UK retail giant The Range is introducing a new kitchen franchise-style showroom model under the Kitchens by Homebase banner, offering industry professionals the opportunity to run their own kitchen design showrooms within existing Range stores.
The initiative forms part of a licence-based showroom model, designed to help experienced kitchen designers and retail professionals transition into business ownership while benefiting from the backing of established national retail brands.
New Franchise-Style Model Inside High-Footfall Stores
Under the new concept, showroom operators will be located inside selected The Range stores, allowing franchise partners to capitalise on the retailer’s significant customer footfall.
The company says the model provides comprehensive support for operators launching their own showrooms, including access to brand recognition, retail infrastructure and operational guidance.
According to the business, the opportunity is particularly suited to kitchen designers and showroom managers looking to move from employment into running their own business.
Low-Cost Entry with Growth Potential
The Range is promoting the scheme as offering minimum upfront investment and low-risk, high-growth potential, supported by the strength of a national retail network.
The company also emphasises that the programme offers a potential career pathway for industry professionals who want to develop their leadership skills and eventually build their own teams.
Although an official launch date has not yet been confirmed, the application process suggests that showroom openings could begin quickly. Prospective partners are asked whether they would be interested in launching a showroom within three months or within three to six months.
Backed by the Homebase Brand
In a statement, Homebase described the initiative as an opportunity for experienced professionals to operate a kitchen showroom with the backing of a trusted brand.
The company said the model is designed for individuals who already have strong experience in the kitchens sector and want to build their own business rather than start an independent venture from scratch.
The statement added that the model provides the support and structure needed to grow a successful business while benefiting from an established brand and retail ecosystem.
Expansion Following Major Retail Acquisition
The kitchen franchise-style initiative follows the acquisition of Homebase by CDS Superstore, the parent company behind The Range and Willy.
CDS purchased the Homebase brand and approximately 70 stores after the home and garden retailer entered administration in late 2024.
Meanwhile, Wilko has also expanded its presence in the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom (KBB) sector. In 2024 the retailer launched its first own-brand kitchen collection, featuring six entry-level self-assembly kitchens designed to appeal to a broad range of customers through modern colours and accessible pricing.
Growing Opportunities in the Kitchen Retail Sector
The new Kitchens by Homebase showroom concept reflects a wider trend of retailers adopting franchise-style or licence-based models to accelerate expansion while empowering experienced professionals to become business owners.
For kitchen designers and retail leaders looking to step into entrepreneurship, the scheme offers the chance to operate their own showroom while leveraging the strength and customer reach of some of the UK’s most recognisable retail brands.
