Axminster Tools began life 50 years ago in the high street of Axminster when two sons joined their father and together they opened a tool shop.

The early years were hard and sometimes it was difficult to make ends meet, but a passion for great craftsmanship and a job well done got them through. 

Before long, the business outgrew its high street premises and moved distribution and administration to a large warehouse on the outskirts of town.

Today 219 of Axminster Tools' 267 employees work at the company headquarters on the north side of Axminster. 

There have been many milestones over the years but the decision to move into mail order tools is one of the largest contributing factors leading to the company's global success.

Nevertheless, the eight Axminster Tools stores remain at the heart of the company, offering support and inspiration to woodworkers across the UK. 

Much has changed since 1972 but the company roots remain firmly embedded in a passion for supporting the community and a sense of family belonging.

Axminster Tools is still family-owned by the Styles family and employs many different family groups from the area.

The diverse range of jobs available include skilled engineering posts in the company's Axminster based, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.

In recent years Axminster Tools has invested heavily in its future, manufacturing an increasing number of own branded products on home soil, creating even more local jobs. 

Alan Styles, managing director of Axminster Tools, said: "As we celebrate our past, it's important to look to the future. We do what we do to support a sustainable future for Axminster Tools, for the prosperity of our staff and the communities we support and engage with. 

"My family taught us the value of hard work and never giving up on your goals. We too will work hard to live up to the high standards set over the past 50 years.

"When you work together anything is possible and together we will continue to grow our community; for the benefit of the whole Axminster Tools family."

If you're interested to know more about the story behind one of Axminster's largest employers, visit https://knowledge.axminstertools.com/axminster-tools-story to watch the story, as told by the Styles family behind the business.