B&Q owner buys DIY app NeedHelp

B&Q operator Kingfisher is to start a house improvement small business in the Uk to assist prospects solve Diy disasters or carry out more intricate work after a increase in revenue this calendar year.

The enterprise has purchased NeedHelp, an on the internet platform connecting tradespeople with homes for tasks these types of as kitchen set up, painting, flooring or bathroom renovation, for €10m (£8.9m).

The retailer already has a romantic relationship with the business in France by way of its Castorama and Brico Depot suppliers, but it is the initial time the support will be offered to prospects in the Uk.

There now are a handful of very similar rival applications these types of as TaskRabbit.

Kingfisher explained the acquisition was “an crucial action forward” as it attempts to be more agile and concentrated on shopper knowledge. It has been pushing in advance with a new turnaround strategy beneath main executive Thierry Garnier. 

He explained: “To provide prospects effectively today, we will need to be more electronic and support orientated, whilst leveraging our strong retail outlet property.

“Online expert services marketplaces are vital to the foreseeable future of house improvement retail and NeedHelp is an proven and fast-rising participant in this arena.