Joseph Shenton and James Pullen, the founders of Joseph James Furniture Outlet, embarked on their entrepreneurial journey in 2019 after completing their schooling. Initially, their business served as a means to generate income during a gap year, but it quickly blossomed into a thriving venture. The demand for discounted branded furniture skyrocketed, particularly during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the duo decided to put their university plans on hold to fully dedicate themselves to establishing and expanding their business.
Operating from Safestore Mill on Wellington Road North initially, it became evident after six months that they required more space. Thus, they relocated their operations to Compstall Mill in Romiley during the summer of 2020. Subsequently, they made successive moves to Altrincham and then to spacious premises in Streford. The success enjoyed at their Streford location motivated Joseph and James to seek a second retail outlet, and they deemed Stockport as the perfect fit.
Joseph Shenton and James Pullen expressed their excitement about the opportunity to open a second outlet at the former Debenhams building in Stockport. The vast 90,000 sqft space and the prime retail frontage on the bustling A6, coupled with the anticipated footfall from Merseyway Shopping Centre, made it an opportunity too good to pass up. They acknowledged Stockport Council’s efforts to attract visitors to the town centre, with the new Interchange, Redrock, and the Underbanks contributing to their commitment to Stockport. The duo aims to provide customers with an exceptional experience, constantly showcasing new stock to entice them away from online browsing. Furthermore, they proudly assert that their furniture outlet boasts the largest floorspace in the UK, solidifying their place as industry leaders.
Colin MacAlister, Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration and Housing at Stockport Council, celebrated the decision of Joseph and James to establish their business in Stockport. He emphasized that all three of the town’s former department stores, including the former Debenhams building, will soon be back in use, marking a significant achievement given the substantial size of these units. MacAlister also highlighted the benefits that the new Transport Interchange, ongoing improvements to Merseyway, and the future influx of residents from thousands of new homes will bring to the town centre. He expressed his satisfaction with the fact that the former Debenhams building is once again occupied, as it bodes well for the town centre’s prosperity.
The opening of the new store will result in an expansion of the current workforce from 15 to 23-25 individuals. Customers can expect an extensive range of furniture, including over 350 sofas, armchairs, dining tables and chairs, beds, and mattresses, all offered at generous discounts ranging from 30-60%. The store’s operating hours will be from 11am to 7pm, Monday to Thursday, and from 10am to 5pm on Fridays through Sundays.
For those interested, all available stock can be viewed on the Joseph James Furniture Outlet website. Furthermore, the store can be followed on various social media platforms such as Instagram (@josephjamesfurnitureoutlet), Facebook (Joseph James Furniture Outlet), and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdiKekNho0M_xbTDJvX5v9A).
