Whitemeadow has bought the designs rights and IP of fellow upholstery producer Westbridge Furniture’s independent product catalogue.
The deal follows Westbridge’s administration and administrator Interpath being unable to find a buyer for the manufacturer.
Whitemeadow says it ‘identified strong commercial value’ in the Westbridge independent portfolio, ‘which is widely ranged across independent furniture retailers throughout the UK and Ireland. Many of these retailers already work with Whitemeadow, while others represent an opportunity to develop new relationships and provide continuity on well-established products. The addition of these ranges will complement Whitemeadow’s core offering, broadening the overall portfolio with commercially proven designs that are familiar to both retailers and consumers.’
A development programme will initially focusing on four key models, with the first reintroductions expected to reach the market in May. Further ranges are planned to be reintroduced throughout the Autumn, and beyond.
‘This is clearly a very sad situation for a well-respected British manufacturer and for the many talented people who have been affected. Westbridge has built a strong reputation over many years and were a big contributor to our industry in many ways. Our focus now is on supporting retailers who have successfully traded these ranges, building on the success we already have across the independent sector,’ says Daniel Oscroft, Whitemeadow sales and marketing director.
‘We remain totally committed to British manufacturing and to continuing to invest in product design that delivers both quality and strong commercial appeal for our customers.’
