Popular event to run again at new location in Birmingham, with speakers from the BRC and Verdict Research.
The Conference, which will run on Monday, February 8 at the 2010 Totally shows, will focus on the future for DIY retailing on Britain's high streets.

Held in the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Conference Rooms 19/20, will be chaired by DIY Week editor Will Parsons. The morning's programme will include presentations from BRC Director General Stephen Robertson and D&G Hardware owner Toby Roberts, who recently took home Gold in the 'Retail Shooting Star' category of the BBRAs.

These business views will be supported by presentations from two of the UK's leading market research companies; Verdict Research and The Local Data Company.

Verdict will be giving an overview of the outlook for UK retail, focusing on the DIY sector. It will be using data from its 'How Britain shops' series of reports to provide insight into how consumers' needs and wants are evolving.

Matthew Hopkinson, business development director of the LDC, which specialises in tracking businesses on Britain's key high streets, commented: "To date the DIY sector has shown itself be more resilient than most when it comes to business closures in 2009 but how will this change in 2010 as other sectors and locations suffer with closure rates at over 15% and streets with one in four shops vacant?"

Totally exhibition director James Murray said: "The DIY industry has undoubtedly witnessed some turbulent times in recent years. We've seen the end of continued growth, key shifts in retailer presentations, increasing consolidation in the supplier base and a greater reliance on the internet for purchasing."

He added: "The way people shop is changing and the face of our high streets is evolving, so it's important that DIY evolves with it. This Conference will highlight the changes that have already taken place, those that are likely to take place and help delegates in their forward thinking and planning."

To see the full programme, visit www.totallydiy.co.uk. Delegate places are £65 + VAT. To register, please contact Jo Waddell on 020 7973 4682 or via j.waddell@hgluk.com.