Sales figures down in Brazil

The volume of sales in Brazil’s DIY stores fell by 11 per cent in 2003, according to the German Office for Foreign Trade (BFAI). It’s the first time in nine years that the industry has experienced a downward trend. Economic stabilization since the mid-1990s had opened the way for steady expansion of the DIY stores. However, falling incomes and a high interest rate have checked further growth. The trend for 2004 continues to be regarded as uncertain.