ABOUT US

OUR STORY.

Grafton’s story began in 1985, when Founders Pat & Gareth Hardwick returned from the United States. While they were there, Pat discovered a nail strengthener called Develop 10. Seeing there was nothing like it in the UK, she and Gareth, began importing and distributing the brand from their family home – laying the foundations for what would become Grafton International.

In 1993, their son Jonathon Hardwick joined the business. Now Managing Director, he has since played a central role in shaping the company’s growth and strategic direction, continuing the entrepreneurial spirit the business was built on and leading Grafton International into its next phase.

Today, Grafton International is a privately owned UK wholesale distributor and brand partner focused on premium health, beauty and personal care. Being privately owned allows us to move quickly, think long term and make decisions that genuinely support our partners. Over the years, we’ve built a strong portfolio of niche brands from around the world and developed trusted relationships with major retailers.

THE STORY SO FAR…

1985

Founded by Pat and Gareth

Pat and Gareth launched Develop 10, a revolutionary nailcare line, into UK salons. Created in New York by the talented Terri Cutrone, it promised and delivered long, strong, beautiful nails in a matter of weeks.

1990

Started supplying Boots

A landmark moment: Develop 10 landed in Boots The Chemist, marking Grafton’s very first partnership with a High Street retailer.

1995

Launched ORLY

Grafton’s brought ORLY’s iconic manicure and pedicure collection to the UK – the original creator of the French manicure.

1996

Started supplying Superdrug, Tesco & Sainsburys

Started supplying Superdrug, Sainsbury’s and Tesco. Partnerships we’re still proud to hold to this day.

1998

Launched Carmex

Carmex had been a backstage secret for long enough. Make-up artists had been quietly smuggling tubes home from New York Fashion Week for years – we decided it was time this product was brought to the UK.

2003

Moved to Tamworth premises

We found our home. Our new premises in Tamworth were so spacious we sublet half while we grew into them. Today they house bright, modern offices, interactive meeting rooms, excellent training facilities, and our warehouse – all under one roof.

2007

Gareth retired, Jon made Managing Director

Jonathan was appointed Managing Director, marking a new chapter of leadership for Grafton International.

2012

Carmex cabs

We painted London yellow. Hundreds of iconic black cabs hit the streets in bold Carmex yellow, paired with an exclusive collaboration with Selfridges.

2017

Launched Skin Republic

We introduced Skin Republic to the UK – the first South Korean sheet masks to reach national retailers, and still, by some distance, the finest quality on the market.

2021

Bought The Edge Nails

We acquired The Edge Nailcare. One of Britain’s original nail brands, we reimagined it for the modern nail technician – honouring its heritage while making it truly contemporary.

MEET THE LEADERSHIP TEAM

Our experienced team brings together expertise across retail, distribution and brand development. We understand what buyers need, how consumers shop and how to position brands to succeed in competitive categories.

Jon Hardwick

Managing Director

John Pulley

Sales Director

Marie Lockwood

Operations Director

Thea Lacey

Marketing Director