homebase

Homebase is a British home improvement and garden retailer. It operates a chain of stores across the United Kingdom. The company sells a wide range of products for the home and garden, including decorating supplies, DIY tools, kitchens, bathrooms, furniture, and plants. Homebase is part of the Hilco Capital group.

The company was founded in 1979 by the DIY Superstores Limited, a subsidiary of the retail conglomerate ultimately controlled by the Sainsbury's supermarket chain. The first store opened in Croydon, England. In the following years, Homebase expanded rapidly, opening new stores throughout the UK.

Over the decades, Homebase has undergone several ownership changes. In 2000, it was acquired by the DIY store chain, Focus DIY. Later, in 2016, Homebase was purchased by the Australian retail conglomerate Wesfarmers. However, Wesfarmers struggled to turn the business around and in 2018, sold Homebase to restructuring specialists Hilco Capital.

The product range at Homebase typically includes paint, wallpaper, tools, hardware, lighting, flooring, and timber. In the garden sector, customers can find plants, seeds, compost, garden furniture, barbecues, and gardening tools. The company also offers services such as kitchen and bathroom design and installation. Homebase stores are generally large, out-of-town locations, often with a garden centre attached.