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This is a strong, positive move by B&Q. All big box retailers are having to change their offer to continue to be competitive, especially in London.

The increase in rental properties and apartment living means that traditional product lines aren't applicable such as lawn mowers etc. There will be an emphasis on maintaining and improving, something I hope B&Q will be able to deliver in their smaller format, in order for it to be a success.

There is of course the wider issue of large space retail property in central London - such is the residential demand from local authorities that retail space is far less profitable than a residential tower. All retailers, not just B&Q, are feeling the pain of being forced out of their properties when their leases expire to be replaced with residential schemes. Retailers have to adapt their models to reflect the smaller space on offer.