Dunelm has created 40 new jobs at a new Leicestershire blinds and curtains factory.

The homewares chain has opened the new £2 million operation in Birstall, not far from its national headquarters in Syston.

The new site, which employs around 200 people, is bigger than the company’s old manufacturing centre next to the B&Q store in Blackbird Road, Leicester.

It is more automated to allow the team to meet growing demand while continuing to provide a good quality of service.

It can offer a choice of made-to-measure curtains, blinds and cushion covers in a choice of 3,000 fabrics, delivered within three weeks.

The new jobs allow staff to work in various areas, from cutting and measuring to sewing and quality assessment.

Sir Peter Soulsby, left, visits the new Dunelm factory with Sue Tilley from the LLEP and Chris McHugh of Dunelm

New starters get 12 weeks training and the chance to work on an apprenticeship to gain additional manufacturing qualifications.

Staff also get sharesave options, 28 days holiday and a 15 percent discount on all Dunelm products, in-store and online.

Leicester City Mayor Peter Soulsby has already visited the centre to see the training and production facilities.

He said: “From its roots on Leicester Market to this hugely impressive facility, Dunelm is a Leicester and UK success story which demonstrates that quality can be achieved at affordable prices.

“I was particularly impressed by the calibre of training they are providing to their national workforce at the centre, in both manufacturing and fitting.

Sir Peter Soulsby, centre, visits the new Dunelm factory, with Chris McHugh and staff at Dunelm

“Their focus on training employees is commendable, and with a high proportion of their staff coming from Leicester and Leicestershire this also brings benefits to the local economy.”

Catherine McCann, quality and sourcing director at Dunelm, said: “We are extremely pleased to have expanded into a world class manufacturing unit. 

“The move signifies a major investment in UK manufacturing and demonstrates our commitment to our customers.

“Our Made to Measure business is growing and the new technology we’ve introduced at the Birstall facility will enable us to meet demand while continuing to deliver a high-quality service.

“We hope that this new investment will not only benefit Dunelm and our customers but also the local community through the creation of new jobs in the Leicester area.”