B&Q: ASDA Concession – Bluestones One

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18 November 2020

Summary

Bluestones One were extremely proud to be asked to supply the Merchandising team to support the new concept “shop in shop” trial store for B&Q in ASDA Sheffield, Drakehouse. The B&Q trial concessions in ASDA stores will offer a range of paint (including paint mixing) as well as tools, hardware and other DIY essentials. Customers will be able to shop B&Q’s full range at diy.com and order selected items online for collection from the B&Q concessions.

Challenges

This trial store was delivered during the second UK Lockdown due to Covid-19, so social distancing and appropriate precautions had to be taken. Fortunately, B&Q were just as conscientious as Bluestones and ensured this was well managed. Managing stock in and out of a small-format store in a busy supermarket location presented some challenges but, collectively, everyone involved ensured this was a success.

Results

The store was delivered successfully in time for the opening with very positive feedback and, we are looking forward to seeing how this store performs and getting involved in future small-format stores. It was great to be involved in a project that saw two of our key customers working together.

Employee of the Month for June

We’re delighted to announce that June’s Employee of the Month has been awarded to George Mazzoncini.

In memory of Harry Stringer

In loving memory of Harry Stringer On Monday the 7th March 2022, we lost one of our most loved site supervisors. Harry passed away suddenly after suffering a heart attack 1 week prior to his passing. Harry was a much loved and well respected mentor and friend in the retail merchandising world and in particular the D.I.Y sector. Harry made his debut in the retail industry working for Homebase in 1987 where he served for 20 years in roles such as Store Manager and in the later part of his Homebase career in the Store Format team. Harry then moved on to work for several Merchandising and Installation companies completing roles mainly working on Format Projects for B&Q. Harry was versatile and would do whatever role was required of him whether it be Site Supervisor, Retail Change Partner, Siers Supervisor or Team Leader. Over the last 12 years Harry worked for Dee Set and most recently Bluestones One. He will be sadly missed and we send our condolences to all of Harry’s family and friends. RIP Harry. Here’s what Bluestones One Director, Gary Lowe had to say shortly after Harry’s passing: “We are all shocked and devastated by the sad