Early Life
Will Adderley was born in the United Kingdom in 1972. His parents, Bill and Jean Adderley, founded Dunelm in 1979, beginning as a market stall in Leicester, selling home textiles. Will grew up with the family business.
Rise to Success
Will Adderley joined the family business and took over the day-to-day running of the company in 1996. He oversaw Dunelm's expansion, including the opening of new stores and the establishment of a new head office and warehouse in Syston, Leicestershire. Under his leadership, the company was floated on the London Stock Exchange in 2006. Adderley's leadership was crucial in growing Dunelm into one of the UK's largest homeware retailers. More recently, Will Adderley lowered his stake in the business from 32.3% to 27.3% in September 2024, while remaining the largest single shareholder.
Key Business Strategies
Adderley's success is closely tied to Dunelm's strategic focus on providing a wide range of high-quality homeware products and services. The company has expanded its online presence and offers services like made-to-measure window treatments, click and collect, and various takeback programs. Dunelm's emphasis on exclusive designs and well-known brands such as Dorma has also contributed to its market leadership. The company's ability to adapt and expand has been a key element in the company's strategy.
Philanthropy
Will Adderley, along with his wife Lady Nadine, is the joint founder of the Stoneygate Trust. The Trust has funded over 500 projects in Leicestershire and beyond, benefiting organizations such as the LOROS hospice charity and the University of Leicester.