Department store Leekes has launched what it is calling a "revolutionary new concept in sofa buying" in the form of The Lounge Co. sofa gallery.

Customers at Leekes Llantrisant and Coventry can use display models - a mixture of on-trend sofas and chairs - to experience the quality and comfort of the range, and then use the in-store interactive touch screen stations to perfect their choice. There are over a hundred fabric options plus a huge choice of shapes, colours and finishes, as well as thousands of design variations for customers to consider, with mix & match opportunities.

The new contemporary brand is backed by the furniture group responsible for G Plan, Parker Knoll and Duresta. Leekes managing director Emma Leeke said: "We are always looking to expand our offering and are thrilled to introduce The Lounge Co. into our stores.

“The new galleries will provide expert consultation on product selection while the interactive touch screen stations add a fun element which allows customers to indulge their ‘inner designer’ by providing a wealth of choice and design inspiration. Ultimately however, it is all about delivering a quality product to suit a wide range of diverse requirements and tastes.”

Director of The Lounge Co. Julian Neal added: “People use the internet to research their sofa options but they understandably want to experience the product first-hand before making a significant purchase. So, we have carefully selected some of the country’s leading retail outlets to host our galleries and we’re very proud to team up with Leekes to give customers a chance to try before they buy. Each of our partner galleries feature one of every product style, allowing customers to get a true feel for the furniture and test each item for comfort.

“The stores also include large touchscreen kiosks so customers can design their own dream sofa or chair using their favourite display model as a starting point. The touchscreen’s #goconfigure function can create 18,500 different style combinations, making designing the perfect sofa both easy and enjoyable.”