B&Q launches Mini Warehouse location model

DIY giant B&Q has implemented a system of forecasting the turnover of new stores, which will enable it to weigh up where to open Mini Warehouse outlets.

Following a nine-month development, B&Q has introduced a gravity model that covers its new Mini Warehouse format. The system, developed by geographic data specialist Geobusiness Solutions, replaces B&Q's old gravity model, which could only cope with Warehouse and Superstore formats.

B&Q has eight Mini Warehouse stores, which carry about 60 per cent of the stock offered in Warehouses.