Founded in 2005, the Gateshead, Tyne & Wear-based leather cleaning and repair business began selling specialist leather repair products direct to the public. As the company grew, it became clear that a large proportion of their customers preferred to have a professional service, rather than tackling repairs themselves.

In response, Furniture Clinic launched its first franchise in Gateshead, followed by franchises in Kent and South Wales which ran over six months as a pilot scheme.

On the back of the scheme's success Furniture Clinic began rolling out a national franchise expansion programme last September, and since then has established 11 additional franchises throughout England, bringing the total to 14.

The company’s plan, once it has achieved nationwide coverage, is to target national businesses to guarantee work for each of its franchisees.

Sales director Ben Staerck said: “Every pub, restaurant, bar, hotel, in fact anywhere with public seating areas, has leather or vinyl seating, which will need to be repaired or replaced. Furniture Clinic can fully restore these areas at a fraction of the cost of replacement.”

The company also plans to target insurance companies, furniture manufacturers and retailers, car dealerships, and many other related businesses that could benefit from Furniture Clinic services.

Information: 0191 482 6112 www.furnitureclinic.co.uk.