Historic building supplies firm opens new branch in Cornwall
A building supplies firm has launched a new branch in Cornwall.
Bradfords Building Supplies, which is 250 years old, is opening its latest branch in Launceston.
The latest branch is the 46th in Bradfords’ growing portfolio of outlets across the South West.
In addition to other sites the company is planning, this latest opening follows hot on the heels of its new Torquay branch which opened in May.
Creating 18 new jobs, the branch will include a bathroom and kitchen showroom and a tool hire service.
Safety features being trialled at the new branch include a brand new, industry leading AI safety system, which gives Bradfords the ability to slow or stop its forklifts when a staff member or customer is in close proximity.
Automatic barriers in walkways offer further protection, in addition to systems to warn both people and forklifts of the proximity of each other.
The Launceston store is heated using an air source heat pump, supported by a solar PV array and features a green wall, and locally sourced stone.
“We’re ready to bring a comprehensive range of products to serve local trade and DIYers – including plans for a new sustainability centre here – and are looking forward to building new relationships as we support them in their projects,” said Sam Salisbury, branch manager at the store.
“The team we’ve put together here are truly amazing and are already a joy to be around. They’re all hungry to succeed and we can’t wait to welcome our new customers. We have a great location here on a new industrial estate, which has ambitious plans to expand in the coming years and I’m really excited to grow our team here.”
David Young, chief executive at Bradfords Building Supplies, added: “We’re excited to have the opportunity to serve the Launceston area and are looking forward to working with the community here, from direct support for local building projects to our sponsorship of our local rugby club and through the jobs we’re creating at the store.
“We know that continuing to innovate is key to our success and our Launceston branch is a great example of this approach in action. As a company that prioritises the health and safety of our colleagues and customers, we’re keen to take this chance to trial a pioneering safety system that’s unlike anything the industry has seen before.”
To celebrate the store’s opening, Bradfords is running a three-week competition with Pirate FM, with prizes including a brand new Symphony kitchen or bathroom worth £5,000, plus a power tool kit and £300 Love 2 Shop vouchers.
