Growth comes to an end

Market researchers at Verdict expect to see consumer spending in the UK DIY and gardening sector decline by 1.6 per cent this year. This sector will be the worst performer compared to other major retail sectors, in spite of enjoying years of high growth rates. From 1999 to 2004 this market was driven not only by rising property prices but also by increasing consumer and media interest in home improvement. As far as the longer-term prospects for the £ 16.4 bn (€ 24 bn) DIY and gardening sector in the UK are concerned, the analysts at Verdict are confident that favourable economic, cultural and demographic factors will reinvigorate the market.
Detailed information on the UK DIY and garden sector can be found under DIYglobal plus/Trade topics (see under: Further articles on this topic).