B&Q opens sustainable flagship store
B&Q’s sustainable flagship store in Cheltenham showcases eco-friendly practices and guides customers to reduce their carbon footprint.
B&Q opened a new store in Cheltenham this week, positioning it as a flagship for sustainability. The outlet highlights the retailer’s latest environmental efforts and demonstrates how it plans to expand eco-friendly practices across its network. The store aims to simplify choices for customers seeking sustainable home and garden products. In-store signage guides visitors to items that could lower their carbon footprint.
Sam Dyer, B&Q’s head of sustainability, emphasized the store’s role in showing how to build greener homes. “Fifteen percent of carbon emissions come from the home,” she said. The store features a house-like structure to explain services and products. Paul Carroll, head of services development, noted that customers often struggle to understand sustainability options. “We’ve zoned areas to help them touch and feel products,” he added.
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The electric section showcases solar panels, batteries, and EV chargers. Dyer mentioned a recent meeting with Ed Miliband about plug-in solar panels that could soon join B&Q’s range.
Carroll said items are either from B&Q’s own range or vetted third-party partners. “Customers trust B&Q,” he said.
Blue signage dominates the store, marking sustainable sections and advising on cost-saving measures.
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Efforts to reduce emissions are underway, with a goal of carbon neutrality by 2040. The Cheltenham store, already one of the most sustainable, uses rooftop solar panels and smart LED lighting. Paint sections now feature low-VOC options, and a trial recycles leftover paint. “We need volumes to make recycling work,” Dyer said.
A digital screen displays sustainability messages, while the Trade Point caters to professionals seeking eco-friendly options. The Recycling Station accepts end-of-life goods, from batteries to garden waste. The garden section offers advice on drainage, pollinator plants, and water-saving techniques, mirroring Chelsea Flower Show displays.
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Plant pot colors have changed to remove non-recyclable black. A 50-store trial recycles pots, with labels included. Blue signage also guides gardeners toward low-chemical practices and water-efficient plants.
The store now tracks customer behavior to inform future initiatives.
