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© 2024 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.


Founded in 1874 No 5,927 - August 2024


Rising to the challenges


Despite ongoing pressures from the cost-of-living crisis, consumer interest in DIY and home improvement remains robust. This enthusiasm is particularly evident in the continued demand for garden and outdoor projects, as homeowners seek to enhance their living spaces in cost- effective ways.


Sustainability is playing an increasingly pivotal role, with many consumers opting for energy-efficient and eco-friendly products. This shift is not only about reducing environmental impact but also about long-term cost savings, driving growth in areas such as eco-friendly paints, energy-efficient lighting, and upcycled materials. The market’s focus on sustainability


aligns with broader retail trends, where consumers are balancing their desire for quality with the need to manage household budgets effectively. The recent Bank of England interest rate has also offered homeowners a welcome relief. Regardless of the challenging economic backdrop, the industry is still seeing positive developments in consumer behaviour. Shoppers are increasingly turning to DIY solutions as a way to avoid the expense of professional services, highlighting the sector’s potential for growth. Moreover, the rise of second-hand and refurbished goods within the DIY market reflects a broader trend toward cost-conscious and environmentally aware purchasing decisions. It’s good to see retailers are responding to these trends by enhancing their digital offerings, such as the integration of online and in-store experiences, supported by technologies like augmented reality for virtual planning. So as we head into the last quarter of 2024, I believe the UK DIY retail industry is well positioned to thrive by continuing to innovate and align with consumer demands for sustainability, value, and convenience.


In This Issue... Neil Mead, Editorial Director


P4 / NEWS


The latest headlines and breaking news from across the home improvement and garden sectors


P11 / HEATING & INSULATION


Metal frame window experts, Met Therm reveal the five best ways to keep your home’s running costs down


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Published by P18 / PAINT & FINISHES


Homeowners looking for a bold injection of colour should go blue, according to eco paint experts Victory Colours


P28 / GARDEN & LANDSCAPING


New-build homes offer an opportunity for homeowners to make a beautiful new space completely their own


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