Quality is the key for family firm

Quality furniture at affordable prices,” that’s what Barry and Christine Jones, owners of Sunderland Furniture Centre, promise to deliver to their customers. “When Christine and I source our stock, we only buy furniture that we would have in our own home – and I mean the quality of it, not whether it’s modern or classic, as our tastes will vary to other people’s. The husband and wife team, who set up the business over 26 years ago, offer everything from sofas and beds to dining room furniture and orthopaedic chairs. “It has to be of the very best quality for us, that’s the only way we’ll stock it. Value is also crucial.” He added: “It has to be the right price, which I believe all of our products are. You have to be competive these days. Barry and Christine, who worked in a shoe shop for 18 years, have built up a sound reputation with customers over the years. “We always get repeat business,” said Barry. “And a lot of our customers come here after being recommended to us. “We try to cater for everyone’s budget,” said Barry, who started offi n the furniture trade when he was just 15, working at Binns. The couple, who have a wealth of knowledge in their eld, try to provide customers with “something a bit different”. Barry added: “Yes, we’ve got plenty of sofas and bedroom furniture, but we also sell occasional furniture such as lamps, mirrors and coffee tables. That’s great for us, it means we know we’re doing something right.” Barry and Christine, who the both from Fulwell, run the store with the help of sales manager Kevin Urwin. “All three of us are very handson,” said Barry. “There are no pressure sales from us either, customers can come in and browse the store at their own leisure.” “We also stock orthopaedic chairs and lift rise reclining chairs for those who are less able. “We need to be a bit different in the current market, so that’s why we started selling them”. Barry and Christine believe that their success is not just down to the variety of products. What they say is key is the quality. Barry said: “We offer exclusive furniture, something you will not nd anywhere else, but what also makes them stand out from the crowd is the quality. As well as “furniture to suit all tastes and budgets”, the trio offers an extra leather warranty on all leather goods and stain guard protection. Sunderland Furniture Store is located in Station Road, Fulwell, Sunderland. Contact the business on 0191 549 8885.