A CONSTRUCTION tool and equipment hire firm is opening its first ever superstore in North Staffordshire, creating 20 jobs.

The 20,000 sq ft Speedy facility at Centre 500, Wolstanton, will provide small tools, lifting and survey equipment and fencing.

It will also offer customers testing, inspection and repair services for lifting equipment.

The facility is Speedy's first 'superstore', of which it plans to open more than 30 around the UK by 2012.

It is designed to complement the firm's traditional depot network, but will stock a wider range of equipment.

Speedy, which was founded in 1977 and is based on Merseyside, already has smaller bases in Hanley, Burslem, Fenton and Crewe. Across the UK it has a network of 350 depots as well as an 80,000 sq ft multi-service centre in Warrington. It employs about 4,000 people in total.

Craig Smith, general manager at the new Speedy Superstore, said: "Thanks to its central location and strong transport links, the superstore will enable us to address a much wider region, ensuring we can service both existing and new customers faster.

"With a fleet of new equipment and further investment planned over the next 12 months, we are well placed to help support major construction projects and industrial customers across the region."

The store opens on Monday and will hold an event from 11am to 3.30pm.