B&Q Shoppers Discover Meaning Behind Store’s Initials
Recently, after 55 years of the DIY store being in operation, people have finally started to understand what the initials of B&Q stand for. Many customers have admitted that they had no idea about the meaning behind the famous store’s name until now. B&Q, a leading retailer for all things home and hardware, has been serving customers since its establishment in 1969. The DIY superstore was founded in Southampton by Richard Block and David Quayle, who decided to name the shop after their surnames. Initially known as Block and Quayle, the store was later abbreviated to B&Q for simplicity. Block and Quayle paid themselves a humble £90 a month and worked tirelessly, operating six days a week. The duo achieved a remarkable £1 million turnover just five years into the business.
From the 1970s onwards, B&Q stores began popping up across the southeast of England, making the brand a household name. People were recently surprised to discover the origins of the iconic logo when a Twitter user, @cawilkes84, posed a question asking followers to guess what B&Q stood for. Many humorous guesses were made, like “Bargains and Quality” or “Building and Queuing.” However, some individuals were quick to provide the correct answer, “Block and Quayle.” This revelation has sparked discussions about other brand names and their hidden meanings. For instance, B&M stands for Billington and Mayman, ASOS for As Seen On Screen, H&M for Hennes and Mauritz, and HSBC for Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation.
The discovery of B&Q’s true meaning has shed light on the fascinating stories behind brand names and the history of iconic companies. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, the significance of a well-known brand may remain a mystery to consumers for years. As more people uncover the stories behind the names they interact with daily, it sparks curiosity and adds depth to their shopping experiences. So, next time you visit your favorite store, take a moment to consider the history and meaning behind its name—it might surprise you.