I use a small independant wholesaler, they keep good stock and give reasonable prices. I use them all the time as I like to keep a good relationship with them. I also have an account with edmundsons for when I am out of town and get caught with my pants down
. Eddys seem to have a branch everywhere and most stuff is reasonably priced.
I dont like Citys and Neweys, had some poop experiences with them before I set up on myself. Gear not turning up on time, gear missing, wrong equipment, silly prices and ****e equipment etc etc etc
I also seem to find that the smaller independant wholesalers give better terms ie 2 months and 3 months credit which is great for a start up business or small business when customers never seem to pay up on time - it gives you a little breathing space.
I did use Stephenson Cook until a few weeks ago when they stiched me on some gear. Ordered 100m 35mm green/yellow on the tuesday to be delivered to site on the following tuesday along with RCBO`s and stand off brackets for tray. Sent two lads to site to get on with the job and hey presto no gear !! Called SC and was told they would phone me back, never did. Pulled lads off site. 1 week later and numerous phone calls to SC gear arrived only to missing RCBO`s and stand off brackets. Called SC told them to go **** themselves and to cancel the rest of the order. Won`t use them again poor poor service.
So my advice would be to get an account or two with some of the larger wholesalers for when you get desperate and also have an account with a smaller local wholesaler who will give you good service and terms. Use the small wholesaler most and build up a good relationship with the gaffer and the lads. It works wonders.