Homebase is testing several new ranges and services as part of its strategy to become 'first for decorating'.
New services currently being trialled by the retailer include lawn care and decorating, which has been tested in the north west and also the catchment of Homebase' concept store in Aylesford, Kent.

Homebase md Paul Loft said: "We've been doing tests for the decorating service, and the next phase is to press the marketing button and see what happens. It's the compete service, but the one thing that differentiates us is the quality and standard of the service. Everyone has a dedicated person who follows the whole project through, which is different to what you see elsewhere."

The retailer already has installation services for its fitted kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms.

New ranges are also being trialled at Homebase as part of its bid to become 'first for decorating'. A range of rugs has gone into ten stores, and the company is even thinking of adding carpet to its home offer.

"Customers are saying it's entirely logical that if you do the paint and wallpaper, the flooring etc, why don't you do carpets?" says Mr Loft. "We've got a prototype in our store in Watford, but it's very early days. It's our first go at that, and it's all own brand stuff."

Don't miss the next issue of DIY Week for more on the latest developments at Homebase.