Home Improvement Industry Working Together in the Age of COVID-19

Following the rapid escalation of the COVID-19 outbreak around the world, and especially in Europe, EDRA/GHIN and HIMA - the leading associations representing the entire home improvement sector - take this opportunity to remind all stakeholders that fair and constructive business partnerships are a necessity in these turbulent times. COVID-19 is having an unprecedented impact on supply chains around the world. In order to maintain a steady supply of goods to consumers globally, retailers and manufacturers must collaborate and work together to find practical solutions.

In their joint statement both John Herbert, General Secretary of EDRA/GHIN, and Ralf Rahmede, General Manager of HIMA, have highlighted that solutions that consider all parties have to be sought. Moreover, they are convinced that the home improvement industry should aim to reduce disruptions caused by COVID-19 as much as possible and act as an example to other industries.

John W. Herbert, General Secretary EDRA/GHIN, stated:

“Our members around the world are confronting the impacts of COVID-19 through store closures, restricted opening hours and difficulty in keeping goods stocked, to name a few impacts. Suppliers and retailers must come together in this extremely difficult time.”

Ralf Rahmede, General Manager HIMA, expressed:

“This is a challenging phase. Our members are working around the clock and pursuing all methods to ensure supply chain disruptions and bottlenecks are avoided. Working multilaterally is the best way to overcome any obstacles. We sincerely encourage everyone to stay fair with each other and to respect contractual agreements.”

Read the full joint statement on the importance of stable partnerships in the home improvement industry here.

Source: Insight DIY & EDRA/GHIN

For all the very latest news and intelligence on the largest UK home improvement and garden retailers, sign up for the Insight DIY newsletter.