COMMENT


Founded in 1874 No 5,877 - June 2020 www.diyweek.net


Contributing Editor: Alex Fordham afordham@datateam.co.uk


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The era of virtual is here to stay in the DIY industry


I’m sure I’m not the only ones whose mood during the past few months has fluctuated on a daily basis. This may well be reflected in the DIY industry, where we have learnt of some real green shoots of recovery, but also some notable casualties of the pandemic, which although inevitable, are still tough to digest, nevertheless. Sadly, we recently learnt that Travis Perkins is set to


reduce its workforce by nearly 10%, and close 165 of its branches. Undoubtedly we’re seeing a reset of the way business is being conducted in the DIY industry, with retailers with branches that struggle to implement safe distancing practices, and unprofitable branches set to close.


What we’re also experiencing is the continuing rapid


growth of ecommerce and this has been reflected in the growth in Q2 for Kingfisher. Despite LFL sales down by 24.8% in Q1 2020, Q2 figures have bounced back remarkably, with Group LFL sales up 21.8% (to 13 June 2020). Although too early to offer a comprehensive analysis, a few signs of recovery are most welcome in the DIY industry at present. With this changing landscape in mind, readers are advised to turn to our virtual exhibition


“Sadly, we recently learnt that Travis Perkins is set to reduce its workforce by nearly 10%, and close 165 of its branches”


preview on p.21. With many trade shows having been cancelled due to the pandemic, we’re witnessing a revolution in virtual exhibitions and conferences. Whether this becomes the norm it remains to be seen, however, they’re certainly here to stay for the next year or two at least. I hope you enjoy the issue.


Alex Fordham, contributing editor, Garden Centre Update & DIY Week afordham@datateam.co.uk


In This Issue


© 2020 Datateam Business Media Ltd. DIY Week incorporates Decor Retailing, DIY Retail Leaders, DIY Superstore, Do-It-Yourself


Retailing, Domestic Electrical Appliances,


Excellence In Garden Retailing, Excellence In Woodcare Retailing, Excellence In Timber Retailing, Excellence In Tile Retailing, Garden Retail Leaders, Garden Retailing, Hardware Merchandiser, Hardware Trade Journal, Homecentre, Home Storage Retailing, The Ironmonger, Ironmongery & Hardware, Lighting, Martineau & Smith’s Monthly Circular, Mercantile Guardian, Superstore Management, Tools Retailing, and Wholesale Leaders. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without prior written permission from the publishers. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material published in DIY Week. However, Datateam Business Media Ltd will not be liable for any inaccuracies. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the editor or publishers. DIY Week is registered at Stationers’ Hall. ISSN 0954-8823. DIY Week is printed on environmentally friendly paper; both text paper and cover stock are elementary chlorine free and sourced from paper suppliers with a well planned environmental policy. This issue of DIY Week includes some editorial photographs provided and paid for by suppliers. Printed by Buxton Press.


P8 / NEWS FEATURE Garden retailing trends


P14 / HOUSEWARES


The latest on the how the housewares industry is coping during the Covid-19 pandemic


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P18 / AN INDEPENDENT REMEMBERS P21 / VIRTUAL EXHIBITION


Our independent provides his irreverent take on the industry.


www.diyweek.net


The latest virtual trade events occurring within the DIY industry


JUNE 2020 DIY WEEK 3 Published by


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