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Preston duo kept busy in lockdown by launching four new brands

Posted on - 11th September, 2020 - 7:00am | Author - | Posted in - Business, Fulwood, Ingol, People, Preston City Centre, Preston News
Business partners Lewis Birch and Dave O'Keefe
Business partners Lewis Birch and Dave O’Keefe

Lockdown has seen a Preston duo put their spare time to good use by launching four new interiors brands.

Ingol resident, Dave O’Keefe, teamed up with business partner Lewis Birch, from Fulwood, to successfully launch the new brands over the past few months.

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Former digital director Dave had been discussing a partnership with bathroom specialist Lewis for some time – but being furloughed gave him the time to put plans into action.

The result is four online brands designed to bring a fresh approach and a sharp focus on customer service to the interiors industry.

The duo have launched four brands under the LUXUS umbrella during lockdown
The duo have launched four brands under the LUXUS Design umbrella during lockdown

Dave said: “I’ve known Lewis for 12 years – first as a client, then as friends who had the idea of forming a partnership together.

“Lockdown gave us the impetus to devote our energy into launching these brands and also forced me to assess my quality of life. For me, that meant cutting down my commute and doing something for myself. 

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“It has taken time, as we needed the right brands, the right accounts and the right products. There’s nothing worse than rushing an online business and letting people down.”

It’s this focus on customer service that has earned the duo a 4.8/5 Trustpilot average, with 89% of their 300-plus reviews earning five stars.

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Speaking about the importance of customer experience, Dave said: “Customers are naturally confused or worried about a big purchase like a radiator or bath. It’s not a £5 purchase; it can cost thousands when you’re doing a whole house, so it’s vital to look after customers who are spending that much with us, regardless of our margin.

“It’s not an easy industry to please, but we do everything we can to keep customers happy and offer the best service at the best price.

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“We’ve got the right team and support behind us and we aim to be a breath of fresh air in this industry.” 

Dave and Lewis have a showroom in Preston, which is now open to the public and showcases their extensive range of radiators, blinds and shutters and bedrooms. 

Dave said: “We’re excited to be welcoming customers to our showroom. Lewis has lived in Preston all his life, and I’ve been here 20 years, so it’s 100% the right place for us to grow our businesses together.”

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Have you started a new venture during lockdown? Tell us more in the comments below.

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