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KlusWijs

Retailer / private label

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Dutch hardware store chain offering DIY products, services and home improvement solutions through its KlusWijs Bouwmarkt, KlusWijs Compact and KW Wonen formats.

Last updated September 28, 2026

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Overview

KlusWijs is a Dutch hardware store chain (bouwmarktketen) headquartered in Apeldoorn. It was founded in 2010 when a group of franchisees from the former Doeland formula, led by Hans Hortensius, decided to start their own retail concept rather than switch to sister chains Hubo or Multimate. The new formula, initially called Kluswijs Bouwmarkten, began with 11 planned locations. Over the following years KlusWijs expanded through acquisitions, taking over eight stores from the Fixet chain after it ceased operations, and later absorbing a number of Formido franchise locations that did not agree to transfer to Praxis or HUBO. The company operates three store formats: KlusWijs Bouwmarkt, full-range DIY stores; KlusWijs Compact Bouwmarkten, smaller stores with a reduced assortment, the first of which opened in Amersfoort in 2014; and KW Wonen, a home-living concept covering window decoration, flooring, paint and wallpaper, furniture and home accessories. According to its website, KlusWijs has 24 stores in the Netherlands, while Dutch Wikipedia reported 38 stores as of 2020. KlusWijs positions itself as a knowledgeable, trusted and affordable local DIY specialist. Its stores employ experienced specialists who provide advice, and many locations offer a klussendienst (handyman service) that can handle tasks such as installing wall units, hanging exterior doors or measuring window decoration. Additional services include delivery, measuring, custom-made products, tool rental and installation. The chain also offers the KlusPas loyalty program and an online shop with home delivery. The brand is part of the KW groep, which also encompasses the KW Wonen formula. KlusWijs is a private company and is not listed on a stock exchange. Its product range spans tools, garden equipment, hardware, paint, building materials, window decoration, flooring and home improvement supplies, with both well-known supplier brands and private-label or curated assortments.

History

KlusWijs originated in 2010 when DGN Retail decided to discontinue its Doeland formula. The intention was for the 58 affiliated entrepreneurs to transfer to sister chains Hubo or Multimate. A portion of the franchisees did not want to make that move and, under the leadership of Hans Hortensius, started their own new formula called Kluswijs Bouwmarkten, which was to comprise 11 locations. This marked the beginning of the KlusWijs chain as an independent Dutch hardware store brand. A few years later, the Fixet chain ended its activities, and KlusWijs took over eight of its stores. Shortly afterwards, KlusWijs acquired a number of Formido franchise locations whose operators did not agree to a transition to the sister chains Praxis or HUBO. These acquisitions helped KlusWijs expand its store network and strengthen its position in the Dutch DIY retail market. In 2014, the first KlusWijs Compact store opened in Amersfoort. This smaller format was designed to serve local markets with a more limited assortment. By 2020, Dutch Wikipedia reported that the chain had 38 stores. The company's own website later stated that there were 24 KlusWijs stores in the Netherlands, indicating changes in the store portfolio over time. KlusWijs operates under the KW groep, which also includes the KW Wonen home-living concept. The chain has developed a service-oriented profile, offering not only products but also handyman services, delivery, measuring, custom-made solutions, tool rental and installation. Its loyalty program, the KlusPas, and its online shop complement the physical stores. The brand continues to position itself as a local, expert and affordable DIY partner for consumers in the Netherlands.

  • 2020

    Dutch Wikipedia reports the chain has 38 stores.

  • 2014

    First KlusWijs Compact store opens in Amersfoort.

  • 2010

    DGN Retail discontinues Doeland; Hans Hortensius and a group of franchisees found Kluswijs Bouwmarkten with plans for 11 locations.

  • KlusWijs takes over eight stores from the Fixet chain after it ceases activities.

  • KlusWijs acquires a number of Formido franchise locations that did not transition to Praxis or HUBO.

Products and positioning

Vakkundig, vertrouwd, voordelig (Expert, trusted, affordable) — a local DIY specialist with experienced staff and a broad service offering.

  • Einhell electric grass trimmer GC-ET4530

  • Einhell electric lawn mower GC-EM 32

  • Altrex telescopic ladder

  • Double decker household step ladder 8 steps

  • Campos fly curtain anthracite 90x210cm

  • Stanley snap-off knife 9 and 18mm duopack

  • Bison poly max kit 280 ml

  • Zwaluw acrylic sealant white 310 ml

  • Automatic hose reel 20m

  • Eurom Q-time 2001 patio heater

  • Insect killer Fly Away Plug-in LED

Sources6 sources

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