Robert Dyas

Bought in July 2012 by former Dragons’ Den investor, Theo Paphitis, at Robert Dyas we have a long and fascinating history stemming back over 150 years.

In 1872, Robert Dyas emigrated from County Meath, Ireland, with just a £5 inheritance to his name and opened up his first ironmongery store. He was a man of notable character and remarkable determination with a vision to provide customers with the best products, service and advice possible – a tradition that continues to be the focus of Robert Dyas stores to this day.

In the following century, our stores expanded, stretching throughout London and the South East. During this time we were faced with many setbacks including World War One, the Wall Street Crash, and then losing 18 stores, our head office and warehouse in The Blitz. Then in 1997, disaster struck again as a fire obliterated our distribution centre and head offices just before Christmas. But none of this slowed us down, each time coming together as a team and returning stronger than ever.