Spanish market on the move

A totally different Praktiker

Praktiker is accelerating its expansion in Romania, launching four new stores during last December alone. In comparison with Germany, decoration and …

Slight improvement in global sales

The year 2006 saw sales of laminate flooring increase above all in western and eastern Europe. In contrast, a slump was recorded in the US

Green growth markets

Consumer spending on flowers and plants is on the increase, especially in eastern Europe and countries of southern Europe and Scandinavia

Growth in the North

The DIY retail chains in the countries of northern Europe are currently experiencing a period of very good progress overall

Keenly contested market

Danes are enthusiastic DIYers. They have the necessary money in their pockets, and are happy to spend it as well. So the market is growing, but the pressure…

No bars to shopping fun

A GfK survey from May 2006 indicates that 83 per cent of European consumers want to be able to help themselves easily to goods before making up their mind …

Turning Maxibrico into Weldom 

The French Schiever Group, which has 30 DIY stores, is joining the Domaxel buying organisation with its Weldom trading brand

Imports only within limits    

The Italian DIY format Brico Italia follows a carefully thought-out growth policy, stocks an exacting range of branded products and is not keen on …

Home Depot and the Chinese market

China is the next international target for Home Depot’s expansion. The company has bought Home Way, with which it has had a relationship since it …

Market launch in Romania

Austrian market leader Baumax has started up in this new EU member country by opening two new DIY superstores at once. The goal is price and market …

The Danish market – heavenly harmony?

Troels R. Klausen, DIY in Europe, DenmarkYou might well think so, in view of the positive figures. Whether figures for the sector or for…

Growth for Obi, especially abroad

Parent company Tengelmann is talking about a record result for Obi in the 2005/2006 financial year (to 30 April 2006)

Between contentment and fear of the future

Metro Group publishes first pan-European study on private consumption