Sustainability at Axminster Tools
Sustainability is central to how we operate at Axminster Tools. As a company built around making, crafting and woodworking, we recognise our responsibility to minimise our environmental impact and protect the natural resources that support our industry. Our commitment is long‑term: to work cleaner, smarter and more responsibly across every area of our business.
Our commitment to change
Across our business, we are improving the way we design, source, package and transport products. These initiatives reduce our environmental footprint while ensuring the quality, durability and performance our customers expect.
We are taking proactive steps to reduce our carbon footprint and understand the full environmental impact of our operations. As a global retailer, meaningful progress starts with accurate measurement. We are actively reviewing our scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions to build a transparent and accountable sustainability roadmap. This work enables us to take responsible action now while planning effectively for the future.
Zero to landfill
Since 2014, none of our operational waste has gone to landfill. All waste is reused, recycled or responsibly recovered, ensuring we minimise our impact on the environment.
Reducing Single‑Use Plastics
We continue to remove single‑use plastics from our packaging and are working closely with suppliers to adopt more sustainable materials without compromising product protection.
100% Renewable Energy
Our operations are powered by 100% renewable electricity, reducing our reliance on non‑renewable resources and supporting a cleaner energy future.
Smarter Logistics, Fewer Miles
By refining our supply chain, improving forecasting and optimising how products move through our network, we are reducing unnecessary transport and lowering our overall operational impact.
Who we support
Supporting British design and quality
We know that customers want to make informed choices about what they buy, including where products come from and the impact they have. As a British retailer, we’re proud to support home‑grown design, skills and manufacturing - not only because of the quality it delivers, but because it plays an important role in reducing environmental impact.
Wherever possible, we source products from UK makers and suppliers. Buying closer to home often means shorter supply chains, fewer transport miles and more transparent manufacturing processes. It also supports the continued growth of British craftsmanship and helps strengthen local industries with lower‑impact production methods.
Supporting Sustainable UK Forestry
We’ve teamed up with the Sylva Wood Foundation to help us consider our own use of sustainable timber and to support responsible woodland management across the UK. Through this partnership, we’re working to understand the impact of the timber we use, while also helping to educate our customers, suppliers and communities about making more sustainable choices. Together, we’re supporting the long‑term health of British woodlands and the future of the craft we all care about.
Our long‑term goals
We are committed to reducing our scope 1 and 2 emissions by at least 5% every year, with a long‑term strategy to reach net zero by 2050. We are also exploring opportunities for carbon removal as part of our wider sustainability vision. Our dedicated Environmental Committee oversees this work, auditing our processes and driving continuous improvement across the business.
What this means for our customers and community
- A supply chain that travels fewer miles and uses fewer resources
- Packaging that reduces waste while maintaining product protection
- Increased support for British‑made products and local craftsmanship
- Responsible sourcing and operations that reflect long‑term values
- Tools and services developed with sustainability, reliability and longevity in mind
Our promise
Sustainability isn’t a single initiative; it’s a long‑term responsibility. Every improvement we make brings us closer to a lower‑impact future for woodworking. We are committed to supporting a global community of makers, without compromising the environment that inspires us all.