A COLCHESTER tiling business has been saved... but one previous customer has decided it has lost his custom moving forward.

CTD Tiles, one of the UK’s biggest suppliers of tiles, closed down 56 stores in August after going into administration.

The firm had 86 stores nationwide and sold bathroom, kitchen, wall, floor and outdoor tiles.

More than 260 jobs were lost and some of the branches across the country were saved by rival business Topps Tiles.

Set to reopen - CTD Tiles ColchesterSet to reopen - CTD Tiles Colchester (Image: Newsquest)

However, CTD Tiles Colchester, in the Cowdray Centre in Mason Road, ceased trading.

It has now been revealed that the Colchester branch will reopen thanks to a new rescue deal thanks to Kajaria-UKP Limited.

It is a UK joint venture with New Delhi-based tile manufacturer Kajaria Ceramics which has agreed to save seven stores and take on associated stock.

Matthew Ford, 26, of Colchester, is the owner of M Ford Plumbing, a business which also provides bathroom fittings.

Former customer - Matthew FordFormer customer - Matthew Ford (Image: Newsquest)

He was due to pick up paid-for tiles from CTD Tiles Colchester for his customers but was unable to collect due to the business closing down.

Mr Ford was a frequent customer but says he will now go elsewhere.

He said: “I am a bit intrigued by the deal, obviously the company that are taking over, are a main distribution company, they import and export a lot a of products.

“They are coming into a new sector, they aren’t a tiles shop and never have been.

“I am a bit on the fence, I am probably never going to go there unless they offer fair rates and prices.

“I found a shop called Tiles DIY, I’ve moved over to them, and Desi Tiles, they are both fantastic.

“I needed 56 metres of square tiles and was on order from CTD, Desi Tiles sorted me out such a fair price for £800, it was half of what I paid at CTD.”

According to Mr Ford, after his previous interview with The Gazette, many Colchester businesses reached out to support him, so he was grateful for the support.

Mr Ford added: “Everyone tried to call me in Colchester, the article really helped me as a business, so I’m very glad.”

Castle Ward Councillor Mark Goacher said: “This is excellent news.

“Obviously a business like this, impacts on other smaller businesses which use it.

“The fact it has been saved is fantastic, I am sure it will be welcome by the businesses that use it.”