Bunnings outlines Homebase strategy

PERTH, Australia — Bunnings Group CEO John Gillam outlined the company’s strategy for its newly acquired UK Homebase stores in a presentation at the end of June. Gillam said the “turnaround” of Homebase stores into Bunnings is in progress and that four months after closing the thinking behind the acquisition was being “validated”. The Bunnings Warehouse banner will be piloted in the UK by year’s end as Bunnings merchandise is rolled out, while at the same time “essential local elements” will be preserved. If the acquisition of Homebase proves more lucrative than the failed Masters venture, as it is expected to, it could buoy parent company Wesfarmers through a period of slower activity in its Coles’ and Target banners.