In spite of really tough competition, Germany is an interesting target for foreign DIY chain operators. In the words of the old Sinatra song, “If I can make it there, I’ll make it anywhere”
Baumax
A possible sale is looking more likely
Will Baumax be sold or not? Will the brand remain or will it be dissolved? A lot of questions about Austria’s number one DIY retailer
Russia
Lingering uncertainty
The Russian economy is feeling the weight of sanctions. Is that true of the DIY trade too?
Saturated markets - USA and Canada
The housing market is key
The DIY sector in the USA and Canada is benefiting from a reinvigorated housing market. But service and knowledge transfers could be decisive factors in …
Lowe's
R2D2 now selling hardware
– but under a different name: Lowe’s is testing two robots in sales and has called them OSHbot
Hungry for more innovation
The UK DIY market in 2013
2013 saw a boost to the housing market as mortgage lending improved and house prices rose in some geographical regions, helped in part by the UK …
Turkey - Euromonitor International
DIY still a novelty
The infancy of the Turkish DIY market means there is room for growth, says Cruz del Barrio, head of home and garden research at Euromonitor International. But …
Greece - Diy industry
Home improvement and energy
In these times of instability, the Greeks are now caring more for their houses and apartments. The DIY industry is feeling the change
Web stores
Not products, but stories
What DIY retailers, who would like to set up a web store, can learn from colleagues from other retail sectors and countries
Europe
Tough times for bathroom furniture
The market in Europe has been declining for years. At the moment only the German speaking countries are managing a recovery. DIY stores play a …
Retailers in the US
Two kinds of customers
An examination of retailers in the US serving professional customers and end consumers
Do it Best
Search for greater efficiency
The US wholesaler Do it Best is testing an innovative order-picking software system in its latest distribution centre
Screwfix
Professional or DIY enthusiast?
Screwfix’s catalogue store concept for DIY products has now arrived in Germany
Obi
Huge investment
Sochor has opened the biggest Obi store in Vienna on one of the most highly frequented streets in the Austrian capital