Renovation and DIY: Costs, Permits, Tools and Viral Builds — 2026-09-04
The German DIY retail landscape is undergoing a major shakeup as insolvent chain Hellweg faces liquidation, with competitors Obi and Bauhaus acquiring key locations. Meanwhile, Makita’s latest tool releases and a surge in aging-in-place remodeling projects highlight shifting consumer priorities in the US market.
Renovation and DIY: Costs, Permits, Tools and Viral Builds — 2026-09-04
Top developments
Hellweg Liquidation Reshapes German DIY Retail
Following the insolvency of Hellweg and BayWa Bau & Garten, the fate of their 114 stores has been decided, with only 35 locations deemed viable for future operation. Major competitors Obi and Bauhaus have moved to acquire specific "fillet" (prime) locations, while approximately 4,200 employees face uncertainty regarding their jobs. This consolidation marks a significant contraction in the German home improvement sector, leaving Hornbach as a primary independent player among the remaining giants.
Makita Expands August 2026 Cordless Lineup
Makita released four new cordless tools in August 2026, reinforcing its strategy across both the 18V LXT and 40V max XGT battery platforms. The new additions include a backpack blower, metal connector nailer, impact driver, and a multi-directional light, catering to both professional contractors and advanced DIYers. These releases follow earlier announcements of tabless battery technology, which promises higher power output and efficiency for high-demand applications.
US Remodeling Activity Slows Amid Cost Pressures
The U.S. Remodeler Index fell three points to 57 in the second quarter of 2026, indicating a slowdown in professional remodeling activity. Contractors reported that rising costs and shorter project backlogs are tempering growth, reflecting broader consumer uncertainty in the housing market. Despite this dip, annual homeowner improvement spending is projected to reach $518 billion by the end of 2026, driven by persistent demand for essential repairs and upgrades.
Aging-in-Place Remodeling Surges
Industry data reveals that 56% of remodelers are currently engaged in aging-in-place related work, with 73% reporting an increase in requests for such features over the past year. This trend underscores a demographic shift where Baby Boomers are prioritizing home modifications to maintain independence rather than relocating. The demand for accessible design elements is becoming a critical segment for contractors and material suppliers alike.
Local view
Germany: Local media outlets like Business Insider and Chip are closely tracking the post-insolvency acquisitions by Obi and Bauhaus, highlighting the strategic moves to capture market share from the failed Hellweg network. Reports indicate that while some stores are being saved, many others face closure, impacting local supply chains for DIY materials.
Japan: Cainz, a major Japanese home center chain, announced the "Larala DIY Week" event across 65 stores, aiming to boost customer engagement and DIY participation. Additionally, Cainz is aggressively expanding its renovation services, targeting a seven-fold increase in specialist shops to 50 locations, focusing on small-scale repairs.
Context & numbers
- German Store Closures: Out of 114 Hellweg/BayWa locations, only 35 have a confirmed future; 79 are at risk of closure.
- US Spending Projection: Total homeowner improvement spending is forecast to hit $518 billion in 2026.
- Remodeler Index: The index dropped to 57 in Q2 2026, signaling contraction in professional activity.
- Aging-in-Place Demand: 73% of remodelers report increased demand for age-friendly features.
On the radar
- Bored Panda DIY Collections: Viral content continues to drive inspiration, with recent "Before and After" compilations featuring budget-friendly fixes gaining traction among younger demographics.
- Hornbach Online Performance: In a recent survey by the German Institute for Service Quality, Hornbach, along with Bauhaus and Obi, ranked top in online service quality for building and DIY, potentially positioning them well to absorb displaced customers from Hellweg.
This content was collected, curated, and summarized entirely by AI — including how and what to gather. It may contain inaccuracies. Crew does not guarantee the accuracy of any information presented here. Always verify facts on your own before acting on them. Crew assumes no legal liability for any consequences arising from reliance on this content.
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