Regional building supplies firm Kent Blaxill has marked the official opening of a new decorating centre in Chelmsford.

It is the Colchester-based company’s 13th store, and the third to be opened this year to serve both the trade and consumer markets following other launches in Saffron Walden and Stamford.

The latest branch, on the Widford Industrial Estate, was officially opened by Neil Ogilvie, chief executive of the Painting and Decorating Association.

Kent Blaxill managing director Simon Blaxill told guests: “With our headquarters only 20 miles away in Colchester it is strange that we have not opened a branch here before, but traditionally north Essex has looked towards Suffolk.

“However that has changed and it is now important for us to be in an expanding and prosperous location such as Chelmsford.

“In fact we already have 200 customer accounts in the Chelmsford area and we will be aspiring to do a lot more business in the town and down towards Brentwood and the M25.”

Mr Ogilvie said: “It is an amazing achievement that a company formed in 1838 is still being so successful in opening new branches and creating employment.

“Our industry has changed a lot over the past 20 years with a lot of new materials. Some older tradesmen find it difficult to adapt but new stores like this, with all the new materials and advice, can help them to change.”

The four-person team at the store will be led by manager Luke Harrison, who has nine years of experience in the sector, and also includes Steve Egginton, Jane Carr and Thamid Choudhury.