The Past
Trade Paints started life as Battle Decorating Center (BDC) in 1962. Soon outgrowing its premises, it expanded to Eastbourne, and in 1964 registered the name 'Trade Paints Limited'. Though there are many namesakes, we remain the only official 'Trade Paints Limited' in the UK.
In 1970 the Battle branch moved to Hastings Old Town, giving TP a presence in two of the South Coasts largest towns. Soon more space was needed, which led to the current HQ depot in Ponswood Industrial Estate being opened in 1984.
From the enormous 10,000m2 premises it was decided that TP could not only serve the local tradesmen and public, but could also wholesale to other DIY stores throughout Kent & Sussex- hence 'FactorLine' (the wholesale arm of Trade Paints) was born.
After a change of ownership in 1996 it was decided to let the Eastbourne branch go, but further expansion has resulted since, with new branches opening in Bexhill-on-Sea, Hailsham and most recently Hove.
Trade Paints continues to be a truly independent, family run Decorators Merchant and Specialist Paint Supplier. The 5 branches in St Leonards-on-Sea (HQ), Hastings Old Town, Bexhill, Hailsham and Hove employ more than 25 local men and women and we pride ourselves on being experts in our field.
Service is paramount to us at TP and we do our upmost to make sure that our staff are fully trained in all aspects of the decorating industry. We have a fleet of vans that deliver daily to Tradesmen, the Public and other DIY stores throughout Sussex & Kent.
As far as colour and coatings go, we're second to none. Whether you need an emulsion to match your curtains or a fire retardant for a steel contruction, we will be able to help. Please see the Colour and Products sections for more details on what we stock and what we can do with colour.
As well as paint we also sell Power Tools, Ladders & Towers, Site & Safety clothing, and a large selection of Tiles and Wallpapers (to order) can be found in our branches.
The Future
In a world dominated by giants and 'Big Sheds', Trade Paints is determined to maintain excellent levels of service and top quality products. The industry is set for some big changes (EU regulations continue to shape the future of paint) and Trade Paints will remain at the forefront of the decorating industry.
We are exporting more and more, and looking at soon starting a website specifically for ordering paint for France. With great staff, constant monitoring of our products and a great loyal customer base, we are confident the future for Trade Paints is a colourful one!
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