New look for Newark furniture firm

26 January 2016

Nottinghamshire furniture retailer Holdens has upgraded its premises and opened a new 7,000 sq ft flagship store with funding support from Yorkshire Bank.

The 80 year-old family business’ new town centre location will act as its main showroom. The company has also renovated its former Castle Gate premises which will offer Holdens’ own-brand bespoke bedroom, dining and kitchen furniture.

Several new jobs have been created in both retail units and workshop by the expansion.

Yorkshire Bank supported the move with a six-figure funding package facilitated by Michael Pickles, Commercial Relationship Manager at Yorkshire Bank’s Business and Private Banking Centre in Lincoln.

Holdens undertook a full fit-out of the new unit installing wiring, plumbing, creating a staff recreation area and mezzanine first floor.

As well as physical changes, the business is undergoing a management handover. Husband and wife Jonathan and Marion Holden are passing the running of the firm on to their daughters Emma and Katie who will become the fourth generation to head up the company.

Jonathan said: “We opened the new showroom at the end of December after months of work to get it up to the standard our customers expect from us.

“We’re very happy with how well the new unit has turned out. A lot of hard work went in to transforming the shell of a building into the finished article.

“We’re extremely proud to be showcasing our own brand of bespoke furniture and kitchens at our Castle Gate site in the stunning Georgian building. Having a dedicated showroom for our range has been a long-term goal of the business.

“The business has undergone significant change over the last twelve months, and I’m confident that it will enjoy prosperous future at the new site in the very capable hands of my daughters.

“Yorkshire Bank’s funding and support throughout the process has been invaluable.”

Katy Simpson, Head of Yorkshire Bank’s Business and Private Banking Centre in Lincoln, said: “Yorkshire Bank is proud to support businesses targeting growth. Holdens is a great example of a family firm looking to expand.

“The firm is a local institution and we look forward to continuing our support for the new management team.”