Toolstation has celebrated 200 new branch openings since the company's 2003 launch with its Newton Abbot site, as part of an expansion programme that will see 210 stores trading in the UK by the end of the year.

The branch extends the company's presence in the South West, it being the fourth to open in Devon. The supplier of tools, accessories and building supplies also has estate networks in a number of cities, including more than 40 branches within the M25 and 11 in the West Midlands.

With each branch opening creating seven new jobs, Toolstation has now employed more than 1400 people in its branches alone, with more than 500 in its head office and distribution centres, the company says.

The rollout of new branches is set to continue, with the company aiming to reach the 210 openings by the end of 2015, and with further expansion planned for 2016.

Craig Higgins, retail director at Toolstation, said: “The opening of our 200th branch is a real landmark in what has proved to be a year of strong growth and it is great to see our network expanding across the UK. Our ultimate aim is to provide a great multi-channel customer experience at conveniently located branches, online or on our mobile website.

“In addition to the continued development of our branch network, this year has seen the launch of our online Click & Collect service to help meet our customers’ needs.

"What’s more, in response to the increasing use of smartphones and mobile devices, we have recently introduced Paypal onto the company’s mobile app. This mobile platform also allows customers to check stock, buy online and collect from their chosen branch just an hour later.”

Commercial resources director, Adam Keates, who leads the expansion programme, said: “We are competing for space with other growing businesses not just in the building sector, and we also have to take into account potential customers and their needs when considering new properties.

“Naturally, we look at the catchment of any potential location; at the same time you cannot beat going to an industrial park and making an assessment of how many people from the building trades are already visiting it, and whether it is easy to find and to access.”