A family-owned household furniture store has relocated to its first permanent premises on City Road in Cardiff.
Owners of Star Furnishings, Mateen Shirzai and his father Nazir, purchased the city centre premises earlier this year, after securing a £350,000 funding package from NatWest.
Over the past 10 years the entrepreneurial father-and-son duo has operated from several rented premises. Ownership of the new larger location, has given them a permanent base from which to run their business. It will also help to reduce overheads, which in turn will allow them to focus on growing their existing services.
Established in 2009, Star Furnishings offers a range of household furniture at affordable prices. The business specialises in providing items to the student market and works with a number of agents and landlords to fit out student accommodation in the local area.
The company’s new building is situated in the centre of Cardiff’s student neighbourhood, where its key customers are located. The site enjoys an additional 4300 sq. ft of retail and storage space and offsite parking that will improve stock deliveries.
The £200,000 a year turnover business, employs three full time members of staff and plans to recruit a further four employees before the end of the year. The Shirzai family also hopes to expand the business further over the next two years, with the creation of a furniture manufacturing division.
Co-owner Mateen, said: “Owning our own premises, has opened up so many opportunities for Star Furnishings. Previously we were wasting money on expensive rents; now we have more time, money and energy to focus on the future of the business. The funding from NatWest, means we have been able to re-establish a permanent base in the community, employ new staff and meet demand for our quality, affordable furniture.”
Matthew Maunder, relationship manager at NatWest, said: “Mateen and Nazir are passionate about their business and work hard to make sure Star Furnishings is established as a trusted furniture store in the community. NatWest supports growing regional businesses and with the funding we have provided, the Shirzai family will be able to realise their growth plans for their company.”