INDUSTRY COMMENT: BHETA


NOW’S THE TIME TO DOUBLE DOWN ON EXPORT


Chief


Operating Officer of BHETA,


Will Jones, offers his opinion on why now is the time for suppliers to double down on export strategies and for retailers to partner with forward- thinking UK brands that are ready to grow.


of the game with key territories, retail contacts, trends, and changing international legislation including, most obviously, Brexit. Today, there are even more challenges to successful international trade with US tariffs attracting the headline coverage, but I am happy to say that this trade association is very much on the case, and for suppliers keen to explore the wider markets, BHETA is not only advising on the opportunities, but it also, as they say, ‘has your back’. As chief operating officer of


B


BHETA, I get a front-row seat to the international changes affecting our sector, and I can say with confidence, now is the time for suppliers to double down on export strategies. And retailers? This is your chance to partner with forward-thinking UK brands that are ready to grow. While keeping up with the changing world of export can seem challenging, with suppliers having to navigate shifting tariffs, and retailers reliant on a strong supply base, BHETA is able to turn these apparent ripples into opportunities. Let’s break down some key developments and how BHETA is helping members not only stay ahead but get ahead.


Navigating tariff turbulence Tariffs are currently somewhat


8 DIY WEEK MAY 2025 HETA has long


been proactive in ensuring supplier members can make the most of export, staying ahead


of a moving target and staying compliant (and competitive) can feel like trying to hit a bull’s-eye on a spinning dartboard. Whether it’s changes post-Brexit, updates from the World Trade Organisation, or bilateral adjustments, we know clarity is paramount. That’s why BHETA runs a dedicated International Trade


Helpline. For businesses grappling with tariffs, trade codes, or customs classification, BHETA can demystify the process – and offer practical, up-to-date guidance.


UK-USA trade deal – a potential win for British brands


One possible bright light on the horizon is the strengthening of the UK-USA trade relationship. Recent developments have made it easier and cheaper for UK manufacturers and brands to access the vast US market versus many other suppliers. Lowered tariffs on select product categories, streamlined regulatory alignment, and faster export clearances are all good news. The key thing is to be able to exploit this chance. BHETA is already in conversation with The Hardlines Distribution Alliance (HDA) in the US – a fantastic network of over 75 distributors focused on DIY and


garden goods serving thousands of independent retailers nationwide with spending power of £7bn+. We’ll soon be announcing BHETA events where UK companies can interact with the HDA team and set up trading relationships.


Advice


UK-India trade deal – gateway to growth


The UK-India trade agreement is another potential game-changer, and BHETA can help exporters access the opportunity. With India’s burgeoning middle class and fast- growing DIY culture, it’s a market on the rise. The removal of key duties and a friendlier regulatory landscape are opening the door for more British products to land on Indian shelves. BHETA is now set up to provide tailored insights on how to approach this market – from logistics to cultural expectations – as well as introductions to trusted partners.


Eisenwarenmesse 2026 – be at the heart of the action There’s no better international platform to showcase your brand to a global audience than the EISENWARENMESSE – International Hardware Fair from 3 to 6 March 2026 in Cologne. BHETA


is hosting a webinar on 16 June in which Show Director, Sebastian Hein, will give an overview to exhibitors for the 2026 show. For any company serious about export, this is an event not to be missed. With all that’s going on affecting international trade, export today may seem not for the faint-hearted, but there are exciting opportunities and BHETA offers practical ways to realise them. Within that sentiment I include the role this trade association can also offer retailers. BHETA is keen to foster connections between the UK’s best brands and the most forward-thinking retailers - through networking events, webinars, and curated showcases. It’s all about collaboration. We


would welcome more suppliers who would like to discuss the latest export opportunities and advice alongside other routes to market. We would also like to talk to retailers along the same lines.


For more information on BHETA’s export services, supplier / retailer networking, market data supply, and lobbying / legislative advice contact BHETA Member Services on 0121 237 1130 or via www.bheta. co.uk.


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