NEWS
AkzoNobel’s Colour of the Year 2025 radiates True Joy
If any colour can paint a smile on your face, it’s True Joy, AkzoNobel’s Colour of the Year for 2025. The sunny yellow shade is on a mission to fill our homes with optimism, pride and a splash of vibrant colour. Supported by three complementary colour palettes, True Joy is the result of extensive research into colour, design, cultural, economic and social trends, which identified a desire
Bira responds to August inflation figures
The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) has said the inflation rate holding steady at 2.2% in August provides some stability for the high street, but stresses the Bank of England needs to now reduce interest rates to boost consumer spending.
Bira, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, has reacted to the news that the UK inflation rate for August remained unchanged from July, sitting just above the Bank of England’s target of 2%. This marks a significant improvement from the peak of the cost of living crisis in 2022.
The steady rate for August comes despite a jump in air fares, offset by lower fuel prices and a slowdown in restaurant price increases. However, private rents across the UK increased by 8.4% in the year to August, potentially putting additional pressure on consumers’ disposable income. Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira said: “We’re pleased to see inflation has remained static, although consumer spending on the high street for non-essential items remains depressed. With inflation not rising, we hope the Bank of England will now reduce interest rates to further boost consumer confidence.”
to make a joyful leap into the unknown, celebrate craftsmanship and embrace who we are. “In this rapidly changing world,
it’s easy to feel uncertain about our next steps,” explains Heleen van Gent, Creative Director of AkzoNobel’s Global Aesthetic Center. “But change creates an opportunity for imagination; a chance to create something even better. With our new Colour of the Year and ColourFutures
2025 palettes, we want to inspire consumers to celebrate their roots and creativity and embrace the optimism of moving forward
in their homes and spaces.” AkzoNobel’s Global Aesthetic Center has been translating trends into desirable colours for our homes for more than 30 years. Its annual ColourFutures trend forecast meeting brings together in-house experts, international architects, designers and journalists to share insights into how our reactions to the world around us impact our colour choices.
Deco-Pak embarks on a new chapter with MBO
Deco-Pak, a leading supplier of decorative landscaping to the garden centre industry, has announced a major milestone, as it celebrates its 20th anniversary. As part of a renewed strategic direction, the company has undergone a management buyout by David and Craig Hall, marking a significant evolution in its growth and commitment to the industry.
Founded in 2004, Deco- Pak has been a trusted name in garden and landscaping products, drawing on a rich family heritage of experience in the sector that dates back to the late 80s. With the management buyout, Deco-Pak is set to strengthen its position
in the market by focusing on a new strategic approach centred around sustainability and enhanced customer value. “This is a very exciting time for Deco-Pak,” said Managing Director, Craig Hall. “As we celebrate two decades in the industry, we are embracing change to better meet the evolving needs of our customers. Our new direction
T.B. Davies’ ladder range now available at over 230 Dulux Decorator Centres
T.B Davies, a trusted access equipment supplier, has secured a new partnership with Dulux Decorator Centre, the UK’s leading decorators’ merchant. This collaboration will make T.B. Davies’ innovative ladders, including the acclaimed Little Giant Ladder collection, available at over 230 Dulux Decorator Centre stores nationwide. Cardiff-based T.B. Davies manufactures a comprehensive range of products for working at height, including steps,
Neighbourhood Watch research finds burglary is one of UK’s most feared crimes
ERA, one of the UK’s leading home security and fenestration component providers, is encouraging merchants and retailers to share home security advice with customers, after research by Neighbourhood Watch found that burglary is
4 DIY WEEK SEPTEMBER 2024
one of the most feared crimes across the country.
The Crime and Community
study, commissioned by Neighbourhood Watch found that after antisocial behaviour, burglary is one of the most feared crimes, with 52% of Brits
ladders, towers, and podiums, all designed to improve safety and efficiency for professionals. These solutions are especially beneficial in complex environments like stairs, corners, and uneven surfaces, where stability and versatility are crucial. Dulux Decorator Centre, known for supporting professionals and DIY enthusiasts with top-quality decorating supplies and expert advice, now offers award-winning products such
noting it as a top concern. ERA, which has over 185 years of experience in the development and distribution of home security products, is working with Neighbourhood Watch, as part of their long- standing eight-year partnership, to highlight the study. Both organisations are committed to raising awareness amongst homeowners of the steps they
is focused on sustainability – not just from an environmental perspective, but also in terms of delivering high-quality products, fair pricing, exceptional service, and an overall superior customer experience.” Deco-Pak’s renewed commitment to sustainability includes a conscious effort to reduce environmental impact through responsible sourcing, the Net-Zero plan, and innovation in product development. Moreover, the company is focusing on sustainable business practices that ensure quality and value, aligning with the growing demand for more responsible and ethical choices among garden centre customers.
Wickes Group announces interim 2024 results
Wickes has announced its HY24 results with total revenue of £799.9m (H1 2023: £827.7m) down -3.4% year-on-year. During the half, the Group achieved further volume growth and record market share gains in retail, with TradePro remaining a key differentiator. The market for design and installation remained tough during the half, nonetheless the Group has seen a positive response to its value-led Wickes Lifestyle Kitchen range, which is growing strongly. Trading in Q3 so far has seen
an improved trend; in retail, LFL sales growth has strengthened and Design & Installation is stabilising. The Group’s full year outlook remains unchanged. David Wood, Chief Executive
of Wickes, commented: “This first half performance is testament to the hard work of all our colleagues and demonstrates the strength of our balanced business model. We achieved further volume growth and record market share gains in Retail, with TradePro remaining a key differentiator. The market for Design and Installation remained tough during the half and Wickes was not immune; nonetheless, we have seen a positive response to our value- led Wickes Lifestyle Kitchen range, which is growing strongly. “We are on track for the
as the versatile Little Giant King Kombo, and the T.B Davies Heavy Duty Fibreglass Swingback Step Ladders. These ladders are renowned for their durability and reliability, helping decorators work more safely and efficiently in even the most challenging conditions.
can take to secure their homes using both traditional and innovative new smart security solutions.
Sumier Foster-Shah, Product and Customer Support Manager at ERA, said: “With over half of the Crime and Community survey’s 28,000+ respondents voicing concerns about burglary, merchants and retailers are well placed to share home security
remainder of the year and have been encouraged by trading at the start of the second half. Looking further ahead, our outstanding customer offer, proven growth levers and focus on cost control leave us well-placed within a home improvement market which continues to offer significant opportunities.”
advice and guidance with their valued customers.
www.diyweek.net
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