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Over the last 20 years, Total Fishing Tackle has established itself as the largest independent fishing tackle supplier in the UK through its e-commerce business.
Owner Andy Gilbert takes pride in the commitment to providing its loyal customer base with the best levels of service, stocking all the major brands and being constantly competitively priced.
“Although from the beginning we have always had a small physical shop serving the local community alongside our top-rated carp fishery, we are predominantly known for our online store. However, we are hoping to change that,” he says.
As the business enters another decade, Gilbert (right) told Angling International it is time to take a risk. He has acquired one of the largest fishing tackle stores in the UK, in the shape of the now defunct Outlaw Pro retail outlet in the eastern region of England.
At a time when many businesses are putting their eggs in the online basket, Total Fishing Tackle is bucking the trend with the opening of the bricks and mortar megastore.
“I am excited about this opportunity. Of course it’s a risk,” he said. “But I am an entrepreneur, and entrepreneurs like to take risks.”
That’s not to say Gilbert – a keen fisherman with a strong e-commerce background – has not done his due diligence. “I lived in the same town as the former Outlaw Pro store so know about its history, staff and potential,” he says.
Opened at the end of last month following a major refurbishment that has also seen the installation of a bait boat lake, the megastore will include a comprehensive range of tackle.
“Apart from the refurbishment of the store we have also brought in new brands that were not there before, with products offered at good price points and first-class customer service backed by quality and experienced staff,” adds Gilbert.
Gilbert added that the future may be e-commerce, but there will always be a need for shops. “There are many reasons why they can live together, and physical bricks and mortar shops will always play a part in retail.”
He emphasises the need for both facets of the business, recognising that there will always be a demand for personal service and face-to-face interactions.
“I think it is important for the angling community and customers who still want to go to retail outlets to try out items like rods, reels and clothing and seek advice. They also need somewhere to go to collect their maggots. Not everyone wants to shop online.”
Gilbert revealed that he had only considered acquisitions recently with the Outlaw Pro deal being the second in the past six months. In the past he concentrated on maintaining the high growth of the current business model. “Our business has been investing in all areas except physical shops until recently.”
Despite the challenges faced by many retailers, Gilbert believes that the fishing landscape is changing for the better. “It has been all doom and gloom in recent years with many retailers going out of business, but the stronger ones are surviving while the smaller ones are not.
“The vibes are good this year. You only have to attend shows to experience a return of the feel-good factor. The recent issues with stock in the industry have also been mainly sorted. We are optimistic and will be looking at other acquisition opportunities in the future should they arise.”
