Same great cement now available in both the reliable paper bag and new plastic bag. www.irishcement.ie
Neil McDonnell joined ISME as Chief Executive in 2016. He previously served as an infantry officer in the Irish Defence Forces, as a staff officer in Defence Forces HQ, and in operational roles in Lebanon and Cyprus.
See page 12
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In this issue we check in once again with those at the forefront of this activity seeking both inspiration and trend analysis.
The seasons are a-changing, and with that comes the need to refocus. Bright summer displays have taken centre-stage in many stores up and down the country for the past few months.
Now our thoughts turn towards Autumnal themes.
This is the natural order of things in our trade. Constantly moving forward. And above all, anticipating – with an eye to trends and changing customer expectations.
In this issue we check in once again with those at the forefront of all of this activity seeking both inspiration and trend analysis.
One of the best places to take soundings is at shows like spoga+gafa 2025, which demonstrated for example, how strongly the significance of the outdoor section is changing with outdoor living becoming an expression of our modern lifestyle.
Another great example was the Global DIY-Summit. Held in Lisbon, the ‘Queen of the Sea’. This year’s Summit brought together over 1,000 delegates from 55 countries.
A constant source of inspiration is of course, our ‘Inspiring Retail from Around the World’ series. This time out, we visit Argentina.
With seven stores and 60 staff across Argentina, CUK is a store that has a simple, yet strong, mission: to create a hassle-free and memorable shopping experience and to always offer a warm, personal touch, writes Michelle Hespe in this issue.
But the inspiration does not stop there. In News we hear, as always, from a range of ‘household’ names in the business – from Retail Excellence Ireland to the Irish Green Building Council and many more.
As usual, we also have a huge range of Product information, from a host of top suppliers.
And returning to those seasonal changes, Liam, our gardening retail guru, shares his thoughts on the current time of year – and how to make the most of the challenges and opportunities.
We hope you enjoy this issue!
Martin Foran, Editor
4 NEWS
News from the trade and the wider economy.
12
Neil McDonnell is approaching 10 years as Chief Executive with ISME.
14 THE
With seven stores across Argentina, CUK has a simple, yet strong, mission. Also: Housewares and small appliances poised for growth.
19 THE AI REVOLUTION IN DIY
How AI is revolutionizing DIY and home improvement, with Iñaki Maillard.
20 HOMEVALUE & BARRETSTOWN FEATURE
Partnership will support Barretstown with a range of initiatives.
22 CHADWICKS SALLYNOGGIN IN FOCUS
Chadwicks has unveiled another refurbished branch!
24 OUT & ABOUT: THE GLOBAL DIY SUMMIT
The 11th edition of the Global DIY-Summit, in Lisbon.
26 SHOWTIME
From garden to outdoor experience: spoga+gafa 2025.
28 THE ROOM OUTSIDE
Practical seasonal advice from Liam Kelly.
33 PRODUCTS & SERVICES
A host of top suppliers in focus.
52 THE FINAL SAY
Jeff Haden’s advice rounds it all off on a positive note!
Chadwicks recently released a new episode of its awardwinning podcast Under Construction with Chadwicks where comedy legends Bernard O’Shea and Pat McDonnell shared their insights with host Donncha O’Callaghan on how Irish comedy has evolved in recent years.
Celebrating the 30th anniversary of Father Ted, on the Chadwicks podcast episode, Pat McDonnell recalls his journey selling jumpers in a clothes store to becoming the iconic Eoin McLove in the series.
In an ironic twist of fate, Eoin McLove was famously obsessed with jumpers – art imitating life! Pat, who guest-starred in the
third series of Father Ted, recalls feeling like he was ‘playing tambourine with The Beatles’, such was the show’s success at the time.
Discovered for the role through his stand-up gigs, he was blown away by the script’s brilliance but reveals that some of Eoin McLove’s most iconic lines were improvised on set.
In the same episode, Bernard reflects on the early challenges of breaking into comedy in Ireland, with few gigs and limited TV opportunities.
That all changed, he says, when Des Bishop’s The Des Bishop Work Experience aired on RTÉ, calling it ‘the tide that lifted all boats’.
Now, Bernard believes
Dustin the Turkey joined in the celebrations as Chadwicks marked a new chapter for the trade and DIY community in Sallynoggin unveiling its newly refurbished local branch.
Chadwicks Sallynoggin now boasts a wide range of specialist centres and showrooms, from smart home technology and sustainable solutions to enhanced trade services and a new coffee and hot food outlet.
See feature in this issue!
About Chadwicks Group
Chadwicks Group has 50 branches in the Republic of Ireland. It employs over 1,500 people and offers value, service, expertise and knowledge to the sector.
Chadwicks Group has contributed to the fabric of everyday life in Ireland for over 200 years, supplying products and building materials to homes, hotels, buildings and transport networks throughout the country.
Chadwicks Group currently operates Chadwicks, Heiton Steel, The Panelling Centre, Telfords, Cork Builders Providers, Proline, Sitetech, Morgans Timber and Davies builders’ and plumbers’ merchanting businesses in the Republic of Ireland. Chadwicks Group is part of Grafton Group plc.
Instagram is the new gatekeeper of comic fame, and he credits comics Joanne McNally and Chris Kent for revitalising the scene.
He also shares the long road to getting his hit show Bridget and Eamon commissioned – which took over two years before RTÉ finally gave it the
green light.
New episodes of Under Construction with Chadwicks are available every week on all major podcast streaming services in Ireland, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Forty-nine percent of small businesses reported an increase in business costs in the past 12 months, according to the Small Firms Association’s Small Business Survey, which was conducted by Amárach.
Over 350 small businesses, nationwide took part in the recent survey and were asked questions related to business costs and business sentiment.
Although the percentage of small businesses reporting increased costs are significantly down from last year (84%), businesses are still struggling with a highcost base with 44 percent of businesses reporting no change in costs in the past year.
Business costs remain a challenge for many small businesses with an average increase in costs at 11.7% in the past 12 months, among the businesses that have experienced increased costs.
However, that is a decline from a 16.6% rise in business costs reported in last year’s survey.
Labour-related costs remain the biggest challenge with 31 percent of all businesses reporting that employment costs have increased in the past 12 months, however that is a decline from 48 percent of all businesses in last year’s survey.
The survey also showed that borrowing has declined among small businesses in the past twelve months, with only 13 percent claiming to have done so in this year’s survey compared to 40 percent last year.
Furthermore, the percentage of businesses that stated that they have not borrowed any money in the past two years has increased from 54 percent last year to 81 percent this year.
Debt levels have decreased but almost half of businesses surveyed say that there are barriers to accessing needed finance.
Reduced borrowing has impacted the ability for small businesses to operate with 54 percent of businesses surveyed saying they could not trade beyond 6 months without additional funding, a significant increase from 35 percent reported in last year’s survey.
Of the businesses that have successfully
sourced funding in the past 12 months, 62 percent have borrowed from the pillar banks, an increase of 24 percent.
However, 22 percent have borrowed money from family and friends, an increase from 19 percent reported last year.
With the possibility of tariffs between the EU and the United States, 6 out of 10 firms are currently taking action to mitigate against tariffs while 22 percent of small businesses are reviewing spending plans.
Commenting on the small business survey, Director of the SFA, David Broderick said: ‘The clear message from this survey is that almost all small businesses are operating in a high-cost environment in recent years.
For many, this is not sustainable.
‘It is alarming to see that more than half of businesses surveyed will not be able to trade beyond six months without additional funding.
‘This comes amid a decline in borrowing which may be attributed to lower debt levels and that almost half of businesses surveyed say that there are barriers to accessing finance.
‘Overall, this survey highlights the need for urgent policy action from the Government to mitigate against high business costs.
‘Budget 2026 presents an ideal opportunity for Government to act decisively.
‘The SFA recently participated in the Government’s first “cost of business” forum which was a welcome opportunity to highlight the pain that small businesses must endure and the fear of a looming trade war between the EU and the United States.
‘The survey’s findings show that there are opportunities when it comes to accessing finance.
‘Only one in seven small businesses have pitched for public service contracts. While a few sectors are not traditionally part of the public consultation process, I think the Government has a duty to make the public procurement process a lot easier for small firms.’
When businesses were asked to rank the most challenging costs, 20 percent stated that employment costs were the most challenging.
Twenty-five percent of small businesses ranked mortgage or rent, payments as the most challenging.
Of all the businesses asked, 12 percent stated regulation costs with 14 percent citing raw material costs as the most challenging costs.
The survey also stated that 81% of small businesses said that the Government needs to do more to help SMEs, up from 74% last year.
The Irish Green Building Council, together with Dublin Chambers, Sustainability Works, University of Galway and Society of Chartered Surveyors, are releasing a Resource Suite, designed to support and enable SMEs in Ireland’s commercial building sector to act on the energy upgrade of their buildings.
The suite includes a decision-making toolkit, a technical and financial analysis with key data to inform an energy upgrade plan, real-world case studies, a financial handbook with grants, tax, and loans available, plus a basic guide to support SMEs, including top tips for starting an
upgrade journey.
The resource suite is part of the ENACT initiative, founded by SEAI.
For further information, please contact: Irene Rondini | Communications Manager| Irish Green Building Council |irene@igbc.ie
The Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) celebrated Ireland’s National Biodiversity Week with the launch of the first set of Irish case studies to protect and enhance biodiversity within the built environment.
At the event were: Susan Vickers, Chair of IGBC’s Biodiversity & Built Environment Community of Practice; Christopher O’Sullivan TD, Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage with special responsibility for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity and Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin, Chair of the Advisory Committee for Ireland’s Nature Restoration Plan.
€18,000 raised for IWA during a four-day colleague cycling event
Chadwicks Group has announced a range of new projects to support its charity partner, Irish Wheelchair Association.
Since 2021, Chadwicks Group has been an official charity partner of IWA, supplying building materials to its community centres and homes across the country.
Chadwicks Group’s support helps improve accessibility for visitors and tenants, while benefitting hundreds of members, staff and IWA retail customers nationwide.
IWA operates 65 locations including 48 community and 17 outreach centres and 51 wheelchair accessible and affordable homes in Ireland. IWA also provides 1.2 million hours of assisted living services to more than 2,000 people with disabilities.
As part of the ongoing partnership, Chadwicks Group teams recently completed a nationwide charity cycle, clocking over 600 hours and 10,600km on stationary bikes over four days, resulting in €18,000 being raised.
The final leg took place at Chadwicks Roscommon, where photography was captured of colleagues celebrating with the local IWA team.
In addition to raising money for the charity, Chadwicks Group is currently supporting several IWA projects across the country, including:
Chadwicks Nenagh supplied paint and materials to refresh the centre in Roscrea, Co. Tipperary.
Chadwicks Waterford, Midleton and Tralee all provided materials to repaint local centres at Waterford, Clonakilty and Listowel.
Chadwicks Letterkenny helped convert the local centre’s storage room into an
accessible bathroom.
Chadwicks Castlebar is replacing flooring at the local centre in Belmullet.
Chadwicks Galway is supplying new door fixtures at the local centre in Tuam.
Residential home improvements:
Chadwicks Clonmel supplied materials to fence four gardens at IWA homes in Tipperary Town.
The Panelling Centre Galway, part of Chadwicks Group, is transforming the kitchen facility of an IWA residential apartment in the local area, making it more accessible.
New facility support. Chadwicks Ballinasloe is installing wall panelling in a new IWA day service centre for school leavers in Loughrea.
Commenting on the initiatives, Patrick Atkinson, CEO of Chadwicks Group said:
‘At Chadwicks Group, we are incredibly proud to support Irish Wheelchair Association and its work across the country.
‘Our partnership reflects our deep commitment to making a difference in local communities.
‘We’re delighted to announce our most recent initiatives that have each
been created to further this mission –strengthening inclusion, accessibility, and support where it’s needed most.
‘I’m also delighted that due to the company-wide efforts of our colleagues, we were able to raise €18,000 through our recent nationwide cycle, showcasing the dedication and unity of the entire Chadwicks Group team’.
Ashish Puri, Corporate Fundraising Partnerships Manager at IWA added:
‘Our partnership with Chadwicks Group is incredibly meaningful to us.
‘Not only does it help raise awareness and crucial funds for the work we do, but it also enables us to support more people in communities right across Ireland by making a real impact to their lives.
‘Having a company like Chadwicks Group stand with us is a powerful endorsement of our work, and we thank them for their ongoing commitment and support.’
Details of other projects will be announced in the coming months. For more information about IWA and to donate, visit iwa.ie.
Business conditions in the Irish construction sector remained subdued as the first half of 2025 drew to a close.
Total activity decreased slightly again, despite growth in commercial activity.
Meanwhile, new orders, employment and input buying continued to rise, albeit at modest rates.
Input costs increased sharply, but at the slowest pace in five months.
Looking to the future, constructors maintained a generally optimistic outlook regarding activity over the coming year.
The headline seasonally adjusted AIB Ireland Construction Total Activity Index posted below the 50.0 no-change mark for the second month running in June.
Moreover, at 48.6 the latest reading was down from 49.2 in May and therefore pointed to a sharper reduction in total construction activity, albeit one that was modest overall.
In line with the picture for total construction activity, work on housing projects decreased for the second successive month in June.
The rate of decline was modest, but the fastest in almost a year-and-a-half. Civil engineering activity was also down, leaving commercial as the sole source of growth during the month.
Commercial activity increased for the fifth month running, and at the same solid pace as in May.
Where total activity decreased, panellists linked this to economic uncertainty and muted demand conditions.
On the other hand, some firms noted that new contracts had been secured.
Indeed, new orders increased for the fifth consecutive month at the end of the second quarter.
The rate of expansion was only modest, however, and broadly in line with that seen in the previous month.
Employment also rose slightly in June, and at the slowest pace in the current fourmonth sequence of job creation.
According to respondents, new staff were
hired in order to help fulfil orders and work on future projects.
Companies remained optimistic that activity will increase over the coming year, with confidence reflecting expected improvements in demand, particularly related to housing.
That said, concerns around geopolitical issues and economic uncertainty meant that optimism eased to a three-month low.
As well as raising employment, firms also expanded their purchasing activity and increased their usage of sub-contractors.
Commenting on the survey results, John Fahey, AIB Senior Economist, said:
‘The AIB Irish Construction PMI survey for June indicated a muted performance for the sector heading into the second half of the year.
‘The headline index was below the key breakeven level of 50 for a second consecutive month. The June reading of 48.6 was lower than the 49.2 level registered in May, implying a quicker pace of contraction in construction activity at the end of the second quarter.
‘From a sectoral viewpoint, commercial activity remained the best performing of the three sub-sectors. Indeed, it was the only sector that experienced growth in the month.
‘The pace of growth was unchanged from May. In contrast, residential construction activity contracted for a second successive month.
‘The pace of reduction was modest, but it did contract at a faster rate compared to May.
Meanwhile, civil engineering was, once again, the weakest of the three subsectors, with activity contracting for the second month in-a-row also.
‘Looking at some of the other key indices in the report, the new orders component, which is regarded as a leading indicator, expanded for the fifth month in-a-row, with the pace of growth broadly similar to the previous month.
The continued growth in new orders saw construction firms increase their staffing levels.
Employment rose for a fourth straight month, albeit at a slower pace compared to May.
‘Construction sector firms retained an optimistic outlook that activity levels would increase over the coming 12 months.
‘An expected improvement in housing activity was cited as one of the reasons underpinning this perspective.’
Wienerberger UK & Ireland ‘proudly announces’ the acquisition of MFP Sales Ltd., a producer of quality piping solutions for construction markets in Ireland and the UK.
With production facilities in Dublin and distribution in Belfast, MFP has built a reputable presence in the construction industry, public utilities, and local authorities.
Pipelife Ireland, wienerberger’s subsidiary, will integrate MFP’s operations, enhancing synergies in piping and drainage solutions.
Building on the acquisition of Cork Plastics in 2021, which immediately enhanced its product portfolio to include rainwater, roofline and drainage products, this acquisition supports wienerberger’s commitment to the Irish market,
underpinned by a €35 million investment in the region.
This acquisition supports wienerberger’s strategy to meet customer needs with a full range of building envelope products and services.
It marks a key step in expanding their product offerings in the region across wall, roof, heating, and water management categories, complemented by technical services and customer support.
Conor Manning, Managing Director at Pipelife Ireland, stated, ‘Pipelife is at a pivotal point. After 55 years in the business, acquiring MFP Sales is a major milestone that expands our product range and strengthens our market position.
‘Our focus is on smooth integration to ensure we capture full benefits while maintaining service and quality.
‘As we integrate MFP, expand our portfolio, and lead in sustainability and innovation, I’m confident in Pipelife’s bright future as part of the wider wienerberger family.’
In recent years, wienerberger has expanded its portfolio beyond its brick and roof tile offering by acquiring Building Product Design in 2019 for ventilation and insulation systems, FloPlast and Cork Plastics in 2021 for roofline, rainwater, and drainage solutions, and Maincor, an underfloor heating specialist, in 2024.
Retail Excellence
Ireland (REI), the representative body for the retail industry in Ireland, has announced a three-year sponsorship with leading merchant acquirer Elavon, a subsidiary of U.S. Bank.
Strategic
This strategic sponsorship sees Elavon become the preferred payments partner to REI and its membership base, comprising Ireland’s foremost retail companies.
As part of this collaboration, Elavon will also become the title sponsor of REI’s prestigious annual awards, now renamed the ‘Elavon Retail Excellence Awards’.
The partnership’s first official engagement took place at the Retail Excellence Retreat on May 27th at the luxurious Lyrath Estate Hotel in Kilkenny.
The event served as the perfect platform to showcase this exciting new collaboration and mark the opening of award submissions for 2025.
The Elavon Retail Excellence Ireland Awards will take place on Saturday, November 15th also at Lyrath Estate Hotel in Kilkenny.
Commenting on the partnership, Jean McCabe, CEO of REI, said: ‘I am delighted to announce this partnership with Elavon.
‘As our economy faces into a potentially difficult spell, it is critically important that Irish retailers have the ability to deliver a seamless customer experience to maintain our world-leading standards.
‘Elavon’s optimal payments solution will see our members well-placed to deliver on that promise.’
Paul Dunne, head of sales in Ireland, Elavon Europe, said: ‘We have been supporting merchants in Ireland for 25 years.
‘We are thrilled to mark this anniversary with this important association with the Retail Excellence, who have been
advancing the interest of Irish retailers for several decades, helping create a vibrant retail industry in Ireland and delivering outstanding consumer experiences throughout the country.’
The newly launched partnership underscores both organisations’ commitment to supporting the evolving needs of retailers across Ireland, providing innovative solutions that enhance customer experiences and drive business growth in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
Established in 1995, Retail Excellence Ireland is owned by the members, for the members. We are an organisation which invests in innovative and exciting learning, market intelligence, human resources services, Government representation and member networking initiatives. Retail Excellence Ireland has over 2,200 leading retail companies in Ireland. Our members are the most progressive and innovative retailers. Retail Excellence Ireland is the largest retail industry body in Ireland.
Neil McDonnell joined ISME as Chief Executive in 2016. He previously served as an infantry officer in the Irish Defence Forces, as a staff officer in Defence Forces HQ, and in operational roles in Lebanon and Cyprus. Among his previous roles in business, Neil managed petroleum distribution operations for 12 years in Ireland for ExxonMobil, Topaz and smaller domestic customers. Since joining ISME, Neil has been especially active on the issues of insurance costs for small business, the introduction of a perjury act to tackle white collar crime and the need for a comprehensive reform of Irish indigenous industrial policy. Neil featured some years ago in On The Record and took time out recently for a ‘post-covid catch-up’ with Hardware & Homestyle.
H&H: Hi Neil and thank you for taking part in On The Record! It’s been a while since we last spoke. Could we begin by reminding people of your background in the Irish Defence Forces?
NMD: I spent just over 15 years in the Army, joining from UCD in 1984, and leaving at the start of 2000.
I would highly recommend it as a career but never encourage a young person to join.
It is something you have to want to do, a quasi-vocation if you will.
If ‘a life less ordinary’ is what you’re after, the Defence Forces is the place to go.
Were there learnings you took from your previous career that, you believe, stood to you in private business?
The military, like business, is objectivedriven, not process-driven.
That sets it apart from much of the wider public service, where some people can struggle when set targets and are pushed to achieve them.
In ISME today, we perceive widespread lassitude in service delivery as one of the main reasons we have so comprehensively failed in the delivery of housing and infrastructure for an expanding population. Process is not outcome. Planning is not outcome. Litigation is not outcome. Execution is outcome.
What is it that drew you to working with Irish Small and Medium Enterprises as represented by ISME.
I had been lobbying on behalf of the transport and logistics sector for three years in the Freight Transport Association. That was a narrowly focussed and technical sphere of influencing.
When the job notice for ISME was published, I saw it as an extension of my experience across multiple sectors, which was personally appealing, and still is.
What are some issues that are of particular concern to you currently in this role? For example, one area you have been active in is insurance costs for small
businesses and your organization has spoken recently about personal injuries claims and the causes for concern here.
Despite many legal reforms by the Dáil over the last number of years, the insurance situation has not resolved, especially when it comes to public liability and employer liability insurance for small enterprise.
There are no new entrants to the EL/ PL market, although we were delighted to welcome FBD back into the sector as an existing player in Ireland.
Unfortunately, Ireland is still seen as the wild west by international underwriters.
With Ireland having the same volume of defamation litigation, and 14 times (albeit falling from a high base) the volume of personal injuries litigation as England and Wales, it is hard to blame them.
There is a lot of work to do, much of it cultural and ethical – it is clear that ethical development is required.
It is unethical for people who have not been hurt or who have not been defamed to sue another person for injury or defamation.
It is also unethical for a lawyer to take on such a case where pre-case scrutiny shows the action is vexatious or without substance.
You have also been outspoken on defamation law reform. (You say: current defamation laws are making
life extremely challenging for SMEs, particularly in the retail and hospitality sectors. Could you outline the main issues here, as you see them?
As I said above, the statistics from the Irish Courts Service and the Royal Courts of Justice show litigation volumes here comparable to those in England and Wales, which have 12 times our population.
That is unsustainable.
Unfortunately, the Defamation Reform Bill before the Dáil will not address this.
Extending the scope of qualified privilege will not protect retailers.
The already invariably win defamation cases in the Circuit Court but are forced to settle by litigants who threaten to appeal to the High Court.
The solution is not an extension of qualified privilege.
It is a reinstatement of the ‘transient retail defamation’ protection promised by Minister Helen McEntee, and a reform of rules of court that permit baseless appeals to higher courts.
Most of our readers of course are involved in the retail sector. How is retail reflected in your membership?
Retail is our most significant ‘vertical’ presence. It tends to be a labourintensive service activity and thus has much in common with our other service representatives in childcare, nursing
homes and security.
What are the particular issues facing small and medium sized retailers from what you see among members? What sorts of requests and enquiries do you mostly receive in recent times?
Costs are rising faster than prices, therefore at some point all affected services run out of road from a working capital point of view.
The Government has belatedly recognised this and has promised to slow the rate of change.
There is also a degree of recognition from the EU, with the Draghi and Letta reports provoking the ‘Competitiveness Compass’ from President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.
Winston Churchill famously said: ‘For a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle.’
The EU until recently seemed to believe we can regulate our way to prosperity, but Europe has stagnated while China and the US have powered ahead.
The penny seems to have dropped that we cannot regulate our way to prosperity. Regulation is always zero-sum.
Going forward from here, what do you see as the major challenges on the horizon / facing smaller member organisations, especially retailers?
The pandemic altered the face of retail perhaps more than any other business sector.
Online shopping advanced perhaps by a decade in two years, and China showed how quickly it could fill orders for fast fashion via e-tailers like Shein.
But bricks and mortar, and indigenous retail has competitive advantages if it chooses to exploit them.
It will involve a return to experiential – most small retailers cannot compete on price, but they can deliver service, ambiance and experience.
It is also the case that local authorities will have to engage more with main street to ensure that our towns and villages are nice places to spend some time.
Remote working hubs may play a part in generating footfall for some of these towns and villages.
But we must also recognise that many main street shops will never reopen as retail operations.
Therefore, government and local authorities must expedite their return to accommodation.
That is the way to return life – and retail custom – to our towns and villages.
Joe Derochowski, home industry advisor, has an upbeat message that the housewares industry is poised for steady growth through 2030 because ‘there’s no place like home’.
Derochowski shared his insights and those of fellow Circana analysts across various industries, and how trends in those industries, including the role of AI, have impacted – and will continue to impact –the housewares industry.
Big themes fueling short-term growth included consumers replacing highfrequency items purchased during the pandemic, such as small appliances and electronics; more people eating and entertaining at home, aka ‘turtling’ because of the inflationary environment; weather/climate emergency-related home goods purchases and economical home improvements, such as décor changes.
The Circana experts said long-term growth is being impacted by trends including the return to office, including new ways to think about wardrobes and what and when we eat; the home bubble with people delaying the purchase of their first home and path to purchase innovation that can use AI to bring consumers more personalization and value.
Also, he mentioned demographics, such as 30-somethings in their first homes; women going through menopause; new retirees with more time on their hands; and home-bound seniors.
In the short-term, Derochowski said we are in a ‘needs-based purchasing cycle’.
He explained that, given the inflationary environment, people are prioritizing their
Circana president Don Unser shared that despite inflation, ‘consumers are still spending and they are spending at a good clip’.
He also noted that suppliers could take advantage of disruption in the e-commerce space with marketplaces like Temu and TikTok, which allow small brands to scale very fast.
The role of AI will only accelerate in 2025.
Paul Gagnon, vice president, industry advisor, consumer technology at Circana said that AI will be as revolutionary as the internet in the 1990s.
But before rushing to build AI into a product, he advised suppliers to determine if it will help consumers save money or make the product more efficient.
Derochowski cautioned suppliers not to position AI as a benefit, but to instead use it as a tool to help solve a consumer pain point.
It could also help determine what
products are a good fit for consumers –both online and in-store.
Kristen Classi-Zummo, executive director, industry analyst of apparel at Circana shared that one in four women ages 18-54 would shop online if they got more personalized recommendations based on their body type.
She predicted we will see AI helping more with online apparel, allowing consumers to search beyond typical filters like size and colour.
The inflationary environment is causing people to stay home more. ‘It’s four times more expensive to go out and eat’, stated David Portalatin, Circana senior vice president, industry advisor, food and foodservice.
He said people desire easy solutions like heat and eat, or opening a bag or box to get to a quick meal – a snackification of sorts throughout the day.
People are also turtling by entertaining at home more, finding escape in fiction books and turning to nostalgic video games, according to the Circana experts.
Derochowski and his colleagues also shared some additional considerations for suppliers looking for growth opportunities, including:
• What are you doing to tap into joy? Derochowski said there is a greater desire for more joy in all aspects of a
consumer’s life … from entertaining, to eating, to beauty, to organizing. People may treat themselves with these items when they are feeling good, but also when they aren’t, to feel better.
• How do you make consumers feel safe? People are also looking for proof that others have found a product they’re considering to be helpful. What are you doing to make consumers feel confident that they made the right choice? Securing customer reviews is a good way to do this.
• How can you be agile enough to help consumers in emergencies? Emergency preparedness is a growing category, from portable power to heaters to freeze dried food. How can the industry get needed items to flash flood zones, snow storms in typically warm climates, or to areas affected by fires, hurricanes or tornadoes?
• What are you doing with licensing? Licensing is another opportunity for growth, according to Juli Lennet, Circana vice president, industry advisor for toys. She explained the Star Wars franchise continues to be a top 10 property in the toy industry, and that the adult market is the industry’s largest growth market since the pandemic. She also shared how Lego made in-roads with women by creating Lego flower bouquets that have exploded in popularity.
• How are you addressing the needs of growing demographic categories? It’s important for suppliers to consider how their specific needs for food and lifestyle are being met.
The International Housewares Association is the 86-year-old voice of the housewares industry. The notfor-profit, full-service association sponsors the world’s premier exposition of products for the home, The Inspired Home Show, IHA’s Global Home + Housewares Market (TheInspiredHomeShow.com) which celebrated its 125th Show in 2025, and offers its member companies a wide range of services.
With seven stores and 60 staff across Argentina, CUK is a store that has a simple, yet strong, mission: to create a hassle-free and memorable shopping experience and to always offer a warm, personal touch, writes Michelle Hespe.
CUK was one of five retailers around the world named as a IHA Global Innovation Awards (gia) Global Honoree for Retail Excellence at The Inspired Home Show in Chicago.
The gia program is sponsored and organized by The Inspired Home Show and the International Housewares Association (IHA).
Captivation, personalized attention and a variety of quality products are the pillars of success for the retailer.
‘Our best marketing is good customer service – this is what makes word-of-mouth so effective for us,’ explains CUK’s owner, Damian Fleisman.
Baked
‘For example, one morning a customer bought a cake pan, and we jokingly told her to bring us a slice of cake to try after she had baked in it,’ Damian says.
‘Incredibly, she returned to the shop that very afternoon with the cake and treated the entire team to it!
‘On other occasions, customers have returned with small gifts, such as chocolates, for our staff members to thank them for the excellent service.’
Damian explains that to him, it’s not just about selling products, but also making a customer feel valued, and that’s why they have so many repeat customers:
‘We hope that when people leave a CUK store, they feel satisfied with having been well served.
‘I believe that when a customer comes in for the first time, they feel valued by us, and this is what makes a difference.’
Damian felt so confident in the brand’s excellent products and service, that he and the team went to Chicago for the gia awards convinced they would become a global honoree.
‘To be honest, we were expecting to win because we believed in the brand we’d built,’ he says.
‘We were very happy and really proud of the recognition, and we were able to share this happiness with our families and convey the pride of this award to the entire CUK team.
‘It has reaffirmed our belief in our values of teamwork and excellence in customer service.’
CUK has also built its strong brand around a great variety of quality products that are well organized and easy to find, and a shopping experience that is enjoyable and hassle-free.
The gia winning store is in the main shopping center in Buenos Aires, and it’s divided into two main areas:
The first features the kitchen and everything needed within it, such as accessories, utensils, preparation products, organization pieces, storage and more.
The other area is dedicated to dining and decoration, with everything a customer could need to host a wonderful dinner party, from tableware, glassware and cutlery to more decorative items such as vases, lamps, paintings and even furniture.
There’s also a smaller additional space with a playful, colourful display of brands made for babies and children. After all, they’re always in the kitchen and dining room with the family.
‘The balanced combination of the two main categories represent the essence of the CUK brand in a single place – the lifestyle and aesthetics of our brand,’
explains Damian.
‘What I love about our company is the attention to detail that went into designing the store, and the quality and variety of the products offered.
‘Add to this, the commitment of the entire team to the brand, and I think CUK is an excellent place to work.’
The gia expert judges agreed that the visual merchandising at CUK is ‘pristine, harmonious and inspiring,’ also noting
that the store layout is well-considered, with unique fixtures highlighting the different product categories.
The judges also pointed out how every item has its own place, with wide aisles and sophisticated signage making it a very comfortable store to shop.
Scent, music and lighting are some other elements that differentiate CUK’s approach to retailing.
They add to the homely, welcoming atmosphere and the peaceful ambience that leads to people staying longer.
‘We have several musical playlists that were specifically developed for the store to provide a backdrop of calm sound, which pleasantly accompanies the shopping experience,’ Damian explains.
CUK also has its own exclusive aroma, adding another touch to the multi-sensory shopping experience. The scent is a mix of green tea, cucumber and amber, and it is also offered to the customer in the form of a diffuser.
Lighting is crucial to the CUK experience. ‘Lighting is what marks out the retail journey for the customer,’ Damian says.
Throughout the store, lighting has been strategically placed to enhance the most important spaces and corners, creating focal points that separate one category from another.
The gia judges agreed that the lighting is exceptional.
‘CUK does something special in each category with lighting, such as highlighting hanging greenery, and this lifts the merchandise up, making it more appealing to the customer,’ they commented.
Part of CUK’s ongoing success will always be rooted in the importance of human connection and making customers not only feel welcome, but valued.
‘The attention that we provide to our customers is what makes us unique,’ says Damian.
‘We always prioritize making sure our customers know that they are being listened to, that they are respected, and that they will always be well advised at a CUK store.
‘We strive to understand their needs and thus we’re able to provide them with the appropriate products.’
As the presence of AI continues to grow, and the world becomes more automated, Damian agrees that applying new technology can help to streamline processes and make mundane business tasks easier.
But CUK will always rely on the human
connection that people feel when walking into one of the stores.
‘I believe that retail will be driven by the growth of online stores
‘But I also think that when you have a beautiful store, well-presented quality products, and excellent, attentive service, customers will continue to shop in person,’ he says.
This pursuit of personalized human connection will no doubt continue to draw more people to this gia global honoree, while also ensuring that loyal customers keep coming back.
To learn more about CUK, visit cukbazar.com.
Sponsored and organized by The Inspired Home Show and the International Housewares Association (IHA), IHA Global Innovation Awards (gia) is the world’s leading awards program honouring overall excellence, business innovation and creative merchandising in home goods retailing. For more information about the gia retail program, the co-sponsors or participating in 2025-2026, contact Piritta Törrö at piritta. torro@inspiredconnection.
fi. Additional information on gia is also available online at TheInspiredHomeShow.com/ Awards/gia-Retailing.
For more information about The Inspired Home Show and to pre-register for the 2026 Show, taking place in Chicago on 10-12 March 2026, visit TheInspiredHomeShow.com.
Discover how AI is revolutionizing DIY and home improvement, making projects smarter, easier, and more efficient than ever before. by Managing Director, Global DIY-Summit, Iñaki Maillard.
For decades, the world of home improvement and DIY has been ruled by two things: expertise and experience.
Advice
You learned from your father how to fix a leaky pipe, or you relied on the seasoned advice of a hardware store employee who had seen it all.
But now, something entirely different is reshaping this landscape.
Artificial intelligence is not knocking at the door of DIY – it has already let itself in, rearranged the furniture, and is now redesigning the entire house.
The question isn’t whether AI will change DIY; it’s how deep the transformation will go.
For years, the go-to method for learning DIY was a frantic Google search or a how-to video.
You’d watch a ten-minute tutorial just to learn a single trick, or you’d skim through endless forum discussions to find a solution to a problem that only half resembled yours.
AI is obliterating this inefficiency. Imagine this: Instead of digging through pages of content, you describe your exact issue to an AI assistant.
Within seconds, it processes your problem, accounts for your specific tools and
materials, and offers a custom, stepby-step guide tailored precisely to your situation.
Not just a generic ‘how to install a shelf’ – but a guide that considers your wall type, your drill model, and even your skill level.
This is not the future. This is happening now.
One of the biggest obstacles in DIY has always been the learning curve.
Every new skill takes time, mistakes, and often frustration.
But what if you had an AI mentor that could analyze your technique in real time?
Smartphone cameras can now scan your work and tell you if you’re holding the drill at the wrong angle.
Augmented reality (AR) overlays can show you exactly where to cut, nail, or paint.
AI-powered tools can even predict potential issues before they happen, preventing that moment of horror when you realize you’ve drilled into a pipe.
It’s like having a master craftsman watching over your shoulder – without the intimidation.
We used to think of home improvement as a battle between man and material.
The challenge was figuring things out, often through trial and error.
But AI is shifting DIY from a process of uncertainty to one of guided precision. Think of smart home systems that tell you when a screw is loose before it even falls
out.
Imagine AI-driven 3D printing that can produce custom spare parts at home, eliminating the need for last-minute hardware store runs.
Picture AI-powered design assistants that help you visualize your room transformation in real time, swapping colours and furniture placements before you even pick up a brush.
We’re no longer ‘doing it ourselves’ –we’re doing it with AI.
The critics argue that AI will take the soul out of DIY, that without the trial, there is no triumph.
If AI makes everything easy, will DIY still feel rewarding? The answer depends on how we use it.
AI can’t replace the sense of pride in building something with your own hands. What it can do is remove the unnecessary frustrations – the missing screws, the crooked shelves, the guesswork.
It allows us to focus on the creative, the personal, and the satisfying parts of home improvement.
Ultimately, AI isn’t here to take over DIY. It’s here to make it better, to transform it from a task of frustration to one of innovation, to ensure that when you step back and admire your work, you do so not just with relief but with pride.
The DIY revolution is no longer just about doing it yourself. It’s about doing it smarter. And AI is handing us the tools.
Partnership will see Homevalue support Barretstown with a range of initiatives throughout the year.
Homevalue, a leading DIY, hardware and homeware group, has announced its charity partnership for 2025 with the wellknown children’s charity Barretstown.
As part of the charity partnership, Homevalue, which is owned and operated by United Hardware, will support Barretstown through financial contributions and fundraising efforts across its network of over 90 independently owned local stores nationwide.
Beyond just the financial contribution, the arrangement will also see the sharing and supply of hardware, materials, and resources to support Barretstown with on-site projects throughout 2025.
Barretstown offers free, specially designed residential camps and
programmes for children and their families living with cancer and other serious illnesses, supported behind the scenes by 24-hour on-site medical and nursing care. Since 1994, Barretstown has served over 125,000 campers.
Barretstown is recognised as a centre of excellence in childhood cancer care and other serious illnesses.
As part of the arrangement, and to help support activities and initiatives taking place at Barretstown – as well as the ongoing maintenance of the grounds and surroundings – Homevalue will provide improved access to tools, hardware, and materials through its regional stores and 140,000 sq. ft. purpose-built warehouse in Dublin.
Speaking about the charity partnership, Paul Candon, CEO of United Hardware, trading as Homevalue, said:
‘We’re delighted to announce Barretstown as our charity partner for 2025. We’re highly supportive of Barretstown and their work supporting children and families affected by cancer and other serious illnesses.
‘We’re very excited by this partnership and looking forward to undertaking the various fundraising initiatives locally, and getting our stores involved.
‘Although located in Barretstown, Co Kildare, the organisation has had an impact in communities throughout Ireland and all over the world with the selfless work done by over 2,500 volunteers supporting the dedicated and incredible staff teams.
‘At Homevalue, we’re proud to support
organisations like Barretstown in their work, and we hope to contribute meaningfully to their goals and objectives in 2025.’
Dee Ahearn, CEO of Barretstown said: ‘We are extremely grateful to have been selected by United Hardware as their new charity partner.
‘To have the support of United Hardware, its members and its network of stores behind us here at Barretstown is incredible. This partnership will help us to ensure that we can continue to serve children and families from across Ireland.
‘Since 1994, Barretstown has served over 125,000 campers and this year alone, we will serve a further 26,000 campers.
‘As a charity we depend on partnerships with companies like United Hardware. Their donations and fundraising efforts make it possible for us to reach our goals and so we are incredibly excited to be embarking on this new partnership.
‘Barretstown is very proud to have been chosen as the new charity partner for United Hardware and on behalf of all the children and families we serve, we would like to extend a huge Barretstown “thank you” and we look forward to a long and successful partnership together.’
Local Activation: Finally, throughout 2025, Homevalue will be fundraising for Barretstown through the activation of their 90 stores, with staff participating in a number of fundraising initiatives organised at a national and local level.
Local stores will host their own ‘fundraising challenges’ as well as participation in the ‘Homevalue Golf Classic –Supporting Barretstown,’ which will take place later this year, among other activities.
As an indigenous, locally owned, and Guaranteed Irish accredited business, UHL supplies and operates the Homevalue retail brand on behalf of its members who together have over 160 stores across Ireland which employ approximately 2,000 people and cater to a diverse base of trade and DIY customers.
Headquartered in Dublin’s Citywest, it operates a 150,000ft2 (7,897m2) purpose-built warehouse in support of its objective to deliver enhanced purchasing power, marketing, logistics and business advisory support to its independent hardware, homeware, DIY and agri retailers. At United Hardware, our sense of commitment to the community is what Irishness is all about and represents a true testament to our heritage and our determination to prevail.
We are delighted to showcase our unique sense of Irishness as part of Guaranteed Irish, proudly showcasing the GI symbol of trust on our stores, as Ireland’s leading indigenous and family-owned Home, Garden, DIY and Builders Merchants, operating in the hearts of Irish communities up and down the country.
Customers can shop at Homevalue and affiliate stores nationwide, safe in the knowledge that they are not only supporting their local business but also a local business that provides local employment.
Local legends Dustin the Turkey and Olympic boxer Jack Marley joined the celebrations as Chadwicks marked a new chapter for the trade and DIY community in Sallynoggin.
Chadwicks has revealed its newly refurbished Sallynoggin branch.
Chadwicks Sallynoggin now boasts a wide range of specialist centres and showrooms, from smart home technology and sustainable solutions to enhanced trade services and a new coffee and hot food outlet.
Joining the celebrations were proud Sallynoggin natives, national treasure and self-declared builder, Dustin the Turkey, as well as Olympic boxer and Chadwicks brand ambassador, Jack Marley.
Welcome Dustin and Jack were joined by Patrick
Atkinson, CEO of Chadwicks Group, and Eric Born, CEO of Grafton Group (Chadwicks’ parent company) who was in Dublin for the occasion, to officially open the branch, welcome local customers, and share a few laughs along the way!
The refurbishment is part of Chadwicks’ ongoing nationwide rebrand and upgrade programme, which began in 2018 and has seen 33 of its 50 branches renovated to date, to meet the evolving needs of local tradespeople, engineers, self-builders, and DIYers.
Big improvements, bigger choice Established in 1974, Chadwicks Sallynoggin
has long been a cornerstone of the local community.
Now, following a major upgrade, the branch is ready to serve the next generation of customers.
The refurbished branch now features:
• A state-of-the-art Doors & Floors Showroom
• An inspiring Bathroom Showroom, with display options to suit every style
• A vibrant Paint Centre, offering paint mixing services and featuring the premium Colourtrend range
• A cutting-edge Smart Home Centre, where tech meets trade, showcasing the latest in-home automation and
• A dedicated Eco Centre, a new one-stop shop for sustainable building solutions including insulation, heat pumps and controls, solar energy, water-saving products, and ventilation systems
• Rooflight displays featuring innovations from VELUX and Keylite
• A complete Brick Display and Baumit External Wall Insulation Display
• A brand-new Fixings Centre, offering
setting chemicals, concrete anchors, nuts, bolts, and fixings, alongside power tool options to suit every skill level. Specialised fixings are also available to order from the Chadwicks Sallynoggin team
• An interactive Power Tool Table, including a full range of DeWALT hand tools
• An expanded Workwear Range, featuring trusted brands such as Snickers, Mascot, and Portwest
• A brand-new Brick & Brew Co. coffee and hot food outlet, serving up barista brews and fresh bites, right in the car park
Add to that over 2,000 new product lines and a team of 26 experts, and customers can now access the right tools, materials, and advice — all in one place.
Speaking about the refurbishment, Patrick Atkinson said:
‘I’m delighted to unveil the newly refurbished Chadwicks Sallynoggin.
‘This upgrade is about more than just the building; it’s about creating a better experience for our customers.
‘With more choice, smarter solutions, and a dedicated local team at the heart of it
all, the branch is now even better equipped to meet the needs of future customers and continue serving the community for years to come.’
Jack Marley added: ‘I’ve grown up around Chadwicks Sallynoggin, it’s always been a huge part of the community here.
‘It’s great to see the investment that’s gone into the branch, not just in the building, but in making sure it continues to cater to local people in the trades, along with homeowners who have a flair for DIY.’
Dustin the Turkey concluded: ’You know me, I don’t get out of the coop for nothing, but this place is something else.
‘Power tools, paint, pastries — what more could you want? As a “well-feathered” builder myself, I’d be running fowl if I didn’t let every other trade and DIY legend in the area know what they’re missing!’
Whether you’re building, fixing, fitting, painting, or after a great flat white, the newly transformed Chadwicks Sallynoggin is now open.
With fantastic new additions, expert staff, and more choice than ever before, it’s a branch built on trust - and now, built for the future.
The 11th edition of the Global DIY-Summit reaffirmed its position as the premier international gathering for executives in the home improvement and garden retail
industry.
Held in Lisbon, the ‘Queen of the Sea’, this year’s Summit brought together over 1,000 delegates from 55 countries, including more than 320 top-tier retail leaders, to explore the theme: ‘New World Order: Redefining DIY for a Global Future.’
Female participation
The event saw a marked rise in female participation and an evolving delegate profile: nearly 52% were manufacturers, over 32% represented retail organisations, and a growing number of consultants, marketplaces, and service providers joined the conversation – underscoring the industry’s expanding ecosystem.
According to the in-app voting tool,
91.2% of attendees rated the Summit as ‘good’ to ‘excellent’, with a further 7.7% rating it as ‘average’.
Over 84.6% of this year’s delegates have already confirmed their participation for the 12th Global DIY Summit, to be held in Amsterdam, 16–18 June 2026.
A strong opening: Store tour and industry reconnection
The Summit opened with a curated store tour across Lisbon, drawing a record number of participants.
Delegates visited standout locations including OBRAMAT, Brico Depôt, Leroy Merlin, Maxmat, and the city-centre green oasis Horto do Campo.
This year’s tour placed a strong emphasis on pro-focused retail concepts, reflecting key industry trends.
The day concluded with two vibrant evening events: a VIP Cocktail Reception supported by Messe Frankfurt, and the Get Together, sponsored by World’s Toughest Fix (WTF).
Day One Highlights:
Driving Industry Transformation The first full day of the Summit featured a compelling programme of presentations exploring organisational transformation, generational shifts, global retail strategies, sustainability, and the broader economic and political outlook.
Sony Kapoor opened with a thought-
provoking macroeconomic keynote, urging a global pivot towards the East.
Graham Bell, CEO of B&Q, shared insights on redefining change, while Rik Vera inspired attendees with a call to rekindle childlike curiosity in leadership.
Mark Gallagher, Formula 1 executive, ilustrated F1’s transformation into a sustainability-driven industry, drawing para llels to the evolving DIY retail sector.
Francisco Torres of Sodimac highlighted the strategic power of private labels, while Alexander Kremer of Gartencenter Kremer delivered a personal story of rediscovering brand authenticity and purpose.
Jamie Pitcairn, a sustainability expert, provided updates on the Make It Zero initiative.
The day concluded with a dynamic presentation on consumer connection by Ken Hughes, followed by a candid fireside chat with futurologist Magnus Lindkvist, who offered a sobering outlook on global demographic trends.
The emotional highlight of the Summit was the Gala Evening, during which Reinhard Wolff, Managing Partner at wolfcraft and President of HIMA, received the Global DIY Lifetime Award.
The ceremony was opened by the Managing Director of the Global DIYSummit, Iñaki Mailard, who delivered an emotive speech introducing a heartfelt family surprise for Reinhard Wolff.
John W. Herbert gave the laudatory speech, recognising Reinhard for his integrity, leadership, and dedication to the
In his acceptance speech, Reinhard emphasised the importance of family and personal values, reflecting on industry milestones from European integration to the Covid-19 pandemic.
purpose-led
The second day explored key disruptors reshaping the DIY sector.
The session opened with Ken Hughes on rethinking DIY and customer relevance.
Bob Chermin and Duncan Simmonds from OC&C, along with François Yared of ADEO Marketplace, highlighted the growing strategic role of marketplaces – not just as outlets for excess inventory, but as curated ecosystems fostering long-term loyalty.
Stuart Goldsmith, a self-styled ‘climate comedian’, brought humour and honesty
to the sustainability conversation. Livia von Mitschke-Collande from Google and AI strategist Maarten Verschuere examined the responsible integration of AI, while Henkel shared practical insights into AI adoption across content creation and campaign management.
Paul Martin, a Global Retail Consultant, closed the session by urging businesses to build purpose-driven value chains rooted in customer insight, operational resilience, and sustainability.
The Summit concluded with a powerful keynote by Heinrich Wagner, a blind motivational speaker, who shared a transformative message about resilience, gratitude, and human potential.
His address moved the audience deeply and received a standing ovation. In closing, John W. Herbert thanked all delegates, speakers, and sponsors for contributing to three days of learning, connection, and inspiration.
‘What makes the Global DIY-Summit truly unique is not only the calibre of its content, but the strength of its community. In a time of constant transformation, it’s our shared values, openness to innovation, and commitment to collaboration that keep driving this industry forward.
‘I am deeply grateful to all who joined us in Lisbon, and I look forward to continuing this journey together in Amsterdam in 2026.’
Iñaki Maillard, Managing Director, Global DIY-Summit
Looking Ahead The 12th Global DIY-Summit will take place in Amsterdam from 16 -18 June 2026, continuing the journey of innovation and collaboration.
From garden to outdoor experience: spoga+gafa 2025 shows what direction the market is moving in
High international presence and clear focus on the future
Outdoor living is becoming an expression of modern lifestyle and is opening up new opportunities for the trade and industry. spoga+gafa 2025 demonstrated how strongly the significance of the outdoor section is changing and how it will influence the market in future.
After three intensive and successful trade fair days, the global trade fair for garden lifestyle & BBQs was drawing a positive balance.
‘With around 26,000 trade visitors from over 100 countries as well as more than 1,600 exhibitors from home and abroad, spoga+gafa confirms its position as the leading platform of the
garden industry.’
The top visitor nations included Germany, the Netherlands, Great Britain, Italy, France, Poland as well as the USA, Australia and Canada.
This is a very remarkable result in the light of the economic uncertainty and geopolitical challenges, which can also be evaluated as being a positive signal for the new schedule.
The trade fair focused on key themes that are currently moving the garden industry: the wish for emotional relevance, strategic orientation and market-relevant innovations.
‘In a year that is currently still characterised by economic restraint, spoga+gafa underlined the key role it plays as an international industry meeting point,’ stated Oliver Frese, Chief Operating Officer of Koelnmesse.
‘This success not only underpins the international relevance of the event, but also stands for a visible transformation that we will consistently shape with spoga+gafa over the coming years. Progress is not possible without change,’ said Frese summing it up in a nutshell.
With a revised concept for 2026, spoga+gafa is ensuring itself a sustainable position close to the market.
It is hereby reacting to the frequently
Outdoor Adventure theme emotionally and tell a different story.
The outdoor furniture section will be restructured in the course of the concept.
Curated exhibition space exclusively for outdoor furniture manufacturers, who convince with sustainable production, short delivery routes and high design quality, will arise in Hall 9.
This focus on origin, quality and style not only strengthens the European market, but also creates an unmistakable profile on the international trade fair scene.
Other product sections are also being realigned: For instance, the theme Asia-
expressed expectations of the industry for a clearer structure, stronger target group orientation and a targeted reaction to new leisure time and consumer habits.
The ‘Outdoor Adventure’ section will enhance the established theme sections ‘Living’, ‘Creation & Care’ and ‘BBQs’ with an own hall, from 2026 onwards.
Here adventure, activities and outdoor lifestyle will meet product innovation and community building.
The idea behind this: The outdoor section will become an experiential area for exercise, balance and adventure.
As such spoga+gafa is selectively expanding its target groups to include outdoor distributors, content creators as well as brands, who want to stage the
Sourcing will in future be bundled in an own hall under the name ‘Garden Sourcing Hub’ specifically for international buyers.
Furthermore, every two years the ‘Flavour Market’ will create a stronger interlinking in the BBQ Hall between BBQ technology, culinary offers and crossselling potentials from 2026 onwards.
The next spoga+gafa is scheduled to take place in Cologne from Monday, 22 June to Wednesday, 24 June 2026.
This will be the standard schedule in even years in future. In uneven years the trade fair will continue to start on a Tuesday.
This flexibility in the schedule guarantees a high international participation, optimal travel planning and the best possible scheduling with regards to rival trade fairs.
As always, Liam, our gardening retail guru, shares his thoughts on the current time of year and how to make the most of the challenges and opportunities. Read on for his unique insights!
Ihave a fondness for this time of year. Those hotter days of late summer get tempered at either end by colder mornings and evenings, before finally succumbing to a general chill of late Autumn.
The shortening days too, bring a pleasant and more natural feeling as sunrise and sunset become more normalised before finally crossing over into the too-dark period of early winter.
There’s a difference to the light too, as it becomes sharper and cleaner on the brighter days, and the agreeable earthy smell of dampness and decay seep from the soil as you walk in a garden that is beginning to settle back and hibernate.
The creatures we see and hear change song, sound and pattern too, becoming more mellow before most quietly disappear for a few months, or at least become more muted.
But it is an odd and trying time for many people of course, who see and feel more losses than gains at this time of the year, although in truth it’s just a period of change, and one that has its own pleasures to reveal and rejoice in once you accept it as such.
The reason for that preamble is that the months that run into winter can be a little strained and strange in the selling trade too.
And especially so in the gardening and outdoor leisure sector of retail where there are also those who love or hate this time of year.
And there is a lot to hate.
Turnover tends to drop off sharply, and we are often left with the remnants of summer plant stock sitting forlornly on benches as it succumbs to the inevitable.
Leaves and other detritus tend to accumulate as the retail plant area doesn’t quite get the attention it had during the previous busy months.
There are gaps on tables and old, faded signage sits askew and gets left to bleach and leach in the weather.
The area as a whole loses the lustre and brightness it possessed, becoming an area less frequented by both staff and customers, and certainly not a place to love.
‘The promise of spring colour should be shown the love and attention it surely deserves.’
Dry goods and garden care items can be equally neglected, with half-bare shelving and poor merchandising more common, as the focus switches to other departments within the business.
Sadly, damp boxes, faded packaging, and burst bags of compost are the look of the next few months.
Pots and other planting containers fill with water, rubbish and worse, some sitting cracked or shattered on racking that itself is in need of a clean.
Even the outdoor living lines such as furniture, barbecues and outdoor décor items get squashed into corners to gather dust and cobwebs, reminders of overbuying or a poor season weatherwise.
They get piled up with other lines that don’t merit prime space in the busier parts of the store.
Admittedly, practically all of this lack of love is self-inflicted due to poor management of personnel or time, and perhaps speaks of other issues within the store.
But for those who it affects it is certainly a cause of hate and disappointment with this sector of retail at this time of the year.
Even if the above issues are addressed – and they should be of course – there is still a natural and lingering feeling of loss
felt by many of the more productive and plant-focussed staff members within the organisation as summer becomes autumn then winter.
But there is, or at least can be, much to love too.
Plant-wise there is plenty to sell, albeit not in the same volume as earlier in the year.
Any good plant wholesaler – and there are plenty – will have no issue with supplying colourful bedding such as
pansies and cyclamen, not to mention heathers, chrysanthemums, and a host of other lines.
There are also lots of flowering and budded or berried plants that come into their own at this time of the year, such as skimmia, sarcococca, viburnum, etc. plus lots of ‘novelty’ lines like autumn flowering azaleas, Chinese lantern, and even winter cherries and peppers.
Combined with grasses and those plants with nice big labels that sell the promise of spring colour in inspirational displays
means there is no need to feel at odds about this time of year.
Even if this doesn’t help your mood, and you’ve cleaned and tidied garden care shelves, pot racks and furniture displays – or packed them away neatly for next season – there is still much to literally look forward too at this time of year.
For example, spring flowering bulbs are often a neglected category with some retailers.
This promise of spring colour should be shown the love and attention it surely deserves.
Effective and colourful displays should be given pride of place on clean and tidy stands with appropriate signage and information to entice the customer.
Too often they are just a sad, token display stuffed in a corner or stuck beside the checkout, selling less and less each year as the ever-decreasing-circle of less stock/less sales means that the business
spends too little money and sees too little profit in them.
Yet, when reinvented and with some thought, space and budget put behind them this need not be the case.
The retailer should be selling the promise of future blooms and a colourful spring season to come – but the buyer, merchandiser and all the staff need to buy into the concept and promise in order that the customer will.
There should be no hate for this important retail category (as is too-often the case), there should be love of that promise, which can then translate into profits – and who in business doesn’t love money if nothing else?
That’s just one example but there are many more that need a little bit of love and attention at this time of year such as bird care, outdoor heating lines such as chimineas and fire pits, plus so-called mundane, practical lines such as autumn clean-up products.
All can be effectively stocked and merchandised to encourage a little more love from the business and ultimately from the customer.
Finally, if none of that rekindles that lost summer feeling then what about planning for next year?
This should be well underway with management and purchasers by now but all of the newly planned lines and extended ranges of the previous year’s best sellers should be shared with those that merchandise and sell the product on the floor.
This is a great way to reinvigorate staff and get some excitement back into the hearts and minds of even the most sullen staff members.
So, love shouldn’t be lost in retail gardening as autumn sneaks in, but it certainly takes a little planning and sparks to rekindle that lost love at this time of year. Everyone needs that spark at times … Liam
Since establishing Retail Services & Solutions in 2007, Liam has become one of the most effective people within the retail side of Irish horticulture.
His knowledge of the mindset and ethos of those in this sector, combined with his problem-solving ability, experience and hands-on work ethic make him uniquely placed to offer advice and help to those who need it.
Key to his success is his knowledge of purchasing, pricing and sales combined with his understanding of layout, signage and merchandising, and how the interaction of these can lead to increased sales and profits.
086 8221494 - retailsands@gmail.com
Let’s face it – no one’s got time to mess around with three different tubes when one will do the job.
That’s where Hybrid Adhesives & Sealants come in.
They’re the game-changer that’s been taking over building sites across Ireland and the UK.
What’s the story with these Hybrids?
They aren’t your average adhesives or sealants.
Hybrids mix the best bits of silicones, acrylics, PUs, and epoxies – giving you serious bonding power, flexibility, durability, and chemical resistance all in one!
You can use them to stick, seal, fill, repair and get the job done – no swapping products, no messing about.
Why the trade is all in …
In the last 5 years, hybrids have exploded onto the scene.
Across Ireland, tradespeople are sealing windows, bonding floors, fixing roofs and much, much more – all with one product.
Hybrids are
• Tough as nails – hold strong in any conditions
• Flexible – ideal for movement joints
• Weatherproof and UV-resistant
• Time-saving – one tube, multiple jobs
• Clean and easy to use – less waste, less hassle
• Bottom line: they work, and that’s why the demand’s gone through the roof.
Boom in builders merchants
Merchants love them too. Less shelf clutter, easier to recommend and great value.
According to GFK, hybrids are the fastest growing segment in adhesives and sealants in the Builders Merchant market — doubling in size since 2019.
And it’s not slowing down.
Why? … Because tradespeople demand stuff that works, and hybrids deliver every time.
The new name to know: OB1®
Now there’s a new player in town –OB1® Multi-Surface
Construction Sealant & Adhesive.
The fastestgrowing hybrid in the UK, now hitting the Irish market hard.
What makes it different?
• Sticks to just about anything – even underwater
• Works on lead, PVC, glass, mirrors, fibreglass, timber – you name it
• No smell, no shrink, no cracking
• Paintable and food-safe
• UV, fungal and bacteria resistant
• Withstands temps from -40°C to +120°C
OB1 offers the ultimate bonding and sealing experience.
Best of all? You will find that OB1 is up to 25% better priced than other big brands!
And let’s be honest — with the price of construction materials through the roof, finding a product that performs and costs up to 25% less is a serious win.
Every saving counts, whether you’re quoting for a big job or trying to stay profitable on smaller projects.
OB1 lets you cut your costs without cutting corners — and in today’s market, that’s gold.
You’ll find OB1 in most good builder and DIY merchants.
What the Trade is saying about OB1: ‘Always got one in the van — solid stuff.’
— Bathroom Fitter
‘Absolutely remarkable bonding strength.’
— Maintenance Engineer
‘No leaks. No failures. Top class.’
— Plumber
Hybrids are only going one way — UP. Builders Merchants are loving them, and tradespeople are saving time and money every day.
If you’re not stocking or using hybrids yet — it’s time to get on board.
Find out more at www.ob1original.com
3.5T cover heaviest on the market
Established in 1974 as a fabricator of sewer and soil fittings PVC Fabrications has a wide product range and has succeeded in capturing a substantial share of the market – and in doing so, has built up a solid reputation. The company has also become one of the foremost innovators of the past 50 years when it comes to fabrication and problem solving. We speak with general manager/ director, Keith O’Callaghan, to find out more!
Hardware and Homestyle: Hi Keith and welcome! First, what are the key advantages of thermoplastic pipes and fittings over traditional materials like metal or concrete?
Keith O’Callaghan: They are lightweight, easier to install, cheaper than metal, less labour intensive. Also, less critical controls required from a health and safety analysis management perspective and less heavy machinery required to install.
Plastic pipes have carved out a strong niche in construction and plumbing thanks to their versatility and cost-effectiveness.
Plastic Pipes: Key advantages
Corrosion resistance: Unlike metal, plastic doesn’t rust or corrode, making it ideal for water systems and chemical transport
Lightweight & flexible: Easier to transport and install, especially in tight spaces or complex layouts
Lower cost: Generally cheaper to purchase and install than metal or concrete alternatives
Smooth interior surface: Reduces friction, improving flow efficiency and minimizing buildup
Chemical resistance: Suitable for a wide range of industrial applications due to resistance to many chemicals
If you’re deciding for a home plumbing project, plastic might be your best bet for ease and affordability.
But for industrial or municipal systems, metal or concrete could be more appropriate depending on the demands.
What types of thermoplastic materials do you specialize in and why?
We specialise in PVC PP and HDPE MDPE LDPE.
Why? Because our range includes drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, rainwater, cable and data cable ducting, specialised piping systems for roads and bridges.
The type of material used is dependent on the EN norms that apply to its application.
We offer a wide range of EN certified products for housing, commercial, industrial and civil applications.
We concentrate on plastic extrusion and injection moulding products as that’s where our expertise has evolved over the years.
Have you introduced any new product lines or technologies recently?
Yes. We’re constantly introducing new products. We have a new soil fittings range coming out in the second half of 2025.
We also have a new range of user-friendly waste pipe coming out in the second half of 2025 2.25mtr lengths – easy to fit in the back of a van for the contractor.
In bags of 10 – easy to handle and carry, these are very handy and will remove the need to cut the pipe in builder’s yards when collecting.
Also, we have some new products in the pipeline for 2026 which will increase competition in the market.
How do your thermoplastic solutions support sustainable or green building practices? What’s the lifespan or maintenance profile of your systems compared to older technologies?
From an environmental standpoint, plastic pipes – especially those made from recycled materials – can offer some compelling advantages over concrete and metal.
Keith O’Callaghan, PVC Fabrications Ltd.
Plastic pipes
• Lower carbon footprint: Producing plastic pipes (like polyethylene or polypropylene) typically requires less energy and emits less CO₂ than manufacturing concrete or metal pipes
• Recyclability: Many plastic pipes are made from post-consumer waste and can be recycled again at end-of-life, supporting a circular economy
• Lightweight transport: Their low weight reduces fuel consumption during shipping and installation, cutting down on emissions
• Durability without corrosion: Plastic resists rust and chemical degradation, which means fewer replacements and less environmental disruption over time
The lifecycle of pipes depends on the material, environment, and application but here’s a breakdown of how plastic, metal, and concrete pipes compare across their full life spans:
Plastic Pipes (e.g. PVC, HDPE)
• Life expectancy: Typically, 50 to 100+ years, depending on type and installation
• Durability: Resistant to corrosion, scaling, and chemical degradation
• Maintenance: Minimal; smooth interior reduces buildup and blockages
• End-of-life: Recyclable; some types can be repurposed or melted down for reuse
• Environmental impact: Lower embodied energy and carbon footprint compared to metal and concrete
• Weaknesses: Can degrade under UV exposure or extreme heat; not ideal for high-pressure or high-temperature systems
Metal Pipes (e.g. Steel, Copper, Ductile Iron)
• Life expectancy: Around 40 to 70 years, depending on alloy and conditions
• Durability: Strong and pressureresistant, but vulnerable to corrosion and scaling
• Maintenance: Requires regular inspection and protective coatings; corrosion can lead to leaks
• End-of-life: Highly recyclable—steel is one of the most recycled materials globally
• Environmental impact: High energy use and CO₂ emissions during production; recycling helps offset this
• Weaknesses: Heavier and more expensive to transport and install
Concrete Pipes (e.g. Reinforced Concrete)
• Life expectancy: 75 to 100+ years when properly installed
• Durability: Excellent structural integrity; ideal for large-scale infrastructure
• Maintenance: Needs regular inspection for cracks and joint integrity; rough interior can cause buildup
• End-of-life: Difficult to recycle; often ends up as construction waste
• Environmental impact: Cement production is a major source of global CO₂ emissions
• Weaknesses: Heavy, rigid, and labourintensive to install
If you’re choosing based on longevity, environmental impact, or ease of maintenance, plastic pipes – especially PVC and HDPE – often strike the best balance for residential and light commercial use. For heavy-duty infrastructure, concrete
and metal still have their place.
What trends are you seeing in demand for thermoplastic systems?
Across Europe, there’s a clear shift toward plastic pipe alternatives driven by sustainability goals, cost efficiency, and evolving infrastructure needs. Here’s a snapshot of the key trends:
Sustainability & Climate Adaptation
• Climate resilience: Plastic pipes are increasingly used in irrigation systems to combat droughts and support agriculture, especially in southern Europe
• Lower emissions: Compared to concrete and metal, plastic pipes (especially PE and PP) have a smaller carbon footprint during production and transport
Infrastructure & Construction Boom
• Government stimulus: Postpandemic recovery programs have boosted construction, with plastic pipe manufacturers benefiting from increased demand for lightweight, corrosion-resistant materials
• Digital infrastructure: The expansion of fibre-optic networks across Europe has driven demand for protective plastic conduits for broadband cables
Material Innovation & Market Growth
• Smart pipe systems: European manufacturers are investing in plasticbased smart piping solutions for water management and leak detection
• Market expansion: The European pipe industry is projected to grow from $27.5B in 2025 to $44.9B by 2034, with plastic pipes gaining share due to their versatility and ease of installation
Challenges for Metal & Concrete
• Raw material volatility: Fluctuating prices for steel and copper are pushing developers toward more stable plastic alternatives
• Heavy installation costs: Concrete pipes, while durable, are labourintensive and costly to install – making plastic a more attractive option for many projects
This transition isn’t uniform across all regions – Germany and Poland face material shortages, while Spain’s construction sector
is still recovering. But overall, plastic pipes are becoming the go-to choice for modern European infrastructure.
What role do you see thermoplastics playing in the future of infrastructure? Thermoplastics are poised to play a transformative role in the future of infrastructure – think lighter, smarter, and more sustainable systems across everything from roads to renewable energy. Here’s how they’re shaping up:
Infrastructure Reinvention
• Lightweight strength: Fibrereinforced thermoplastics rival steel in strength but weigh far less, making them ideal for bridges, tunnels, and modular construction
• Corrosion resistance: Unlike metal, thermoplastics don’t rust, perfect for coastal and underground applications where durability is key
• Rapid installation: Thermoplastics can be moulded quickly and precisely, reducing labour and downtime compared to concrete or metal systems
Sustainability & Circular Economy
• Recyclability: Thermoplastics can be reheated and reshaped repeatedly, making them highly recyclable and ideal for circular economy models
• Low embodied energy: Their production typically requires less energy than traditional materials, helping reduce carbon footprints
• Waste-to-resource innovation: Recycled thermoplastics are being used to create composite materials for roads, drainage systems, and even building facades
Renewable Energy & Smart Systems
• Energy infrastructure: Thermoplastic resins are used in wind turbine blades, solar panel frames, and cable insulation due to their strength and weather resistance
• Smart piping: Advanced thermoplastics are enabling leakdetection and pressure-monitoring systems in water and gas networks
In short, thermoplastics are not just replacing traditional materials – they’re redefining what infrastructure can be.
The recently launched Combi-CB70E earns global recognition for its ergonomic design, performance, and sustainability at the prestigious Red Dot Design Awards 2025
Irish-based manufacturer Combilift, a global leader in multi-directional and customised handling solutions, has been awarded the prestigious Red Dot Award for Product Design 2025 for its CombiCB70E, high-capacity, electric-powered multidirectional forklift, developed to meet the needs of heavy-duty, long-load handling in more sustainable ways.
The Red Dot Award, one of the most internationally renowned design competitions, recognises excellence in design quality and innovation, and is no stranger to Combilift’s exceptional vision to shaping the future of the Commercial Vehicles Industry.
This award completes a hat trick for Combilift who previously won a Red Dot for the Combi-WR and ‘Best of the Best’ for the Combi-CB4.
Combilift’s Combi-CB70E impressed the international jury with its new ergonomic design, environmental credentials, and ability to enhance operator comfort and productivity in demanding industrial settings.
Martin McVicar, CEO and Co-founder of Combilift, commented: ‘We are delighted to receive our third Red Dot Award this year for the Combi-CB70E.
‘Our design and engineering teams have been striving to provide solutions that are not only functional and safe but also reflect excellence in industrial design.
‘Our customers increasingly demand electric alternatives that don’t compromise on performance, and the CB70E is exactly that.’
The multidirectional Combi-CB70E is a 7-tonne capacity electric counterbalance forklift, specifically designed for handling
Engineer.
long and bulky loads in confined or challenging spaces.
Equipped with Combilift’s patented Independent Traction Control System and large elastic rubber tyres, it provides allterrain capability while maintaining zeroemission operation.
The spacious gas strut suspension cab and floor to ceiling glazing offers enhanced visibility and comfort, while the Auto Swivel Seat, which automatically swivels 15 degrees to the left or right, depending on the direction of travel, ensures optimal ergonomics and comfort for operators, even during extended shifts.
This Red Dot recognition comes in an exceptional 11 months of success for Combilift, which has also received multiple international accolades for its products and leadership, including Product of the Year and Ergonomics Award at the UKMHA Archies Awards, as well as Design Team of
the Year and Industry Leader awards from the UK’s Engineering & Manufacturing Awards.
With over 1,000 employees and exports to more than 85 countries, Combilift continues to set benchmarks in safety, design, and innovation in the materials handling sector.
Video: https://youtu.be/94jdFGAJ7fA
Visit: https://combilift.com/combi-cb70e/
We are determined to make a positive impact on your business, your clients, your projects and communities while reducing our impact on the planet.
We believe that every time you paint, there is an opportunity to make a positive
That’s why we are committed to developing innovative products and solutions that have lower VOC emissions, protect surfaces for longer and use renewable materials
Dulux continues with their vision of Driving environmental excellence through innovative solutions with the launch of Dulux Trade AQUA UNIPRIMER
The ultimate multi-surface water-based
Dulux Trade AQUA UNIPRIMER is an industry-leading, high-performance, fastdrying, water-based primer with advanced adhesion properties for all major interior & exterior substrates, including wood, metal uPVC, and glossy pre-painted surfaces.
It penetrates porous substrates, seals
Before the temperatures drop and pests seek shelter indoors, now is the perfect time for retailers to prepare for increased customer demand with a dependable pest control offering.
Dargan Tools has you covered with a comprehensive range of pest control solutions designed for both effectiveness and ease of use.
Our standout products include:
• Electronic Pest Repellers – A clean, chemical-free way to drive rodents from homes and outbuildings. Easy to use, low maintenance, and a great upsell item for concerned homeowners.
surfaces, blocks significant stains and inhibits rust.
Its excellent opacity and professional finish means it can also be used as an undercoat, making it the perfect solution for any project.
1L, 2.5L & 5L packs available in ready mixed white and mixing bases providing the opportunity to mix in any colour.
NEW Dulux Trade AQUA UNIPRIMER has been tested and approved by professional decorators to deliver the ultimate multisurface primer paint.
We’re committed to delivering high-quality products to professional decorators.
One of the ways we do that is through
our Tested and Approved product-testing process.
This involves running multiple application tests with professional decorators to ensure our new products meet their needs and expectations.
By involving professional decorators in the testing process, we can guarantee that Dulux Trade products such as Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt, Dulux Trade Diamond Matt, Dulux Trade Ultra Matt and Dulux Trade AQUA UNIPRIMER perform to the highest standards.
‘What a great product, adhesion is excellent!’
‘So easy to apply, dried very fast and has excellent coverage, no problem recommending!’
For all queries on Dulux Trade Products for your projects contact Dulux Ireland Contracts & Specification manager David Brady david.brady@akzonobel.com +353 087 340 7426
• Pre-Baited Reusable Mouse Traps – Hygienic, effective, and ready to use straight from the box. These popular traps are supplied in eye-catching retail display packs, making them an ideal countertop or aisle-end seller.
• Traditional Mouse Traps – A staple in any pest control range, these tried-and-tested traps are affordable and reliable.
Retailers can trust Dargan Tools to deliver a consistent range that meets customer needs at the right time of year.
Whether your customers prefer modern repellers or traditional solutions, we’ve got the right mix in stock and ready to ship.
Don’t get caught out – now’s the time to ensure your shelves are stocked. Contact us today to place your order.
manufacturer
based outside Drogheda for more than extensive range of paving, walling, edgings, precast concrete products. The entire range forefront and offers real value in the
company where commitment to innovation of natural stone and aggregates from granite, slate, limestone and porcelain to
The Chapterstone Company Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of top quality paving in Ireland.
The Chapterstone Company Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of top quality paving in Ireland.
We are a third generation family business based outside Drogheda for more than 75 years. We produce Ireland’s most extensive range of paving, walling, edgings, kerbs, stepping stones, fencing and precast concrete products. The entire range is manufactured with sustainability at it’s forefront and offers real value in the current marketplace.
business whose forebears have been on 1919.
We are a third generation family business based outside Drogheda for more than 75 years. We produce Ireland’s most extensive range of paving, walling, edgings, kerbs, stepping stones, fencing and precast concrete products. The entire range is manufactured with sustainability at it’s forefront and offers real value in the current marketplace.
walling, edgings and stepping stones are also network. Please contact our sales team.
Chapterstone is a forward thinking company where commitment to innovation is important. We also stock a great range of natural stone and aggregates from around the world including sandstone, granite, slate, limestone and porcelain to suit all tastes and budgets.
Chapterstone is a forward thinking company where commitment to innovation is important. We also stock a great range of natural stone and aggregates from around the world including sandstone, granite, slate, limestone and porcelain to suit all tastes and budgets.
We are an independently owned family business whose forebears have been on this site in Oldbridge, Drogheda since 1919.
Home Deliver
We are an independently owned family business whose forebears have been on this site in Oldbridge, Drogheda since 1919.
Our wide range of paving, precast, walling, edgings and stepping stones are also available from our nationwide stockist network. Please contact our sales team.
Our wide range of paving, precast, walling, edgings and stepping stones are also available from our nationwide stockist network. Please contact our sales team.
Summer Opening Hours (March - October)
Monday - Friday 8.00am to 5.30pm Saturday 8.30am to 4.00pm
The Chapterstone Company Ltd.
Summer Opening Hours (March - October)
Sunday 2.00pm to 5.00pm Saint Patrick’s Day Closed
Oldbridge, Drogheda, Ireland, A92 KR60
Oldbridge, Drogheda, Ireland, A92 KR60
Phone: 041 983 3001
Phone: 041 983 3001
Email: chapterstonepaving@gmail.com
Summer Opening Hours (March - October)
Monday - Friday 8.00am to 5.30pm
Saturday 8.30am to 4.00pm
Monday - Friday 8.00am to 5.30pm
Saturday 8.30am to 4.00pm
Sunday 2.00pm to 5.00pm
Sunday 2.00pm to 5.00pm
Saint Patrick’s Day Closed
Saint Patrick’s Day Closed
Winter Opening Hours (November - February)
Winter Opening Hours (November - February)
Winter Opening Hours (November - February)
Monday - Friday 8.00am to 5.00pm
Monday - Friday 8.00am to 5.00pm
Monday - Friday 8.00am to 5.00pm
www.chapterstone.ie
Email: chapterstonepaving@gmail.com www.chapterstone.ie
Saturday 8.00am to 1.00pm
Saturday 8.00am to 1.00pm
Saturday 8.00am to 1.00pm Sunday Closed
Sunday Closed
Sunday Closed
From Brick Lane in 1924 to Cricklewood in 2024 Rustins is celebrating 100 years of manufacturing wood finishes in Britain.
Since 1924, Rustins is a cornerstone of iconic woodcare products catering to artisans, DIY enthusiasts and trade professionals around the world.
During the past century we added specialty paints, decorating sundries and performance cleaners to our portfolio.
Over the last 12 months, Rustins has been celebrating this milestone birthday with our customers, stakeholders and especially our employees who have contributed to Rustins’ success with new product launches, social media campaigns and promotions.
Over the past 100 years, the company has launched products that are now household names such as Strypit and Rustins ‘The Original’ Danish Oil.
To celebrate 100 years, we are pleased to announce that we launched, Rustins Quick Dry Polyurethane Varnish.
Water-based and non-yellowing, this polyurethane varnish is extra tough and resistant to cracking, peeling and blistering as well as alcohol and boiling water spills. Both low odour and non-toxic, it can be used on bare wood, hardboard, MDF and unsealed cork.
For previous coatings, lightly sand to give a key before application.
For interior and exterior use, the varnish will give long-lasting protection on all types of wood enhancing its natural beauty.
Simply wash your brushes in water for clean-up.
Use on tables & chairs, doors, shelving, cupboards, bannisters and window ledges to name a few.
Antique Pine, Dark Oak, Ebony, Oak, Mahogany, Pine, Teak and Walnut colours are available with a satin finish in 250ml, 500ml, 1 and 2.5 litre sizes.
Clear gloss, satin and matt are available 250ml, 500ml, 1, 2.5 and 5 litre sizes.
Rustins varnishes have built a strong reputation among professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike for their high quality, ease of use, and long-lasting finish.
Whether used on wood furniture, floors, or craft projects, Rustins products are known for delivering reliable protection and a beautiful appearance.
One of the standout features of Rustins varnishes is their excellent durability.
They provide a tough, hardwearing finish that resists scratches, water, heat, and general wear and tear.
This makes them particularly suitable for high-traffic surfaces such as dining tables, kitchen worktops, and wooden floors.
The varnish forms a strong barrier that helps to preserve the integrity and look of the wood beneath for years to come.
Ease of application is another significant advantage.
Rustins offers both water-based and solvent-based varnishes, giving users the flexibility to choose based on their preferences and the specific requirements of a project.
The water-based versions are quickdrying, low in odour, and environmentally friendly—ideal for indoor projects or poorly ventilated spaces.
Rustins varnishes are also known for their aesthetic appeal. Available in a variety of finishes – matt, satin, gloss – they allow users to achieve the exact look they want.
The varnish enhances the natural grain of the wood without yellowing over time, maintaining clarity and depth.
This makes Rustins an ideal choice for both new woodworking projects and restoration work, where preserving the wood’s original character is key.
In addition, Rustins products often come
in multiple sizes, from small tins for hobbyists to larger containers for professional use.
One of Rustins’ key strengths lies in its diverse product range.
The brand offers wood stains, varnishes, oils, waxes, and cleaners designed for both indoor and outdoor use.
Whether you’re treating new wood or restoring old furniture, Rustins provides the right product for the job.
Their wood stains are particularly popular, delivering vibrant and consistent colour while enhancing the natural grain. They are available in a wide spectrum of shades and are easy to blend for custom finishes.
Rustins’ varnishes and lacquers are known for their durability and smooth application. Available in water-based and solvent-based formulations, they provide a long-lasting
protective coating that resists heat, moisture, and abrasion.
Their quick-drying water-based options are ideal for interior use, offering low odour and ecofriendliness, while their traditional solvent-based products deliver a deeper, richer finish often preferred for restoration projects.
The brand’s range of oils, including Danish Oil, Teak Oil, and Tung Oil, nourish and protect wood by penetrating deep into the grain.
These oils bring out the natural beauty of wood while offering a protective, water-resistant finish.
Rustins Danish Oil, for instance, is a customer favourite thanks to its easy application and attractive satin sheen.
It’s ideal for food-safe surfaces like kitchen counters and cutting boards.
Rustins also offers high-quality waxes, such as their beeswax formulations, which are perfect for achieving a classic hand-rubbed finish.
These products not only enhance the wood’s appearance but also add a layer of protection against dust and moisture.
In summary, Rustins woodcare products offer a comprehensive, user-friendly solution for anyone working with wood.
Their blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern formulations ensures superior performance, making Rustins a trusted brand for wood lovers seeking to protect, enhance, and preserve wood in all its forms.
For information on Rustins’ products visit www. rustins.eu or contact Excellence Ltd Unit G1 Horizon Business Park, Harristown, Swords, Co. Dublin K67C8N4
Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is gaining momentum in the global push for sustainable energy solutions.
Firebird, a leading advocate for renewable energy, has been committed to supporting HVO since 2016.
Firebird has been actively requesting the Government to secure official recognition of HVO as a substitute for Kerosene in home heating for many years.
By replacing Kerosene with HVO, CO₂ emissions could potentially be reduced by up to 90%.
Until now, HVO has remained unrecognised by the Government in their legislated Climate action plans.
We now have some commitment from the new Government to look at the use of sustainable biofuels to reduce emissions from existing home boilers where deep retrofits are not possible in the short term. 700,000 homes in Ireland still rely on
Kerosene for heating. A few have switched to heat pumps, but this option remains out of reach for most households.
In 2024, only 3,609 grant funded retrofits were completed which included a heat pump installation – far below the levels needed to meet Ireland’s 2030 decarbonisation targets.
For older, rural, and hard-to-heat homes, electrification is not a viable solution due to high upgrade costs, poorly insulated homes, and homes with high heat loss.
Converting from Kerosene to HVO, however, provides an immediate reduction in carbon emissions with minimal disruption and at practically no cost, to the
end user.
The financial burden of switching to heat pumps and deep retrofits is a major obstacle for Irish households.
The average cost of a governmentsupported retrofit is €37,489, making full electrification unaffordable for most families.
However, introducing a 20% renewable fuel blend across all oil-heated homes would reduce emissions on the same scale as retrofitting 160,000 homes – at practically no cost to the end user.
The industry has come together and is ready to deliver this 20% blend immediately.
At a 20% blend there is no requirement for the homeowner to make any modification to their existing boiler, so this transition is 100% seamless to the end user. This is an easy win for the environment. For more information, visit www.firebird.ie
Designed for both new builds and renovations, Cedral TECTA Texture combines the timeless look of natural slate with advanced UV-engineering technology to deliver excellent performance and visual appeal.
PATENTED UV-HARDENED SURFACE
FADE, SCRATCH & GRAFFITI RESISTANT CONTEMPORARY DEEP, NATURAL MATT FINISH WITH LONG-LASTING COLOUR TO FIND OUT MORE, SCAN THE QR
30 YEARS
Cedral Ireland by Etex, a leading name in high-performance roofing and cladding materials, has launched Cedral TECTA Texture, a UV-Engineered slate, that’s ideal for the Irish market.
Designed for both new builds and renovations, Cedral TECTA Texture is a first to market in combining the timeless look of natural slate with advanced UV-engineered technology to deliver excellent performance and visual appeal.
As Ireland’s changing climate brings increased exposure to rain, wind, UV light, and seasonal extremes, traditional roofing and cladding materials are being pushed to their limits.
Cedral TECTA Texture meets this challenge head-on with a patented UV-hardened surface that delivers unmatched resilience, long-lasting colour, and low maintenance ensuring roofs or façades stay beautiful and protected for decades.
‘This next generation of fibre cement slates, Cedral TECTA Texture, has been developed to meet the real needs of today’s homeowners and specifiers,’ says John Bradley, country manager at Etex Ireland.
‘A unique UV treatment gives the slate a strength and resilience that stands up to our changing weather, while maintaining a stunning finish, year after year, all while lowering environmental impact.’
At the core of Cedral TECTA’s performance is its patented UV-curing process, a cuttingedge alternative to traditional heat-based curing systems.
The result is a finish that is not only visually striking but also exceptionally durable.
The Benefits of the Cedral UV curing process include:
• Lower energy consumption, making the process more sustainable
• Consistent ultra-matt finish that
replicates the look of natural slate
• Enhanced surface hardness, improving scratch and scuff resistance
• Superior colour retention, even with prolonged UV exposure
Cedral TECTA Texture features a richly detailed, authentic slate appearance with a matt finish.
Crafted from lightweight fibre cement and precisely sized for consistent installation, TECTA slates are installer friendly, making them an ideal solution for both new constructions and renovation projects.
Featuring clean lines, a low-profile appearance, and authentic slate texture, Cedral TECTA Texture complements both traditional Irish homes and contemporary architecture providing a premium alternative to natural slate.
To find out more about Cedral Tecta Texture, contact your local Cedral representative or visit https://www.cedral.world/en-ie/cedraltecta-texture/
Cedral by Etex has a proud heritage in Ireland, formerly operating as Tegral Building Products, a trusted name serving generations of Irish homeowners and professionals.
A member of Guaranteed Irish, today, Cedral continues this legacy of quality and local support, proudly sponsoring Cedral St. Conleth’s Park, the home of Kildare GAA.
As part of Etex, a global leader in sustainable building solutions, Cedral offers a full range of fibre cement cladding and roofing products engineered for durability, low maintenance, and timeless design.
High Thermal Insulation
High Compressive Strength
Fully Waterproof
Lightweight & Easy to Cut 40% of heat generated by underfloor heating wire gets lost through concrete floors
Marmox Multiboards can reduce that loss by 60%
A smart, practical way to keep more heat where you want it: in your home.
Underfloor heating has become a popular choice in Irish homes, offering gentle, evenly distributed warmth that feels especially welcome on cold mornings.
But getting the most from an underfloor heating system isn’t just about the pipes or heating mats – it’s about what sits beneath them.
That’s where Marmox Multiboards come in, providing a smart solution that improves efficiency, comfort, and long-term performance.
Marmox Multiboards are lightweight insulation boards with a dense extruded polystyrene (XPS) core, sandwiched between layers of polymer-modified cement.
Clever
This clever construction makes them strong, waterproof, and highly effective at keeping heat where it belongs: in the room, not sinking into the subfloor.
One of the biggest challenges of underfloor heating in Irish homes, especially those built before modern insulation standards, is heat loss through the floor.
Without insulation, much of the heat generated by the system can escape downwards, leading to longer warm-up times and higher running costs.
Fitting Marmox Multiboards directly beneath the heating system creates a powerful thermal barrier, directing more heat upwards into the living space.
With a thermal conductivity of just 0.034 W/mK, Multiboards greatly reduce heat transfer to the subfloor.
Heat up
In practice, this means rooms heat up faster and require less energy to stay warm – an attractive prospect for homeowners facing rising energy bills.
And in Ireland, where homes often have tiled kitchens, bathrooms, and open-plan spaces, pairing underfloor heating with proper insulation makes a real difference in everyday comfort.
Marmox Multiboards installed under electric heating mats: speeding up heat-up times and keeping floors cosy even on the coldest of days.
‘Rooms heat up faster and need less energy to stay warm – perfect for Irish homes where every bit of efficiency counts.’
Another advantage of Marmox Multiboards is their versatility.
They’re suitable for both new builds and renovations, and can be installed over concrete or timber floors.
Available in a range of thicknesses, they help meet building regulations without significantly raising finished floor levels – a common concern in refurbishment projects.
The boards also act as a solid base for tiling, thanks to their cementitious surface which bonds securely with tile adhesives and levelling compounds.
This stability is especially important when using large-format tiles or natural stone finishes, which are popular choices in kitchens and bathrooms.
For wet areas like bathrooms or utility rooms, Multiboards provide peace of mind by being completely waterproof, helping protect the structure below from leaks and moisture damage –a particularly valuable feature in Ireland’s damp climate.
Installation is practical and straightforward: the boards are lightweight, easy to cut, and can be fixed using tile adhesive or mechanical fixings depending on the subfloor type.
Heating mats or cables are then installed directly on top, before adding the chosen floor finish.
By improving thermal efficiency and offering reliable waterproofing and strength, Marmox Multiboards help homeowners enjoy the real benefits of underfloor heating: quicker warm-up times, reduced energy costs, and consistently cosy floors underfoot.
Whether it’s a new build or a city-centre apartment renovation, investing in proper insulation beneath underfloor heating isn’t just good practice – it’s a decision that pays off in comfort and lower bills for years to come.
‘Always choose the right Multiboard thickness to balance insulation with finished floor height. In older homes with limited ceiling height, even thinner boards make a noticeable difference to underfloor heating performance.’
We understand that painting exteriors in summer isn’t easy.
Working around direct sunlight, dealing with high humidity levels and trying to stay ahead of unpredictable heatwaves are just some of the decorating headaches professionals tackle in the warmer months. It pays to be prepared. Zinsser’s range of reliable, high-performance exterior paints and primers are built to handle the heat and get the job done, whatever the weather.
When decorating outdoors in summer, you need reliable, high-quality paint products you can depend on.
Zinsser AllCoat Exterior Water-Based is the go-to solution for a variety of outdoor surfaces, including wood, masonry, metal, concrete and uPVC.
It provides outstanding resistance to cracking, blistering, and flaking for up to 15 years#, while its built-in biocide is designed to keep mould and mildew at bay*.
The ultra-durable finish offers excellent colour retention and is designed to withstand unpredictable summer showers and harsh weather conditions.
Tintable to BS, NCS, and RAL colours, AllCoat Exterior WB provides a wide range of options to suit any project.
In the summer months, decorators often choose to start work early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when the sun is lower in the sky and temperatures are more manageable.
AllCoat Exterior WB is best applied in warm, dry conditions and in shaded areas where possible. Direct sunlight can cause the paint to dry too quickly, which may affect adhesion and overall finish.
Primed for performance
While AllCoat Exterior WB is self-priming, some surfaces need a bit of extra prep, especially the tricky ones like redwood, cedar or those showing signs of staining, knots or sap streaks.
That’s where B-I-N® AQUA comes in.
The water-based, full-surface exterior primer, sealer and stain-blocker is designed to tackle knots and stop stains in their tracks, such as tannin bleed, water stains,
mould and mildew.
B-I-N® AQUA has a quick-drying formula, is touch dry in just 25 minutes and ready for a recoat in 45 minutes†.
With only trace VOC levels (<0.1%), the water-based primer is ultra-low odour and provides easy soap and water clean-up.
Peeling paint is no sweat for Zinsser
Hot weather can make exterior decorating a real challenge. When it’s too warm, paint can dry too fast, which often leads to blistering or bubbling.
High humidity adds more problems, as trapped moisture between layers can lead to streaks, drips or longer drying times.
Zinsser Peel Stop is an ideal solution for stabilising flaky, chalky and dusty problem surfaces. It effectively binds loose material, creating a sound, sealed base ready for fresh paint.
By ensuring strong adhesion from the
start, Peel Stop helps reduce the risk of callbacks and repeat work.
For renowned and trusted products, get in touch with Relay Global and enquire about stocking Zinsser today, contact: Michael Taylor, Managing Director info@relay.global
NI: +44 (0)28 9262 0300 ROI: +353(0)1 840 3969
For more information visit www.zinsseruk. com or follow us on social media @zinsseruk
*AllCoat Exterior Water-Based contains a biocide to protect the dried coating against fungal degradation.
†For knots and stains, allow 2 hours drying time.
#The paint film is designed to resist cracking, peeling & blistering for up to 15 years before first maintenance.
opinion by Jeff Haden: Cognitive science says the 10-minute rule is a (literally) effortless way to learn faster, improve recall, and boost memory
Research says you really can rest your way to better long-term memory and recall
I had spent a couple weeks preparing to speak at the Arabian Business Awards. Felt good. Felt ready. Flew to Dubai.
Different topic
Woke up the morning of, worked out, had lunch… and got a message from the organizers asking if it was possible for me to speak on a different topic, one that had suddenly become timely.
I said yes, since I like to be a team player and hate to disappoint.
I was dying inside, since I now had about eight hours to create and learn a new 22-minute presentation – and the stakes felt extremely high, since literal heads of state would be in attendance.
Reinforce
My approach? Use every minute possible rehearsing. Repetition reinforces. Plus, making mistakes aids learning.
After all, studies show self-testing is an extremely effective way to improve retention.
I rehearsed while I snacked. I rehearsed while I showered. I rehearsed while I dressed.
I felt good about the words I would say, but I struggled to reliably remember slide cues. (My Achilles heel is remembering when to click to a new slide.)
Right before I went onstage, I wished there had been time to run through it a few more times.
The presentation went well. (I missed one slide cue but recovered in a way no one noticed.)
But as for wishing I could have crammed a few more run-throughs into the time I had to prepare?
10 minutes to better recall
That was probably a mistake. I recently came across a 2022 study published in Nature Reviews Psychology that found that taking a 10-minute break between study sessions significantly improves recall compared to immediately engaging in another task, even if that other task is engaging in another study session.
As the researchers write: Periods of offline waking rest can facilitate the consolidation of newly formed memories. Even a few minutes of rest with closed eyes can improve memory, perhaps to the same degree as a full night of sleep.
Significant
The last point is significant. According to a study published in Psychological Science in 2016, people who studied before bed, then slept, then did a quick review the next morning not only spent less time studying, they also increased their long-term retention by 50
percent. ‘Sleeping on it’ not only helps your brain file away what you’ve learned, it makes that information easier to access.
As the Nature Reviews Psychology study authors write:
The memory benefit of offline waking rest is comparable to the effect of post-learning sleep, and has been demonstrated for a wide array of types of learning and memory.
Periods of offline rest permit the reactivation of recently formed memory traces.
This iterative reactivation of memory could strengthen and stabilize newly formed memories over time, contributing to early stages of memory consolidation during the first few minutes following encoding.
For my new presentation, I had about eight hours to prepare, and I assumed that cramming as many run-throughs as possible into that time – using every second to learn – was the best way to go.
It turns out that I would have been better off taking a few breaks. As long as they were the right kind of break.
‘Offline’
For offline waking rest to be comparable to post-learning sleep in terms of its effect on recall, the key is to make your breaks as similar to sleep as possible.
No music. No screens. No chatting with friends.
Just quiet downtime, preferably with your eyes closed, or if that’s not possible, doing something mindless.
Taking a walk. Looking out the window.
Or even exercising. A study published in Psychology of Sport and Exercise found that exercising after learning significantly improves memory, recall, and retention.
In fact, a study published in Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health in 2023 found that just six to 10 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise can improve your working memory and significantly improve higher-level cognitive skills like
organization, prioritization, and planning – regardless of when that exercise session takes place.
That’s what I should have done. Even if I had known that periodically sitting and closing my eyes for 10 minutes would have helped me learn faster, I was too keyed-up to actually do it.
Exercising for 10 minutes? That would have burned off a little stress and helped me retain more.
Try it. The next time you need to learn something – a presentation, a sales demo, an investor pitch – add a few 10-minute periods of offline rest to your learning routine.
Rehearse a couple of times, then sit and chill. Give your brain a chance to consolidate and strengthen the memories you’ve formed.
See taking a break as a feature, not a bug.
As the researchers write, ‘moments of unoccupied rest should be recognized as a critical contributor to human waking cognitive functions rather than a waste of time’.
It sounds like they were talking to me.
The opinions expressed here by Inc.com columnists are their own, not those of Inc.com.
@jeff_haden
Bostik Academy is a virtual and physical knowledge centre, which has been carefully created, for professionals, in the Irish construction industry.
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