Following news of Homebase entering administration, other retailers from across the home improvement and DIY sector have reached out to offer their support to those whose jobs are currently at risk.
CDS Superstores, owner of The Range and Wilko, struck a deal to acquire up to 70 Homebase stores with the view to turn them into Range retail locations. Although the deal is estimated to have saved around 1,600 former Homebase roles, 50 stores are set to close with up to 2,000 employees facing redundancy.
However, other retail giants from across the DIY and home improvement sector have offered their condolences to affected Homebase employees, and invited them to apply to seek new employment opportunities.
In a LinkedIn post addressing Homebase employees, Vishal Thanki, talent & culture director at B&Q said: “It’s with a very sad heart to read the recent news of a company that shares a passion for our home improvement space. Of course this is a highly unsettling and anxious time for you, please know we are here to help in any way we can. We have roles for you to look at or advice to give to help with your next role from our talent acquisition team.”
Similarly, Magnet Kitchens said: “Our thoughts are with the incredible team members affected by the recent news at Homebase. Like us, Homebase is built on a shared passion for helping people create spaces they love, and this news hits close to home for everyone in our industry.
“If you’re facing uncertainty right now, whether you need support finding a new role, advice on your next steps, or just someone to talk to – we’re here for you.
“We currently have numerous opportunities available nationwide, including store manager roles. If you’re interested, please visit our careers page or feel free to connect with any of our Talent Acquisition team directly.”
Wren Kitchens has also reached out to Homebase employees affected by the closures, saying: “We’re sad to hear the news about potential store closures at Homebase. We know these are incredibly uncertain times for those directly and indirectly impacted, and we as a family business offer our best wishes and support. As an employer for many across the country, we’re joining those businesses who are showing support to Homebase team members.
“We know that people make a business, and Homebase is home to incredible talent at all levels. If you or someone you know may be impacted by the potential store and showroom closures or are looking for new opportunities, we have a variety of roles across our Retail and Head Office functions. These include Retail Management positions, as well as roles for Retail Sales Designers and Mobile Designers, with full training provided.”
Home improvement retailer Dunelm also extended a helping hand to Homebase staff, posting: “We are saddened to hear the news about Homebase, and we understand the impact this can have on individuals and their families.
To anyone affected by these changes – please know that at Dunelm, we recognise the skills, dedication, and expertise that retail professionals bring. We have open roles across various departments and would love to connect with anyone looking for new opportunities.
“If you or someone you know has been impacted, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly, or take a look at our current openings on our careers page.”
However, despite the gestures of goodwill, several of the national retailers offering their support have been faced with store closures and job losses themselves. Nobia, the parent company behind Magnet Kitchens, posted a concerning profits downturn in its latest financial statement this month, where the company also confirmed it had closed 15% of its own stores, and was considering whether to close more.
Similarly, in its latest financial statement, Wren’s parent company Kingfisher saw its profits plummet to their lowest point since 2017, and also disclosed that its staff headcount had decreased by almost 1,000 in the course of a single year.
