Dunelm’s acquisition of Home Focus marks its entry into Ireland’s expansive homewares sector.
- The retailer will leverage Home Focus’s existing 13-store network and online presence.
- Dunelm aims to introduce a broader product range in Home Focus’s compact store formats.
- This strategic move includes assessing new store openings across Ireland over time.
- Dunelm CEO highlighted a shared ethos with Home Focus, emphasising growth potential.
Dunelm, a well-established name in the home furnishings sector, has formally acquired the Irish retailer Home Focus. This acquisition serves as Dunelm’s strategic entry into the Irish market, which boasts a homewares industry valued at over £1 billion.
Home Focus operates from 13 stores throughout the Republic of Ireland and maintains a strong online presence. The company runs smaller retail spaces than Dunelm, typically under 10,000 square feet, which aligns with Dunelm’s existing smaller format store approach in the UK.
Dunelm has expressed plans to broaden the product offerings in Home Focus stores, aiming to enhance the shopping experience by providing a wider array of choices for customers. This initiative is consistent with its strategy in the UK and reflects its adaptability to local market demands.
The CEO of Dunelm, Nick Wilkinson, noted the compatibility between Dunelm and Home Focus, citing their shared history and values rooted in family ownership. “In Home Focus, we have found a high-quality and complementary business,” he remarked, indicating a harmonious blending of operations and visions.
Moreover, Dunelm intends to bolster Home Focus’s online proposition and considers expanding the footprint by exploring new store opportunities across the Irish region. This reflects a long-term commitment to nurturing and growing their presence in Ireland.
The acquisition of Home Focus positions Dunelm for continued growth, enhancing its market reach and customer offerings in Ireland.
