Homeware specialist opens first retail outlet in Leeds creating new jobs

Riva Home has opened its first UK retail outlet store in Leeds’ Merrion Centre with the promise of creating five new jobs.

Established in Leeds in 1973, Riva specialises in the design and manufacture of over 5,000 homeware products including cushions, curtains, bedding and throws as well as other home accessories including door stops and table runners.

Riva Home’s head office and distribution centre are also based in Leeds, employing around 60 staff members. The company supplies homeware to the UK, Europe and other parts of the world, however this is its first venture into a bricks-and-mortar outlet.

Ed Banfield, retail director at Riva Home, said: “As we continued to expand our trade business across the globe and the demand for trend-led homeware products has increased, we recognised an opportunity to open our very first retail outlet store.

“We’re extremely excited to be launching right in the heart of Leeds at its long established shopping centre. The Merrion Centre has a high footfall and a diverse customer base, with a strong reputation for offering quality products at excellent value.”

Historically, Riva has only supplied trade outlets; amassing 10 concessions in total which includes Boundary Mill as well as independent boutiques, departments stores and both high street and online retailers.

Helen Green, associate director for Town Centre Securities (TCS), owners of the Merrion Centre, added: “We are thrilled that another long established Yorkshire company have chosen the Merrion Centre for their first ever store in the UK.

“There are over 5,000 new residential units currently in the development pipeline next to the Merrion Centre, so new stores such as Riva will really be able to capitalise on this.”

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