Tag Archives: Homebase

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Commissary to debut own store brands

FORT LEE, Va., 2017-May-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — In a matter of weeks, commissary brands will debut on store shelves, ushering the Defense Commissary Agency into a new era of patron savings, said DeCA Director and CEO Joseph H. Jeu.

“We are excited to finally begin offering commissary brands,” Jeu said. “An overwhelming number of our patrons said they would purchase store brands if we had them. Well that time is almost here.”

Commissaries in the United States will see an initial roll out of commissary brand products starting at the end of May with bottled water and later in June with plastic bags and paper products. Stores in overseas areas are expected to see commissary brand items in the September timeframe.

Commissary brand products will be equal or lower in price to commercial grocery store brands. This means they will also definitely cost less than regular national brands, Jeu said. “These products will give our patrons the quality they expect and the savings they deserve.”

DeCA’s commissary brand will be sold under two names: Freedom’s Choice for food items and HomeBase for nonfood items such as paper products and other household items.

Store brand products, also known as private label, are offered by retailers under their own, in-house brand or under a brand developed by their suppliers. Retailers are able to do this by working directly with suppliers.

DeCA is partnering with SpartanNash to develop the agency’s commissary brands. SpartanNash, through its military division MDV, is the leading distributor of grocery products to military commissaries in the United States.

Over the next three to four years patrons will see the gradual rollout of Freedom’s Choice and HomeBase products in their commissaries as DeCA plans to increase the commissary brand inventory to about 4,000 items.

The inclusion of commissary brands will not affect the availability of the name brands patrons have always shopped, Jeu said. DeCA will continue to optimize its product assortment to ensure patrons have a wide range of choices, between commissary and national brands, at competitive prices.

“Our commissary brand products will have the same quality and frequently will be produced on the same manufacturing lines as national brands, meeting the same high quality standards,” Jeu said. “These are products that have been manufactured specifically for our patrons.

“Bottom line: Freedom’s Choice and HomeBase will give our patrons another chance to save money, without sacrificing quality, on brands priced significantly lower than national brands,” he added.

For more information on DeCA’s commissary brand program, visit our FAQ page.

About DeCA
The Defense Commissary Agency operates a worldwide chain of commissaries providing groceries to military personnel, retirees and their families in a safe and secure shopping environment. Commissaries provide a military benefit and make no profit on the sale of merchandise. Authorized patrons save thousands of dollars annually on their purchases compared to commercial prices when shopping regularly at a commissary. The discounted prices include a 5-percent surcharge, which covers the costs of building new commissaries and modernizing existing ones. A core military family support element, and a valued part of military pay and benefits, commissaries contribute to family readiness, enhance the quality of life for America’s military and their families, and help recruit and retain the best and brightest men and women to serve their country.

SOURCE: DeCA

Media Contact

Kevin L. Robinson
(804) 734-8000, Ext. 4-8773
kevin.robinson@deca.mil

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Wesfarmers’ acquisition of the Homebase business completed; adds 15,000 new employees

PERTH, Australia, 2016-Mar-03 — /EPR Retail News/ — Wesfarmers’ acquisition of the Homebase business from Home Retail Group plc (LSE:HOME) has been completed.

Wesfarmers Managing Director Richard Goyder welcomed the completion of the acquisition which will add 15,000 new employees in the United Kingdom and Ireland to the Wesfarmers Group this week. “We welcome our new employees and are excited about the opportunity to bring the best of Bunnings to the UK and Ireland,” Mr Goyder said.

Wesfarmers announced on 18 January 2016 that it had entered into an agreement to acquire Homebase from Home Retail Group for £340 million (A$658 million)1. The transaction received approval from Home Retail Group’s banking syndicate in early February and from a general meeting of its shareholders on 25 February 2016.

For more information:
Investors
Mark Scatena
General Manager, Investor Relations
(+61) 8 9327 4416 or (+61) 439 979 398
mscatena@wesfarmers.com.au

UK Media
Philip Gawith
Managing Partner, Teneo Strategy
+44 (0)20 7240 2486
philip.gawith@teneostrategy.com

Media – Wesfarmers
Cathy Bolt
Media and External Affairs Manager
(+61) 8 9327 4423 or (+61) 417 813 804
cbolt@wesfarmers.com.au

Media – Bunnings
Kate Inverarity
Partner, Nightingale Communications
(+61) 3 9670 4373 or (+61) 413 163 020
kate@nightingalecommunications.com.au

1£:A$ of 0.5170 at 26 February 2016 (Reserve Bank of Australia)

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Wesfarmers Managing Director Richard Goyder on Homebase acquisition: long-term value creation opportunity for Bunnings

Acquisition overview

  • Acquisition of 100 per cent of Home Retail Group plc’s (Home Retail Group) holding in Homebase for £340 million (A$705 million)¹
  • Unanimously supported by the Board of Home Retail Group
  • Expected to complete in the first quarter of calendar year 2016, subject to approval by Home Retail Group shareholders and its banking syndicate

Acquisition rationale

  • £38 billion UK home improvement and garden market is an attractive and growing market
  • Homebase delivers an established and scalable platform with stores that are the right size for the UK market and support warehouse merchandising and a low cost operating model
  • Acquisition is the first step in a program which will invest in the Homebase team and reinvigorate core Homebase assets to build an exciting new Bunnings-branded business over three to five
    years
  • Ability to improve existing Homebase performance in the short-term through operational
    improvement

PERTH, AUSTRALIA, 2016-Jan-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — Wesfarmers Limited (ASX: WES) has entered into an agreement to acquire Homebase from Home Retail Group (LSE: HOME) for £340 million (A$705 million)¹. This follows the announcement on 14 January 2016 confirming that a conditional offer had been made to acquire Homebase. Homebase is the second largest home improvement and garden retailer in the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland. Homebase reported revenue of £1,461.2 million for the 12 months ended 29 August 2015 and currently has 265 stores.

Wesfarmers Managing Director Richard Goyder said the acquisition of Homebase provides a long-term value creation opportunity for Bunnings which will complement the strong growth trajectory of the Australian and New Zealand business.

“Bunnings is well placed to unlock value from the Homebase business and has a proven track record in delivering growth both organically and through acquisition,” Mr Goyder said. “Our offer provides significant execution certainty and an attractive cash consideration to Home Retail Group shareholders.

“The £38 billion UK home improvement and garden market is a large and growing market with strong fundamentals. The opportunity to enter this attractive market through the acquisition of Homebase has been comprehensively researched and carefully considered by Wesfarmers and Bunnings. The Bunnings team has done a lot of work to make sure it understands the market and the opportunity, including having visited hundreds of stores, spending significant time researching the market and closely studying international retail expansions into the UK and other markets. Detailed due diligence has been completed and implementation and improvement planning is well advanced.”

Due to early transformation activity, the acquisition is expected initially to have an immaterial effect on Wesfarmers’ earnings per share and return on equity. From the third year post acquisition, the acquisition is projected to be progressively accretive reflecting long-term growth prospects.

Bunnings Managing Director John Gillam said the acquisition represents a compelling opportunity to enter the attractive UK home improvement and garden market.

“Homebase has an established and scalable store platform with strong representation in high density areas,” Mr Gillam said. “The stores are well-sized for the UK market and support warehouse merchandising and a low cost operating model.

“The acquisition is the first step in building a further growth platform for Bunnings with additional planned investment of approximately £500 million (A$1,037 million)¹ in the Homebase team and assets to build a new Bunnings-branded business over three to five years. We will combine essential local elements with the best of Bunnings to bring customers in the UK and Ireland an exciting new home improvement and gardenoffer.”

Management structure
Following completion, a new management structure will be put in place at Bunnings to drive continued strong performance in the existing operations and effectively implement the Homebase acquisition plans.

John Gillam will be Chief Executive Officer of Bunnings, with management teams established in the two distinct operational regions. Key leadership appointments within the new Bunnings structure include:

Bunnings Australia and New Zealand

  • Mike Schneider, Managing Director (currently Director of Store Operations)
  • Clive Duncan, Chief Operating Officer (currently Director of Merchandising & Store Development)
  • Justin Williams, Chief Financial Officer (currently General Manager Information Technology & Financial Services)

Bunnings UK and Ireland

  • Peter (PJ) Davis, Managing Director (currently Chief Operating Officer)
  • Rodney Boys, Finance Director (currently Chief Financial Officer)

Transaction funding, approval and timetable
The acquisition will be funded by new GBP-denominated debt facilities. Rating agencies Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s Investors Service have been updated on the transaction. Whilst no change is expected to the Group’s existing credit ratings (A- and A3 level respectively), the anticipated short-term impact on credit metrics may result in a change to the Group’s outlook.

The acquisition is subject to approval by Home Retail Group shareholders under the UK Financial Conduct Authority’s Listing Rules for Class 1 transactions. The Board of Home Retail Group has unanimously recommended the transaction to shareholders. Subject to the approval of Home Retail Group shareholders and its banking syndicate, transaction completion is expected by the end of the first quarter of calendar year 2016.

Lazard is acting as Wesfarmers’ financial advisor.

Analyst briefing

An analyst briefing will be held at 7:30am AWST / 10:30am AEDT on Monday 18 January 2016. This briefing will be webcast and accessible via the Wesfarmers website at www.wesfarmers.com.au.

For more information:
Investors
Mark Scatena
General Manager, Investor Relations Media and External Affairs Manager
(+61) 8 9327 4416 or (+61) 439 979 398 (+61) 8 9327 4423 or (+61) 417 813 804
mscatena@wesfarmers.com.au

Media – Wesfarmers
Cathy Bolt
Media and External Affairs Manager
(+61) 8 9327 4423 or (+61) 417 813 804
cbolt@wesfarmers.com.au

UK Media
Philip Gawith
Managing Partner, Teneo Strategy
+44 (0)20 7240 2486
philip.gawith@teneostrategy.com

Media – Bunnings
Kate Inverarity
Partner, Nightingale Communications
(+61) 3 9670 4373 or (+61) 413 163 020
kate@nightingalecommunications.com.au

1 £:A$ of 0.4822 at 15 January 2016 (Reserve Bank of Australia)

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GUILD the new power tool brand that lets DIY’ers achieve that professional finish; exclusively available at Argos and Homebase

Milton Keynes, UK, 2016-Jan-19 — /EPR Retail News/ — Struggling to put up that shelf will be a thing of the past, as the new GUILD power tool range offers everyone from novices to keen DIY’ers easy to use power tools that help achieve that professional finish for a job well done. Launching today, GUILD is exclusively available at Argos and Homebase (online only).

Power tool essentials including sanders, angle grinders, circular saws and drills feature at the heart of this range, and have been designed with easy to use buttons and controls, so that everyone can feel confident when tackling any DIY project around the home using these tools. With over 40 products to choose from, the extensive new range can help you complete both small and large scale projects with ease and precision.

With the drill being at the heart of any tool box, the GUILD 18V Hammer Drill (£49.99) is a must have for any toolbox. Screwdriving and drilling is made easier and more efficient, with its 23 torque settings for greater versatility and high power when working, this high performance tool can drill into brick, stone, wood, metal and plastics with ease.

For those projects out in the Garden, the range includes an 18V high power battery (£24.99), which can be used on all of the Guild 18V cordless products as either an additional spare, ideal if you are away from a charge point.

GUILD Brand Manger, Sophie West said: “We understand that having the right tools that are easy to use, great value for money and will get you that professional finish, is really important to customers. We are confident in the quality of our products that’s why all our power tools come with a free two year Guarantee. Whether it’s hanging a picture or making a bookcase from scratch, the GUILD range gives both novices and DIY expert’s great tools to help carry out projects around their home.“

The GUILD range can be reserved free of charge for instant pick up from over 840 Argos stores nationwide or at www.argos.co.uk and at www.homebase.co.uk. The full GUILD range will be available in Homebase stores nationwide from March 2016.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editors:
For more information, please contact the Guild Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email: media.relations@homeretailgroup.com.

About Argos
Argos is a leading UK digital retailer, offering around 60,000 products through www.argos.co.uk, its growing mobile channels, stores and over the telephone.

Argos continues to be the UK’s largest high street retailer online with around 121m customer transactions a year through its stores and over 900 million website and app visits in the 12 months to February 2015. Customers can take advantage of Argos’ convenient Check & Reserve service available through its network of 844 stores and concessions across the UK and Republic of Ireland.

In the financial year to February 2015, Argos sales were £4.1 billion and it employed some 29,000 people across the business.

Argos is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 265 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

SOURCE: Home Retail Group

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GUILD the new power tool brand that lets DIY’ers achieve that professional finish; exclusively available at Argos and Homebase

GUILD the new power tool brand that lets DIY’ers achieve that professional finish; exclusively available at Argos and Homebase

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Online searches at Homebase.co.uk reveal Brits prepare their homes for visiting guests this Christmas

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-12-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — Forget perfume, jewellery and gadgets, shoppers are more likely to be buying toilet roll holders, doorbells and curtain poles as they prepare their homes ready for visiting guests this Christmas, Homebase reveals.

Online searches at Homebase.co.uk revealed Brits thoughts in the two weeks running up to Christmas is not on present buying, but on last minute items to make their homes welcoming for guests coming for the festive season.

In addition to looking for Christmas trees and decorations, practical items people were looking for included rugs, shelves, and even doorbells, which were up 16 per cent on searches compared to in September, as homeowners look to make those last minute touches to their homes.

Some are so keen to impress their family and friends that they are even looking to buy a new dining table with searches up by 25 per cent compared to in September as people try to accommodate all family on Christmas Day.

Homebase Christmas Buyer Lindsay O’Neil, said: “We are house proud as a nation, and Christmas usually is the time we have most of the family round with many staying with us for a few days, so getting our homes looking great becomes the priority after the presents are sorted.

“We have also seen Christmas homewares have grown in popularity by around 30 per cent from last year. With Christmassy bedding and cushions being the most popular items. increase in demand this year for Christmassy duvet sets, cushions and throws compared to last year, which just shows people want to go the extra mile and make the spare room as good as a hotel room for guests.”

Interestingly online search results also revealed the outside of the home gets a makeover ahead of guests arriving. A new garden shed and even a pressure washer are a top last minute must have in the run up to Christmas, as the driveway and car get a deep clean prior to guests arriving.

Most searched for items before Christmas:

1. Toilet roll holder

2. Door bell

3. Dining table

4. Cushions

5. Shelves

6. Curtains poles

7. Wardrobes

8. Laminate flooring

9. Radiators

10. Duvets

11. Folding chairs

12. Shower screen

13. Axe

14. Skirting board

15. Bath panel

16. Tablecloth

17. Drill

18. Chainsaw

19. Shed

20. Rugs

 

Note to Editors:

For more information, images, pricing please contact the Home Retail Group Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homeretailgroup.co.uk .

For hi-res images and to view the new Schreiber Home Collection lookbook, go the www.homeretailgroup.pressarea.com/

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 271 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk . In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

SOURCE: Home Retail Group

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Ewan McMahon appointed Retail Operations Director at Homebase

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-12-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Ewan McMahon has been appointed to the role of Retail Operations Director at Homebase, reporting to Managing Director Echo Lu as part of the Homebase Leadership Team. He takes up the position on 7 December 2015.

Ewan brings 25 years of retail experience having started on the shop floor as a management trainee at Tesco. Subsequently, Ewan has held a variety of leadership roles at Tesco in the UK, Japan and Turkey.

More recently, Ewan led the Tesco Extra Format in the UK as the Operations Director and since 2011 worked as the Chief Operating Officer of Tesco’s Turkish business where he was responsible for store and central operations, supply chain, online business and distribution.

He joins the business at an exciting time of change as Homebase builds on its productivity plan to position it for long-term investment and growth.

On his appointment, Echo Lu, Managing Director at Homebase said: “Throughout his career Ewan has demonstrated principled leadership, cultural adaptability, and a strong track record of delivering positive change through people in challenging environments. I am confident that he will be a great addition to the Leadership Team and a huge asset for Homebase.”

Ewan added: “I’m excited to be joining Homebase and have been impressed by the enthusiasm and calibre of colleagues I have met so far. I’m looking forward to helping the business shape a new direction for home improvement that is very clearly focused on helping customers to create a home they love.”

 

ENDS

Note to Editors:

For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

 

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 271 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

SOURCE: Home Retail Group

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Ewan McMahon appointed Retail Operations Director at Homebase

Ewan McMahon appointed Retail Operations Director at Homebase

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Hemsley new paint brand exclusively available at Homebase

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-12-2 — /EPR Retail News/ — This week launches a new prestige paint brand, Hemsley, which brings together a collection of muted, timeless and classic colours that have been expertly crafted to bring effortless colour harmony into the home.

Exclusive to Homebase, Hemsley is made up of 56 flat matt colours which have been grouped into 14 collections of four coordinating tones, making it easier to shop the range and give you confidence to use a mix of colours to create beautiful interiors.

The range includes the Lovington collection, a series of on-trend greys and Cheriton, a series of berry pinks. Also included is eight Eggshells, designed to blend perfectly with each of the colour collections to complete the look.

Hemsley is a water-based, premium quality paint with uniquely blended pigments for exceptional colour depth and a beautiful ultra flat matt finish.

Note to Editors:

For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 271 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business./span>

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

SOURCE: Home Retail Group

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Hemsley new paint brand exclusively available at Homebase

Cheriton Bloom £27.99 for 2.5L Flat Matt Emulsion

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Homebase unveils 4 day Black Friday deals (Friday 27 – Monday 30 November)

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-11-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Homebase has some amazing deals this Black Friday across a wide range of home and garden products.

All deals will be available in store and online at homebase.co.uk until Monday 30 November, while stocks last.

4 day deals (Friday 27 – Monday 30 November)

  • 25% off all Christmas decorations
  • 25% off all poinsettias and Christmas house plants
  • 25% off all real Christmas trees
  • 25% off Christmas tree stands
  • 25% off all furniture (excluding Habitat and garden furniture)
  • 25% off all lighting (excluding Habitat)
  • 25% off all Silent Night beds, duvets, pillows, mattresses and protectors

ENDS

 

Notes to Editors:
For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email: media.relations@homebase.co.uk

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 271 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

SOURCE: Home Retail Group

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Homebase names Chris McDonough Marketing Director

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-11-17 — /EPR Retail News/ — Chris McDonough has been appointed to the role of Marketing Director at Homebase, reporting to Managing Director Echo Lu as part of the Homebase Leadership Team. He takes up the position on 1 December 2015.

Chris brings with him a wealth of experience from a broad range of sectors including FMCG and Retail, involving various marketing and commercial roles within the UK and across Europe. He joins the business at an exciting time of change as Homebase builds on its productivity plan to position it for long-term investment and growth.

Chris was recently UK Marketing Director for Asda, responsible for all areas until recently including retail, home shopping, George and financial services. Prior to that he was UK Managing Director for brands with Molson Coors for several years, and UK Marketing and R&D Director for dairy giant Muller, where also had overall responsibility for the Irish business. Chris started his career at Mars, where he progressed through various commercial and marketing roles to become German Pet Care Commercial Director having worked in several roles across Europe.

On his appointment, Echo Lu, Managing Director at Homebase said: “I am delighted that Chris is joining the team and look forward to welcoming him to the business. With his functional expertise, diverse experiences and collaborative style, he will be a great asset as we go through the next stage in our journey to be a more customer focused brand.

I would also like to thank Jo Kenrick for her dedication and contribution in the four years she has been with Homebase and wish her all the best in her future career in non-executive roles.”

Chris McDonough added: “I am excited to be joining Homebase and working with the team. I have been impressed by the enthusiasm and calibre of colleagues I have met so far. It is a great time to join the business as it helps to shape a new direction for home improvement that is very clearly focused on helping customers to create a home they love.”

 

ENDS

Note to Editors:

For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 271 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

SOURCE: Home Retail Group

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Homebase among the first businesses to sign up national road safety initiative “Project Pictogram”

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-9-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — Leading home and garden retailer Homebase (part of Home Retail Group) is among the first businesses to sign up to ‘Project Pictogram’, a national road safety initiative aimed at raising awareness about the four main causes of road traffic collisions and fatalities.

The simple safety ‘Pictograms’ are designed in a recognisable road sign style and will now be displayed on the Homebase fleet.

Fleet back doors provide the perfect place to deliver these key road safety messages, which encourage drivers to be aware of their speed, distractions (such as mobile phones and drinking coffee at the wheel), alcohol or drug impairment and wearing a seat belt.

‘Pictogram’ sticker-sets cost just £2.75 to produce and last the life-time of the vehicle, providing invaluable daily reminders of these easy to change, but potentially lifesaving driver habits.

Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service, who are also supporting the initiative with stickers across their fleet, are  hosting the ‘Project Pictogram’ web-page where full guidelines and artwork files can be downloaded free of charge: www.hantsfire.gov.uk/project-pictogram .

Dave Clements, Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service explained: “The Primary Authority scheme aims to provide businesses with cost effective risk-reduction solutions. ‘Project Pictogram’ is clearly designed to deliver business profit protection on the roads, as well as the clear human cost benefits for a brand’s customers.”

The Service is encouraging other business, local authorities, driving schools, colleges, sports clubs and community groups to also sign up to the scheme.

Home Retail Group’s Health & Safety Manager, Andy Leigh said: “This is a great low cost initiative that provides a simple reminder of road safety rules that help to keep traffic flowing.”

‘Project Pictogram’ is endorsed by the UK’s major road safety professionals; Road Safety GB, Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), and is also a finalist in the Brake Fleet Road Safety Awards 2015 for Innovation.

ENDS

Note to Editors:

For more information contact the Homebase Press Office:

0845 120 4365 / media.relations@homebase.co.uk

For all the latest news and images visit www.homeretailgroup.com/news-and-media

Follow us on twitter @Homebase_PR

About Homebase

Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 279 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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Homebase: sales of fig, olive trees and grapevines on the rise over the last 6 months

MILTON KEYNES, UK, 2015-9-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — It seems holidaying in Europe and enjoying a Mediterranean diet is no longer enough for us – we now want to bring our holidays home and grow our own olives, grapes and even figs.

As well as growing apples and pears more of us than ever before are buying olive and fig trees as well as grapevines to grow in the back garden.

Sales of fig trees and grapevines are up by almost a third (28 per cent) whilst sales of olive trees have risen by a quarter (25 per cent) over the last six months, according to Homebase.

Andrew Dyer, Grow Your Own buyer at Homebase, said: “We have seen a trend towards more exotic varieties of fruit-growing such as olives, figs and grapes. An increasing number of people are holidaying in Europe and choosing a Mediterranean diet and they now want to have a go at growing their own. Our tastes are broader than ever and we like to mix our own favourite British foods with new ones we have discovered and enjoyed on our travels. It’s also a great way of bringing back holiday memories and sharing them beyond just photos and video clips.

“Olives, figs and grapes can all grow well in Britain, even without a continental climate. Growers have had a lot of success with tasty olives, figs and grapes as fresh as they can possibly be because they have not been on a plane before ending up on the dinner plate.”

-END-

Note to Editors:

For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 279 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

SOURCE: Home Retail Group

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Home Retail Group CEO on Q2 results: Argos improved sales; Homebase performed well across its peak trading season

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-9-11 — /EPR Retail News/ — Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer, today updates on the trading of its second financial quarter, covering the 13 weeks to 29 August 2015.

John Walden, Chief Executive of Home Retail Group, commented:

“Argos delivered an improved sales performance in the second quarter. It made good progress with new stores, opening more than 50 digital concessions within Homebase and Sainsbury’s, which have generated encouraging early results. Consistent with our previous guidance, Argos’ sales continued to be adversely impacted by the performance of a number of key electrical product categories as well as weaker overall market conditions in August.

“Homebase performed well across its peak trading season, delivering good like-for-like sales growth in both quarters of the first half, while continuing its progress on both its store closure programme and the Productivity Plan more broadly.

“The outcome for the Group’s full-year generally depends upon the important Christmas trading period at Argos which, this year, seems less predictable than usual due to a less certain promotional environment. Our teams have made solid progress preparing for this period, including substantially completing the technology and operational steps necessary to introduce new store collection and home delivery propositions to our customers. We will be making increased marketing and promotional investments to launch these propositions and we expect customers to increasingly embrace them over time.”

 

Q1
(13 weeks to
30 May
2015)
Q2
(13 weeks to
29 August
2015)
H1
(26 weeks to
29 August
2015)
Argos
Sales £846m £897m £1,743m
Like-for-like sales change (3.9%) (2.8%) (3.4%)
Net space sales change 1.3% 2.4% 1.9%
Total sales change (2.6%) (0.4%) (1.5%)
Gross margin movement  Up c. 50bps Up c. 125bps Up c. 100bps
Homebase
Sales £438m £378m £816m
Like-for-like sales change 5.4% 5.9% 5.6%
Net space sales change (7.0%) (8.7%) (7.8%)
Total sales change (1.6%) (2.8%) (2.2%)
Gross margin movement Down c. 175bps Down c. 75bps Down c. 125bps

 

Argos
Total sales at Argos declined by 0.4% to £897m. Net new space contributed 2.4% with the store portfolio increasing by 52 stores to 840. This increase comprised 44 digital concessions within Homebase and eight digital concessions within Sainsbury’s.

Like-for-like sales declined by 2.8% in the quarter. As anticipated, sales of electrical products continued to decline principally driven by TVs, tablets and white goods. These declines more than offset a good performance in toys.

Internet sales for the quarter represented 46% of total Argos sales, up from 44% for the same period last year. Within this, mobile commerce sales grew by 11% to represent 25% of total Argos sales, up from 22% in the prior year.

The approximate 125 basis point gross margin improvement was principally driven by the anticipated impact of favourable currency and shipping costs, together with the continued timing benefit of a small number of other positive items which are expected to reverse in the second half of the current financial year. These increases were partially offset by an increased level of promotional sales.

Homebase

Total sales at Homebase declined by 2.8% to £378m as a result of the ongoing store closure programme, which resulted in eight store closures in the quarter and which reduced the store portfolio to 271. Closed space reduced sales by 8.7% in the quarter.

Like-for-like sales increased by 5.9% in the quarter with sales growth broadly across all product categories, but particularly in big ticket products. This growth continued to be partially supported by both the trade transfer and the stock clearance sales benefits attributable to the previously announced store closure programme and distribution centre closure.

The approximate 75 basis point gross margin decline was principally driven by the adverse impact of the previously announced stock clearance activity together with an adverse sales mix impact, mainly attributable to the growth in margin dilutive big ticket products. These declines were partially offset by a reduced level of promotional activity together with the anticipated impact of favourable currency and shipping costs.

There will be a conference call for analysts and investors to discuss this statement at 8.00am this morning. The call can be accessed as a live webcast on the Home Retail Group website  www.homeretailgroup.com. An indexed replay will also be available on the website later in the day.

Home Retail Group will announce its half-year results on Wednesday 21 October 2015. A Trading Statement covering the 18 weeks from 30 August 2015 to 2 January 2016 will be announced on Thursday 14 January 2016.

Information in this announcement is based upon unaudited management accounts. In addition, certain statements made are forward looking statements. Such statements are based on current expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from any expected future events or results referred to in these forward looking statements.

Enquiries:

Analysts and investors (Home Retail Group)
Richard Ashton, Finance Director 01908 600 291
Mark Willis, Director of Investor Relations

Media (RLM Finsbury)
Rollo Head, 020 7251 3801

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Homebase has Christmas 2015 covered with collections from Holly and Ivy, Simplicity and Homespun

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-7-31 — /EPR Retail News/ — From stockings hanging around a roaring fire to elegant tableware and an array of decorations and home accessories including bedding, Homebase has Christmas 2015 covered.

Featuring three collections, Holly and Ivy, Simplicity and Homespun, each tell their very own Christmas story. Whether its traditional charm that will have the whole family ready for Santa’s arrival or a collection of soft hues which add touches of sparkle.

Holly and Ivy
This classic collection is Christmas in a nutshell, beautifully combining the traditionally seasonal shades of red, green and gold.

Decorations are stylishly simple and feature hand-blown glass baubles and carved figures for a unique, homemade feel. Holly & Ivy incorporates all the timeless seasonal elements you would expect including jingling bells, delicate firs and bold berries.

Simplicity
Add a dusting of seasonal shimmer with this refined and elegant collection. Crisp whites and creams are enhanced with silvers to create the feel of a delightful winter wonderland.

Decorations feature stylish stags, peaceful doves and glittering baubles, while home accessories include silver-flecked tableware, faux-fur throws and mistletoe wreathes.

Homespun
An inviting collection bursting with yuletide charm, perfect for creating a cosy family Christmas. Homespun is both traditional and wonderfully welcoming.

From festive inspired cushions and bunting in classic fabrics to handcrafted red tree decorations, this collection oozes Christmas magic.

Lights
With seasonal lights continuing to weave their way outdoors, we’ve created an outdoor lighting range to make a magical mood this Christmas.

From glittering garlands to flashing fairy lights looping around homes and gardens, we’ve got the right lights for every look this festive season.

Trees and Wreaths
This Christmas we’re keeping it real with quality natural trees at are great value for money. Our specially selected range of real firs ensure everyone can treat their home to an authentic tree for Christmas.

Alternatively our broad range of artificial trees are perfect for making a stylish statement, with both traditional and contemporary designs in sizes to suit any home.

Note to Editors:
For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 279 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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Homebase has Christmas 2015 covered with collections from Holly and Ivy, Simplicity and Homespun

Homebase has Christmas 2015 covered with collections from Holly and Ivy, Simplicity and Homespun

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Homebase features new range of Autumn/Winter homewares, furniture and accessories

Milton Keynes, 2015-7-1 — /EPR Retail News/ — Get ready for the change in seasons with a stylish new range of homewares, furniture and accessories from leading home enhancement retailer Homebase.

The AW15 collection features an array of products across four brand new collections; Homestead, Refined Elegance, Retreat and Highland Heritage.

Delve into the depths of the rural countryside or be inspired by muted shades of ivory and teal, comfort is at the heart of the home this autumn.

Homestead
Strong colours are central this collection, combined with beautiful furniture brought to life in traditional styles with distressed leather, classic plaids, tweeds and weathered woods. The Schreiber check Longbourn chair teamed with the cosy cushion creates a home that is comfortable, warm and inviting.

Refined Elegance
From detailed accessories made of chrome and glass to furniture that contrasts warm timbers with metallic finishes, the Refined Elegance collection is the definition of modern sophistication. The Leonessa mirror dressing table sits perfectly with the Prestwick upholstered scroll bed to add a feminine touch to any bedroom.

Retreat
A touch of the countryside and a feeling of escape from the hustle of modern living are central to this charming collection. Strong natural colours and light neutrals, set against sketched patterns and delicate line work encapsulate the true meaning of Retreat. Look out for the textured ceramic vase and Hurricane vase, new for 2015.

Highland Heritage
The Highland Heritage collection embraces traditional styles to bring to the home a gentle yet lived-in feel – demonstrated by the inviting furniture designs, classic plaid patterns and dense embroidery. The brand new Sophia chair in check fabric sits effortlessly in any room of the home.

.

Note to Editors:
For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 279 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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Homebase features new range of Autumn/Winter homewares, furniture and accessories

Homebase features new range of Autumn/Winter homewares, furniture and accessories

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Homebase reports a 200% year on year increase in outside plastic storage sheds

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-6-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Homeowners across Britain are turning to unconventional ways of increasing valuable storage space in their homes.

It would see that as a nation, we’ve run out of space under the bed, at the back of the wardrobe and in ‘that kitchen draw’, as leading garden retailer Homebase reports a 200 per cent year on year increase¹ in outside plastic storage sheds.

Heidi Towse, Outdoor Structure Buyer for Homebase, said: “The average three bedroom family home is much smaller than it was 50 years ago.

“We also have a lot more outside furniture and accessories that need a home during the winter months. We no longer just have a bench in the garden, but instead an array of furniture including parasols, bistro sets and sun loungers to store away.

“Plastic sheds seem to be the key to creating much needed extra storage in the home, they’re not only durable and easy to maintain and assemble, but also come in a range of sizes no matter how big or small your outside space is.”

Homebase sells over 150 varieties of sheds and offers plenty of advice for assembling sheds. Homebase also sells a variety of care products. For more information visit www.homebase.co.uk

.

Note to Editors:
¹ – Representing Homebase sales for twelve weeks ending 24 May 2015 versus the same comparable period the year before.

For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 279 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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Homebase reports a 200% year on year increase in outside plastic storage sheds

Homebase reports a 200% year on year increase in outside plastic storage sheds

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Home and garden retailer Homebase introduced a bright and colourful trailing petunia mix to its garden centres across the UK in collaboration with Greenfingers

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-6-5 — /EPR Retail News/ — Leading home and garden retailer Homebase has introduced a bright and colourful trailing petunia mix to its garden centres across the UK in collaboration with Greenfingers– the small charity dedicated to creating inspiring gardens for children who spend time in hospices around the UK.

The new ‘Trailing Petunia Parade Mix’ has been specifically created for Greenfingers with each pack containing six plants, with contrasting shades of flame, rich lavender and yellow providing colourful summer display for baskets and containers. Each pack costs £7.50, with 50p from every Greenfingers promotional pack sold going directly to the charity.

Amy Whidburn, Head of Corporate Responsibility for Homebase comments: “We’re delighted to introduce these special trailing petunias in conjunction with Greenfingers. Not only are the packs great for offering vibrant colour in the garden, people across the country can enjoy them knowing their purchase has gone to help children in hospices around the UK.”

This is the first retail based collaboration between the two organisations, following the announcement earlier in the year that Homebase and Greenfingers have established an ongoing partnership. The three-year long partnership will see them joining forces on a number of joint initiatives.

Greenfingers is dedicated to supporting the children who spend time in hospices around the UK, along with their families, by creating inspiring gardens for them to relax in and enjoy. To date Greenfingers has created 45 inspiring gardens in children’s hospices around the country, and always has a list of further hospices needing their help.

.

For further information please contact:

Greenfingers – Jane Wilson on 07899 895489 or email janewilson16@googlemail.com

Follow @Greenfingerscha

Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk

Follow @Homebase_PR.

Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 296 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

www.homebase.co.uk

Greenfingers is a small national charity dedicated to creating magical gardens for children’s hospices around the UK.  The gardens are built to provide a space for relaxation for children with life limiting conditions, together with their families. The charity is dedicated to creating beautiful and inspiring outdoors spaces for children, both sick and well, to play and have fun.  Greenfingers has to date created 45 special gardens in hospices around the country, and has a further waiting list of hospices that need help.

www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk

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homebase_7674391030509

 

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Homebase: The Garden Academy returns for its third consecutive year to offer young people opportunity to kick start a career in gardening

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-5-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — A ground-breaking training scheme is returning for its third consecutive year to offer young people a once in a lifetime opportunity to kick start a career in gardening.

The Garden Academy was set up in 2013 between Homebase and multiple award-winning garden designer Adam Frost to help raise the profile of a career in gardening and inspire the gardening talent of the future.

The  12-month programme will offer 40 people aged 16 and above the chance to spend time learning from Adam about garden planning and design, work with key partners and suppliers to develop detailed product knowledge covering planting and landscaping, as well as learning practical horticultural skills to earn a Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Level 1 Award.

At other times, students will be working full-time at Homebase stores up and down the country, putting what they’re learning into practice by helping customers make the most of their outside space.

Garden Academy mentor, Adam Frost explained the thinking behind the programme: “It can be challenging for our industry to attract young people to gardening and show them that it can be an exciting career.

“Over the last two years the Garden Academy students have really impressed me with how much they’ve achieved – especially putting all of the skills they’ve learnt into practice by helping me build two Homebase show gardens at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

“The Academy is a fantastic opportunity for people from different backgrounds and ages to come together to share their passion for gardening and the outdoors and develop it into a great career.”

Graham Heald, Retail Director for Homebase, said: “The Garden Academy has been a great success over the last two years and we’re delighted to be able to offer young people such a fantastic opportunity for the third year running.

“Being able to support and train the future talent of our industry is really important to us. A few of our previous academy students have gone on to work within our plant buying teams, and one of our first year students Kate Saville, is a finalist in this year’s RHS Young Garden Designer of the Year competition, which is an amazing achievement.

“As well as learning and training with some of the best in the business, all students who complete the training scheme will be offered a permanent job at Homebase. “

Sarah Cathcart, RHS Head of Education and Learning, said: “The RHS passionately supports young people starting a career in horticulture, and I’m delighted that the Homebase Garden Academy is using RHS Qualifications to develop the skills of their students. With a shortage of trained and skilled horticulturalists, schemes such as this are key to encouraging the next generation to understand the breadth of careers in horticulture, the exciting opportunities and the immense value to our wider society.”

To apply for a chance to be one of 40 places on the Garden Academy, visit www.homebasegardenacademy.com before Sunday 21 June 2015. Successful applicants will be invited to assessment days in July.

 

ENDS

Notes to Editors:
For more information contact, Media Relations, tel: 0845 120 4365, email: media.relations@homebase.co.uk

For all the latest news and images visit www.homeretailgroup.com/news-and-media

Follow us on twitter @Homebase_PR

About Homebase 
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 296 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

About Homebase Garden Academy:
The Homebase Garden Academy is a pioneering scheme set up between Homebase and award-winning garden designer Adam Frost to help raise the profile of a career in gardening, and inspire gardening talent of the future.

The scheme offers apprentices a broad experience of gardening and horticulture. Each month, time will be spent learning from Adam about garden planning and design; a key partner to develop detailed product knowledge covering planting and landscaping; and learning practical horticultural skills to earn a Royal Horticultural Society Level 1 Award.

About the RHS Level 1 Award in Practical Horticulture
Aimed at anyone with an interest in plants and gardening, the RHS Level 1 Award is a practical qualification that seeks to inspire learners and focuses on developing essential horticultural skills. The Award supports and encourages students to develop their horticultural potential and prepares them to progress towards Level 2 and 3 qualifications offered by RHS Qualifications and other awarding bodies.

With an emphasis on showcasing the diverse opportunities a career in horticulture can provide, from hands-on gardener to research scientist, the RHS offers a range of educational choices for anyone wanting to develop their horticultural knowledge and skills. There are no formal entry requirements for RHS qualifications at levels 1 or 2, and all qualifications are designed for part-time study at home or at one of more than 90 centres throughout the UK and Ireland.

For more information on educational opportunities and qualifications offered by the RHS, visit: www.rhs.org.uk/education-learning

 

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Homebase: The Garden Academy returns for its third consecutive year to offer young people opportunity to kick start a career in gardening

Homebase: The Garden Academy returns for its third consecutive year to offer young people opportunity to kick start a career in gardening

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Homebase survey suggests that grandparents could be the secret-weapon in helping Britain maintain its reputation as a nation of gardeners

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-5-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — As Britain’s best garden designers and horticulturists celebrate their successes at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, a survey from Homebase, one of the UK’s biggest garden retailers, reveals that the nation’s gardening know-how is in danger of being lost to future generations.

The survey, which questioned people about their gardening knowledge to discover who is teaching the younger generation basic gardening skills, suggests that grandparents could be the secret-weapon in helping Britain maintain its reputation as a nation of gardeners.

The results show that nearly 40 per cent of 16-24 year olds learnt about gardening from their grandparents, compared to just under three per cent who say they learnt it at school.

It follows research by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) that showed that only one per cent of today’s parents were taught how to garden compared to 55 per cent of grandparents.[1]

Gardening has long been at the heart of the British way of life but this lack of green-fingered knowledge amongst today’s parents’ means it may be in jeopardy, highlighting the crucial role of grandparents in educating future generations.

Thee survey also revealed that 42 per cent of grandparents say they are passing their gardening expertise on to their grandchildren with one in five (20 per cent) saying they wanted to teach their grandchildren about gardening because they’re not learning it in school or from other family members.

Graham Heald, Retail and Distribution Director at Homebase, which carried out the research, said: “For many people their first experience of gardening comes from spending time in the garden with their grandparents. Over half (55 per cent) of respondents said they had fond memories of this, from planting flowers and seeds, to growing vegetables and mowing the lawn.

“We know first-hand from our students in the Homebase Garden Academy – an initiative we set up to help unearth Britain’s next generation of gardening talent – just how important grandparents can be in passing on valuable gardening knowledge. Many of our students say it was their grandparents who gave them their love of gardening and inspired them to pursue it as a career.”

Today, (22nd May) Homebase is launching its third annual Garden Academy and is urging anyone over 16 with a passion for gardening and who wants to learn more, to apply for one of the 20 places

Graham continued: “Wherever your love of gardening comes from whether it’s from grandparents, parents or even the Chelsea Flower Show, we want to help develop that passion into a career. Who knows, we might even uncover the next generation of Chelsea medal winners”

Mike Gogerty, a student in this year’s Academy, said: “I love gardening and memories of helping my Grandma plant flowers and vegetables stayed with me as I grew up. She encouraged me to learn and helped me develop a passion for garden design by encouraging me to give it a go, even from an early age. I still look to her for gardening advice now. I’d urge anyone who’s thinking about gardening as a career to give the Garden Academy a go.  It’s an amazing opportunity to learn from the very best and is a fantastic stepping stone to a really rewarding career.”

One of the highlights for this year’s 18 students has been working with award-winning garden designer, Adam Frost, to build and plant The Homebase Urban Retreat Garden in association with Macmillan Cancer Support at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

The garden has been designed as a community garden where people from all generations can come together and share their passion and knowledge for gardening, and enjoy community life.

Adam Frost said: “Some of my earliest memories of gardening are of working on my Grandfather’s allotment and I suppose it’s that that really inspired me to want to learn more and turn it in to a full-time job.

“Britain is a nation of gardeners and the Garden Academy is all about encouraging the next generation to carry on that mantel. For a lot of the students, and many other gardeners out there, it’s their grandparents that gave them their first taste of it. If my Granddad could see me now building my seventh Show Garden at the Chelsea Flower he’d be bowled over. It just goes to show what the smallest seed can grow in to.”

For more information or to apply visit homebase.co.uk/garden-academy.

Ends

For more information please contact:
The Homebase press office can be contacted on 0845 120 4365 or Media.relations@homebase.co.uk

Follow us @Homebase PR.

For news, images and information visit our online media centre at www.homeretailgroup.com/news-and-media

Note to Editors:

Case studies
Mike Gogerty worked in care before deciding to turn his passion for gardening into a career. He says that his love of gardening came from helping his Grandma in her garden as a child and from her showing him how to grow plants in her green house.  It was after she set him a challenge to help her design her garden that he decided to take it to the next level.

Mike said: “I love gardening and memories of helping my Grandma plant flowers and vegetables stayed with me as I grew up.  She always encouraged me to learn as much as I could about it and helped me develop a passion for garden design by encouraging me to give it a go, even from an early age. I still look to her for gardening advice now.’

Aiste Monkeviciute also remembers spending summers with her grandmother, growing vegetables, fruit and flowers that they would sell at the local market.  She says that it is this that inspired her to carry on gardening and that she feels passionate about passing that knowledge on to the next generation.

“It’s vital for young people to learn about the importance of plants and how simple it can be to grow them.  My grandmother taught me my first basic gardening skills.  She made gardening fun and encouraged me to grow my own food.  I hope I can do the same one day.”

Stephen Christie, an Academy student from Edinburgh, is following his Granddad’s lead by training to be a gardener.   Having helped him from an early age, working in the family gardening business, Stephen hopes that his training at the Garden Academy will enable him to one day take over from him.

About the research
The research for Home Retail Group – Homebase was carried out by Opinion Matter between: 10/03/2015 and 22/03/2015.

Sample: 2,034 UK adults (including 809 grandparents)

All research conducted adheres to the MRS Codes of Conduct (2010) in the UK and ICC/ESOMAR World Research Guidelines. Opinion Matters is registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office and is fully compliant with the Data Protection Act (1998).

About HomebaseHomebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 296 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

[1] Findings from a survey conducted by the RHS in 2011. www.rhs.org.uk

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Grandmother and grandson in the garden

Grandmother and grandson in the garden

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Homebase and Harkness Roses launched brand new variety of rose in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-5-18 — /EPR Retail News/ — Leading garden center retailer Homebase and Harkness Roses were joined by Macmillan ambassador and classical crossover singer Camilla Kerslake, to launch a brand new variety of rose in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

The ‘I Am Macmillan’ rose will be available to buy online from September 2015 and in Homebase stores from April 2016.  £1 from every sale will be donated towards funding hours of care from Macmillan nurses, to support people affected by cancer, and their families and loved ones too.

Lynda Thomas, Chief Executive of Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “It’s a great honour to have a completely new variety of rose dedicated to funding the wonderful support provided by Macmillan nurses. We are absolutely thrilled our partners Homebase and one of the UK’s leading rose growers are helping us in our mission to make sure no one faces cancer alone.”

This year, also in aid of the charity, Homebase has introduced the ‘Helping Hands’ Patio Rose to its 2015 Chelsea Collection; a selection of plants and flowers that allow customers to take home their own little bit of the Homebase Urban Retreat Garden.

Jane Templar, Buying Manager Garden Plants at Homebase, said: “The ‘Helping Hands’ Patio Rose is slightly scented with beautiful, small delicate creamy peach blooms which flower from early June to the first frosts. It was bred and grown in the UK, benefits from great disease resistance and is a hardy plant which flowers year after year.”

ENDS

Note to Editors:

For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

For more information about Homebase’ partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support, please contact Melissa Shelley, PR Officer at Macmillan Cancer Support on: 0207 091 2319 / mshelley@macmillan.org.uk

The ‘Helping Hands’ Patio Rose

The ‘Helping Hands’ Patio Rose, is ideal for pots or borders and is slightly scented- perfect for enjoying in your own garden space. The rose is available to buy online and in store.

The ‘I am Macmillan’ Rose

The ‘I am Macmillan’ Rose is a Floribunda rose with a 5/10 scent rating. Bred exclusively for Homebase by Harkness, the rose will be available online from September 2015 and in store from April 2016.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 296 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

About Macmillan Cancer Support
When you have cancer, you don’t just worry about what will happen to your body, you worry about what will happen to your life. Whether it’s concerns about who you can talk to, planning for the extra costs or what to do about work, at Macmillan we understand how a cancer diagnosis can take over everything.

That’s why we’re here. We provide support that helps people take back control of their lives. But right now, we can’t reach everyone who needs us. We need your help to make sure that people affected by cancer get the support they need to face the toughest fight of their life. No one should face cancer alone, and with your support no one will.

To get involved, call 0300 1000 200 today. And please remember, we’re here for you too. If you’d like support, information or just to chat, call us free on 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 9am–8pm) or visit macmillan.org.uk

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Homebase and Harkness Roses launched brand new variety of rose in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support

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Homebase launches new personalised custom wallpaper service

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-5-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — With holiday getaways planned and wedding season almost upon us, make your summer memories last this year, with leading home improvement retailer Homebase’s new personalised custom wallpaper service.

This new service, available at homebase.co.uk allows customers to create stunning personalised wallpaper printed with a favourite photo or picture on.

When uploading an image, customers will be able to view an example of how a room might look with the picture, simply by entering the wall size and, it will also calculate the cost for you at the same time.

Leanne Oakley, Homebase Wallpaper Buyer, said: “Whether it’s a beautiful scenery shot of a field of flowers or a personal family portrait, you can create a unique ‘one of a kind’ piece of wall art in any room in your home.

“What’s also great about this unique wallpaper is that it’s very easy to put up and remove. So if you fancy a change or are moving house, it is easy to update your look.”

Homebase’s customer wallpaper service is now available to order from homebase.co.uk. Prices start from £23.99 per square metre and customers also have the option to select from 35 pre-selected images including scenery, bookcases and city skylines, with all orders including home delivery.

 

ENDS

Note to Editors:
For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 296 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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Homebase study reveals that 74% of men take charge of labor intensive DIY and home improvement projects while women are taking on more creative DIY tasks

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-4-14 — /EPR Retail News/ — The age old debate of DIY and the battle of the sexes is back as new findings reveal 74 percent of men are still taking charge of labor intensive jobs around the home. While women are taking on more creative DIY tasks.

A recent study by Homebase has found that grouting tiles, putting up fences and building sheds were tasks taken care of by over 28 million UK males in the last 12 months. This compares to 68 percent of women who have been busy changing colour schemes, restyling rooms, creating feature walls and upcycling furniture in order for homes to be looking their best.

Men also come out top in their confidence of undertaking DIY and home improvement projects, nearly half of those surveyed (49 percent) admit they are confident in their knowledge in completing tasks, compared to just a quarter of women surveyed.

Getting to the point of making home improvements also proves a task itself, with the UK spending on average 29 days researching a project, its women who want to get things right as 48 percent can spend up to six months looking for ideas. A stark contrast to men, as 38 percent spend under two days planning and researching projects.

The research also revealed the shift in UK perception of what DIY is and how it has evolved from the 1960’s when it was all about decorating, building and making fixtures and repairs to homes rather than employing a professional. Today, home improvement has transformed and is now seen as CIY (create it yourself) which see’s 40 percent of Brits taking on projects that are as much about design as the practical skills.

For inspiration, help and advice visit the new Homebase Project Centre http://www.homebase.co.uk/en/static/project-centre

Note to Editors:
Research conducted between 30.12.14 – 06.01.15 on 2,057 UK homeowners and tenants.

For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 58 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 296 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2015, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 17,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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Homebase study reveals that 74% of men take charge of labor intensive DIY and home improvement projects while women are taking on more creative DIY tasks

Homebase study reveals that 74% of men take charge of labor intensive DIY and home improvement projects while women are taking on more creative DIY tasks

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Home Retail Group appoints Echo Lu as Managing Director for Homebase

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-3-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — Home Retail Group has announced the appointment of Echo Lu as Managing Director for Homebase, one of the UK’s leading home enhancement retailers. Echo has significant experience in retailing both in the UK and Asia, and will take up her new position on 20th April.

Echo joins Homebase from Tesco where she worked over the past ten years across different markets and a broad range of functions.  Her most recent roles were as Group Business Planning & Insight Director and Property Director for Tesco UK & Ireland, she was also a member of the UK Board. Prior to these roles, Echo held a number of roles in Tesco’s Asian business, including Chief Operating Officer for China, Operations Director, East China, and Commercial Buying for Grocery.

Her career commenced at Bristol-Myers Squibb where she held a number of roles, culminating as HR Director for China. Echo graduated in International Economy & Finance at Fudan University.

John Walden, Home Retail Group Chief Executive, said:

“Echo has significant, broad-based retail experience both in the UK and the rapidly evolving Asian region, and importantly has been an agent for positive change throughout her career.  She is the ideal candidate to lead Homebase and its Productivity Plan, as we improve the store operational standards and customer service, develop stronger customer propositions and accelerate Homebase’s digital capabilities, and realise its potential for greater growth.”

Echo Lu said: “I am delighted to join Home Retail Group and to lead the Homebase business.  Homebase is a strong UK brand with an ambitious plan in the short-term to strengthen its foundations and exciting longer-term growth opportunities.  I look forward to working with John, his executive team, the Homebase leadership team and the 18,000 Homebase colleagues to build a stronger business for the future.”

-ENDS-

Editor’s notes:

Media contacts:
Chris Wermann, Corporate Affairs Director 07718 327 107
Rollo Head, Finsbury  020 7251 3801

Photo available at the Home Retail Group media centre. http://homeretailgroup.pressarea.com/imagelibrary 

Echo Lu: Curriculum Vitae

Tesco:  2004-2014
Group Business Planning & Insight Director
Property Director, UK & Ireland
Chief Operations Officer, China
Operations Director, East China
Chief Executive Officer Development Programme
Human Resources Director, Asia

Bristol-Myers Squibb  1997-2004
Human Resources Director, China
Other Human Resources leadership roles

Education
MS. Industrial Relations & Human Resources – West Virginia University
BA. International Economy & Finance -Fudan University

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 60 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 304 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2014, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 18,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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Home Retail Group appoints Echo Lu as Managing Director for Homebase

Home Retail Group appoints Echo Lu as Managing Director for Homebase

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Homebase research: over 50% of UK householders think DIY is now about ‘creating’ a look or style within their home without expert help

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-3-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — The meaning of the term ‘DIY’ is in need of a makeover as it is too narrow for today’s socially connected, creative consumer, Homebase has revealed.

  • Half of people think that DIY is now about ‘creating’ a look or style within their home without expert help
  • People spend on average 29 days looking for ideas and undertaking research before taking on home and garden projects.

Paul Emslie, Commercial Director at Homebase, said: “Our research has shown that the consumers’ relationship with traditional DIY has evolved from the practical 1950s ‘Do It Yourself’ definition that endured for decades to more ‘Create It Yourself’ terminology. This has emerged as content shifts from the expert-led home improvement TV heyday of the ‘90s’ and ‘00s’ to online inspiration-sharing sites such as pinterest, houzz and instagram in the ‘10s’.”

The research, carried out by Homebase across the UK, revealed that over 50% of householders think that DIY is now about ‘creating’ a look or style within their home without expert help. And an increasingly socially-connected consumer is more likely to use ‘friendspiration’ to look for these home design ideas with 55% saying that they now get their inspiration from friends both on and off line.

Tom Dyckhoff, presenter of Great lnterior Design Challenge, believes DIY has broadened and evolved since its emergence in popular culture in the 1950s.

“DIY TV is one of the most successful television formats of all time. It’s helped the nation learn how to lay tiles, knock through walls, put up shelves AND learn about the latest trends, from shabby chic to minimalism. Today, though, it’s changing. It’s not just about doing it yourself; it’s about designing it yourself, too, encouraging a new, more confident generation brought up on the internet to be even more creative at home.”

This ever growing confidence to ‘Create it Yourself’ is demonstrated by the fact that interior design/home improvement will take top priority with almost a quarter of people planning on changing the colour scheme of a room whilst a fifth will restyle an entire room.

For bigger projects, such as kitchens and extensions, over half of consumers will outsource the work but 35% of men said they would avoid professional help for undertaking other restoration projects – such as restoring floorboards or upgrading fireplaces – themselves.

The shift towards an increasingly creatively-confident consumers is supported by 43% of consumers saying they happily upcycle old furniture and take on ‘CIY’ art projects that include techniques like stencilling and stressing.

There is still a split in the DIY skills between the sexes with twice as many women as men saying that they use home improvement projects to express their creativity. However, 37% of women say they would delegate the actual ‘doing’ of these projects to their partner. It seems the chaps don’t mind though as the research showed twice as many men as women said they have the knowledge and ability to carry out home improvement tasks.

The creative part of the process is now taken so seriously that people spend on average 29 days looking for ideas and undertaking research before taking on home enhancement work. However cost (80%), ease of completion of a project (51%) and inconvenience (30%) are the biggest factors that delay the start of a project in UK households.

Homebase is launching a new online Project Centre to help customers find inspiration as well as help and advice on undertaking a project in their home or garden (homebase.co.uk/myway).

ENDS

Note to Editors:
For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

About the research:
The research for Homebase was carried out between: 30 / 12 / 2014 and 06 / 01 / 2015 by Opinion Matters

Sample: 2,057 UK Homeowners or Tenants

All research conducted adheres to the MRS Codes of Conduct (2010) in the UK and ICC/ESOMAR World Research Guidelines. Opinion Matters is registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office and is fully compliant with the Data Protection Act (1998).

Top 10 DIY skills the UK deems it’s most important to have:

  1. Changing a lightbulb
  2. Changing a fuse
  3. Fitting a plug
  4. Painting a room
  5. Fixing a leaking tap
  6. Unblocking a drain
  7. Hanging curtains
  8. Hanging a picture
  9. Putting up shelves
  10. Drilling a hole in the wall

Top 10 list of UK DIY capability

  1. Changing a light bulb
  2. Changing a fuse
  3. Hanging a picture
  4. Fitting a plug
  5. Hanging curtains
  6. Painting a room
  7. Using a spirit level
  8. Putting up flat pack furniture
  9. Drilling a hole in the wall
  10. Filling a hole in the wall

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 60 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 304 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2014, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 18,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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Homebase research: over 50% of UK householders think DIY is now about ‘creating’ a look or style within their home without expert help

Homebase research: over 50% of UK householders think DIY is now about ‘creating’ a look or style within their home without expert help

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Homebase: homeowners are choosing period style patterned wallpapers to decorate their homes this season

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-3-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — People are taking inspiration from popular TV dramas, like the historical Wolf Hall, Mr. Selfridge and new series Indian Summers, by getting braver with their choices in wallpaper, says leading home enhancement retailer Homebase.

This season, homeowners are choosing period style patterned wallpapers to decorate their homes as they look to previous eras for inspiration when revamping their living spaces.

Annie Henley, Homebase Decorating Academy student, said: “We’ve seen our customers being increasingly experimental with wallpaper, and buying more decadent, eclectic styles to make a statement in their homes.

“Feature walls have been popular for a while, but people are now taking the plunge and wallpapering whole rooms, with inspiration from TV dramas.

“Styles featuring delicate birds, flowers and decorative designs have been particularly popular recently and are perfect for those who are unsure about using bright colours or bold patterns.”

Leanne Oakley, Wallpaper Buyer for Homebase, said: “Using patterned wallpaper is a great way to add a touch of your own unique personality to your home. Whether it’s delicate floral designs or vintage inspired patterns, the right wallpaper can add a touch of character to a hallway, bedroom or living room.

“To get the regal look of Wolf Hall, mix patterned wallpaper with decorative home accessories, using a sophisticated deep shade like masala or oxblood to add warmth to rooms, alongside deep walnut furniture. Incorporating gold tones will also create a sense of grandeur, like that of Hampton Court.

“The look featured in Indian Summers is that of 1920s Colonial style, using soft coloured botanical print wallpaper in tones of cream, light green and yellow to maintain a light and airy feel. Travel inspired accessories will give a worldly, eclectic look, like our Metal Decorative Armillary Sphere and Large Globe, while potted ferns and palms will add drama of the tropics to an elegant room.”

Homebase sells over 500 ranges of wallpaper, including collections by Graham and Brown and the V&A. Homebase offers plenty of help and advice for wallpapering, as well as a ‘Do it for you service’. For more information go to www.homebase.co.uk.

ENDS

Note to Editors:

For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 60 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 304 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2014. Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 18,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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Homebase: homeowners are choosing period style patterned wallpapers to decorate their homes this season

Homebase: homeowners are choosing period style patterned wallpapers to decorate their homes this season

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Homebase reports 78 percent year on year increase in the sale of craft paint

Milton Keynes, 2015-2-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Whether it’s Art Deco, Antique or Mid Century Modern effects, Brits are choosing to upcycle furniture to give it a new lease of life.  From vintage coffee tables to tatty chairs, the art of restoration through simple methods has seen leading home enhancement retailer Homebase report a 78 percent year on year increase¹ in the sale of craft paint.

The technique ‘upcycling’ involves reusing an object in a new way without degrading the material it is made from, and craft paint allows pretty much any material from wood to ceramic to be painted over and given a face lift.

Heather Taylor, Paint Buyer at Homebase, said: “Home owners are looking to quickly inject individual personality into their homes and what better way to do so than decorating furniture exactly how you want it to look. Upcycling gives your favourite chair or table that is looking a little worse for wear another chance, reinventing it for either another use or simply giving it a new lease of life.

“Our best-selling, Rust-Oleum furniture range has seen a 150 percent year on year increase to date¹. The sheer possibilities of upcycling are endless and the great thing about it is anyone can do it. You don’t have to be a skilled painter or incredibly creative, with our Rust-Oleum crackle paint for example you simply brush it on and it creates a vintage paint effect- it really is that simple.”

Who knew that tatty old furniture had so much potential?

Homebase offers a wide range of craft paint in a variety of colours and finishes with prices starting from as little as £1.99, available instore and online at www.homebase.co.uk

ENDS

¹ – Representing Homebase sales for ten months ending 30 January 2015 versus the same comparable period the year before.

Note to Editors:

For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 60 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 304 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing interest offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2014, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 18,000 people accross the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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Homebase reports 78 percent year on year increase in the sale of craft paint

Homebase reports 78 percent year on year increase in the sale of craft paint

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Leading garden centre retailer Homebase now with the largest selection of plants online

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-2-12 — /EPR Retail News/ — As part of its ongoing digital developments and in a bid to make gardening more accessible, leading garden centre retailer Homebase is expanding its online offer to include thousands of plants, which will be available to purchase throughout the year from March 2015.

This will be complimented by help and advice to inspire people to create a haven for their friends and family this Spring/Summer.

Customers will no longer need to worry about the years and experience it can take to cultivate beautiful mature gardens, with a new range of Italian Specimen Plants with carefully manicured spirals and cloud shapes to create an ‘instant’ garden to be proud of.

Larger plants that can also be troublesome for customers to transport will now be available for home delivery.

Jon Kemp, Head of Garden at Homebase, said: “This is our biggest range of plants ever and now our customers will have more choice – as well as the freedom to shop when and how they want, whether that’s browsing one of our garden centres or at home online or through the new Homebase app.”

No garden is complete without water to create a sense of tranquillity. This season, a new range of Aquatic Plants for growing around, in or floating on your pond, will also provide a home for wildlife.

Over 350 plants are already available to purchase online including Roses, Fruit Trees and Ornamental Flowering Cherries.

For more information visit homebase.co.uk.

ENDS

Note to Editors:
For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 60 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 304 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2014, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 18,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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Leading garden centre retailer Homebase now with the largest selection of plants online

Leading garden centre retailer Homebase now with the largest selection of plants online

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UK’s top lawn expert David Hedges-Gower joined forces with Homebase

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-2-12 — /EPR Retail News/ —  The UK’s top lawn expert, David Hedges-Gower has joined forces with leading garden retailer Homebase to offer help and advice to tackle grass that just won’t grow to getting unsightly brown patches back to a perfect shade of green.

With over 35 years’ experience of working with lawns, David is passionate about sharing his experience and knowledge. From his early days maintaining the greens of some of the UK’s leading golf courses, including Oxfordshire Golf Club to big organisations including the RHS and National Trust.

David Hedges-Gower, said: “It’s fantastic that Homebase are championing an area of gardening that is often forgotten about and left to its own devices. I’m delighted to have the opportunity to share my trade secrets and help the nation learn to love their lawns.”

Sarah Coldrake, Garden Tools Buyer for Homebase, said: “We are thrilled to have David on board as an advisor for our growing lawn care range. He shares our passion for ensuring customers have access to information and advice to look after their lawns, and we are excited to be working with him.”

David will be joining Homebases’ stand at The Garden Press event on the 12 February 2015, offering tips and advice on lawn care and maintenance to visitors attending the show.

 

ENDS

Note to Editors:
For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

 

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 60 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden. It has 304 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2014, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 18,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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UK’s top lawn expert David Hedges-Gower joined forces with Homebase

UK’s top lawn expert David Hedges-Gower joined forces with Homebase

 

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Homebase: Garden designer Adam Frost returns to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2015 with a striking modernist garden inspired by the Bauhaus movement

Milton Keynes, UK, 2015-1-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Multi award-winning garden designer Adam Frost returns to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2015 with a striking modernist garden inspired by the Bauhaus movement and the work of one of its most famous proponents, Marcel Breuer.

Designed as an urban community garden, The Homebase Urban Retreat Garden will celebrate the striking design principles of the early 20th century design movement, by incorporating modernist materials such as concrete and corten steel, with simple geometric shapes to create a garden that sits comfortably within an urban setting and in which the local community and wildlife can flourish.

Adam describes the design for The Homebase Garden as blending the structures of the urban environment with the softness of nature to show how green space can be successfully incorporated into our towns and cities. Referencing the Bauhaus movement he said:  “Much of the modernist housing designed by architects of that period was created around community landscape and gardens. Bauhaus promised a reunion of man with nature through community living and it’s this spirit that I want to reflect in The Homebase Garden.”

The layout will have a strong architectural form with a dynamic backbone that combines linear concrete walls with geometric hedging breaking the space into clearly defined water, lawn and planting divisions.

Designed as a space for the whole community, where people can come together and enjoy community life, Adam has incorporated two striking water walls in the form of pressed steel leading into long pools of water that can double as paddling pools in summer. A series of layered cedar wood rings will provide seating throughout the garden.

The architectural focal point at the rear of the garden will be a striking corten steel structure set among a bed of tree ferns. Designed to represent a modernist building, the frame will create an unexpected insect hotel and home for birds and wildlife.

In front, a commanding cedar-clad building will provide a unique viewing area from its roof offering a second perspective of the garden looking down over the layouts and the sculptural form of six imposing Cercidiphyllum japonicum (Katsura) trees. Covered with a new mix of wildflower turf seen for the first time at RHS Chelsea, the roof will provide another haven for wildlife including a colony of honey bees housed in a Bauhaus-inspired cedar beehive with corten steel roof.

Planting and wildlife

The planting palette has been designed with wildlife in mind. Simple, fragrant plants that allow insects to flourish including Irises, Geraniums, Deschampsia and Digitalis, will sit alongside Taxus domes which provide nesting space for insects and birds and Cercidiphyllum japonicum (Katsura) trees which act as a source of food for the resident bees. Grasses and wildflowers will bring a softness to the urban setting while two impressive tree ferns positioned behind the corten steel and cedar-clad building will add a structural element to the palette.

Colours will be rich and earthy, moving from deep crimson to burnt orange to reflect the orange-brown patina of corten steel whilst the lush green foliage of the ferns and hedging will stand out against the imposing backdrop of the concrete framework.

Materials

Drawing on the raw industrial materials favoured by architects of the Bauhaus movement, the garden will feature smooth poured concrete, corten steel and cedar, which typified buildings and home furnishings of that era.

Cedar cladding will lend a different, softer character to the garden punctuating the boldness of the concrete and steel and emphasizing the vertical lines of the space, while a long boarded path winding through the centre of the garden echoes the curves seen on some of the most iconic Bauhaus buildings and highlights the value of incorporating wildlife corridors into our urban environments.

Adam said: ‘‘The whole ethos of the Bauhaus movement was to create remarkable looking products that were simple in design and that could be easily replicated from the basic starting point of geometric shapes. I’ve designed the Homebase garden to reference the Bauhaus with the inclusion of modern design styles, something that anyone can do in their own garden and that lends itself in particular to an urban setting.”

The Homebase Garden Academy

Students from the recently launched Homebase Garden Academy will be working alongside Adam to create the garden. The pioneering programme, now in its second year, was set up to help Britain’s next generation of gardeners’ kick-start their career. Putting into practice the skills they have learnt since joining in September 2014, the scheme’s latest intake of students will help Adam build the garden when it arrives on site at the RHS Chelsea showground in May 2015.

Adam continued: “I’m delighted that students from the Homebase Academy will once again be helping me to bring the garden to life. My hope is that the garden will encourage aspiring gardeners to create their own version and by doing so, encourage the growth of both our urban communities and wildlife.”

Jon Kemp, Head of Garden at Homebase, said: “We’re very excited to unveil the 2015 Homebase garden for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and to be working once again with Adam Frost. Adam has an outstanding pedigree in garden design and has already created two exceptional Gold medal-winning gardens for us at the Show. We’re confident this year’s garden will be another huge success.”

The Homebase Chelsea Collection

To coincide with the Chelsea Flower Show, Homebase will be bringing back it’s Chelsea Collection – a range of plants, garden ornaments and garden furniture inspired by Adam’s garden and available in store from April – July 2015.

The 2015 RHS Chelsea Flower Show runs from 18 – 22 May 2015.

 

ENDS

Note to Editors:
For more information or a full plant list please contact Suzanne Hind suzanne@suzannehind.com or Theresa Osen theresa@suzannehind.com.  Tel: +44 (0) 207 502 8505  or +44 (0) 7813 208 168.

The Homebase press office can be contacted on 0845 120 4365 or Media.relations@homebase.co.uk

Follow us @Homebase PR.

For news, images and information visit our online media centre at www.homeretailgroup.com/news-and-media

 

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 60 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden.  It has 316 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2014, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 18,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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Homebase reveals that Sussex and Surrey are the most lit-up regions in the UK

Milton Keynes, UK, 2014-12-11 — /EPR Retail News/ — Residents in the South East are the nation’s biggest lovers of Christmas lights, says home enhancement retailer Homebase.

Gone are the days of just decorating the tree with a few strings of lights, as Homebase has found that Sussex and Surrey are the most lit-up regions in the UK, with locals purchasing over 62,000 sets of Christmas lights between them.

Looking at the national picture, all of the top 5 lit-up areas are in the South East, with South London, Kent and Essex following closely behind Surrey and Sussex, and having collectively bought almost 160,000 sets of Christmas lights.

Lindsay O’Neill, Christmas Decoration Buyer for Homebase, said: “With only two weeks to go until the big day, Brits are preparing their homes and many are adopting traditions from America and going all-out on Christmas decorations. Last year we sold almost 650,000 Christmas lights, the most popular being a set of 80 bright white multi-functional LED fairy lights.

“We are expecting another popular year for lighting with around 280,000 sets sold last week alone.

“Whether they choose simple, traditional white lights or something fun and novelty, many of our customers are spreading the festive cheer to the outside of their homes. With our collection ranging from a basic string of LED lights at £1.79 to a reindeer silhouette at £44.99, whether you want simple and understated decorations, or you’d like to make a statement, you can get the look you are after.”

For more information on Homebase’s great range of Christmas lights go to www.homebase.co.uk

ENDS

Note to Editors:

For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk .

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 60 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden.  It has 316 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2014, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 18,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.

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Homebase unveiled brand new campaign that brings to life the magic of transforming your home at Christmas

Milton Keynes, UK, 2014-11-21 — /EPR Retail News/ — Homebase has unveiled a brand new campaign that brings to life the magic of transforming your home at Christmas.

The new 30 second Homebase ad, written by Leo Burnett and produced by Hogarth Worldwide, shows a family changing their uninspired dining room table and living room by revealing brand new, on-trend Christmas decorations and homewares, with everything from Christmas trees and lights, tableware and soft furnishings.

And if cute animals are the way to customers’ hearts, then Homebase has Christmas in the bag with the addition of man’s best friend to its new brand campaign. ‘Harriet the dog’ also features in her very own spin-off ad, exclusively created for social media, which depicts how even the smallest of spaces can be magically transformed.

Jo Kenrick, Homebase Marketing Director said: “Christmas is all about spending time with friends and family – and we know that people love to go all out with finishing touches at this festive time of year.

“Hosting doesn’t need to be stressful and planning is key. Make sure you not only think about turning your home into a festive grotto, but remember to tackle the little jobs, such as freshening up the spare bedroom, which will make your guests feel comfortable too.”

The TV campaign also includes re-worked music by Professor Bobo and Bosko Slim (it is the same music but with a bit of Christmas sparkle). The campaign breaks on TV tonight (Wednesday 19 November). The ‘Harriet the dog’ spin-off can be seen first on the Homebase’s YouTube page. Follow Harriet’s adventures @Harrietwoofs.

 

ENDS

Note to Editors:

For more information, please contact the Homebase Press Office on 0845 120 4365 or email media.relations@homebase.co.uk.

Follow us @Homebase_PR.

 

About Homebase
Homebase is a leading home enhancement retailer with around 60 million transactions a year, selling around 38,000 products for the home and garden.  It has 316 large, out-of-town stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland and a growing internet offering at www.homebase.co.uk. In the financial year to February 2014, Homebase sales were £1.5 billion and it employed some 18,000 people across the business.

Homebase is part of Home Retail Group, the UK’s leading home and general merchandise retailer.