Bradfords is preparing to welcome customers to its new branch in Launceston, Cornwall, with the independent merchant stating that “health and safety measures are at the forefront of the store’s design.”
The Launceston branch is the 46th in Bradfords’ growing portfolio of outlets across the South West, where it has been supporting construction since it started trading on the Somerset Levels more than 250 years ago. In addition to other sites the company is planning, this latest opening follows hot on the heels of its new Torquay branch, opened in May.
Creating 18 new jobs, the Launceston branch will include a bathroom and kitchen showroom and a tool hire service, as well as access to Bradfords’ full range of products and the support and advice customers have come to expect at its other branches.
A number of safety features are being trialled at the branch including what is described as “a brand new, industry leading AI safety system” which gives Bradfords the ability to slow or stop its forklifts when a staff member or customer is in close proximity. Automatic barriers in walkways offer further protection, in addition to systems to warn both people and forklifts of the proximity of each other.
Bradfords states it is committed to supporting its customers to make environmentally responsible choices for their projects and to improve the sustainability of its operations. Accordingly, and with plans to host Bradfords’ latest sustainability centre, the Launceston store is heated using an air source heat pump, supported by a solar PV array and features a green wall, and locally sourced stone.
Branch Manager Sam Salisbury said: “We’re ready to bring a comprehensive range of products to serve local trade and DIYers – including plans for a new sustainability centre here – and are looking forward to building new relationships as we support them in their projects.
“The team we’ve put together here are truly amazing and are already a joy to be around. They’re all hungry to succeed and we can’t wait to welcome our new customers. We have a great location here on a new industrial estate, which has ambitious plans to expand in the coming years and I’m really excited to grow our team here.”
As part of Bradfords’ ongoing efforts to support grassroots sport in the region and forge links with the communities it serves, the company has signed a two-year sponsorship agreement with Launceston Rugby Club.
David Young, CEO at Bradfords Building Supplies, added: “We’re excited to have the opportunity to serve the Launceston area and are looking forward to working with the community here, from direct support for local building projects to our sponsorship of our local rugby club and through the jobs we’re creating at the store.
“We know that continuing to innovate is key to our success and our Launceston branch is a great example of this approach in action. As a company that prioritises the health and safety of our colleagues and customers, we’re keen to take this chance to trial a pioneering safety system that’s unlike anything the industry has seen before.”
