Let's put this into context by taking a look at our premises across the UK and Ireland. With just over 700 Argos stores and over 310 Homebase outlets (a number that we’re adding to all the time). Eleven distribution centres, five contact centres. Three main offices in Milton Keynes and one in Wallington. The diversity of properties within Home Retail Group is immense. So you can imagine the challenges our Property division faces in managing the portfolio.

They maintain and refurbish our existing stores, acquire and fit out new ones. They negotiate commercial rents and deal with landlords. They establish new distribution centres. In short, they oversee every aspect of our property network right down to keeping our offices in perfect running order.

Although much of their work goes unnoticed, their role in delivering customer satisfaction is just as important as any of our frontline retail staff. For instance, they have established a helpline to aid the prioritisation and resolution of issues that arise, which speaks volumes of their proactive approach.