UK DIY retailers also to have an association

The formation of a DIY retail association in the United Kingdom is imminent: the inaugural meeting of the British Home Improvement Retail Association has been arranged for 1 February 2003. B&Q and Focus Wickes will be members of the association, and Homebase is also planning to join. Later on it is intended to open membership to manufacturers as well, following the example of the German BHB. David Ramsden is to be secretary of the organisation, which will also belong to EDRA, the European umbrella organisation.