Wesfarmers, parent group of Bunnings and now Homebase, held a strategy day this week, with bosses outlining plans to save as many Homebase jobs, put under threat by Home Retail Group's previous plans to close 18 stores, as possible.
HRG had initially planned to close 23 stores - of these five have already been closed, resulting in the loss of around 100 jobs. Bunnings has confirmed it has definitely halted the closures of seven of the remaining 18 stores, resulting in the saving of at least 200 jobs.
While the fate of remaining 11 stores currently remains uncertain, bosses have said that every effort is being made to avoid any further closures.
The strategy meeting also revealed Bunnings' three phase investment plan for Homebase, with phase one including a "focus on retail basics," investment in the team as well as "core business activities" and the development of pilots for Bunnings Warehouses. Phase two will see the introduction of new Bunnings branded offers, with "lowest prices, wider choice with trusted brands and great service" remaining forefront. Bunnings' mantra for its UK businesses will be "everything you want under one roof."
Plans are also underway to remove all concessions from Homebase stores, with the cessation of sales of all Argos and Habitat products. The first Bunnings Warehouse pilot stores, meanwhile, are expected to open later this year.
Three members have been introduced to the Bunnings advisory board: Archie Norman, Michael Mire and Matt Tyson.