Homebase Hammers Its Last Nail: DIY Chain Collapses into Administration

Garden-Review News Desk

London, England, November 14, 2024 – The iconic DIY retailer Homebase has fallen into administration, putting thousands of jobs and the future of 49 stores in jeopardy. This news comes despite a partial rescue deal by CDS Superstores, the owner of The Range, which has acquired 70 Homebase stores and the brand’s online presence.

The collapse follows a challenging period for the home improvement sector, with Homebase struggling against fierce competition from online giants and rivals like B&Q and Wickes. CEO Damian McGloughlin cited a “decline in consumer confidence and spending following the pandemic,” along with “persistent high inflation, global supply chain issues and unseasonable weather” as contributing factors to the company’s demise.

Administrators from Teneo have been appointed and are actively seeking a buyer for the remaining 49 stores. While these stores will continue to trade for now, with no immediate redundancies, the future remains uncertain for the approximately 2,000 employees affected.

CDS Superstores, owned by entrepreneur Chris Dawson, plans to rebrand the 70 acquired Homebase stores as The Range outlets. This move will safeguard around 1,600 jobs. The Homebase brand will survive online, offering a glimmer of hope for the future.

This isn’t the first time Homebase has faced turmoil. After a disastrous ownership period under Australian conglomerate Wesfarmers in 2016, Homebase was sold to Hilco Capital for a mere £1 in 2018. Despite cost-cutting measures, the company continued to struggle, reporting an £84.2m loss last year.

Industry experts point to a combination of factors contributing to Homebase’s downfall, including the rise of online shopping, increased competition, and the cost of living crisis impacting consumer spending.

Teneo administrator Gavin Maher has urged any interested parties to come forward and explore purchasing the remaining stores. Meanwhile, Homebase employees and customers face an anxious wait for news about the future of the beleaguered DIY chain.

Garden-Review will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as they become available.