A FLOORING company is targeting national expansion and new jobs after committing to a £300,000 growth plan.

Connection Retail will open a store in York later this month to build on similar successes in Coventry, Thurrock and Bracknell.

The business, headquartered in Shildon, County Durham, serves the trade and public markets and bosses say its expansion has the potential to create more than ten jobs, which would take its workforce beyond the 100 mark.

They added each branch opening will also strengthen its Direct Wood Flooring brand, which covers vinyl tiles and wood and laminate flooring, and its sister Grass Direct operation, which focuses on artificial grass.

Dan Foskett, managing director, said: “The store launches are significant investments for the company as we look to increase our geographical presence in the UK.

“By operating a number of commercial counters in various regions, we will strengthen our links across the country while maintaining a strong online presence.

“We are hoping to launch further stores in the coming months and create more job opportunities at each branch, as well as to support our head office and transport operations.

“I am looking forward to building thriving stores across the UK.”

The business previously opened a trade counter at Portobello Trade Park, off the A1 near Birtley, and spent more than £800,000 on new transport in an effort to bolster daytime and overnight operations.