A HAMPSHIRE based DIY firm has told its staff to prepare for the impact of the release of the film Fifty Shades of Grey.

B&Q has circulated advice to its staff to expect a rush on certain products in the days after and is warning employees to expect “potentially sensitive” customer enquiries.

In a leaked memo, the firm also says it wants staff to read the book or watch the film so they better understand customer queries and is even delivering copies of the novel to its stores across the country to be loaned by staff.

The film Fifty Shades of Grey, based on the popular erotic novel by EL James, is released on Saturday .

The memo explains how the story is about the relationship between Anastasia Steele, played by Dakota Johnson, and billionaire Christian Grey, played by Jamie Dornan, who introduces her to the world of bondage and sexual role play.

In one scene, Christian purchases duct tape, rope and cable ties from a hardware store.

B&Q, which has its headquarters in Chestnut Avenue, Chandler's Ford, says, after the release of the book in 2012, DIY stores in the UK saw increased demand for such products and that staff needed to be prepared for the same effect with the film.

''As the UK's leading DIY store, we stock many of the products featured in this notable scene and then used later in the film,” it says.

The memo also asks store managers to keep an eye on stock of rope, cable ties, duck tape and masking tape.

Although it states that B&Q's policy is that products should only be used for their designed purposes, it says staff should be aware of this new potential.

“Queries may be unusual and sensitive in nature but staff are reminded of B&Q's commitment to assist customers in a polite, helpful and respectful manner. A level of discretion is also advised,” the memo adds.

The firm, which employs more than 30,000 people at its 350 branches nationwide, has outlets at Eastleigh, Portswood, Nursling, Hedge End and Fareham.

In response a B&Q spokesman said: "B&Q remains committed to serving our customers in all their DIY needs and we strive to prepare our staff for any enquiry.

“Customer satisfaction is always our number one priority.”