Kingfisher, owner of the B&Q DIY chain, will this week ask landlords to offer monthly rental deals to all retailers - not just those in trouble.


Directors of Kingfisher are angry at the absence of a level playing field on retail leases.

While some stores that have hit financial difficulties have been offered monthly payment terms by landlords, other retailers have been forced to adhere to traditional quarterly arrangements.

Customers would benefit if all retailers' terms changed, Kingfisher chiefs argue, because cash flow would be eased, allowing more investment in lower prices, store refurbishments and better service.

“Retailers are doing everything they can to bring prices down, a source close to Kingfisher told the Financial Times. “Landlords should do their bit.”

It emerged at the weekend that House of Fraser, the Baugur-backed department store group, has asked landlords for better payment terms in order to improve cash flow.

House of Fraser has already agreed monthly payment deals for a quarter of its 63 shops with property owners such as Land Securities and Hammerson.

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