Screwfix LIVE - More than just an industry event
We had the pleasure of attending Screwfix LIVE in Farnborough, and once again it reminded me why this event stands out in the industry.
It really is unlike any other industry event that I have been to.
What makes it work so well is the interaction. It brings together tradespeople, suppliers, buyers, senior management and consumers – all in one place – and creates genuine opportunities for conversations, feedback and relationship building.
For tradespeople, it’s the chance to get hands-on with products, ask questions and speak directly to the people behind the brands.
For buyers, being on the stands and talking directly to customers provides invaluable insight into what people actually think about the products they are buying. And you certainly need to know your stuff when you’re standing there answering questions!
For suppliers, it’s an equally valuable opportunity to engage not only with Screwfix, the buyers and other suppliers but hearing directly from the consumers.
That combination of conversations and immediate feedback is incredibly powerful.
And the results speak for themselves.
Fiorella Origlia, La Revolution, Clive and Kerry
Ben Lainton, Director of Trade at Screwfix, described this year's event as a “truly landmark event”, with record-breaking results, more customers than ever before and extraordinary enthusiasm from customers, suppliers and colleagues. He described it as the most successful Screwfix LIVE to date and “a fantastic celebration of the trade industry”.
From being there, you could certainly feel that energy in the room.
But it’s not just Screwfix or the customers who see the value.
Andrew Marley from Benchmark Retail Services attends Screwfix LIVE every year, using the event as an opportunity to meet with both new and existing clients. His view this year was simple: “Screwfix LIVE 2026 delivered again and what a fantastic event to attend. It is the best industry show around and a brilliant opportunity to spend time with clients both new and old.” And I think that says a lot about what makes the event different.
Clive, Andrew Marley and Kerry
It isn't just about displaying products. It is about people.
It creates an environment where customers, suppliers, retailers and industry professionals can actually talk to each other. You can see products, ask questions, share ideas, build relationships and, importantly, listen.
What I find particularly interesting is that, despite the success of Screwfix LIVE, we still don’t see many other retailers taking the same approach. 🧐
Screwfix has spent years fine-tuning the event, and it shows. The Farnborough event continues to grow and evolve, becoming bigger and more engaging each year and now they are taking the concept across borders too, with the first Screwfix France LIVE.
It may be smaller by comparison at the moment, but if the Farnborough event is anything to go by, I’m sure we’ll see it develop and grow over the coming years. It’s already in our diary to visit next year!
For me, Screwfix LIVE demonstrates something really important about retail: there is still huge value in getting people together, creating conversations and listening directly to the customer. In a world where so much of retail is becoming digital and data-driven, sometimes the most valuable insight is still standing in front of you and having a conversation.
Screwfix has clearly found a formula that works.
So, the question is: will other retailers follow their lead?
And perhaps more importantly, if they don’t, we feel they are missing an opportunity to bring their customers, suppliers and teams together in a way that creates genuine insight, engagement and connection?
Another great Screwfix LIVE – and one that continues to demonstrate what is possible when a retailer puts people and interaction at the heart of the event.
SFX Live bringing together more than 200 brands, special guests Frank Bruno, Sir Mo Farah and England Rugby Union Players Marlie Packer and Rosie Galligan.
I absotutely love the Top Tradesperson Award which also went to Neil Claxton, an elecgrician from Scotland. He received £20,000 trade bundle of tools, tech and training. WOW!!
Clive, Andrew Weiss, Bheta Executive Chairman, Kerry
