Homebase deal boosts Dawson's rich list rank

HE SAYS IT HAS ADDED 'MASSIVE VALUE'

- By WILLIAM TELFORD

PLYMOUTH retail magnate Chris Dawson says the acquisition of more than 50 Homebase stores has put “massive value” on his business as his wealth leapt to £2.6bn. The former market trader, and wife Sarah, have jumped six places to number 64 in the annual Sunday Times Rich List.

The list, to be published tomorrow, will show the couple's wealth grew by £100m in the past year. It comes as his The Range empire trumpets an “exceptional” start to 2025 with 55 former Homebase stores having converted into The Range superstores completing its first phase, preserving more than 1,600 jobs. The phase two of rollout of new The Range, Garden Centre by Homebase and Wilko stores, to be announced shortly.

Last year, Mr Dawson’s company CDS Superstores, owner of The Range and Wilko, acquired the Homebase brand name, intellectual property, and up to 70 of its UK stores after the chain went into administration. In January, the former Homebase in Newton Abbot became one of the first to become a new “concept” store.