A TEESSIDE video games retailer has opened its 21st outlet and is now one of the UK's leading specialists in its field.

Chips, based in Middlesbrough, said its forward-thinking approach and investment in its people and systems helped put it ahead of the competition.

The business buys, sells and trades new and second-hand video games consoles, games and accessories.

It opened its 21st store - 14 of which are franchised - in Newington, Edinburgh.

The company is to continue on an expansion plan for its retail business, franchise operations and its e-commerce site.

Chips was formed in 1985 by video games specialists Nik Agar and Don McCabe. As well as the franchise operations, Chips has six company-owned stores including its flagship store in Middlesbrough and outlets in Stockton, Darlington, Redcar, Northallerton and Sunderland, as well as its e-commerce site.

In 1999, Chips expanded with support from Business Link's Growth Mentor Programme, which offers funding for one-to-one help, enabling the company to improve its retail services nationwide.

Don McCabe, joint managing director, said: "It is our intention to take Chips on to a national and international playing field.

"While our roots will remain firmly in the North-East, there is no reason why there cannot be a Chips video games store in every town in the UK."