B&M Fined £2m Over Mouse Infestations at Three Birmingham Stores

B&M Retail Ltd has been ordered to pay £2 million after pleading guilty to food hygiene offences at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on July 13, 2026. Environmental health inspectors discovered mouse infestations, rodent-gnawed food products, and droppings near children’s toys at three Birmingham stores following public complaints between November 2024 and October 2025. The company said it was deeply sorry and had taken comprehensive action to strengthen controls.

What inspectors found at each store

At St Andrew’s Retail Park on November 11, 2024, officers found significant evidence of mouse activity, including gnawed food products on sale and mouse droppings throughout the premises. A Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice was served immediately, forcing closure. At Priory Square Shopping Centre on January 22, 2025, a shopper reported seeing a mouse. Inspectors discovered gnawed food items, mouse droppings, urine contamination on food packaging and shelving, inadequate cleaning standards, and structural defects allowing pest entry. The store was closed on the spot.

The Fort Shopping Park closure

On October 27, 2025, following another complaint about a mouse infestation, inspectors found widespread evidence of mouse activity throughout the premises at The Fort Shopping Park in Erdington. Mouse droppings were discovered in close proximity to children’s toys on display. Due to serious risks to public health, the store was formally closed by environmental health officers.

How the case unfolded

Birmingham City Council’s environmental health service received complaints from concerned shoppers between November 2024 and October 2025. After investigations at all three locations, B&M pleaded guilty to food hygiene offences. At the sentencing hearing on July 13, 2026, the company was ordered to pay £2 million. Councillor Sam Forsyth, chair of the licensing and public protection committee, said residents rightly expect businesses to maintain high standards and provide safe environments.

B&M’s response and investor impact

B&M said food safety and pest-control procedures were in place at each store but those procedures were not followed. The company stated it was deeply sorry for the failings and had taken comprehensive action to strengthen controls across the business. The fine represents a significant reputational and financial blow to the discount retailer, though the stock has risen 7.8% to £37.60 as of July 22. Meyka rates B&M a B+ with a buy recommendation, though the company faces ongoing scrutiny over operational standards.

Final Thoughts

The £2 million fine marks a serious food safety failure for B&M across three stores. With Meyka grading the stock B+ and one analyst rating it a buy, investors should monitor whether the company’s remedial actions restore consumer confidence and prevent further enforcement action.

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