BHETA (British Home Enhancement Trade Association) held Independents Day: a live and in-person forum on March 27, spotlighting the opportunities and needs for retailers, suppliers, and wholesalers in the independent sector.
Suppliers, wholesalers, and distributors across the DIY, garden, and housewares sectors outlined how best they could collaborate to drive their business models. The popular event explored mutual support requirements, with speakers throughout the supply chain.
There was also an overview from the Bank of England on current market dynamics vis-à-vis domestic legislation impact, consumer confidence paradigms, and the potential threat of US tariffs. In addition, attendees benefitted from networking, fostering connections with peers across the industry.
“Independents Day proved insightful and collaborative, providing a comprehensive look at the evolving retail landscape, with key suppliers invited to re-evaluate their approach to this vital channel”
Covering all aspects of the independent retailer channel, speakers included: Glynn Jones, deputy agent at Bank of England; Andrew Massey, director of independent DIY, home and garden retailer Masseys; Sarah Wood, managing director of award-winning independent housewares retailer Trevor Mottram; David Hibbert, joint managing director of wholesaler Stax Trade Centres; Casey Warwick, supplier relations manager of wholesaler Decco; Nick Squire, managing director of kitchenware supplier Dayes, which owns the Tala brand; and Richard Walker, managing director of home and kitchenware supplier Eddingtons.
BHETA chief operating officer Will Jones commented: “Since Covid, many UK suppliers have cut their investment in the independent sector. My key takeaway from the very insightful presentations from both retailers and wholesalers is that it’s time for suppliers to take another look at the sector and make sure their businesses are set up to deliver success in what is still a very significant part of the market. I was very pleased with the response of the BHETA members who attended, and we will definitely run more events focusing on this vital sector.”
BHETA DIY and garden sector manager Steve Edwards, who co-ordinated the event, added: “Amidst recent challenges in the industry, including the closure of prominent businesses such as Homebase and Wilko, and the changes at Dobbies, it’s a fact that there are now many locations with no national account retail presence. So, this forum addressed the critical role independent retailers now play in shaping the future of DIY, garden, housewares, and small electricals – from a retail, wholesale, and supplier perspective. We found a lot of common ground, practical initiatives, and some striking opportunities.
“Independents Day proved insightful and collaborative, providing a comprehensive look at the evolving retail landscape, with key suppliers invited to re-evaluate their approach to this vital channel, exploring ways to strengthen relationships and seize new opportunities. There were many new conversations initiated as a result.”
For more information about similar BHETA services and events, email info@bheta.co.uk or call 0121 237 1130.