Huws Gray has opened a new 8,700 square foot branch on land in Whitchurch which had lain empty for years.

The store and showroom employs eight people and features loading bays, exclusive lines and a kitchen, flooring and bathroom display area.

Manager Gavin Martin said there was great demand for another Huws Gray outlet in the region to complement nearby sites in Wrexham and Shrewsbury.

He said: “The first few weeks here have been absolutely fantastic, the response from the general public and local builders and trades has been so positive.

“They are really impressed with the offering and the layout, and the feedback is that Whitchurch has needed a store like this for a very long time.

“There is demand and this is a big catchment area, so we look forward to welcoming people in the months ahead.”

Now employing 1,800 staff at more than 100 sites across the UK, the Llangefni-based builders’ merchants has had a successful 12 months, acquiring Ridgeons – which had 40 branches across East Anglia – and holding a GIANT trade event in Colwyn Bay which was attended by more than 1,500 people.

Martin, who began his 14-year career with Huws Gray as a counter sales assistant in Wrexham, believes the company ethos of supporting and promoting employees from within has helped to instil a culture of goodwill and hard work.

He said: “I started out working on the shop floor and am now managing this new store, which is testament to the support and training I’ve been given during my time with the business.

“I’ve worked my way up and saw this opportunity, so I’m absolutely delighted to be in this new position and look forward to many years here in Whitchurch.”

Managing Director Terry Owen added: “Gavin is a fantastic example of how Huws Gray trains and develops its employees from the very beginning.

“The staff are at the heart of everything we do, so promoting from within is very important to the company, providing opportunities for people to grow in tandem with the business.

“We congratulate Gavin on this new role and know he and the team will continue the Huws Gray tradition of top-class customer service and going above and beyond for our customers.

“The personal touch is what sets us apart from the rest, and that will always be our priority.”