DIY business B&Q has begun the process to recruit 800 staff for its kitchen and bathroom showrooms.

It follows the proposal of the company to simplify the way it sells kitchens and bathrooms, by moving away from offering installation services and focusing on design and ordering.

According to a recent report, the withdrawal of B&Q’s Homefit will benefit independent retailers who offer supply, design and fit.

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The aim of the recruitment is so customers will deal with one person in store, which B&Q claims will make the process, from booking a design appointment to home delivery or takeaway, faster.

All of the new recruits will be trained on B&Q Spaces, its propriety design software, to create kitchen and bathroom projects

Trading director at B&Q Paul White commented: “As one of the UK’s leading kitchen and bathroom retailers, B&Q is committed to the growth and development of the category.

“We are confident these improvements lay firm foundations to drive our showroom business forward, and create a solid platform from which to continue evolving our market leading kitchen proposition.

“With the addition of 800 new colleagues, customers will experience an even better service, dealing with just one member of staff who will make it simpler for them to buy a kitchen or bathroom and create an even better shopping experience.”

B&Q has also announced plans to support self-employed installers, with 12-month free membership of the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI).

It will enable installers to be listed on the BiKBBI’s ‘find a member’ search facility, for consumers looking for reputable, local fitters.

This, in turn, is being signposted to B&Q’s customers in-store, who request advice on installation.