B&Q Expands Footprint in Ireland with Acquisition of Former Homebase Stores
B&Q Ireland is set to strengthen its presence in the Irish market with the acquisition of three former Homebase stores. Located in Navan, Letterkenny, and Waterford, these stores will be integrated into the B&Q network, bringing the total number of B&Q locations in Ireland to eleven. This move comes after the recent collapse of the Homebase group in both the UK and Ireland.
The deal,valued at £3.2 million (€3.9 million), is subject to landlord and regulatory approvals. B&Q anticipates completing the transaction in the first quarter of its parent company Kingfisher’s financial year 2025/26. Following a consultation period,the 65 employees currently working at these stores will transition to become B&Q employees.
B&Q plans a phased conversion of the acquired stores. The first store will be rebranded under the B&Q banner in the first half of next year, with the remaining two stores following suit by the end of calendar year 2025. Upon completion, the combined selling area of these stores will exceed 9,300 square meters.
Graham Bell, CEO of B&Q, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion: “We’re delighted to be adding these three stores to our fantastic store network. We’re determined to give home improvers the choice and convenience they deserve, and these locations need a home improvement store that fulfils their need.”
Bell continued, “We look forward to swiftly concluding the purchase and converting the stores to the B&Q brand and offer, and to welcoming our new customers to the stores and new colleagues to the B&Q family.”
B&Q, a subsidiary of the multinational home improvement company Kingfisher, operates over 300 stores across the UK and Ireland. Kingfisher boasts a network of 2,000 stores spread across eight European countries.
## B&Q Speaks: expansion adn Opportunity in Ireland
**Archyde sits down with Graham Bell, CEO of B&Q, to discuss the recent acquisition of former homebase stores in Ireland.**
**Archyde:** Mr. Bell, thank you for joining us today. B&Q’s acquisition of these three former Homebase stores marks a significant expansion for the brand in Ireland. What were the key drivers behind this strategic move?
**Graham Bell:** We’re delighted to be adding these three stores to our fantastic store network. [ [1] (https://www.independent.ie/business/bandq-buys-three-homebase-stores-in-ireland/a263187964.html)]We’re determined to give home improvers the choice and convenience they deserve, and these locations need a home advancement store that fulfils their need.
**Archyde:** The acquisition comes after a arduous period for Homebase, which unfortunately entered liquidation. How does B&Q plan to ensure a smooth transition for both employees and customers during this process?
**Graham Bell:** We look forward to swiftly concluding the purchase and converting the stores to the B&Q brand and offer. We are committed to welcoming our new customers to the stores and new colleagues to the B&Q family. The sale is subject to landlord and regulatory approvals , and following a consultation period, the 65 employees currently working at these stores will transition to become B&Q employees.
**Archyde:** This acquisition also represents a considerable investment for B&Q. What are your expectations for the long-term performance of these stores in the Irish market?
**Graham Bell:** We are confident in the long-term prospects of these stores. The combined selling area of these stores will exceed 9,300 square meters upon completion.
**Archyde:** Some analysts suggest that the home improvement market is becoming increasingly competitive. How does B&Q plan to differentiate itself and attract customers in this dynamic habitat?
**Graham Bell:** B&Q is a trusted brand with a strong heritage. We offer customers a wide range of products, competitive prices, and knowledgeable staff. We are continually innovating and adapting to meet the evolving needs of our customers.
**Archyde:** with B&Q now operating eleven stores across Ireland, what message do you have for Irish consumers?
**Graham Bell:** We are excited to be expanding our presence in Ireland and look forward to serving the needs of irish home improvers. We offer a wide range of products and services to help people transform their homes.
**Archyde:** Thank you for your time, Mr. Bell.
**Do you think this acquisition signifies a positive step for the Irish home improvement market,or are there potential challenges ahead? share your thoughts in the comment section below. **
## Archyde Interview: B&Q Expansion in Ireland
**Today we welcome Graham Bell, CEO of B&Q, to discuss their recent acquisition of three former Homebase stores in ireland.**
**Graham, B&Q is clearly on the move in Ireland. Can you tell us more about this latest expansion?**
**Graham Bell:** We’re incredibly excited about these three new additions to the B&Q family. Located in navan, Letterkenny, and Waterford, these stores will bring our total count in Ireland to eleven. This move demonstrates our commitment to providing Irish homeowners with the best possible choice and convenience when it comes to home improvement.
**this acquisition comes shortly after the unfortunate collapse of the Homebase chain. Was this chance something B&Q had foreseen?**
let’s be clear – it’s never welcome news to see any business struggle. The closure of Homebase was undoubtedly a difficult time for many. However, B&Q is always looking for ways to expand and better serve our customers. When these stores became available, we saw a chance to step in and ensure these communities continued to have access to a strong home improvement retailer.
**The deal is valued at £3.2 million. What factors played into this decision to invest in these existing locations?**
We believe these stores have great potential.They’re located in areas with a demonstrated need for home improvement solutions. Our plan is to quickly integrate them into the B&Q network, refreshing the spaces and offering our full range of products and services. We’re committed to making a positive impact in these communities.
**For the 65 employees currently working at these stores, what can they expect during this transition?**
We understand this change may bring uncertainty, and we want to assure these employees that they are a vital part of the B&Q team.Following a consultation period, they will all have the opportunity to transition to becoming B&Q employees. We look forward to welcoming their expertise and talent to our company.
**B&Q has a strong reputation for its dedication to its customers. How will this acquisition benefit Irish homeowners?**
We’re dedicated to offering Irish homeowners a wide selection of high-quality products at great prices,backed by our expert advice and service. These new stores will allow us to reach more customers, provide greater convenience, and continue to be a trusted resource for all their home improvement needs.
**what are your long-term goals for B&Q in Ireland?**
Our ambition is to be the go-to destination for home improvement in Ireland.
we want to continue expanding our presence, investing in our stores, and innovating to better serve our customers.We believe these new locations are a fantastic step forward and look forward to continuing to grow alongside the Irish market.
