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BEHIND BIG BUSINESS: DRAPER TOOLS

DRAPER TOOLS
Draper Tools is the local family business that’s been delivering exceptional service and quality tools for over a century. Here we learn more about the company…
Tel: 023 8026 6355
Website: www.drapertools.com


The Facts & Figures
The company supplies a wide range of hand and power tools for serious enthusiasts and professionals alike, including essential equipment for the construction, automotive, engineering and agricultural industries as well as DIY and gardening must-haves. Draper now offers over 11,000 quality products, all of which are rigorously tested to meet and exceed industry standards.


The company’s state-of-the-art warehouse management systems and technology means thousands of customer orders are processed each week and shipped to over 80 countries worldwide.

The History

• Draper Tools was started in 1919 when the founder, Bert Draper, sold government surplus and tools in markets around the Kingston Upon Thames area.

• The company moved to Chandler’s Ford in 1963, previously a royal navy victualling depot used as the central stores for the shadow factories producing spitfires during WW2.

Draper Tools 1950’s Delivery van.


• Bert Draper’s son Norman took over in 1963. Today the company is headed up by the 4th generation, Bert’s great grandsons Tom and Joe Draper, alongside their father John Draper.

• Many local people will fondly remember Draper Tools as sponsors of Southampton FC. The company proudly sponsored the club for nine years between 1984 and 1993.

• In 2006 Draper Tools purchased a second UK site in North Baddesley.

• In 2019, the company proudly celebrated its centenary year in business with a huge family fun day for current and former staff at its North Baddesley site.

• In 2021 Draper Tools released its first annual sustainability & ethics report, detailing the company’s environmental journey and transparent approach. The initiative was shortlisted for a DIY WEEK award.

• To date, the company now employs over 300 people both locally, around the UK.

The Future
At 103 years old, the company remains as committed to growth and innovation as ever, with several investments and improvements to its facilities to ensure a sustainable future.
Rapid growth and expansion plans have seen a number of exciting new roles being created across the business.


Community Contribution
“The local community is very important to us,” says Tom Draper, Director.
Draper Tools thinks globally and acts locally. They recently announced the charity, Saints Foundation, as its Community Charity Partner.

They have supported: Trinity Winchester, sponsoring this year’s Big Sleep Out; The Society of St James who carry out similarly vital work in Southampton; Romsey-based charity, Youth Options; The Wessex Cancer Trust; SANDS United FC, which helps bereaved dads and other family members cope with the impact of stillbirth and neonatal death through a shared love of sport; Havant and Waterlooville FC through community partnership initiatives, plus many local youth sports teams.

Other causes benefitting from Draper’s support include Tools for Self Reliance and NHS Charities Together. This year will see the company supporting Wave 105’s Cash for Kids charity, through the sales of its 2022 tool advent calendar. Look out for the calendar later this year.

Tel: 023 8026 6355
Website: www.drapertools.com