Dumfries Homebase branch put up for sale after firm enters administration

The Dumfries branch of Homebase
-Credit: (Image: Les Snowdon)


Staff at the Dumfries branch of Homebase face an anxious wait after the store was put up for sale.

The DIY and garden chain plunged into administration earlier this month, putting thousands of jobs at risk.

Administrators Teneo have now struck a deal with retail group CDS – which owns The Range and Wilko – to take over 70 stores.

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However, the Dumfries outlet at Cuckoo Bridge is not among them, with the administrators now having set a deadline of November 29 for any parties interested in the 74 stores which weren’t part of the deal.

South Scotland MSP, Colin Smyth, said: “This is the news many people have feared for some time and my thoughts are very much with the staff and their families affected by this announcement.

“It’s no secret that Homebase has struggled in recent years, as families cut back during the cost of living crisis and there has been no sign of them returning to making a profit.

“It is important that staff at the store in Dumfries are given clarity by administrators as soon as possible and support.

“Homebase has been a part of the retail offer in Dumfries for many years and there is no doubt that if it ultimately closes, it will be a big loss to local customers.

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“We can hope that a buyer is secured for the Dumfries store but it is clear that will be challenging.

“In the meantime, I hope that the other retail stores in Dumfries reach out to staff at Homebase with any vacancies they have so that if there are any job losses, people can find alternative work as quickly as possible.”

Damian McGloughlin, chief exec of Homebase, said: “It’s been an incredibly challenging three years for the home and garden improvement market. My priority is and continues to be our team members.”