A FAMILY RUN business was shortlisted as one of the top five in the best retailer category at the annual Business Excellence Awards.

This is the second year that Sussex Beds has made the ranking across Europe, which is judged by the global company ActionCOACH.

The team at Sussex Beds attended the two-day event to take inspiration and learn new business tips from eight of the world’s best commercial leaders.

Steve Pickering, MD of Sussex Beds, said: “We thoroughly enjoyed the conference again this year, it truly is the business networking event to attend.

“We have returned stimulated, encouraged and teeming with fresh ideas after the two days of coaching.

“It was a real honour to be crowned as one of the top five best retailers at the black-tie awards.

“I’m so proud of everyone’s hard work and dedication that has made this possible.”

Meanwhile, Sussex Beds has unveiled its newly extended Uckfield branch.

When the unit next door became vacant, the team decided this was the perfect opportunity to extend.

The new store – which has been in Uckfield for 21 years – now doubles the previous area and the 3,500 square foot of space will home an additional 20 beds, adjustable beds, eight bedroom ranges and sofa beds.

The extension took only four weeks from start to finish and even Sussex Beds’ own staff rolled up their sleeves and got involved.

Mr Pickering said: “We are delighted to be offering the residents and shoppers of Uckfield a wider range of products to choose from in our extended store.

“It’s a very exciting time for us and it has been hard work to complete this project in time.”