About Us
Our Story
When Bill Lawlor first opened his small hardware store in Huntingdale, Melbourne, in 1993, he never imagined how extensive the store’s customer base would become under his son’s leadership many years later. Bill spent 17 years providing budget hardware products to the local industrial and manufacturing area. By the mid-2000s, facing increasing competition from big-box retailers, he was ready to slow down. However, in 2010, his son Mick Lawlor took over with a bold vision for the future.
“I wanted to evolve the business into a fastener and trade specialist since we had always sold a lot of screws and fasteners. In 2012, we rebranded and launched online as The Fastener Factory, setting the stage for tremendous growth,” Mick said.
The business quickly outgrew its original space, moving to a larger factory outlet in Oakleigh, VIC, in 2015. By 2019, an additional 200 square metres of mezzanine flooring was added to enhance both retail and storage space. Today, The Fastener Factory is a well-established supplier, both in-store and online, with one of the largest ranges of fasteners in Australia.
Advanced Online Space
With a background in hardware and a Bachelor of Commerce, Mick focused on web design, marketing, and product development to build an extensive online presence.
“We now have over 10,000 products online along with a world of information and resources. Our in-house web team has helped establish us as one of Australia’s highest-ranked fastener shops,” Mick said.
Despite early challenges, The Fastener Factory’s e-commerce store quickly gained traction, capitalising on unique product offerings that were not widely available online. Over time, the business grew exponentially, now handling a high volume of orders daily.
Maintaining an online presence is an ongoing commitment. “I spend around 20 hours a week on the website, and I have two additional staff members who also dedicate time to it. Regular updates, new products, and continuous improvements are key to staying ahead,” Mick added.
Our Commitment
The Fastener Factory takes pride in providing top-quality fasteners and trade supplies, ensuring that customers have access to everything they need—whether they are tradies, DIYers, or large-scale builders.
- Quality Products – Sourced from reputable manufacturers for strength and durability.
- Competitive Pricing – Affordable solutions without compromising on quality.
- Fast Delivery – Shipping nationwide with multiple courier options.
- Expert Advice – A knowledgeable team ready to assist with product selection and project needs.
Expanding & Innovating
The company continues to evolve, with new product ranges such as the Wired Garden stainless-steel fittings for landscaping projects. The retail space includes six aisles of stocked products, a mezzanine pick-and-pack area, and a second factory for inventory.
As a member of HBT (Hardware & Building Traders) since 2011, The Fastener Factory has benefited from supplier relationships and competitive pricing, further strengthening its market position.
Looking ahead, the business plans to expand with a larger distribution centre while maintaining the Oakleigh location. “We are committed to growing our reach while ensuring that our customers continue to receive the best service and products,” Mick said.
Visit Us Today
The Fastener Factory is more than just a store—it’s a trusted partner for all your fastening needs. Whether you visit our physical store in Oakleigh or shop online, you can count on quality, expertise, and exceptional service every time.