantages in terms of price competitiveness and profitability. These products allow merchants to cater to budget-conscious customers, such as smaller tradespeople, without compromising on quality. By working with trusted manufacturers to create an own-brand range, merchants can ensure robust performance while maintaining control over margins.
Own-brand products also help build customer loyalty. When customers associate good value and reliability with the merchant’s own range, they are more likely to return, creating a steady stream of repeat business.
Offering own-brand screws and fixings also provides an opportunity to differentiate from competitors, particularly those relying solely on branded products.
Which types of screws are gaining in popularity?
JR: Screws that have features specific to their application are very popular – for good reason. Decking and flooring screws for instance. They are about to start flying through the trade counters again, as the better weather returns and more attention is focused on the outdoors. They are designed with purpose-built features including self-countersinking ribs for a flush finish and coarse locking threads. If weak or loose screws are used under flooring, you’ll get squeaky floorboards as they shift with use, so flooring-specific screws with locking threads to hold boards tight and prevent any squeaking are well-liked.
How important is corrosion resistance in modern fixings?
JR: Very important! Corrosion resistance is key, especially for outdoor projects or any application exposed to the elements. A2-grade stainless steel screws are highly corrosion-resistant, without any additional coating, so are ideal for kitchens, bathrooms and the outside – they provide the ultimate protection from external elements. Others come with protective a coating.
