A HOME improvement business from the North-East wants to continue its expansion after being bought by three of its employees.

Court Homemakers, in Stockton, has been sold by founders Ian and Ann Goodwillie to Paul Davies, Paul Henderson and Chris Walker, who between them have nearly 50 years service with the firm.

Since the takeover, the business – which designs, manufactures and installs kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms – has created two jobs, installed a £25,000 computer system to help better manage stock and orders, and introduced an improved method of cabinet manufacture.

The sale was completed at the end of 2008, but has been revealed now after a strong first year.

Mr Davies said the business is keen to take advantage of further expansion opportunities.

“The sale was completed at the end of 2008, but we wanted a low-key handover before announcing the transfer to allow us to get our feet under the table,” he said.

“Ann approached us about a year before the deal finally went through and, given our knowledge and the good relationships we had built up with customers, it was a very attractive proposition.

“It has been a very good year. We have not been affected by the recession and we believe we took the right decision in buying the business despite the downturn in the economy.”

Mr Davies said the firm was now looking for products to add to its range. Just under half the displays in its showroom have been changed, and new signs will be erected.

“We are constantly on the lookout for innovative products and designs, so that we can offer the people of Tees Valley and wider region the opportunity to improve their homes with products at the same time as they are being launched in the showrooms of London and Europe,” he said.

Former professional golfer Mr Goodwillie and his wife sold Court Homemakers for an undisclosed sum to take early retirement.