An Accrington-based bed manufacturer has announced it has opened 15 new stores in just three weeks following a takeover deal.

Bensons for Beds opened the stores as its Carpetright takeover gets underway.

The new stores have allowed the retailer to employ 50 new staff and save a further 20 jobs, following the carpet company going into administration over the summer.

It means the firm, based at The Globe Centre in Accrington, now has more than 170 stores across the country.

Nick Collard, chief executive of Bensons, said: “The scale of openings we have managed to take on in the last few weeks is unprecedented by us as a business, and is a huge feat for any retail business, particularly in the current economic climate.

“While market conditions have remained challenging, Bensons will be well placed to capitalise on a recovery in the market.”

The firm's growth has come from new product launches and investments into the company's digital capabilities.

Mr Collard added: “This is all due to the continuing transformation of the business to become the leading bed specialist, offering expert advice and fantastic value for money, all going towards helping our customers get a great night's sleep.

“Since our return to profitability in 2023, we have continued to see significant market share gains across all our core categories, reflecting the hard work from all our colleagues across the organisation.  

“These store openings are a testament to not only their hard work but our confidence to continue investing in the business and our ambitious growth plan.”

The openings include a return to Northern Ireland after four years away with a new store in Belfast, along with stores as far apart as Aberdeen and Exeter.