This time, the bad news come from home improvement retailer B&Q. On 20th March 2019, it emerged that this DIY chain store would be reducing the number of shops it currently has in the UK. B&Q representatives confirmed that a total of 15 shops will be closing over a period of 2 years.
It appears that the decision to close some of B&Q’s locations is connected to the company’s poor financial results. After reviewing its figures in January 2019, B&Q’s parent company Kingfisher reported a significant decline in pre-tax profits, which dropped by more than 50 per cent over the past year, as well as a 3 per cent drop in sales.
B&Q is also experiencing some internal turmoil following the anticipated resignation of its current CEO, Veronique Laury. Recently, the multinational retailer confirmed that it is actively looking for a new CEO, although it did not offer any names as to who will be Laury's successor.
Also in March, Kingfisher announced the closure of other retail outlets not only in the UK, but also in France, Romania, and Germany. But although some B&Q stores will be closing across Britain, Kingfisher plans to increase the UK presence of tools and hardware retailer Screwfix, which is the group’s best-performing company. Previous plans to establish 700 Screwfix outlets in the UK have been modified to reach 800 stores.
News in the same category
When Tom Morris founded Home Bargains in 1976, he created one of the most lucrative businesses on the high street. Enjoying an envied 6th place in the 'Which?' Top 100 Stores list, the company employs 17,000 plus and sells 4,000 branded product ranges.
The struggles faced by Marks and Spencer in the competitive UK retail market have been well documented and their most recent economic results have added to their woes.
Launched a couple of weeks ago, Poundland's online delivery service costs £4, but is free of charge from £50 of purchase. Allow 3-5 days for delivery.
Following it's continued success in the UK, IKEA look set to open some new style stores after a positive response was received to a smaller store format that opened recently on London's Tottenham Court Road.
