Growth in the Netherlands

The DIY market in the Netherlands saw positive progress in 2007, with sales for the sector increasing by 4.6 per cent according to figures from GfK Benelux

Upwardly ambitious

The Mr. Bricolage Group intends to improve its position in the French DIY market. This includes overtaking Bricomarché to become number three by 2011

The green business

The American DIY and hardware trade is endeavouring to stimulate the sale of environmentally friendly products

The siren song of the east

In mid-April Bulgaria became the eighth country where Baumax, the DIY retailer from Austria, is actively involved

More furniture

Homebase is currently testing concepts for new openings and refits, where furniture and furnishings are playing an increasingly major role. So far the pilot stores …

Does DIY need discounts?

Finally moving to Globus

The acquisition of Hela’s specialist store division by Globus is now official, following the approval of the German competition authorities in December …

East European Eldorado for expansionists  

The competitive situation in central and eastern Europe is intensifying as internationally active DIY multiples from countries of the …

Extranet for increased efficiency  

The development by companies of their own Extranets, which enable them to reduce production cycles and make savings in buffer stocks and costs…

Uncertain future

Today, almost two years after the opening of the first Villager's Hardware store, there is still no word from Home Depot as to its plans for these hardware units  

High-income customers in demand

Growth of online sales

In Europe the internet is increasingly developing from a communications medium to a trading centre

Commitment to DIY?

A recently opened "Supercenter" seems to be evidence that Wal-Mart, the world's largest retailer, is aiming at important segments of the DIY market

Fear of recession

The American hardware and DIY business is suffering badly from the consequences of the housing and subprime mortgage crisis. However, the impact this is having on…