EUROPE’S number one sofa specialist is set to open a store in Basingstoke – delivering around 15 new jobs.

DFS is expected to open its 15,000 sq ft store towards the end of November at Brighton Hill Retail Park, where it will showcase all the latest furniture trends.

Tom Roffey, DFS regional manager, said: “We can’t wait to open the doors just in time for Christmas.”

Commenting on recruitment, Mr Roffey said: “It is still very early stages, but we expect there to be approximately 15 new jobs. Our recruitment ads went out last week and we’ve already had a great response.

“Eighty-five people have already applied for roles covering sales, admin, housekeeping and driving and the numbers keep rising.”

Delighted with the location of the new store, Mr Roffey said: “We are constantly looking at ways to expand our network of 102 stores in the UK and Ireland, and spotted an excellent opportunity with Basingstoke.

“We have found a great site and are looking forward to welcoming people to the new store. We are in the process of planning a fun-filled launch weekend, and hope to have some local VIPs in attendance.”

The new store will be located at the former JJB Sports site which closed in 2012.