While DIY stores experienced a real boom in the Corona years due to many do-it-yourselfers, the situation is currently looking worse. Rising prices and the weather are causing sales to plummet.
The DIY sector in Germany is struggling with falling sales. Customers have become more reluctant to shop in DIY stores and garden centers in view of the high energy costs and the rise in food prices, said Peter Wüst, the general manager of the DIY, building and garden trade association (BHB).
The weather with cold and rainy days until May also contributed to the development. At 11.25 billion euros, the industry’s turnover in the first half of 2023 was 2.3 percent below the previous year’s level. The losses in leisure and seasonal goods were particularly strong. In addition, less was bought in the areas of wood and garden equipment.
Hardly any major construction projects
The trend had already become apparent last year that consumers were becoming more cautious about expensive purchases. In the current situation, large projects such as house construction plans are often postponed or even abandoned.
BHB board spokesman Tepass sees a need for action on the part of politics. “The state absolutely has to ensure plannable and fundable framework conditions for the urgently needed housing construction,” he said. Consumer behavior also affects the do-it-yourself industry.
Source: Stern
