Bunnings UK

[BobHatton]

Oh learned citizens of the United Kingdom. I am genuinely interested as to why Bunnings Warehouse has failed in the UK. What is your understanding of this?
Bunnings here in Australia is the biggest, most successful hardware store and a 'Bunnings Fix' is just what's required on a Saturday morning to browse the aisles. What has gone so seriously wrong with it in the UK?
I'm really interested to know...


And no Bear, it's got nothing to do with Aussie convicts!

 

[SeasideEssexXile]

Are they Wesfarmers? Oz firm who they reckon will lose £1billion after their 3yr tenure at Homebase.

Bob - Remember when B & Q were the answer on a much larger scale to local hardware shops. They have dominated the UK. Texas were a rival bought out by Sainsburys and rebranded under Homebase. Focus were bought out by Wickes who are the only genuine store rival to B&Q on a national scale nowadays. Wickes aim at the tradesman and B&Q respond with a trade section / outlet and trade prices in stores.
Screwfix are on a smaller scale store wise purely parts firm who are building on their internet success.

Homebase just couldn't compete trying to be a hardware and accessory shop.

Stores were out priced on parts and tools by these other companies and accesory wise - shops like the Range just offer wider selection at lower prices.
The UK bargain pound shop culture has boomed and in some cases bust in recent years.
Marks and Sparks the latest to struggle on the high st. Mothercare under the cosh last week summed it up - people come in to.our stores to touch and tryout our prams etc. Then go away and buy the item online at a cheaper price delivered to their door.