Exall and Jones Ltd, based in Swansea, South Wales, has become the Huws Gray's sixth acquisition of 2021.

Founded in 1984 by David Jones and the late John Exall, the builders and timber merchants based in Swansea City centre serves a broad customer base, from DIYers and self-builders through to housing developers, major contractors, and local authorities across South Wales.

Established in 1990, from a single branch in Anglesey, North Wales, the Huws Gray Group are now one of the largest independent builders’ merchants in the UK. The company’s rapid growth continues to be driven by a determined acquisition strategy.

Matthew Owen, Head of Acquisitions for the Huws Gray Group, commented: “2021 has been a particularly busy year for Huws Gray and it’s fantastic to be welcoming a merchant based in the heart of one of Wales’ most vibrant cities to the group.

“Exall and Jones is a third-generation family business with a great reputation, and we want to continue to build on the fantastic work they have done here.

“We’re looking forward to working with the existing team to develop the site and continue to serve the area with first-class service as Huws Gray Swansea. It’s great to be back in Wales and we welcome the opportunity it presents to launch our presence in the South of the country.” 

Speaking of the sale, Exall and Jones co-founder David Jones said: “We are sure that we are leaving our loyal staff and customers in good hands. We’ve been fortunate to have some excellent customers and we know that they will continue to receive the same great service as we join the Huws Gray Group. 

“I would also like to express a huge thanks to the whole team, their dedication and enthusiasm has been a massive contributor to our success, and we know that they will continue to thrive under this new ownership. I’d like to give a special thanks to my Co-directors Chris Jones, Rob Exall and Jim Mills.” 

Ian Northen, CEO of Huws Gray, welcomed the acquisition, adding: "As a company we are always looking for opportunities to extend our branch network and are excited by the opportunity to establish our first site in South Wales. 

“We firmly believe that Exall and Jones is a perfect fit for us in terms of location and business potential. It joins our well-established network of branches in North Wales and will significantly enhance and strengthen our presence.”