Major retailers have signed up to a government initiative to cut the use of plastic bags in half by spring 2009. 

Hobbycraft is so far proving immune to the economic downturn by revealing turnover has grown by £7.7m to 62.1m. 

A Poundland store has had to pay more than £4,000 after being caught selling a knife to a 17-year-old. 

Marks and Spencer is again cutting prices on homewares in the run up to Christmas. 

Decorative coatings company agrees a 75/25 majority interest in joint venture with Nippon Kayaku. 

More than 250 people flock to Hilton Hotel in Newcastle for National Buying Group event on December 2. 

Staff informed of retailer’s decision to close doors for the final time in New Year after administrators fail to find a buyer. 

Domestic appliance supplier reduces employee numbers after ‘sharp decline in demand’ means the company won’t reach full year target for 2008. 

Independent lighting retailers will have a tough time next year but a healthy 2010, according to a new report. 

Members of the British Home Enhancement Trades Association (BHETA) have voted overwhelmingly in favour of joining forces with the British Jewellery, Giftware & Finishing Federation (BJGF) in a 95% to 5% victory. 

DIY giant joins the ranks of retailers pushing landlords for better payment deals and elimination of quarterly rents. 

The BHF announced this morning that it is to merge with the British Shops and Stores Association (BSSA), hot on the heels of the news that BHETA is to merge with the BJGF. 

Bryan Farthing, the former editor of Hardware Trade Journal - which became DIY Week - died on Saturday December 6. He was 82. 

Want a pair of tickets for the 2009 Men's Final day at Wimbledon? With a full hospitality package? Then now is your chance, with a pair of tickets being auctioned off in aid of industry charity the Rainy Day Trust. 

Wirral-based Rightway has expanded into north Wales by taking over Bevans. 

Woolworths is struggling to see in its centenary after administrators announced a closing down sale would start today. 

Wickes is fighting back against the gloomy economy by splashing out £15m on a series of commercials. 

A gloomy economy hasn't stopped the DIY industry supporting charity this Christmas. 

The man who made Kingfisher a global DIY force is the latest name to be linked with a bid for Woolworths. 

Marks & Spencer is cutting prices in the run up to Christmas on a range of products - including its home range.