Business: Lenleys
Location: Roper Road, Canterbury
Years of Service: 86
Kent school friends Leonard Watts and Stanley Adsett founded Lenleys but couldn’t agree on a name for their furniture shop – so it became a mixture of their two christian names!
Partner Lavinia Watts told us more….
“Lenleys first opened in February 1936 in Burgate, and eventually expanded to occupy five stores in the city. Originally my grandfather and his school friend Stan were planning to open in Maidstone as this is where they grew up, however Clarkes Furnishers opened first and so they decided on a move to Canterbury.
In 1983 the business relocated to our current site on Roper Road to bring all departments under one roof. In the same year a fire on the premises meant a complete rebuild was necessary which allowed for a purpose-built store to be built and which we are still in today.
I grew up in Canterbury and went to St Edmunds School before studying Fashion Buying at Manchester University. After graduating I worked for a high end fashion designer and later in London for a large high-street chain. I moved back to Canterbury in 2015 and joined Lenleys. I spent time working in every department to learn the business before becoming partner in 2017. There are many great aspects of having a business based in Canterbury but one of the main things is the sense of community and pride in the city“
What would Lenleys put into a Canterbury time capsule? “A little off-piste here as it’s not a product but it would be our crest. This gives a subtle nod to what we do and our heritage.”
What message would you like to send out to shoppers who’ve not visited your business yet? “Lenleys is a family-run furniture showroom in Canterbury offering a wide range of quality products from some of the world’s leading designers and craftsmen. Whatever you are looking for your home you are sure to be inspired by a visit to the store. Our expert advisors are on hand to advise you of the best options for your home. “
Lenleys
25-34 Roper Road, Canterbury CT2 7EL
01227 766655
www.lenleys.co.uk
