Wickes began trading in 1972 as a do-it-yourself store. They now have over 200 stores throughout the UK. The company focus on supplying products to the building trade, as well as materials for home improvement projects. Their products range from fitted kitchens and bathrooms, to all manner of building supplies. They sell doors, windows, flooring, tiles, paint, wallpaper, decorative materials, lighting, heating, plumbing, work wear and gardening supplies. They also offer professionally designed bespoke kitchens and bathrooms, alongside their budget take home ranges. The company was purchased by the builders merchants Travis Perkins in 2005. They now also have stores in mainland Europe, Ireland and South Africa.