Homebase named the UK’s worst retail website in rescue deal aftermath

DIY retailer Homebase has been named the UK's worst online shopping website, alongside a plethora of other familiar names in a survey conducted by independent consumer body Which?.

Homebase received a rating of 55 per cent as part of a survey with over 10,000 consumers evaluating their experiences online. Customers said they found the site difficult to navigate, and was not always kept up to date with stock information.

Others at the bottom of the list included Sports Direct, Dorothy Perkins, B&Q, WH Smith and JD Sports.

Meanwhile specialist retailers performed the best, with skincare brand Liz Earle taking the top spot with a rating of 94 per cent. Others included music equipment store Richer Sounds, and clothing brands Rohan and Seasalt.

"The online shops with the happiest customers tend to be the ones that offer a personal service, quality items and deliver quickly and conveniently," said Which? Magazine editor Harry Rose.

"Where the big players are lacking, either with poor service or confusing websites, smaller more specialised online retailers have seized the opportunity to make their mark and give shoppers exactly what they want."

Creditors approved plans to close 42 Homebase stores across the UK in August as part of a company voluntary arrangement, in addition to granting rent cuts on several others.

The list included several London stores in Merton, New Southgate and Wimbledon. The firm was acquired by Hilco Capital in May.

A Homebase spokesperson said: "Customer feedback is really important to us, and we are working hard to make changes online to provide great service when customers shop with us."