Focus DIY brand director Richard Bird, who was the architect of the retailer’s brand repositioning, has stepped down from his role and the day-to-day running of the business.

Focus chairman Bill Grimsey said Bird had always intended to step down once the rebranding of Focus and the design of the Genesis store formats, including the compact format - which Grimsey has said will be a lynchpin in the turnaround of the DIY retailer - had been completed.

Bird will not be replaced and will move to become a director on Focus’ parent company’s board, FLP2.

Bird, who joined Focus in 2007, has more than 30 years’ experience in the DIY field. He was formerly managing director of Wickes.

“Richard’s job was to develop the brand proposition and the new format, it’s up to us now to roll it out,” said Grimsey.

The 178-store retailer opened its first compact store in Congleton in July and its second in Trowbridge in August, covering 18,000 sq ft.

Topics