B&Q Unveils First Standalone Trade-Only Store in Barking as Part of Major Expansion
High street retail giant B&Q is set to launch a new store format exclusively for trade customers, with the first standalone outlet opening in Barking this March. The move represents a significant expansion of the company's TradePoint brand, targeting tradespeople with a dedicated 32,000 square foot site designed to streamline their shopping experience.
Enhanced Services and Product Range for Trade Professionals
The new Barking store will offer a comprehensive suite of benefits tailored specifically for trade customers. These include personalised one-to-one service, extended opening hours, and rapid collection and delivery options to support busy professionals. Over 5,500 products will be available for immediate purchase, while an extended range of more than 25,000 items can be ordered for collection or delivery, providing unparalleled access to materials and tools.
Strategic Priority and Financial Ambitions
This investment marks a crucial step in B&Q's strategy to transform TradePoint into a £1 billion business. During the first half of 2025, TradePoint already accounted for 22.4% of B&Q's total sales, highlighting its growing importance within the company's portfolio. B&Q chief executive Graham Bell emphasised that "growing TradePoint is a strategic priority for B&Q" and expressed pride in launching this new concept to help tradespeople grow their businesses.
Market Context and Competitive Landscape
The expansion comes at a time when many retailers are withdrawing from the high street, including B&Q's main rival, Homebase. Homebase, the UK and Ireland's second-largest home improvement retailer, closed 65 stores last year following its collapse into administration. In contrast, B&Q has strengthened its market position by confirming the purchase of five Homebase stores, while Sainsbury's acquired ten. Overall, approximately 70 branches have been rescued nationwide through acquisitions, with CDS Superstores planning to transform some into The Range outlets.
B&Q's new trade-only store in Barking represents a bold move to capture a specialised market segment, offering enhanced convenience and product access for trade professionals while solidifying the company's leadership in the home improvement sector.
