Administrators reveal the locations of acquired Focus stores
Ernst & Young, the administrators for the failed Focus DIY stores, have announced the locations of the stores acquired by Wickes, Kingfisher and B&M Bargains.
Wickes and B&M have agreed to buy 13 and 11 of the stores respectively whilst Kingfisher will acquire up to 31. Wickes have purchased stores primarily in the South of England whilst most of the B&M acquired stores are in the North. The 31 stores bought by Kingfisher are spread nationwide.
Ernst and Young said it anticipated that all staff at stores bought by Wickes and B&M would transfer to their new owners. Kingfisher said in a separate statement that the number of stores to be purchased had not yet been finalised.
Ian Cheshire, Kingfisher’s Group Chief Executive, said: “We hope to be able to bring B&Q’s choice, convenience and value to these communities as soon as possible. However, the final number of stores is dependent on clearance from the regulatory authorities and satisfactory negotiations with landlords. A swift conclusion to this process would enable B&Q to take on all the staff at these stores.”
Earlier this week, Ernst and Young announced the closure of the remaining unsold stores with the loss of 3,000 jobs.
