Homebase goes for kitchens, bathrooms and furnishings

The British DIY chain Homebase is planning to open nine further stores over the current financial year. In particular it intends to go ahead with implementing smaller outlets from just 2 000 m² to 2 300 m² in size. On the relevant date of 28 February 2003 the group had 273 stores in operation, 36 of which had a mezzanine floor. Kitchens, bathrooms and furnishings are the principal ranges offered in these stores. The annual report of GUS, the parent company of Homebase, includes provision for mezzanine floors are to be installed in a further 35 to 40 stores. The DIY stores recorded sales of £ 251 mio (€ 363 mio) for the period between 20 December 2002 – the date when the acquisition of Homebase by GUS became effective – and the end of that financial year.