Focus to close Crewe store and rival B&Q to take on some staff

FOCUS DIY is to close its Crewe store at the beginning of next month – but B&Q has already come to the rescue of some staff.

Fifteen workers are currently employed at Focus on the town’s Grand Junction Retail Park.

The company has said job losses are on the cards but it will endeavour to relocate staff where possible. A Focus spokesman said: “As part of the ongoing development plan for the Focus DIY business, it is necessary to undertake regular reviews of the store portfolio. After careful consideration, the difficult decision has been made to close the Crewe store.”

He added: “Regrettably, this may lead to a small number of job losses. “However, every effort will be made to seek redeployment opportunities within the local stores such as Nantwich and the Support Centre in Crewe. In addition, outplacement support will be available to all members of the store team.”

The Crewe store is expected to close on November 1.
Meanwhile Weston Road-based B&Q is recruiting staff for the opening of its new showroom and store revamp later this year and has already taken on two Focus staff.
The company contacted the Chronicle to say it is also keen to hear from more employees who are looking for a new job in the same retail sector.

Craig Tudor, service manager of B&Q Crewe said: “We’re looking to interview experienced staff from the local Focus store that have been made redundant. “With their DIY and product knowledge we’re sure that they would fit in well with our team, who make it easier for our customers to improve their homes.”

Source : Belinda Ryan - Crewe Chronicle