Me too- I can't be bothered traipsing too far from work either!
Just checked your local stores :- Alan Howard have a store in Chester , I use them and always have no problem with after sales service.
Salon Services have a store in Chester too, they have other brands which Alan Howard don't so I have 2 trade accounts.
You just need to prove qualifications and insurance to register for a trade account.
Sometimes home delivery of the larger salon equipment is needed, but I have found my local stores are really helpful.