At the heart of this shift is the unification of their delivery operations.

2025 is shaping up to be a defining year for Frontline Bathrooms and Smiths Briten, as the two sister companies announce a major transformation of their UK delivery network.

Both brands are making significant long-term investments in shared infrastructure, with a clear focus on improving speed, reliability and sustainability for builders’ merchants nationwide.

At the heart of this shift is the unification of their delivery operations. By leveraging each other’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, said: “This isn’t just about efficiency, it is about backing our customers. We are investing heavily in infrastructure that makes life easier for rmarchants: 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 & merchant 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 are able to 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.