Carpets and beds retailer United Carpets & Beds has announced the opening of its new store in Sutton.

Located in the former HSBC bank in Mere Green on Lichfield Road, the new store has undergone significant investment to transform the old building, including removing the vault door.

The store was officially opened by Sutton Coldfield MP Andrew Mitchell in a special ribbon cutting event.

Andrew Mitchell said: “I was delighted to open United Carpets in Mere Green, which has not only brought another thriving business into the area but has also helped bring a prominent site back into use.”

Since opening in mid-May, the new store has been a hit, with more than 50 orders already taken.

United Carpets director Naeem Arif, who sits on the executive committee of Sutton Chamber of Commerce, said: “This new Mere Green store has been three years in the making, and we are really excited to be up-and-running in Sutton Coldfield.

“We have already taken more than 50 orders which is a fantastic response. We have had great feedback from local people and our fellow business owners too.

“Lots of people have come in and said that they are glad the old bank is being used again, and that such a prominent site isn’t empty anymore. They’re also surprised by the transformation inside and the freshness of the showroom.

“For me, retail is a team event. It’s about all the businesses in the area working together to make Mere Green a destination where people come for specific reasons and then support the surrounding shops too.

“While people may come to us to buy carpet, they can then pop into one of the other businesses to buy a coffee, to shop around and see what’s on offer from our fellow business owners.

“So hopefully, as a team, Mere Green will continue to flourish with United Carpets adding to that.”