DIY WEEK AWARDS 2026: TRADE TALKS UNLOCK
SUCCESS IN DIY RETAIL
Are you ready to take your DIY and home improvement retail business to the next level? Don’t miss your chance to gain exclusive insights, expert advice, and practical strategies at this unmissable half- day conference, tailored specifically for the DIY trade.
W
hether you’re an independent retailer, an e-commer c e operator, or a supplier looking
to stay ahead of the curve, this is your opportunity to connect with key figures from across the industry. Our hand-picked speakers – leading experts in retail, e-commerce, and business growth – will share real- world knowledge and actionable tips to help you thrive in an ever- evolving market. From mastering multi-channel selling and navigating supply chain challenges, to future-proofing your store and growing your online presence, this event covers the topics that matter most. You’ll walk away with fresh ideas, new connections, and the confidence to
WHY ATTEND? • Hear from top industry leaders • Discover the latest trends in retail and e-commerce
• Get practical advice tailored to DIY and home improvement
• Network with peers and experts • Leave with ideas you can act on immediately Spaces are limited and demand is high, so secure your place today and make sure your business is ready for what’s next. Don’t get left behind, be part of the conversation that’s shaping the future of DIY, home improvement and garden retail.
The event will host expert speakers from leading global DIY and home improvement retailers and suppliers, including the following:
SPEAKER TBC – AI in retail Independent retail businesses are facing increasing pressure
online competition, rising customer expectations, and operational costs. This presentation explores how the latest developments in
from
Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help independent retailers compete more effectively, improve efficiency, and deliver better customer experiences. It will highlight practical AI tools that are affordable and accessible for smaller businesses, including personalised marketing, automated customer service, inventory management, sales forecasting, and data-driven decision making. The presentation will also demonstrate how AI can save time by automating routine tasks, allowing retailers to focus on customer relationships and business growth. Real-world examples will show how independent retailers are already using AI technology to increase sales, reduce waste, and strengthen customer loyalty. Finally, the session will discuss future opportunities and considerations, helping retailers understand how AI can become a valuable and realistic part of their long-term business strategy in an increasingly digital retail environment.
JEFF MOODY Bira – Retail Trends
Jeff Moody has experience that spans over 30 years in the independent retail
market, working within the trade association, FMCG, manufacturing, consumer electronics, hardware, DIY and
housewares sectors. He’s a firm believer that a business needs to find its true values and then follow them, as there must be something of a soul at the heart of an organisation. Recognised for providing leadership, hands- on coaching and mentoring, with a proven track record for delivering strategies resulting in sales and profit growth, as well as brand leadership, in challenging retail environments, Jeff stands out a true business leader who is creative, driven and charismatic.
ADAM
CROSSAN Buying Group Sales Manager, Toolbank – Distribution Channels
Adam has worked in the industry for the past 17 years working for Harrison & Clough, Bahco Tools and most recently Toolbank where he has spent the last 5 years, during this time Adam has dealt with a varied customer base including multi-channel retailers, large online retailers, and Independent businesses. Part of Adam’s current role for Toolbank is being responsible for several UK Merchant Buying Groups including NMBS, FORTIS, NBG, H&B, IBMG to name a few, he plays a key role in developing and maintaining relationships and strategically working with the Toolbank’s customer base to assist with sales and margin growth. Toolbank offer over 36,000 products from 280 leading brands, all delivered to our customers on a next day basis (in most cases) with no minimum order
THE TRADE
TALKS CONFERENCE TAKES PLACE ON FRIDAY 22 MAY AT
THE GRAND CONNAUGHT ROOMS, COVENT GARDEN, LONDON FROM 9:30AM – 12 NOON
JOIN THE DIY WEEK TRADE TALKS CONFERENCE SPEAKER PROGRAMME
NILS
KERNCHEN Daley Hub – European Marketplaces
Nils Kernchen is a marketplace
strategist and digital growth expert with a deep passion for helping brands succeed across Europe and beyond. At ManoMano, he had the unique opportunity to launch and build the German platform from the ground up, transforming it into one of Europe’s largest DIY and gardening marketplaces. Later, he helped pioneer the first marketplace for boating and super yachting products in Monaco with YachtNeeds. Today, Nils works with Daley Hub to help ambitious brands to design winning marketplace strategies, unlock new growth opportunities, and expand internationally.
BEN LAINTON Director of Trade Screwfix – Retail Strategy
Ben Lainton is the Director of Trade at Screwfix, a
position he has held since 2019, leading commercial strategy, product ranges, and key events like Screwfix Live. Based in Somerset, he has a long career in retail buying and trading, with previous roles at Kingfisher plc and Somerfield. Ben frequently leads the strategy for the annual ‘Screwfix Live’ trade event, focusing on showcasing products and driving sales. He works closely with the commercial team to develop product ranges and support professional tradespeople. His role involves close collaboration with retail stores, including visiting teams during high-volume periods like Black Friday. Before becoming Director of Trade, he was a Senior Buyer for Power Tools and Hand Tools at Screwfix and a product lead for power tools at Kingfisher plc.
REGISTER ONLINE TODAY AT:
DIYWEEKAWARDS.CO.UK/TRADE-TALKS-REGISTRATION 14 DIY WEEK APRIL 2026
www.diyweek.net
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