It was a landmark move for Kingfisher-owned Screwfix when the retailer opened its first dedicated DIY store in Shepton Mallet March, and sources say the small-store format is working well so far.
A second store in Hayes opened hot on the heels of the 5,000 sq ft
Shepton Mallet offering, but bosses at Screwfix have told DIY Week the format is still under trial, and no plans for further store openings have been revealed.
Screwfix marketing manager Kim Madley told DIY Week: "The format has been designed to target consumers in smaller retail spaces and we have been really encouraged by the feedback from customers, with positive reactions to the overall store layout and stock range."
When the Shepton Mallet store first opened, DIY Express incurred criticism from several independent retailers and their supporters, with comments on diyweek.net accusing Kingfisher of "trying to squeeze out the independents."
But Screwfix defended the placement of DIY Express on the high-street, saying: "We are testing the DIY Express format because we feel there is a gap in the market for a DIY convenience offer - one that complements the trade/serious DIY offer of our Screwfix stores, as well as successfully sitting alongside the independent DIY retailer.
"We are very proud of the fact that we are in a position to invest in the DIY market and inject growth to the sector in the current climate, bringing choice and value to shoppers, as well as creating vital retail jobs in local communities."