According to statistics more than one in three homeowners (35%) spend over £2,000 a year on home improvements, making it a key area for merchants to consider.

However, despite being a nation of big home improvement spenders, when it comes completing projects many are left unfinished, when DIY-ers get bored and lose interest, with statistics showing that four out of 10 households have unfinished DIY projects, the worst offenders being Londoners (52%) and teachers (54%).

The excuses for these uncompleted home ‘unimprovements’ differed according to gender – 48% of men admit to just ‘not getting round to it’, whereas women are more likely to report a lack of time (49%).

These statistics show there is a fantastic opportunity for trade processionals to build trusted relationships with homeowners, to ensure their projects are completed on time to a professional standard.

By making customers aware of the increased demand for professional installation and stocking a range of popular product lines, merchants can make the most of the opportunities in the home improvement sector and secure repeat sales.

*Statistics from YouGov

Paul Lerigo is marketing director at Richard Burbidge.