Future of Barnstaple's Homebase unclear

Homebase has entered administration, placing approximately 2,000 jobs at risk nationwide, including roles in Barnstaple. 

Reports from the BBC indicate that Hilco, the owner of Homebase, had been seeking a buyer for the struggling chain but was unable to find an outright purchaser.

CDS Superstores, the company behind The Range and Wilko, has acquired the Homebase brand name, intellectual property, and up to 70 of its UK locations. 

This acquisition is expected to secure around 1,600 jobs, with CDS planning to rebrand these stores as The Range superstores in the coming months, though it is currently unclear if the Barnstaple branch is included in this acquisition.

The Gazette contacted The Range, which confirmed they would provide an update once they have more information regarding the future of the Barnstaple store.

Group CEO Alex Simpkin commented: “We’ve stepped in following the sad demise of the much-loved Homebase brand which has had a long and previously successful history of helping UK households with their DIY projects and gardening needs, for over 45 years.”

He added that Homebase stores acquired by CDS will continue to operate under the Homebase name for the time being, before rebranding to The Range. 

"These stores will include everything you’d expect from The Range, combined with much broader choice across garden, showroom and DIY categories – retaining the best of the Homebase expertise and heritage. We plan to continue to invest in the Homebase brand, with many initiatives in the pipeline.”

CDS also expressed its commitment to supporting Homebase employees during this period, noting: “We’re conscious there will be a number of other experienced team members who are facing uncertainty. We’re committed to prioritising interviews for any vacant positions within our The Range and wilko brands across the country.”

With plans to more than double its store estate over the next four to five years, CDS aims to reach new customers and communities across the UK through the Homebase acquisition.