Djevans.co.uk Review

Based on checking the website djevans.co.uk, it appears to be a legitimate and well-established independent engineers and builders’ merchant based in East Anglia, UK. The site showcases a comprehensive range of engineering products, construction supplies, builder’s merchant items, tools, and power tools. Given its extensive history, physical branches, and clear product offerings, it presents itself as a reliable supplier for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts in the construction and engineering sectors.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Legitimacy: Appears legitimate and well-established.
• Product Range: Extensive, covering various construction and engineering needs.
• Physical Presence: Multiple branches across East Anglia (Bury St Edmunds, Ipswich, Brandon, Mildenhall, Cambridge, Norwich).
• Online Shop: Available for convenience (djevansshop.co.uk).
• Services Offered: Includes tool & plant hire, inventory control, lintel services, product procurement, and key cutting.
• Customer Support: Contact information clearly provided.
• Ethical Considerations: Deals with construction and engineering supplies, which aligns with ethical business practices. No immediate red flags regarding forbidden categories.
• Areas for Improvement: Could benefit from more direct customer reviews on the site itself to build trust further.

Djevans.co.uk, operating under the DJ Evans Group, boasts a history stretching back over a century, positioning itself as a premier independent merchant. They offer everything from fasteners and power tools to woodworking equipment and building materials. The site clearly lists their physical locations, which adds a layer of credibility often missing from purely online ventures. Their emphasis on quality-assured manufacturers and a “one-stop-shop” approach suggests a commitment to serving their customer base effectively. For anyone in the construction, engineering, or DIY trade looking for a reliable supplier in the UK, djevans.co.uk presents a robust option.

Best Alternatives List:

• Screwfix
  • Key Features: Wide range of tools, hardware, and building materials; extensive network of physical stores across the UK; click & collect service; often next-day delivery.
  • Average Price: Competitive, often with trade discounts.
  • Pros: Highly convenient, huge product catalogue, reliable delivery, strong brand reputation.
  • Cons: Can be overwhelming with choices, some products are trade-focused.
• Toolstation
  • Key Features: Similar to Screwfix with a vast selection of tools, electrical, plumbing, and building supplies; strong presence in the UK with many branches.
  • Average Price: Generally very competitive.
  • Pros: Great for quick pickups, good stock levels, frequent promotions.
  • Cons: Website navigation can be clunky, some niche items might require ordering.
• Wickes
  • Key Features: Focuses more on home improvement, DIY, and building materials; offers kitchen and bathroom design services in addition to general supplies.
  • Average Price: Mid-range, competitive for larger projects.
  • Pros: Good for larger DIY projects, design services, often has larger stock of bulk materials.
  • Cons: Not as specialised in pure engineering tools as others, fewer niche trade items.
• B&Q
  • Key Features: Broadest range, encompassing DIY, home improvement, garden, and construction supplies; well-known brand.
  • Average Price: Varies widely, caters to all budgets.
  • Pros: Excellent for general home projects, wide accessibility, good for inspiration.
  • Cons: Can be less competitive on price for trade-specific tools, sometimes lower stock of specialist items.
• Ferm
  • Key Features: Dutch brand known for power tools and accessories; focuses on value for money and solid performance for DIYers and semi-professionals.
  • Average Price: Budget-friendly to mid-range.
  • Pros: Good entry-level tools, decent quality for the price, widely available.
  • Cons: Not always top-tier professional grade, limited range compared to larger retailers.
• Draper Tools
  • Key Features: A long-standing UK family-run business supplying quality tools for professionals and enthusiasts; huge catalogue from hand tools to power tools and workshop equipment.
  • Average Price: Mid to high-range for professional tools.
  • Pros: Reputable British brand, good warranty, wide selection, excellent customer support.
  • Cons: Can be pricier than budget brands, some items are only available through distributors.
• Teng Tools
  • Key Features: Specialises in hand tools, tool storage, and general workshop equipment; known for high-quality, well-organised tool kits for professionals.
  • Average Price: High-end for professional-grade tools.
  • Pros: Exceptional quality, lifetime warranty on many items, excellent organisation systems, trusted by trades.
  • Cons: Premium price point, less focus on power tools or large building materials.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Djevans.co.uk Review & First Look

When you first land on djevans.co.uk, you’re greeted by a straightforward, professional layout that immediately highlights their core business: engineering products, construction supplies, builders’ merchant items, tools, and power tools. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done, which, frankly, is what you want from a supplier in this industry. They’ve clearly invested in presenting their product categories upfront, making it easy to navigate whether you’re looking for a new Paslode IM350+ framing nail gun or just trying to find their nearest branch.

Initial Impressions on User Experience

The website has a clean, albeit somewhat dated, design. However, functionality takes precedence. The main navigation is intuitive, allowing quick access to product categories like Building Products & Construction Supplies, PPE, Fixings and Fasteners, Woodworking Equipment, Ironmongery, and Hand & Power Tools. This structured approach is a win for anyone who values efficiency. You can see their physical locations clearly listed, which is a big trust signal, indicating they’re not just some fly-by-night online outfit.

Credibility and History

The claim of “East Anglia’s Premier Independent Engineers & Builders Merchant” with “a history dating back more than a century” isn’t just marketing fluff; it suggests deep roots and experience in the industry. For a business to survive and thrive for over 100 years, it speaks volumes about its reliability and customer trust. This long-standing presence, coupled with their multiple branches in key locations like Bury St Edmunds, Ipswich, Brandon, Mildenhall, Cambridge, and Norwich, solidifies their position as a serious player in the UK construction supply market.

Djevans.co.uk Pros & Cons

Let’s break down what works well and where there might be room for improvement with djevans.co.uk. For any professional or serious DIYer, understanding these nuances is crucial before committing to a new supplier.

Advantages of Using Djevans.co.uk

• Extensive Product Range: They truly aim to be a “one-stop shop.” From the iconic Paslode nail gun to welding equipment and architectural ironmongery, their catalogue is vast. This means less time hopping between different suppliers for your project needs.
• Established Reputation and History: Over a century in business is no small feat. This longevity implies a deep understanding of the industry, strong supplier relationships, and a proven track record of customer satisfaction. For example, a 2023 report by the Office for National Statistics indicated that only about 40% of small businesses survive past their fifth year, making DJ Evans’s century-plus run truly remarkable.
• Multiple Physical Locations: Having nine branches across East Anglia provides tangible support and accessibility. This is a massive advantage for trade professionals who often need to pick up supplies quickly or get expert advice in person. It also fosters a sense of local community engagement.
• Diverse Services: Beyond just selling products, they offer value-added services like Tool & Plant Hire, Inventory Control Systems, Lintels Services, and Key Cutting. These services demonstrate a holistic approach to supporting their customers’ projects.
• Focus on Quality-Assured Manufacturers: The website mentions working with “quality assured manufacturers.” This commitment to sourcing reputable brands ensures that customers receive reliable and durable products, which is paramount in construction and engineering.

Areas for Improvement

• Online Shop Integration and User Experience: While they have an online shop (djevansshop.co.uk), it’s a separate subdomain. A more seamless integration with the main site would enhance the overall user experience. The design, while functional, could benefit from a modern refresh to compete with more visually dynamic online retailers.
• Lack of Direct Customer Reviews/Testimonials: The homepage mentions sponsoring Jordan Jenkins, which is great for local engagement, but direct customer reviews or testimonials from tradespeople on the website would build trust and social proof more effectively. This is a standard feature on most reputable e-commerce sites today, with studies showing that 93% of consumers read online reviews before making a purchase (source: Qualtrics, 2023).
• Pricing Transparency Online: While typical for builders’ merchants, explicit pricing for all products isn’t immediately visible on the main site, pushing users to “Visit The Shop” or “Contact Us.” While understandable for trade pricing, it can be a minor hurdle for quick comparisons.
• Limited Online Chat/Support Options: There doesn’t appear to be a live chat feature on the homepage, which is a common convenience for quick queries. Users are directed to a “contact us” page, which is standard but lacks the immediacy of chat.

Djevans.co.uk Alternatives

When it comes to sourcing construction, engineering, and DIY supplies in the UK, the market is competitive. While djevans.co.uk offers a compelling local solution, it’s wise to consider other established players, especially if you’re outside their primary service areas or have specific needs. Delameremanor.co.uk Review

Major National Suppliers

• Screwfix: Arguably the giant in the UK market for tools and trade supplies. With thousands of products, next-day delivery, and countless local stores for click & collect, they offer unparalleled convenience. Their catalogue includes everything from power tools to plumbing fittings and electrical supplies.
• Toolstation: A strong competitor to Screwfix, offering a very similar model of extensive product ranges, competitive pricing, and widespread physical branches for quick pickups. They often have different promotions, so it’s worth checking both.
• Wickes: More geared towards home improvement, DIY, and building materials. While they do stock tools and general construction supplies, their focus leans more towards residential projects, kitchens, and bathrooms. Excellent for larger material orders or when you need a broader range of domestic building products.
• B&Q: The largest home improvement retailer in the UK. B&Q offers a massive selection of products for every part of the home and garden, including a solid range of tools and building materials. They cater more to the general public and DIYers than specialised trade professionals, though they do offer trade accounts.

Specialised Online Retailers

• ITS.co.uk (Industrial Tool Supplies): Known for a vast selection of professional power tools and accessories from top brands. They often have very competitive pricing and strong online presence, with good delivery options.
• Machine Mart: Specialises in Clarke tools and equipment, offering everything from generators and air compressors to workshop machinery and hand tools. Great for heavy-duty equipment and garage/workshop setups.

Other Regional Independent Merchants

Many regions across the UK have independent builders’ merchants similar to DJ Evans. These often offer localised service, potentially better prices on bulk materials, and strong relationships with local trades. Searching “builders merchant near me” on Google Maps will often reveal these invaluable local gems. They might not have the slickest websites, but their service and local knowledge can be second to none.

How to Navigate Djevans.co.uk for Specific Needs

Whether you’re a seasoned builder, a new apprentice, or a DIY enthusiast embarking on a home renovation, knowing how to efficiently use a supplier’s website can save you time and hassle. Djevans.co.uk provides a structured approach to finding what you need.

Finding Specific Product Categories

The main navigation bar is your best friend here. Categories are clearly laid out:

• Building Products & Construction Supplies: This section likely covers foundational materials like bricks, timber, plaster, and insulation. If you’re building an extension or a new structure, this is your starting point.
• PPE (Personal Protective Equipment): Safety first! This includes items like safety helmets, high-vis clothing, safety footwear, gloves, and eye protection. Essential for any job site, ensuring compliance with UK health and safety regulations, which reported over 60,000 non-fatal injuries in construction in 2022/23 (source: HSE).
• Fixings and Fasteners: The backbone of any construction project. Nails, screws, bolts, anchors, and adhesives – everything to hold things together. Given DJ Evans’s century-long history, this has been a core part of their business.
• Woodworking Equipment: For those working with timber, this category offers machinery like lathes, bandsaws, and other wood-carving supplies.
• Ironmongery: Deals with metal hardware used in construction, such as hinges, handles, locks, and general fittings for doors and windows, crucial for both functionality and aesthetics.
• Hand & Power Tools: This is where you’ll find everything from basic hammers and screwdrivers to drills, saws, grinders, and specialist tools like the Paslode IM350+.

Utilising Their Service Offerings

Beyond products, DJ Evans offers several key services: Randomhall.co.uk Review

• Tool & Plant Hire: For those big jobs that require specialist equipment you don’t own, hiring is often more cost-effective. Check their Bury St Edmunds branch for availability. This is a common practice, with the UK plant hire market valued at over £4 billion annually (source: CPA, 2023).
• Inventory Control System (VMI): A service for trade businesses to manage their stock more efficiently, preventing shortages and reducing waste. This is particularly valuable for larger contractors.
• Lintels Services: Essential for structural support over openings in walls, ensuring stability.
• Plot Lotting & Product Procurement: Services for larger developments, helping to manage material orders for specific plots and sourcing hard-to-find items.
• Ironmongery Scheduling: A specialist service to ensure all necessary ironmongery is ordered and delivered on time for a project, crucial for complex builds.
• Key Cutting: A convenient local service for quickly getting spare keys.

Getting in Touch

The “Contact Us” page is easily accessible and provides details for their various branches. This is the primary method for inquiries, quotes, or specific product availability questions, especially if you prefer speaking to someone directly.

Djevans.co.uk for Professionals vs. DIY Enthusiasts

Djevans.co.uk positions itself as a supplier for both “professional tradespeople and D.I.Y enthusiasts,” but a closer look reveals its strengths lie more with the former, while still providing robust options for the latter.

Catering to Professional Tradespeople

The depth of their product categories, particularly in areas like fixings and fasteners, personal protective equipment (PPE), and specialised building materials, speaks directly to the needs of professionals. Features like “Inventory Control System,” “Plot Lotting,” and “Ironmongery Scheduling” are clearly designed for larger construction firms and contractors who require sophisticated logistical support. The emphasis on “quality-assured manufacturers” is also a critical factor for professionals who rely on durable and reliable tools and materials day in and day out. For example, a professional framer would appreciate the direct mention and availability of the Paslode IM350+ framing nail gun, a tool synonymous with professional performance.

Appeal to DIY Enthusiasts

While the range is extensive, DIY enthusiasts can also find a lot of value. The “Hand & Power Tools” section is a good starting point for anyone looking to build or expand their toolkit, from basic drills to more advanced woodworking machinery. Their branches in various locations like Bury St Edmunds and Ipswich offer walk-in access, which is often preferred by DIYers who like to see products before buying or need immediate advice. The “Key Cutting” service is a perfect example of a convenient offering that appeals to the general public. However, the sheer volume of trade-specific products and services might be overwhelming for a casual DIYer, and the lack of explicit online pricing for every item might deter those looking for quick price comparisons.

The Overlap and Sweet Spot

The sweet spot for djevans.co.uk appears to be the serious DIYer or small independent tradesperson who values expert advice, a comprehensive local stock, and the ability to pick up items quickly. They offer a more personalised service than the massive national chains, potentially leading to better relationships and tailored advice. The blend of extensive product lines and practical services like tool hire makes them a strong contender for anyone within their service area. Lainsbarn.co.uk Review

Understanding Djevans.co.uk Pricing

Understanding pricing at a builders’ merchant like djevans.co.uk often differs from a typical online retail experience. While direct, universal pricing isn’t always immediately available on their main informational site, there are clear indications of how they approach their pricing structure.

Trade vs. Retail Pricing

Historically, builders’ merchants operate with a dual-tier pricing model:

• Trade Pricing: This is typically offered to registered businesses and frequent customers. It involves bulk discounts, preferential rates, and sometimes bespoke pricing based on volume and relationship. This is the bread and butter for a company like DJ Evans, which caters heavily to professional builders and engineers. These prices are usually negotiated or available through a trade account.
• Retail Pricing: For individual DIY customers, pricing might be slightly higher than trade rates, but still competitive within the market. These are the prices you’d expect to see if you walk into one of their branches without a trade account.

The website directs users to “Visit The Shop” (djevansshop.co.uk) for online purchases, implying that the online store might offer a clearer view of individual product pricing for immediate purchase, though it’s common for bulk materials to require a quote.

Value Proposition

Djevans.co.uk’s value proposition isn’t solely based on being the absolute cheapest on every single item. Instead, it revolves around:

• Quality Products: Partnering with “quality-assured manufacturers” suggests a commitment to providing reliable tools and materials, which can save money in the long run by reducing rework and breakdowns. The cost of tool breakdowns in construction can be substantial, with over 70% of construction companies experiencing equipment downtime at least once a month (source: Aberdeen Group, 2021).
• Expert Advice: Their “over 150 years of industry knowledge” (specifically for fixings & fasteners) implies that their staff can provide invaluable advice on product selection, application, and troubleshooting, preventing costly mistakes.
• Convenience of a “One-Stop Shop”: By offering a wide range of products and services, they help professionals save time and logistical effort, which translates to cost savings on a project. Consolidating suppliers often leads to better overall project efficiency.
• Local Support: For businesses in East Anglia, having a local, established merchant means easier returns, quicker access to stock, and face-to-face problem-solving. This local support is a significant differentiator from purely online national suppliers.

In essence, while you might find a marginally cheaper single item elsewhere, DJ Evans’s comprehensive offering, quality focus, and local support aim to provide better overall value for serious buyers. Nancarrowfarm.co.uk Review

djevans.co.uk vs. Competitors

When evaluating djevans.co.uk, it’s essential to compare it against its direct and indirect competitors to understand its unique standing in the market. The landscape for building and engineering supplies in the UK is diverse, ranging from national behemoths to niche specialists.

Vs. National Chains (Screwfix, Toolstation)

• Reach & Convenience: National chains like Screwfix and Toolstation excel in widespread availability, with thousands of branches across the UK. Their sheer scale allows for highly efficient logistics, often offering next-day delivery or 15-minute click & collect. Djevans.co.uk, with its nine branches focused in East Anglia, cannot compete on this national scale.
• Product Breadth: While DJ Evans has a comprehensive range, the online catalogues of national chains often appear larger, partly due to centralised warehousing and extensive online-only offerings. However, for core building materials and specialist engineering supplies, DJ Evans’s stock in its region is likely very competitive.
• Pricing: National chains often run aggressive promotions and can leverage bulk purchasing power for highly competitive pricing, especially on high-volume items. DJ Evans’s pricing strategy likely focuses on value through quality, expert advice, and local service, rather than being the cheapest on every single item.
• Customer Service: This is where independent merchants often shine. DJ Evans, being a family-run business with a century of history, is likely to offer a more personalised, relationship-driven customer service experience compared to the often transactional nature of large national chains. This personal touch can be invaluable for professionals who rely on consistent support.

Vs. Large DIY Retailers (Wickes, B&Q)

• Target Audience: Wickes and B&Q primarily cater to the DIY market and home renovators. While they stock building materials and tools, their range is often less specialised for heavy-duty professional engineering or construction.
• Specialisation: Djevans.co.uk is explicitly an “engineers & builders merchant,” indicating a deeper specialisation in trade-grade products and materials. This means better quality, more robust options, and expert advice for specific trade applications.
• Services: DJ Evans offers trade-specific services like inventory control, lintel services, and ironmongery scheduling, which are typically not available from general DIY retailers. These services are tailored for the operational needs of construction businesses.

Vs. Other Independent Regional Merchants

• Similarity: Djevans.co.uk is very similar to many other independent regional builders’ merchants across the UK. Their strength lies in their local knowledge, established relationships with local contractors, and a focus on community.
• Key Differentiator: For DJ Evans, its century-plus history and network of multiple branches within East Anglia make it a particularly strong independent player. Many independent merchants might only have one or two locations, whereas DJ Evans has established a significant regional footprint, offering both local intimacy and broader regional reach.

In summary, djevans.co.uk carves out a strong position by offering a specialised, comprehensive, and locally focused service. While it may not have the national reach or instantaneous online pricing of larger competitors, its strength lies in its deep industry expertise, quality product sourcing, and personalised support for the professional and serious DIYer within its East Anglia service area.

FAQ

What is djevans.co.uk?

Djevans.co.uk is the official website for the DJ Evans Group, an independent, family-run engineers and builders’ merchant based in East Anglia, UK, specialising in construction supplies, tools, power tools, and related services.

What kind of products does djevans.co.uk sell?

Djevans.co.uk sells a wide range of products including engineering products, construction supplies, building materials, personal protective equipment (PPE), fixings and fasteners, woodworking equipment, ironmongery, hand tools, and power tools. Hortongrange.co.uk Review

Does djevans.co.uk have physical stores?

Yes, the DJ Evans Group has multiple physical branches located across East Anglia, including Bury St. Edmunds, Ipswich, Brandon, Mildenhall, Cambridge, and Norwich.

Can I buy products from djevans.co.uk online?

Yes, djevans.co.uk has an online shop available at a separate subdomain, djevansshop.co.uk, where you can browse and purchase their wide range of products.

Does djevans.co.uk offer tool and plant hire?

Yes, tool and plant hire services are available at their Bury St. Edmunds store, as indicated on their website.

What services does DJ Evans Group offer beyond product sales?

Beyond sales, the DJ Evans Group offers various services including Inventory Control Systems (VMI), Lintels Services, Plot Lotting, Product Procurement, Ironmongery Scheduling, and Key Cutting.

How long has DJ Evans Group been in business?

The DJ Evans Group has a history dating back more than a century, indicating over 100 years of operation in the industry. Dodmoorhouse.co.uk Review

Is djevans.co.uk primarily for trade professionals or DIY enthusiasts?

Djevans.co.uk caters to both professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive range of products and services designed for both segments, though with a strong emphasis on trade-grade supplies.

How can I contact djevans.co.uk for inquiries?

You can contact the DJ Evans team through their “Contact Us” page on the website, which provides details for their various branches.

Does djevans.co.uk offer trade accounts?

While not explicitly detailed on the main informational homepage, it is highly likely that as a builders’ merchant with a long history, DJ Evans Group offers trade accounts for professional customers, typically by contacting them directly.

What areas does djevans.co.uk serve?

The DJ Evans Group primarily serves East Anglia, with branches located in Suffolk, Norfolk, and Cambridgeshire.

Does djevans.co.uk provide building materials for large construction projects?

Yes, they stock an extensive range of building materials and offer services like Plot Lotting and Product Procurement, which are beneficial for larger construction and development projects. Forrestfamilyfunerals.co.uk Review

Is the Paslode IM350+ nail gun available at djevans.co.uk?

Yes, the website specifically highlights the new and improved Paslode IM350+ framing nail gun as being available for purchase.

Does djevans.co.uk hold trade shows?

Yes, their branch in Bury St. Edmunds holds an annual trade show, as advertised on their website for June 12th from 8am – 4pm.

How does djevans.co.uk ensure product quality?

The DJ Evans Group states that they offer products and materials from “quality assured manufacturers” across the industry.

Can I get personal protective equipment (PPE) from djevans.co.uk?

Yes, they provide a comprehensive range of personal protective equipment (PPE) and workwear supplied from trusted brands across their nine locations.

Are there any testimonials or customer reviews on the djevans.co.uk website?

While they mention sponsoring local talent, direct customer reviews or testimonials are not prominently featured on the homepage. Laser-level.co.uk Review

Does djevans.co.uk offer delivery services for online orders?

While the online shop is available, specific details about delivery services (e.g., next-day delivery, local delivery) would typically be found on the djevansshop.co.uk subdomain or by contacting them directly.

What types of woodworking equipment does djevans.co.uk supply?

They supply a range of woodworking machinery and accessories, including lathes, bandsaws, and other wood-carving supplies.

What is the advantage of using an independent merchant like djevans.co.uk compared to a national chain?

Advantages often include more personalised customer service, expert local knowledge, strong community ties, and potentially more flexible or tailored solutions compared to larger national chains.

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