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BHB Association Gears Up for the Annual Industry Congress with Renewed Focus on Innovation and Customer Experience

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SHERIDAN, WYOMING – November 4, 2024 -  BHB Association Gears Up for the Annual Industry Congress with Renewed Focus on Innovation and Customer Experience

With the year drawing to a close, BHB, the German DIY, Building, and Gardening Retail Association, is excitedly preparing for its 25th Congress, set to take place on November 26–28, 2024, at the World Conference Center Bonn (WCCB). This year's congress brings together industry leaders and thought-provoking speakers from various fields, poised to discuss trends and strategies in response to a challenging year for the home improvement industry.

Dr. Peter Wüst, BHB’s CEO, noted, “Two final months lie ahead in this—let's call it a very mixed year—there's still much to do!” This sentiment reflects the association's drive to address unmet sales expectations and revitalize sector-wide efforts through networking and innovation. BHB invites industry members to join in what Wüst describes as a “symbolic campfire,” where stakeholders can come together, analyze trends, and lay the foundation for joint ideas and solutions.

A Platform for Industry Insights and Inspiration

The BHB Congress, an established annual gathering, offers a space for professionals across the home improvement sector to engage and gain insights from esteemed experts. Highlights of this year’s congress include keynote addresses from well-known figures such as political analyst Nikolaus Blome, futurist Theresa Schleicher, and Thalia CEO Michael Busch. In addition, Norbert Lammert, an influential political veteran, will lend his perspective on the evolving relationship between business and policy, emphasizing sustainability and corporate responsibility. The congress also features the DIY Lifetime Award, recognizing outstanding contributions to the sector.

Addressing Shifts in Customer Satisfaction and Market Needs

The BHB is acutely aware of changing customer expectations, a theme that will permeate this year's discussions. According to the 2024 Customer Monitor by BHB in collaboration with Servicebarometer AG, customer satisfaction has declined, with many customers feeling that product presentation and market orientation could improve. The survey indicated a current satisfaction score of 2.26, down from a high of 2021, revealing a need for retailers to adapt to evolving consumer demands. Notably, while product presentation has been cited as an area for improvement, customer appreciation for professional in-store advice has reached an all-time high.

This mix of declining satisfaction in some areas alongside rising expectations in others underscores the sector's challenge. "More than a general decline in consumer sentiment, there is a mixed picture with feedback from customers on deficiencies and strengthened areas in individual DIY retail chains," stated a recent report.

Advocating for Product Safety and Consumer Trust

Consumer protection remains a priority for BHB, which works actively to ensure product safety across its markets. The EU's "Safety Gate" alert system, known as RAPEX, provides swift warnings on non-food products that may pose safety risks, including electrical products like power strips and seasonal lighting. Recently, the system flagged 284 products for safety concerns over a single month, with 54 of these warnings related directly to DIY categories. In response, BHB is intensifying its focus on enhancing customer trust through heightened product standards and safety awareness.

### New Partnerships and Technological Advances

As part of its mission to enhance industry standards and consumer experiences, the BHB’s DIY Academy has welcomed Alfred Kärcher GmbH as its latest partner. Founded in 1935, Kärcher has established itself as a global leader in high-end cleaning solutions and innovations, ranging from household cleaning products to advanced monument restoration tools. Known for its high-pressure washers, Kärcher’s innovation has earned the verb “kärchern” a place in the German dictionary.

“Together with Kärcher, the DIY Academy will offer training sessions to consumers and media representatives, emphasizing comfortable and effective cleaning solutions for home and garden with state-of-the-art equipment,” BHB noted, welcoming Kärcher’s industry leadership and commitment to quality.

A Look Beyond Industry Borders: The Hanau Stadthof Project

BHB continues to showcase inspiring projects that reimagine traditional commerce. In the city of Hanau, the former Kaufhof department store has been repurposed as the "Stadthof," a new 16,000-square-meter urban center that brings together shopping, community events, and educational activities under one roof. This bold move by Hanau’s local government has generated national attention, with ZDF’s heute-journal stating, “The city of Hanau simply bought the block,” applauding the city’s pioneering approach to revitalizing urban spaces and fostering intergenerational engagement.

This project, which embodies modern principles of innovation, creativity, and community collaboration, has become a touchstone in Germany’s evolving retail landscape. The Stadthof will also be featured in discussions at the BHB Congress, inviting other cities and retail players to explore similar partnerships and transformative projects.

Smart Home Innovations on the Rise

Reflecting current consumer interests, the smart home market has seen substantial growth, with revenues projected to reach approximately 4.3 billion euros in Germany by the end of 2024. This trend underscores the increasing demand for smart devices, which are becoming staples in German households for functions such as lighting control, coffee machine automation, and garden maintenance. With a steady 2% growth, the smart home market offers lucrative opportunities for DIY retailers willing to embrace new technologies.

Upcoming Events and Industry Engagement Opportunities

The BHB Congress promises to be a landmark event, offering valuable opportunities for networking, collaboration, and inspiration. The organization has set dates for its next three congresses, ensuring continuity and planning ease for industry stakeholders. These gatherings not only allow for the exchange of ideas but also enable a platform for addressing issues such as workplace safety, environmental sustainability, and logistical innovation.

The BHB encourages all interested parties to join the upcoming congress and actively engage with peers and thought leaders. With industry challenges growing, the opportunity to participate in these dialogues is more valuable than ever.

For further inquiries or to register for the congress, please contact BHB via email at info@bhb.org or visit their official website at www.bhb.org.