Chain thrives in hard times

Feb 11 2009 by Peter McCusker, The Journal

BUDGET retail chain BrightHouse has unveiled ambitious plans to more than double its North East store portfolio in a recession-busting, £10m expansion drive.

New sites in towns and cities across the region have been earmarked by the private equity-backed business as it looks to open 24 stores in the next few years, creating about 170 jobs.

Managing director of the Watford company Leo McKee said with like-for-like profits up 60%, and like-for-like turnover up 12%, its business model was proving resilient in the recession.

He said: “The North East people are like the Scottish people in that they know a good deal when they see one and we have prioritised the region in our UK-wide expansion drive.”