A STREET furniture manufacturer based in Blackburn is kitting out Tesco stores across the UK with its products.

Woodscape is working with Tesco as part of its ‘Build a Better Tesco’ initiative.

In a bid to ‘humanise’ stores, and make them more welcoming for shoppers, the supermarket chain has introduced more wooden furniture and fixtures, including an exclusively- designed range of seating, planters, litter bins, and trolley shelters designed by Woodscape, based on Shadsworth Business Park.

The firm, which employs around 55 people, was chosen as a strategic partner to supply Tesco stores across the UK because of its extensive and in-depth knowledge regarding the use of timber.

Woodscape managing director Richard Nelson said: “We’re incredibly proud to be a strategic partner to Tesco, and appreciate the recognition from such a hugely- influential buying group about the quality of our timber furniture products, and the expertise of our teams.”

Woodscape has advised Tesco on the benefits of using timber, not just externally, but for internal fixtures and cladding as well. Benefits include ambience, minimal maintenance, and a wide variety of styles, textures and finishes, as well as the ability to procure sustainable timber from well-managed forests.

The enviromental advantages of using timber are multiple, and contribute to a much lower carbon footprint.

A Tesco spokesman said: “The exceptional service, product quality and behind-the-scenes support to deliver first time can only be described as market leading. Woodscape’s products are standout in terms of design and true, quality craftsmanship, and they have a thorough understanding of retail and the speed of change.”

An extensive training programme has also been provided by Woodscape for Tesco installation engineers. Tesco has updated 300 stores so far with more to follow.