We’ve got loads of inspirational clients, but we thought we’d share RKW’s story of hard work and a sparky strategy.
Back in 1989, Su and Rob Sutton started the business with just £200, hiring a van to deliver kitchen electrical seconds and excess stock to retailers up and down the country. Fast forward to today where they’ve created a £120m turnover business that employs over 600 people across its 3 sites in Staffordshire, along with offices in Europe, Hong Kong, India and China.
RKW now design, develop and distribute housewares and electrical appliances globally for leading brand names such as Tower, Swan, Goblin, Smeg and Russell Hobbs.
Where it all began…
Like many accountants, we’re in it for the long-haul and are proud to say that we were there to support Su and Rob from the off, helping them set up the company, finance their cashflow and devise their strategy. But who were we to know where this family firm would end up all those years ago?
Applying sharp insight, RKW were soon on the road to success, making key acquisitions to develop both their products and distribution network to grow the firm.
Over the years we’ve helped them with pretty much everything, from their growth strategy, tax planning, R&D and capital allowances, to property acquisitions and funding, audits as well as personal pensions and tax. So, we’ve seen the hard work the Sutton’s have put in, not only to achieve the major milestones but the small ones too.
Our Executive Director, Paul Hulme said “Since meeting Su and Rob it was clear they had big plans, but to achieve their goals they’ve had to put in the hours and take some calculated risks along the way. They also look after their team and their partners, which has been fundamental to their success.
“We count ourselves extremely lucky to have been on this incredible journey with them from the start.”
Roots firmly planted in Staffordshire
Despite such growth, Staffordshire will always remain home to RKW. Not only is it where Su and Rob grew up, the location of their 750,000 Sq. ft. distribution centre in Stone allows next day delivery nationwide for their retail partners which include Argos, Asda, Morrisons, Sainsburys, Tesco, B&M, Home Bargain, Amazon and Very. The central location of their ever expanding office and showrooms in Stoke on Trent makes it easy for buyers to visit not just from the UK but from all over the world.
RKW are also very much still an owner-managed business, with both Su and Rob hands on, they’ve even roped in their daughter Emma into the business who is their B2B Marketing Manager.
The funding secured for SVG will be used for the Group’s trading division RKW, and will help to create up to 100 new jobs across their 3 Staffordshire based sites.
Rob’s story is truly inspirational, and we’re very much looking forward to the next chapter of RKW.
Rob Sutton, SVG Chairman said, “We have been clients of DJH Mitten Clarke for over 30 years and the assistance provided by the team at DJH Mitten Clarke has been invaluable. RKW is home to a number of leading Great British housewares brands. The new funding will allow us to maximise opportunities driven by the increased global demand for the exceptional quality and unbeatable value that our iconic brands offer and help accelerate new product developments and to further strengthen our distribution infrastructure. The strong partnership we have with DJH Mitten Clarke has allowed them to understand and challenge our strategy as we embark on this next phase of growth.”
