B&Q makeover is merely a response to consumer trends

With regard to your recent Vox Pop (DW 29 September) – which asked about the effects on a retail brand that diversifies from its core market – B&Q is now bringing the business into line with what today’s customers are asking from a retailer that helps them create and build their home.

Over recent years customers have become more design savvy and courageous. The decision-maker at home has nearly always been the woman. In addition, there are now growing numbers of single women buying their own homes. In fact, B&Q could have gone in this direction much sooner.

If you want to see how on the ball B&Q is elsewhere, go and see its stores in China.

Jim Thompson, Managing director, 20/20, London NW1