Member Article

North East furniture manufacturer celebrates 70 years in business

North East manufacturer Godfrey Syrett is celebrating 70 years in business with the opening of its newly-refurbished showroom.

The Killingworth-headquartered furniture firm, which also boasts a further two sites in Durham, was founded by local businessmen Ken Godfrey & Harry Syrett in 1947.

Launched in a former print works factory, the business occupies the same manufacturing space today although the original 10,000sqft space has expanded into a modern, 64,000sqft facility complete with neighbouring head office and showroom.

Now a £27m turnover business, employing over 230 staff, the firm delivers furniture throughout the UK and was ppaid a visit from Norma Redfearn, Mayoress of North Tyneside, to officially open its new showroom.

Mayoress Redfearn said: “I am delighted to open Godfrey Syrett’s refurbished showroom to mark its 70th year in business.

“It’s great to see such a successful and thriving firm growing in North Tyneside, and making a fantastic contribution to our local economy.”

The business designs and makes the majority of its furniture in the North East, selling 120,000 seating products on average per year.

David Hall, group sales & marketing director said: “Reaching 70 is a huge accomplishment for Godfrey Syrett and one we are very proud of.

“We recognise that this milestone is in many respects due to our dedicated and hardworking staff, as well as the relationships we have built and maintained with our clients over the years.

“It’s also testament to our continued investment in the company – we’re always looking to the future and aligning ourselves with industry trends and developments.

We look forward to many more years in business and achieving our next growth target of reaching a £40m turnover by 2020.“