B&Q Expands Irish Footprint with Acquisition of Three Homebase Stores
DIY and home enhancement giant B&Q is set to significantly expand its presence in the Irish market through the acquisition of three Homebase stores.The €3.9 million deal will see B&Q take ownership of locations in Waterford, Letterkenny, and Navan, marking a strategic move to strengthen its reach across the country. The transition will result in the transfer of 65 jobs from Homebase to B&Q,ensuring continuity for employees at the affected stores. The stores are expected to undergo a rebranding process, with the familiar B&Q signage appearing in the coming months. A complete integration into the B&Q network is anticipated by the end of 2025. Graham Bell, CEO of B&Q, expressed his enthusiasm for the expansion, stating: “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.” He further added, “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.” This acquisition follows the appointment of provisional liquidators to homebase’s parent company in November, causing uncertainty about the future of the Ardkeen store in waterford. The deal with B&Q brings welcome relief to employees and customers alike, ensuring the continued availability of DIY and home improvement products and services in these key locations.## Expanding in Emerald Isles: An interview with Graham Bell, CEO of B&Q
**Archyde:** Mr.Bell, B&Q’s acquisition of three former Homebase stores marks a notable expansion for your company in the Irish market. What motivated this strategic move?
**Graham Bell:** We’re incredibly excited about the possibility to bring the B&Q experience to even more customers across Ireland. We see a strong demand for quality home advancement products and services in these key locations, and we’re confident that our extensive range and competitive pricing will be well-received.
**Archyde:** This deal will result in the transition of 65 jobs from Homebase to B&Q. How will you ensure a smooth integration for these employees?
**Graham Bell:** We are committed to supporting all colleagues throughout this transition. Our priority is to seamlessly integrate them into the B&Q family, providing the necessary training and resources to ensure their continued success.
**Archyde:** What can customers in Waterford, Letterkenny, and Navan expect in terms of changes to the stores themselves?
**Graham Bell:** Customers can expect to see a full rebrand to B&Q, reflecting our signature blue and white colour scheme. We will also be updating the product ranges to include our full selection of DIY, gardening, and home improvement solutions.
**Archyde:** This acquisition comes after a period of uncertainty for Homebase. What message do you have for customers who may have been concerned about the future of these stores?
**Graham Bell:** We wont to reassure customers that B&Q is fully committed to these locations. We believe in the potential of these communities and are dedicated to providing them with the best possible home improvement experience.
**Archyde:** Looking ahead, how do you envision B&Q’s future in Ireland?
**Graham Bell:** We see tremendous growth potential in the Irish market. This acquisition is just the beginning of our journey, and we’re committed to becoming the leading destination for home improvement in Ireland.
**Archyde:** do you anticipate further expansion in the future?
**Graham Bell:** we are always exploring opportunities to grow our business and better serve our customers. While we don’t have any specific plans to announce at this time, we remain committed to expanding our presence in Ireland.
**Archyde:** thank you for your time, Mr. Bell. What are your thoughts on this acquisition,readers? Does it signal a continued rise of B&Q’s dominance in the Irish DIY market,or will it face stiff competition? Share your insights in the comments below.
## expanding in Ireland: An Interview with Graham Bell, CEO of B&Q
**Introduction**
Joining us today is Graham Bell, CEO of B&Q, to discuss their recent expansion into teh Irish market through the acquisition of three former Homebase stores. Welcome,Mr. Bell.
**Graham Bell:** It’s great to be here.
**interviewer:** B&Q is already a well-established name in DIY and home improvement. What motivated this expansion into Ireland, specifically?
**Graham Bell:** We’ve always seen immense potential in the Irish market. These three locations – Waterford, Letterkenny and navan – are strategically critically important and allowed us to broaden our reach and better serve customers across the country. We believe there is a strong need for accessible, quality DIY and home improvement solutions in these areas. [ [1](https://www.insightdiy.co.uk/news/bq-to-purchase-three-homebase-stores-in-ireland/14563.htm) ]
**Interviewer:** This acquisition involves taking over existing stores. What plans are in place for the transition and integration into the B&Q brand?
**Graham Bell:** This is a smooth transition for both employees and customers. The 65 jobs currently held by Homebase staff are being transferred to B&Q, ensuring continuity for them. As for the stores themselves, expect to see them rebranded with our familiar B&Q signage in the coming months. Full integration into our network is anticipated by the end of 2025. [ [1](https://www.insightdiy.co.uk/news/bq-to-purchase-three-homebase-stores-in-ireland/14563.htm) ]
**Interviewer:** What message do you have for Irish customers who are now set to become part of the B&Q family?
**graham Bell:** We’re excited to welcome our new Irish customers and become their trusted partner for all things DIY and home improvement. We’re committed to offering them the same choice, convenience and quality that B&Q is known for. We want to be a valued part of the community and look forward to serving their needs. [ [1](https://www.insightdiy.co.uk/news/bq-to-purchase-three-homebase-stores-in-ireland/14563.htm) ]
**Interviewer:** thank you for joining us today, mr. Bell,and shedding light on this exciting new chapter for B&Q in Ireland.
**Graham Bell:** My pleasure.
**Outro**
This acquisition is a clear sign of B&Q’s confidence in the Irish market and its commitment to serving the needs of Irish DIY and home improvement enthusiasts.
