Export federation to represent members at trade shows in the USA, Spain and Italy. 

New reality programme to get the public back to basics with traditional and contemporary crafts. 

Ex-BHETA housewares director takes up key new role 

Survey reveals customers' dream bathroom features, including underfloor heating, walk-in shower and even a bar with topless waitresses. 

Hardware buying and marketing group Mica entered administration last night citing the pressure of the recession. Stax Trade Centres will take over the wholesaling responsibility. 

The debate on our sister site HousewaresLive.net regarding the proposed merger between BHETA and the BJGF continues to rage following news that the association has been granted a restraining injunction against member Charles Harrison to stop him from publishing confidential BHETA material that has come into his possession. 

Police appeal for witness to burglary at St John's Garden Centre in Barnstaple. 

Swedish retailer counts the cost of property slump 

Synovate Retail Traffic Index (RTI) figures reveal UK shopper numbers fell marginally against last year, with June one of the best months of the year so far. 

Despite the recessionary gloom and a tube strike, last month's Exclusively Housewares delivered another good year for visitors and exhibitors alike, according to organiser Brooke House Exhibitions. 

Show organisers pleased at positive reaction to relocation of Totally Tools, DIY and Secure to Birmingham, with a number of exhibitors returning to show as a result. 

Builders merchant and DIY chain Grafton Group has released its trading update for the six months to June 30, and, as expected, the news isn't good. 

Fundraising activities at annual Awards dinner sees garden retailers and suppliers dig deep for charity. 

More than 40% of Home Retail Group's shareholders refused to back the company's remuneration scheme, which could see directors rewarded up to 150% of their salaries in cash. 

The environment minister has finally approved plans for a £7m Dobbies garden centre just outside Lisburn in Northern Ireland, four years after the initial application was submitted. 

National floorcovering retailer Carpetright has announced a 72% slide in pre-tax profits for the 12 months to May 2. 

Associated Independent Stores (AIS) takes over GRO after the GCA was unable to generate a sustainable number of members for the scheme. 

Marks and Spencer trading statement reveals retailer performed better than expected in first quarter. 

Refusal to connect electricity costs firm dear 

Leading paint manufacturer teams up with Halifax-based company to see its waste material transformed into recycled building material.