Rain, and even hail in some parts of the UK, led to a 9.7% increase in cooking and dining ranges, as consumers chose to eat indoors. 

Rob Templeman, who will retire from his position at Debenhams on September 2, will succeed current BRC chairman Luke Mayhew. 

Plumbers and builders merchants group Wolseley has reported a 30% rise in group trading profit for the third quarter to April 30, despite UK profits falling 11%. 

DIY chain reveals growth plans with recent appointment of surveyors to secure 100 new units, significantly expanding its store portfolio. 

B&Q UK and Ireland sees positive like-for-like (lfl) sales growth for first time in six quarters. 

M-commerce could be worth £19bn by 2010 but retailers could be missing out on a significant number of sales due to problems with mobile broadband connections. 

Topps Tiles has reported a slight decline in profits for the first half of its financial year, but says it is "encouraged" by trading patterns seen during the period. 

Latest email shot to customers highlights big bargains and says more stock is coming into stores every day. 

Supermarket chain to introduce the facility in more than 800 stores by Christmas, as it confirms that non-food merchandise is 'a key area of focus' for the retailer. 

Growing media firm's sales bolstered by acquisitions and good weather but ceo raises concerns over targets for peat reduction. 

Stax Trade Centres has announced the acquisition of Edinburgh-based wholesaler D F Wishart for an undisclosed sum. 

HSBC Corporate Banking in Bristol to provide capital facilities to gardening chain to support in further expansion of the business. 

Ultimate Products has become the first housewares supplier to sign up for the Rainy Day Trust's new Partner package. 

CBI quarterly Distributive Trades Survey reveals 41% of retailers saw sales volumes rise in two weeks to May 16, although durable household goods and furniture saw declines. 

The warmer weather has had a positive effect on many DIY and garden categories, according to the latest research from analysts GfK Retail & Technology. 

£50m retail site in East Kilbride will feature Tesco supermarket and state-of-the-art Dobbies garden centre. 

Administrator Ernst & Young issues list of 55 stores bought by B&M Homestore, Wickes and B&Q. 

Administrators Ernst & Young are expected to announce today the planned closure of some 120 unsold Focus stores, putting about 3,000 jobs at risk. 

More shoppers are planning to grow their own fruit and vegetables in the coming year, according to IGD ShopperTrack research published this week. 

All Focus stock is to be liquidated and the remaining stores closed. A closing down sale started this morning.