B&M shoppers have finally learned what the store's name actually means after 48 years of operation. The revelation has left many customers surprised, as they had long assumed the name stood for something else entirely.
The Origin of B&M
B&M Retail Limited, trading as B&M, is a British multinational variety store and garden centre chain. The business was originally established in 1978 by Malcolm Billington and Brian Mayman, with the first outlet reportedly opening in Blackpool.
Initially, the store bore the name Billington and Mayman, which was inspired by the founders' surnames. However, it was soon abbreviated to B&M.
Acquisition and Growth
The company was subsequently acquired by Simon and Bobby Arora in December 2004 from Phildrew Investments. At that point, the business operated from only 21 outlets. By 2010, the company had relocated to a new head office and a 620,000 square foot distribution centre in Speke, Liverpool. Just two years later, it celebrated the opening of its 300th store.
In 2013, Clayton, Dubilier and Rice, one of the world's foremost private equity firms, acquired a significant stake in B&M. From that point on, the business has undergone considerable change and growth.
Common Misconception
Over the years, many shoppers came to believe that B&M stood for Bargain Madness, given the sheer number of deals on offer in store. However, this nickname was never official. The name was actually inspired by the surnames of its founders.
When the news was shared on Facebook, one person said: I always thought it stood for Bargains and More. Another noted: You learn something new every day.
B&M Today
There are now hundreds of stores operating across the UK and Northern Ireland, with the retailer showing no signs of slowing down. The website states: B&M was formed in 1978 and is now one of the leading variety retailers in the UK. From its first store in Blackpool, Lancashire, B&M has grown to over 700+ stores and employs over 35,000+ staff. B&M believes in selling top branded products at sensational prices. We attract over 4 million happy customers through our doors a week.
B&M has stores throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
