Restructure will lead to job losses
HomeForm has announced a major investment programme for its fully fitted home improvement brands Möben, Kitchens Direct, Sharps and Dolphin.

The group, which was the subject of a private equity takeover by Sun Capital Partners in April, will focus on enhancing customers' experiences in stores and delivering significant operational efficiencies, as revealed in Retail Week (April 13).

As part of the strategy, HomeForm - which operates 163 stores in the UK - will introduce concept showrooms in key locations and refurbish its existing showrooms.

The retailer will realign its sales management teams to ensure a coherent focus on the individual brands and will merge Dolphin's administration and warehousing operations with Möben and Kitchens Direct at Cornbrook near Manchester.

The number of job losses at the retailer is unclear. In a statement, HomeForm said that 'sadly some job losses are anticipated' at its Bilston site, while additional jobs will be created in Manchester and in the group's operations and installation functions nationwide.

HomeForm chief executive Tony Vicente said: 'Customer needs are ever-changing, so we must be sure that our businesses reflect these in order to stay ahead of the game. Our showroom refurbishment, brand and new product development programmes will soon become visible to our customers.'

HomeForm Group was put up for sale by private equity owners Phildrew Ventures in January following speculation that it was losing£3 million a year.