2025 is shaping up to be a defining year for Frontline Bathrooms and Smiths Briten, as the two sister companies announce a significant transformation of their UK delivery network. Under the leadership of managing director Darren Allison, both brands are making significant long-term investments in shared infrastructure, with a clear focus on improving speed, reliability and sustainability for KBB retailers nationwide.
At the heart of this shift is the unification of their delivery operations. By leveraging each brand’s well-established logistics networks, the businesses are streamlining routes, cutting duplication, and enhancing service coverage in key postcodes across the UK. This combined infrastructure, supported by dual head offices and round-the-clock cross-dock facilities, positions Frontline and Smiths Briten as a smarter, more responsive distribution force for the bathroom and plumbing trade.
Darren Allison, managing director of both Frontline and Smiths Briten, says: “This isn’t just about efficiency, it is about backing our customers. We are investing heavily in infrastructure that makes life easier for retailers: quicker lead times, more consistent delivery windows, and fewer delays. At the same time, we are reducing emissions and building a supply chain that’s fit for the future and our growth plans.”
The impact will be felt on the ground from July 2025, with key delivery enhancements already confirmed:
· LU & MK postcodes have moved to next-day delivery for Smiths Briten orders, via Frontline’s expert delivery team.
· SA region extended to three delivery days per week through a specialist bathroom courier.
· BS postcodes will now be delivering five days a week for both businesses via Smiths fleet.
· SM & CR postcodes upgraded to five-day service from July, utilising the Frontline fleet.
· From August, Smiths Briten will expand coverage across North Wales, Stoke-on-Trent, and Buxton alongside Frontline.
· In parallel, three new drivers with KBB industry experience have been hired to support the enhanced network.
While the two brands retain distinct product and service offerings, their operational collaboration reflects a deeper synergy. Shared leadership, aligned values, and a joint commitment to trade support mean they can offer retailers the best of both: consistent service and wide-ranging choice.
The business now operates from two key distribution centres: Smiths Briten in Bolton, Greater Manchester, and Frontline in Featherstone, Wakefield, supported by cross-dock facilities in Scotland, Kidderminster, Heathrow, Purfleet and Mildenhall. Together, this infrastructure supports a next-day service capability across much of the UK.