INDUSTRY COMMENT: BHETA
I
ncreasingly the international online m arketplac es are creating new direct-to-consumer opportunities
for UK brands, and they can be effective ways not only to grow export sales, but also to test demand, and build brand visibility without the immediate need for a full local infrastructure.
Marketplaces can give suppliers access to new audiences, often with lower upfront risk than traditional market entry. They can also provide valuable insight into which products; price points and messages resonate in different territories. Consumers across Europe and beyond are increasingly comfortable buying products online from international brands, provided the offer is clear, delivery is reliable and product information is trustworthy. As a result, DIY and garden suppliers are now being presented with opportunities
to
explore the options across multiple different categories from tools to storage to spare parts and electrical accessories.
Marketplaces are not without challenges Using cross-border ecommerce as means of growing export is not always simple. It is not simply a case of uploading products and waiting for orders. Suppliers need to understand the requirements of individual marketplaces, the expectations of local consumers, how to interpret product data, the local nuances or platform- specific requirements of delivery promises, returns, customer service, VAT, duty, labelling and product compliance. The landscape is also evolving quickly, especially in the EU. Regulation, digital routes to market and consumer expectations are all changing. This creates opportunity, but it also means suppliers need practical guidance before committing time and investment.
BHETA to hold Export
Marketplaces Day in September Just because it is so vital that suppliers approach every option with sufficient knowledge, BHETA is holding a live conference, the Export Marketplaces Day on Thursday 10th September 2026 at the Crowne Plaza, NEC, Birmingham. The event will also include some exciting ‘Meet the Buyer’ opportunities with leading international marketplace players. The event is designed for suppliers in the DIY, garden, housewares, and
8 DIY WEEK JUNE 2026
UTILISING GLOBAL MARKET PLACES FOR EXPORT
Accessing overseas markets to develop growth through export has traditionally depended on distributors, agents, retailers, wholesalers, and trade shows. While those routes remain important for any DIY, garden, or home improvement supplier, they are no longer the only way to reach international consumers, says Steve Edwards, BHETA’s sector manager for DIY and garden.
Left: Steve Edwards, BHETA’s sector manager for DIY and garden
platforms, including bol, Castorama, Joybuy and TikTok Shop. Attendees will also be able to hear from and meet export support specialists including the Department for Business and Trade, Dachser and BHETA Business Support Providers.
“Marketplaces can give suppliers access to new audiences, often with lower upfront risk than traditional market entry.”
small electrical sectors who are either already exporting or considering international growth for the first time. The day will include expert insight into EU export opportunities and challenges, the development of online marketplaces, regulatory changes, logistics, compliance, and practical routes to growth. The dedicated Meet the Buyer sessions with leading marketplace
How to get involved BHETA’s
Export Marketplaces
Day takes place on Thursday 10th September 2026, from 9am to 5pm. To access, the BHETA member rate is £150 plus VAT, with a non- member rate of £200 plus VAT. All suppliers interested in
growing international sales through marketplaces, testing new markets or better understanding the changing export landscape should register their interest via the BHETA website at www.
bheta.co.uk/events/export- marketplaces-day.
Marketplaces are now part of the export mix
Marketplaces should be considered as part of any modern export
strategy. For some suppliers, they may offer a useful first step into a new country. For others, they may sit alongside distributor, retail, and
strengthening brand presence and consumer demand. The key is to approach the
opportunity professionally. Successful marketplace export requires preparation, resource, and the
a clear commercial
understanding of and operational
implications. BHETA’s Export Marketplaces Day is the perfect way to find out more.
About BHETA
BHETA represents suppliers in the home improvement, garden, housewares, and small electricals sectors, providing members with insight, networking, and business development opportunities. For more information, contact BHETA Member Services on 0121 237 1130 or visit
www.bheta.co.uk.
www.diyweek.net trade partnerships,
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60
