FLOORING specialist BHK (UK) Limited is a company to watch this year, according to a market analyst.

David Pattison, from financial market research firm Plimsoll Publishing undertook a study of the UK flooring market and found that Peterlee-based BHK was well placed to increase its share of the market for decorative flooring.

His research is backed up by analysis which showed that BHK's turnover has more than doubled from £8.7m in 1998 to £18.8m in 2001.

Mr Pattison said: "BHK is growing at 24 per cent, which is nine times the industry average.

"Their efficiency and response to market demands is well developed, and they have the manufacturing and marketing dynamics to succeed in a highly competitive market."

BHK employs about 750 staff in five countries.