Vale Bridgecraft, the heritage Yorkshire upholstery manufacturer, is entering a new phase of growth following its acquisition by Hampton Furniture Group, marked by a senior leadership appointment and the launch of a new product collection aimed at the independent retail market.
Under new ownership, the business has been focused on strengthening its foundations, investing in British manufacturing, and carefully evolving the Vale Bridgecraft brand to ensure it remains relevant while staying true to its roots.
As part of this next chapter, Vale Bridgecraft has appointed Nichola Bell as Commercial Director. Bell brings more than 20 years of experience in the furniture industry, having worked extensively across mid-market and white-label upholstery, with a strong understanding of how independent retailers operate.
Her appointment underlines Vale Bridgecraft’s ongoing commitment to its independent retail partners, while staying true to the craftsmanship and values that define the brand.
Design Consultant Simon Stack explained that the approach to the new collection has been one of considered evolution rather than reinvention.
“When working with a brand that has this depth of heritage, it is important to respect what already exists. The collection builds on Vale Bridgecraft’s classic forms, with refinements to proportion and comfort, alongside the introduction of more luxurious fabrics and finishes that better suit contemporary interiors.”
Commenting on her decision to join the business, Bell said the opportunity to help shape a heritage manufacturer for today’s market was a key attraction.
“After many years working with mid-market and white-label products, the chance to focus on a premium heritage brand was incredibly appealing. There is a real sense of pride and skill in the Yorkshire factory, where each piece is still made by a single craftsman. Combined with a forward-thinking management team, it feels like a business with renewed confidence and purpose.”
Vale Bridgecraft will present the results of this renewed focus at INDX Furniture, where it will launch its new collection under the Bridgecraft Gallery concept.
Developed specifically for independent retailers, Bridgecraft Gallery is designed to offer a seemingly endless range of configuration options, while remaining firmly anchored in distinct, style-led themes that reflect the brand’s heritage. The collection is structured around defined families including Elegance, Vintage and Boutique, allowing retailers to curate ranges that suit their own showroom environments while giving customers a clear and flexible route to bespoke upholstery.
All pieces are manufactured in Vale Bridgecraft’s Yorkshire workshops, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern comfort, proportion and finish, with each sofa made by a single craftsman.
The January launch represents the first major product statement from Vale Bridgecraft in this new phase and underlines the brand’s commitment to supporting independent retailers with a refined, flexible and distinctly British upholstery offering.
