Record number of attendees at the Global DIY Summit

The 12th Global DIY Summit got underway today with a record number of attendees: John Herbert, who founded the conference, welcomed 1,204 participants from the DIY and gardening sectors worldwide onto the stage at the RAI Convention Centre in Amsterdam with evident pride. “Just call me captain,” he said in response to the applause. “I’ve had a wonderful time,” he remarked, looking back on his 70-year career in retail.

On stage, Herbert welcomed his successor as General Secretary of the international DIY trade association Edra/Ghin, Michel Salaün (see separate report). The Frenchman, who joins from the Adeo Group, announced his intention to work towards further enhancing the association’s visibility and expanding its reach. The aim is also to attract B2B-focused retailers and platforms as members.

Appearing on the Summit stage for the first time in their new roles as association presidents…