If a CNBC report is true, home improvement chain Lowe’s (NYSE: LOW) is preparing to lower the boom on almost 1% of its workforce, or around 2,850 of its 285,000 employees, as it tries to “boost efficiency.” The big-box DIY retailer has neither confirmed nor denied the story, just saying it had no announcement to make, and that it’s always looking ” to ensure we have the resources in place to serve customers’ evolving expectations and their home improvement needs.” That said, its business and stock have been lagging behind those of rival Home Depot (NYSE: HD).