James Hargreaves (Plumbers Merchants) is spending £2m adding more branches in Lancashire.

Hargreaves, which has 30 outlets, added two depots in Garstang and Wakefield earlier this year.

Bill Davies, commercial director, said: “We have experienced some strong trading months across the group and that has increased confidence in the expansion project. Some of our existing branches have announced record sales and year-on-year increases – all of it achieved in a very difficult financial climate, which is obviously very pleasing indeed.

“We have never been afraid to back our judgement and our commitment to provide the highest levels of service and stock continues to serve us well. We know where we would like to open new branches and progress is well advanced to find both the right premises and the right people.

“A new branch can cost upwards of £250,000, but we believe we can sustain this growth programme and 2013 looks like another very exciting year for the company as a whole.”