B&Q Axing 220 Jobs In Hampshire

DIY chain B&Q has announced 220 redundancies at its headquarters in Chandlers Ford.

The jobs are going as part of a restructure. Staff have been told about the plans today (Tuesday October 9th), and there will now be a 90-day consultation period.

Earlier this year, B&Q's owner Kingfisher announced a £30m drop in profits, following all the wet weather.

In a statement about the redundancies, the company said:

"The new structure includes many new and different roles and changes to ways of working to ensure that B&Q is building sustainable jobs for the future and planning for growth. 

"As a result of the new  structure, 100 new head office roles are being created but  there will be 220 redundancies, and these people are being consulted today.

"B&Q is doing everything it can for those people who are affected today including enhanced redundancy packages, which go way beyond statutory requirements." 

Fraser Longden, People Director said;

"We recognise this is a difficult time for everyone and thank everyone for their contributions to the business and this process; these changes are fundamental to creating sustainable jobs and the future growth of the business."