Statistics analysed by BHETA (the British Home Enhancement Trade Association) have revealed forecast growth in DIY and garden expenditure has dropped 12.1%, from £11.4 billion in 2019 to £10 billion.
The online sales channel has grown faster than expected, even in Covid-19 lockdown conditions. Sector growth for the online channel reached 16.2%, £0.1 billion more than expected prior to Covid-19.
Overall, coronavirus has taken £15 billion out of the UK’s retail spend in 2020, down 4.4.%. Non-food retail has been “decimated” during the lockdown, with online sales not offsetting the reduced footfall in store.
The numbers are based on GlobalData’s, from 15 April. BHETA pulls together economic reports from multiple sources of data free to BHETA members every quarter – the next in June.
BHETA’s marketing manager, Steve Richardson, said: “BHETA is working with GlobalData to provide financial updates for its DIY, garden, housewares and small electricals members to keep them abreast of the economic impact of Covid-19. The implications of the pandemic from a commercial perspective are now moving so fast as events unfold that forecasts are changing weekly, and it’s vital that BHETA members have the latest information.
“These figures show DIY and garden in a stronger position than some other areas of home enhancement retail such as flooring, furniture and housewares, as consumers focus on DIY and garden projects instead of holidays and leisure activities. The warmer spring weather is also helping as householders spend more time in their gardens.”
