Investment reflects 150% increase in consumer spend

Northern Ireland plumbing and heating supplier Bassetts has acquired Ballymena-based Clady Plumbing Supplies for an undisclosed sum.

Clady Plumbing employs 11 people and its acquisition forms part of Bassetts expansion strategy, adding to the company’s 15-strong branch network.

In addition, Bassetts has invested over £500,000 in its Northern Ireland branches over the past 12 months, including a ‘showroom only’ outlet.

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The spend on the business reflects a growth in consumer budgets, with Northern Ireland homeowners reportedly spending 150% more on bathrooms than a decade ago, according to Bassetts.

Managing director of Bassetts Alan Wright commented: “Eight to ten years’ ago, our customers were spending around £1,500 on a bathroom. In 2016, the average spend is approximately £4,000 which is reflected by our growth over the last decade and extensive offering of products.”

He continued: “The acquisition of Clady Plumbing is part of our continued strategy to bring our first class customer service, innovative product line and knowledge to meet the needs of customers in all areas of Northern Ireland. This highly respected Mid-Ulster business will benefit from investment in the coming months and with a great team in place, we are confident it will experience the same growth that continues across our network of branches.”

And he added: “With the UK bathroom market predicted to grow by 1`4% by 2019 and solid plans in place for additional growth and development for Bassets through continued investment in 2016, the future is looking bright.”