SHERIDAN, WYOMING – June 12, 2025 – The BHB (German DIY, Building and Garden Trade Association) has released its Q1 2025 sales figures, showing a decline across the D-A-CH region — yet industry leaders are cautiously optimistic, with positive signals emerging from April and high hopes pinned on the upcoming garden season.
Q1 Sales Slide Amid Tough Comparisons and Economic Headwinds
The overall sales performance for building and garden retailers in Germany dropped by -4.0% year-over-year (-3.5% like-for-like). Austria and Switzerland mirrored the trend with declines of -2.0% and -2.7% respectively. However, these figures are influenced by an exceptionally strong first quarter in 2024, particularly in March, which posted a significant +4.4% growth.
“With a minus we can't really be satisfied, but we currently see that sales are already developing significantly better. The winter months are not the strongest phase anyway, and against the extremely strong March of the previous year, the figures appear weaker than they actually are. Now it will depend on whether the garden season continues to be accompanied by suitable weather – April has already sent positive signals with +3.3% (like-for-like in Germany),” stated Dr. Peter Wüst, Chief Executive of BHB.
Garden and Leisure Segments in Focus as Seasonal Potential Builds
Industry attention is turning toward seasonal categories, where performance could offset early-year softness. In Germany, only two product categories showed growth: sanitary/heating products rose by +2.3%, and wall/floor coverings edged up by +1.2%. Significant losses occurred in live plants (-15.1%) and leisure/seasonal goods (-14.5%).
Dr. Wüst added: “Many of our member companies closely tied to building materials had already expressed the confidence that the lowest point of the construction crisis had been reached. It will now depend on what important impulses the new government can set so that a sense of awakening spreads in the country, even though the global situation remains predictably volatile.”
Diverse Segment Trends Across Austria and Switzerland
Austria exhibited a more varied picture. While live plants (-14.3%) and leisure goods (-20.9%) saw sharp downturns, growth was evident in automotive and technology/office/entertainment segments (both +8.5%). In Switzerland, furniture sales increased by +4.6% and paints/accessories by +1.3%, though seasonal items and greenery also declined (-11.6% and -7.4%, respectively).
Call for Political Stimulus and Strategic Industry Support
The BHB emphasized that beyond seasonal hope, industry recovery hinges on effective political action. Construction-related sectors continue to await supportive policy measures to trigger long-term momentum.
“Now it will depend on whether the garden season continues to be accompanied by suitable weather,” reiterated Dr. Wüst. His outlook reflects an industry at a strategic turning point — with both meteorological and policy-driven variables in play.
Looking Ahead: Strategic Opportunities Amid Uncertainty
Despite a difficult Q1, the potential for a rebound in H2 remains intact. As weather patterns align and policy frameworks evolve, building and garden retailers are preparing for renewed growth.
Learn more at www.bhb.org