🛠️ The End of an Era: What Really Happened to FFX Tools? 🛠️
If you’ve been in the trade for a while, the name FFX (Folkestone Fixings) probably holds a special place in your van. They were the ones who shook up the industry with those "Real Deals" and an online presence that often made the big boys look expensive.
But as we look at the landscape in 2026, the FFX we knew is gone. It’s a bit of a shocker for those of us who relied on them for that 7am delivery of a new DeWalt kit or a bulk load of fixings. So, what actually went down?
The Timeline of the Fall
It all started back in late 2024 when FFX officially entered administration. Despite pulling in nearly £100 million in turnover, the company was fighting a losing battle with rising costs and thin margins. By early 2025, it moved into liquidation, which meant the end for their physical stores in Ashford and Folkestone and, sadly, over 140 jobs.
The Good News: The Brand Lives On
Shortly after the collapse, ITS (Industrial Tool Supplies) stepped in. They didn’t buy the whole company, but they bought the brand name and the website. That’s why if you head to the old FFX site now, you’ll find yourself at ITS.
ITS has done a solid job of keeping that "FFX spirit" alive, but here’s the kicker: they bought the assets, not the liabilities. If you had an old warranty claim or a missing order from the "old" FFX, that’s gone with the liquidation.
Where do we go for deals now?
With FFX out of the independent game, the market has shifted. But don't worry, the competition is still fierce.
1️⃣ ITS: Now the home of FFX, they are arguably the best for Milwaukee M18 and Festool gear.
2️⃣ Screwfix: Still the king of convenience. You can grab a DeWalt DCD796 bare unit for about £79.99 right now.
3️⃣ Toolstation: Usually the one to beat for Makita LXT accessories and everyday consumables.
4️⃣ Power Tool Mate & Power Tool World: These guys are consistently at the top of the pile for bulk kits and high-end brushless gear.
The Moral of the Story?
In this post-FFX world, loyalty doesn't pay—comparison does. Prices for a Makita DHP485Z can swing by £25 or more between retailers on any given day.
That’s where we come in. At DSIDE.co.uk, we’re keeping the competitive spirit alive. We compare prices across 183+ UK retailers—from the giants like Amazon and Toolstation to specialists like Toolden and SGS Engineering—all in one place.
Read the full breakdown and timeline here: https://dside.co.uk/blog/the-end-of-an-era-what-happened-to-ffx-tools
What do you reckon? Was FFX your go-to, or did you see the writing on the wall? Who’s getting your tool budget in 2026? Let’s have a debate in the comments! 👇
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