German DIY stores turn over 2.3 per cent less

In Germany, DIY store sales fell by 2.3 per cent in the first half of 2023 compared with the same period last year, attaining a value of EUR 11.25 bn. This must be considered, however, in comparison to the high double-digit increase from the first quarter of 2022, commented the German DIY association BHB in categorising the figures. A press release goes on to say: "In addition to the impact of consumer anxiety, which was already apparent in the previous year, coupled with high energy costs and continuing high inflation, there are now the effects of a rainy and cold spring that persisted into the early days of May.” Sales were also down 2.3 per cent on a like-for-like basis.

The overall situation in Germany is also clearly reflected in the individual ranges. Products in the leisure/seasonal goods ranges recorded the largest decline of -15.9 per cent, closely followed by timber (-12.6 per cent), garden equipment (-12.3 per cent) and tiles (-10.6 per cent). The biggest increases in the first six months were in garden chemicals/soil/seeds (+8.1 per cent), household items (+7.1 per cent) and automotive (+5.3 per cent).