Group B Electrical Wholesale
What does your business do?
For the last 40 odd years Group B have been your local electrical distribution and lighting supplier based on the Uxbridge Road next to the British Queen. We’ve been supplying everything electrical and lighting at competitive prices and with excellent service. In layman’s terms that means everything from cables & tools and fans & heaters to bespoke indoor and outdoor lighting design and light bulbs for electricians, contractors, businesses and the general public. We’ve been polishing up our brand and expanding over the last 5 years and now it’s time to let everyone know we’re here!
What motivated you to do what you do?
Pride! Many ABN members will remember Bevan’s Builders Merchants yard in Percy Road from the 1930’s to the 1990’s. All of the Bevan families who lived and worked in the street have moved on or departed, apart from David Bevan who is the constantly present MD of Group B, proud son of Fred, previous MD, and grandson of Ben Bevan, a “colourful” character and founder of Bevan’s all those years ago. The Bevan’s have a rich history in Shepherds Bush. Uncle Frank Bevan played for QPR. Nanna Bevan ran the yard, shifting bags of cement by shoulder, whilst Ben and the men were at war.
What is your Unique Selling Point?
Group B cares for it’s customers.
Who is your ideal customer/client?
We are currently trying to raise our profile locally again just like Bevan’s did all those years ago. So we would love to work with a local contractor, or charitable body on a project that benefits the local community and incorporates electrical elements. Locally, we supply electricians and contractors, housing associations, hotels, private homes etc. etc.
What gives your business the edge over your competitors?
Friendly, knowledgeable staff and good stock holding. We belong to a buying group that gives us buying power to compete with the bigger national wholesalers prices too.
Do you have a particular service or product you’d like to flag up here?
We are just in the process of creating a lighting display in the window which we hope will encourage people to come in and realise their indoor and outdoor lighting aspirations. We’re also building up our website www.groupb.co.uk but it’s work in progress!
How do people get in touch with you?
Come in! www.groupb.co.uk. 0208 749 3616.
What is your biggest challenge in the current climate?
Brand Visibility. We are working on this by looking at ways to raise our profile and standing in the area, our market, and on the internet.
Where do you think your business will be in 5 year’s time?
Continuing to provide the same quality products and service, but further afield. We opened our Fulham branch in 2013 and are looking at further expansion.
Has being a member of ABN helped your business?
Definitely. I wish we’d joined earlier.
What do you like about the Askew Road?
I never used to know much about it as always had my nose to the groundstone in Uxbridge Road, but ABN has opened my eyes to a plethora of friendly and unique businesses that I look forward to exploring.
What do you think Askew Road will be like in 5 years time?
Hopefully still quite quirky with maybe an annual event to celebrate the area and put it on the map.
How easy is it to shop locally in Askew Road?
I don’t know yet, but look forward to finding out. There certainly seems to be something for everyone. I would love to have an afternoon to explore.
What are your favourite shops and businesses in Askew Road?
Until I get that afternoon shopping experience – Cake me Baby. Their article in last month’s ABN Newsletter has had me yearning for the opportunity to have a deliciously different “naughty” cake made.
What shops and businesses do you think Askew Road lacks?
I’ll come back to you when I’ve had that shopping experience!
Jackie Bevan
Director
www.groupb.co.uk
Group B Electrical Wholesale
Direct Dial: 0208 735 4708 Head Office: 0208 749 3616 Mobile: 07976 630668