Sales of emulsion paint increased 12.8% over August Bank holiday weekend as consumers "busy themselves" with home improvements.
According to recent figures from research company GfK, emulsion paint sales jumped 12.8% in volume terms over the second August Bank holiday period.

Sales of both white and coloured emulsion were up, while GfK believes that fine weather over the weekend of August 29-31 meant that many consumers took the opportunity to indulge in some home decoration.

GfK analyst Stephan Lamouroux said: "Whilst it should be borne in mind that the increase could partly be attributed to some pretty grim weather at the same point in 2008, it is still very encouraging to see consumers make their way to DIY stores and busy themselves with home improvements.

"We would be wise not to get too carried away, although this is certainly a positive sign for the industry and possibly a cause for measured optimism for the economy in general."