B&Q to shut stores (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

B&Q to shut stores

DIY chain B&Q has announced that it is shut 22 stores following a slump in sales.

The company, which has a store in Fleming Way, will also downsize another 16 outlets.

The firm said it was experiencing some of the toughest market conditions it has seen in years.

Already, B&Q's owner Kingfisher has axed 400 office jobs.

The company, which has 335 stores has not disclosed the locations of those closing but said they were in areas well served by other B&Q stores. The stores employ a total of 1,250 people, with B&Q hoping to relocate as many as possible. News about which stores are to close is expected over the next fortnight.