Essential reading for retailers and suppliers in the home improvement market

Weather hampers diy and garden sales, say BRC

Published: 16 April 2008
Poor March sees dip in like-for-likes.
Diy and garden sales had a rough ride in March due to the poor weather and consumers reining in spending, the BRC has said in its latest retail monitor.

"The early Easter and bad weather hit gardening hard and also discouraged exterior diy," Joscelyne Hynard, senior analyst of the British Retail Consortium (BRC) said in the BRC's March report.

She added: "The housing market weakness and consumer caution hit big-ticket items, but trade building held up, showing some growth and new decorative ranges helped indoor diy."

Overall, last month like-for-like sales fell by 1.6% (2007: sales were up 3.9%). The decline was the worst since July 2005 when cold wet weather hit sales.

In comparison to diy and garden goods, food sales slowed after two strong months and clothing and footwear were the worst for at least eight years. Homewares and furniture fell further, despite continued discounting and promotions, the BRC said.

Many analysts are now looking to April figures to measure the extent of moves that cover range, promotions and price to see if price-conscious consumers will be tempted to buy.

Comments


(Your email address will not be published)
4 + 6 =  
Already Registered?
Sign In
Not Yet Registered?
Register
Printable View E-mail Bookmark
*

Latest reader comments

re: Latest update on Green Homes Grant and implications for homeowners and landlords

John Hart
After applying for a green homes how long will it take for a decision? thanks...

re: SX Rainproof Exterior Caulk

Wally
I need the exterior sx rain resistant caulk! Can't get it anywhere so please help! How can I order it? Need it yesterday...

re: BCT can replicate any material in a ceramic tile

Christina Tiritanou
Not sure if you can help as I require a tile which has the measurements of 6”x 6”? Thank you....

re: Latest update on Green Homes Grant and implications for homeowners and landlords

colin thompson
SarahVery clear and helpful information.Thanks...

Most read stories