The Alstons ‘brand’ actually dates back to 1930, when Percy Alston, great grandfather of David Alston, opened a furniture retail store with attached workshops in Sudbury, Suffolk. David Alston is the current Managing Director at Alstons Upholstery Ltd.

In 1949 the upholstery side received a major boost with an Ministry of Defence contract to refurbish chairs for air bases. It was in 1950 when Leslie Alston decided to diversify his own cabinet making business into the upholstery field. New premises were obtained in Colchester, Essex and production of fireside chairs and three piece suites began in September of that year. The firm was incorporated as a limited company in 1951.

The upholstery side of Alstons Furniture went from strength to strength during the 60’s & 70’s moving and acquiring new and additional premises. In 1962 the company took a 100 year lease on the 3.8 acre site at Gosbecks Road, Colchester on which the modern factory and offices are located. At one point during this period the company operated four factories and even produced kitchen cabinets. A change in fortune followed in the early eighties brought about by economic recession and a decision was made to consolidate upholstery production at the Gosbecks Road factory. A very sound decision as the company know has one of the most modern factories in the UK.

David Alston, who joined the company in 1978 took over the reins from his father Alan in 1995. It was his foresight in the mid 80’s which has made Alstons one of the leading sofabed manufactures in the UK.

Every element is backed by effective lead times and Alstons’ own 40 strong transport fleet delivers countrywide from, literally,John O’Groats to Lands End – and across the Irish Sea to Kerry. Maintaining its own fleet ensures everything is delivered, reliably, safely and securely.