A Half-Century of Excellence

For half a century, the name Gardner has been synonymous with bathrooms and kitchens in Tamworth. Colin Gardner, the man behind the iconic business, is celebrating an incredible 50 years of providing Tamworth residents and beyond with the best in bathrooms & kitchens, a remarkable milestone built on quality, community, and an enduring passion for the business.

It all began in 1975 when Colin and his partner opened G&H Supplies (Gardner and Harper) on Aldergate, nestled next to Tom’s Café and opposite Trend Décor, a site now occupied by Evans Music shop. The business quickly became a local fixture, known for its quality British-made products and keen prices.

A significant chapter began in 1979 with a move to its longstanding home on West Street, the historic old Hamels Mill building. Expansion followed just a year later with the purchase of well-established retailer W.H. Hortons, then located on Aldergate (now Christopher’s Restaurant) opposite the bus station. For several years, Colin successfully operated both showrooms, cementing his reputation as the area’s leading specialist. After selling the Hortons building to Dave Baxter and the business itself in the late 1990s, who’s owners moved on to Kettlebrook. Colin made a triumphant return, reopening as Gardners Bathrooms & Kitchens in October 2012, where it continues to thrive today.

Colin is keen to express his profound gratitude. “I have to thank the Tamworth people and surrounding areas and our staff for the continued support. Without them we would not have survived.”

He recalls his first advert in the Herald in October 1975, which offered a complete bathroom for just £99, a state of the art electric shower for £33 and a full kitchen for £290!

How things have changed since 1975! A pint cost 20p, fish and chips were 35p, the average wage was £48 per week, a Mini car would set you back £900, and the average house price was £16,000.

Through five decades of shifting trends and economic landscapes, Colin’s enthusiasm remains undimmed. “I still enjoy my job and I am still going strong,” he declares. “It is not yet time for me to hang up my boots!” 

….Here’s to the next chapter!