In a refreshing change from all the doom and gloom that currently dominates the news, independent retailer Leekes has announced expansion plans for 2009.
The retailer, which currently operates three department stores in Llantrisant, Melksham and Cross Hands and a home improvement centre in Tonypandy, has signed a deal with Wyevale garden centres to open conservatory, glazing and kitchen concessions at three centres in Bristol, Somerset and Swindon. All will be open by Easter.

The move follows the success of the firm's first concession at Henry Street Garden Centre in Reading, which opened in June 2007.

Leekes secured a £37m funding agreement with Barclays last autumn, to support its retail growth, including new additional sites for its department stores and its leisure business, which includes a hotel, golf and spa resort.

Commercial director Emma Leeke said, "we are delighted to announce our plans for expansion. This is an exciting time for the business, allowing us to grow our catchment area further into the southwest to meet increasing demand. We believe that the trend for people improving their homes instead of moving house will continue into 2009."