There are businesses, and then there are institutions. Dee Cee Upholstery, founded by Derek Caplen in 1978, has always been very firmly the latter — a cornerstone of Southampton's community, built on exceptional skill, quiet pride, and an unwavering commitment to doing things properly.

Derek's story is one of extraordinary achievement from the very beginning. He started his career with an apprenticeship at Millbrook Furnishing, and by the age of 22 had already become the youngest member of the Association of Master Upholsterers — a distinction that made the local papers and set the tone for everything that followed. He would go on to earn a Fellowship from the association, serve as chairman of its Hampshire and Dorset branch for six years, and become one of the most respected figures in his trade anywhere in the country.

Over nearly five decades, the list of achievements is remarkable. Derek and his team at Dee Cee restored antique chairs with royal connections — including one originally owned by a daughter of Queen Victoria — and created a magnificent commemorative chair from their “Dream Team range upholstered in a real Saints football shirt for Southampton FC, upholstered in the club's colours and signed by the squad. They transformed a tiny workshop in Church Street, Shirley, into a thriving two-shop operation, became the sole regional stockist for the internationally renowned La-z-boy recliner range, (we now retail award winning Celebrity Rise and recline chairs) and even created a perfectly scaled bespoke armchair for a much-loved corgi. There has never been a job too grand, too unusual, or too small.

Throughout it all, Dee Cee remained a proud family business. Karen, Derek's partner, has been there every step of the way, and the business has always reflected their shared belief that craftsmanship and personal service should never be compromised, whatever the economic climate.

Beyond the workshop, Derek has given generously to his community — supporting Southampton FC as a long term season ticket holder with our son Matthew named after “ Le-God “championing local small businesses, and being a loyal and enthusiastic supporter of local printed media over the years.

As they close their doors in the near future Derek and Karen on Dee Cee and step into a thoroughly well-earned retirement, the message is clear: thank you, Derek and Karen, for 48 years of excellence, dedication, and genuine community spirit.

We wish you every happiness. Enjoy every single moment.