B&Q is set to cut more than 650 jobs as part of a major shake-up aimed at simplifying its retail structures. The home improvement chain plans to reduce deputy manager, trading manager, and team leader positions across its 318 UK stores and its head office, according to Retail Week The move is part of a broader effort to streamline management structures and improve efficiency.
If approved, the restructure would result in 672 job losses, the majority in stores, with a further 65 roles affected at head office. B&Q has begun consulting with employees impacted by the proposals and says it will look to offer alternative positions where possible, along with support packages for those unable to be redeployed. B&Q chief executive Graham Bell said: “Over the last few years, we’ve evolved at pace to ensure that we can give our customers the very best retail experience.
“We’ve physically changed our operations so that our stores, apps and online are fully integrated, helping home improvers by giving them more choice, speed and convenience. And we need to keep changing.
“Today’s news would ensure that we continue to evolve and grow market share by prioritising our resources where we can help our customers the most.
“The proposals shared with colleagues today have meant some difcult choices. They impact our dedicated colleagues in retail leadership across all of our stores and in head office functions, and we’ll be doing everything we can to support them.
“Ultimately, it is about setting our business up in the right way so that our colleagues are equipped to give our customers consistently exceptional customer service now and in the future, so that we give home improvers the choice and convenience they deserve.”
The UK home improvement sector is facing a downturn as the pandemic-driven boom fades and economic pressures hit household budgets.
Many consumers are postponing or cancelling expensive projects, such as kitchen and bathroom renovations, creating a tough trading environment for major chains. Kingfisher, owner of B&Q and Screwfix, saw pre-tax profits fall 35% to £307 million for the year ending January, while adjusted profits dropped 7% to £528 million.
Rival retailers have also reported declining revenues, reflecting broader challenges in the market. Several firms have struggled in recent years, with high-profile collapses including Safestyle, Everest, and Homebase.
Some chains, such as Carpetright, have survived through rescue deals, but store closures and job losses continue to impact the sector. The most significant setback came in November 2024, when Homebase entered administration, leading to the closure of numerous stores.