New jobs announced in Osborne Cannock visit
More than 900 jobs are being created by hardware and DIY retailer Screwfix, it was revealed today as George Osborne visited the West Midlands.
The Chancellor praised the company as he toured its Cannock store and it was revealed that a further 50 would be opening across the country next year.
Mr Osborne is touring British businesses as they announce measures to create jobs, help people into work, increase exports or make the UK a leader in science and innovation.
Screwfix announced 1,000 new jobs in 2013 and the opening of 60 new stores with today's figures nearly doubling that.
The company recently opened its 360th store and employs more than 6,000 workers.
Mr Osborne said: "Screwfix is a great British success story and it is fantastic to see them expanding and creating new jobs.
"Backing businesses who are expanding is a key part of our long term economic plan which is why I have cut corporation tax, introduced the employment allowance and abolished National Insurance contributions for the under 21s.
"These changes are helping companies like Screwfix create jobs and the economic security that comes with that."
Andrew Livingston, Screwfix Chief Executive, said: "We're thrilled to welcome the Chancellor to Cannock as part of his tour of Great British brands and are proud to be a successful British business.
"We have seen increasing optimism among our trade customers for some time now, which not only represents potential growth across the industry but increasing employment opportunities."
