1932
Maxwells was established in 1932 by Jack Maxwell, an unemployed cabinet maker, and his wife Violet. The initial shop, located at the foot of Crossgate in Durham, traded under the name Woodwork Supplies. Primarily, it sold timber, screws, nails, and early models crafted from balsa wood.
1947
Following the war, the demand for larger premises prompted a relocation of the business to Vine Place, Sunderland in 1947, where it was renamed Maxwells DIY.
1957
Jack and Violet managed the business until 1957, when their son Don assumed control. In the subsequent years, a dedicated model and toy department was introduced to complement the DIY offerings. Many of Maxwells’ long-standing customers fondly recall spending their pocket money on Airfix models during their childhood.
1960s
In the 1960s, Don expanded the business by opening additional shops in various locations. He established new outlets in Jarrow, South Shields, and Fulwell, broadening the reach of Maxwells and enhancing its presence in the region. This expansion helped to solidify the brand’s reputation and cater to a wider customer base.
1970s
During the 1970s, the business experienced further growth through the acquisition of additional locations in North Shields, Southwick, Pallion, and Seaham. This period marked a significant expansion in Maxwells’ geographical footprint, reinforcing its presence across the region. In the late 1970s, Don’s business efforts were bolstered when three of his sons joined the company. Nearly five decades later, two of these sons remain actively involved in the management of the business, continuing the family legacy and contributing to its enduring success.
1980s
As the business continued to flourish, the urgent need for a central warehouse and distribution centre became apparent. In response, the Birtley site was acquired in 1984 to streamline operations and support the growing network of stores. Throughout the 1980s, the expansion continued with new locations opening in Newcastle, Gateshead, and Tudhoe, along with an additional shop in South Shields. These expansions not only enhanced Maxwells’ logistical capabilities but also significantly extended its market reach and customer base across the region.
1990s
In the 1990s, Maxwells continued to expand its retail footprint by adding a new location in Barnard Castle. Additionally, significant developments were undertaken at the Birtley site, transforming it into the brand’s first superstore. This development marked a major milestone for Maxwells, enhancing its retail offerings and providing customers with a more comprehensive shopping experience. The superstore format allowed for a wider range of products and services, solidifying Maxwells’ position as a key player in the DIY and home improvement market.
1996
Following the successful launch of their first superstore, Maxwells continued to expand its presence. In 1996, the company opened a new store in Ashington, further extending its reach. This addition was part of Maxwells’ ongoing strategy to establish a strong network of stores across the region, ensuring that a wide range of DIY products and services were accessible to a broader customer base. This expansion highlighted Maxwells’ commitment to growth and its dedication to serving the needs of its customers more effectively.
2007
In 2007, Maxwells opened its flagship store in Peterlee, establishing a key location that exemplified the company’s brand and values. This store was designed to be a showcase for Maxwells, featuring a wide selection of products and state-of-the-art facilities. It served not only as a retail hub but also as a model for future expansions, reflecting the company’s commitment to quality, customer service, and innovation. The Peterlee store quickly became a central element in Maxwells’ retail strategy, drawing customers from across the region and setting new standards for the company’s operations.
2024
Over the years, Maxwells has continuously adapted to the shifting landscapes of the industry and the high street, which have transformed dramatically. This evolution has involved both opening new branches and closing others, reflecting changes in consumer behaviour and market conditions. Today, Maxwells operates a streamlined network of stores spanning from Ashington in the north to Barnard Castle in the south, with key locations including Birtley, Peterlee, Jarrow, Gateshead, and Fulwell. This strategic presence across the region ensures that Maxwells remains a prominent and accessible player in the home improvement and DIY market, adeptly meeting the needs of its diverse customer base.