Who we are

EDRA/GHIN represents a global network of home improvement retailers, made up of independent stores, SMEs and multinational groups. We are a collaborative community, whose primary purpose is to promote the competitiveness and sustainability of the retail market and ensure the sector’s voice is heard in the EU policy debate.

Our organisation is a hub for advocacy, knowledge exchange and networking, representing a sector that interacts directly with thousands of suppliers in Europe and overseas, and millions of consumers, both professional and households. 

A New Approach for 2024-29

Since Covid, home improvement retailers have faced a series of challenges to the supply chain, mounting inflation, rising energy prices, the transition toward increased digitalisation and sustainable practices, all of which combine to squeeze margins and profitability.

However, retailers approach these challenges as opportunities to move their businesses into the new normal; by investing in technology and digital transformation, reskilling and developing new sustainability practices and product assortments. They do this while remaining dedicated to offering affordable prices to customers.

All of the work that has gone into developing sustainability and digital frameworks was vital and retailers made an important contribution to shaping them. These new measures, while essential, will also bring with them numerous burdens and require massive investment and resources.

Better understanding of the complexity of global supply chains and the cumulative effects of policies on the retail sector would have a positive effect on the competitiveness and the resilience of the sector. In this regard, we also very much welcome the Retail Transition Pathway of the European Commission.

The Green Deal has seen unprecedented changes to the EU acquis since 2019. Business now needs space to breathe, and we call on policy makers to focus on implementation and proper enforcement of the rules, rather than generating new initiatives.

Retailers welcome the Green Deal now being in place, but it needs to be delivered. Policymakers can help retailers comply with the many new rules in place, by ensuring a level playing field at European level and a business-friendly regulatory culture in Brussels.

A change in the regulatory culture: stronger cooperation between industry and public authorities is essential, with policymakers leveraging industrial expertise to foster competitiveness, sustainability, and inclusivity.

Priorities  

Preserving single market principles essential for competitiveness and green and digital transition. This involves cutting red tape, removing trade barriers, and fostering a business-friendly environment.

A change in the regulatory culture in Brussels can go further. Built on stronger cooperation between industry and public authorities, with policymakers leveraging business expertise to foster competitiveness.

Maintaining openness and growth as fundamental components of the EU’s trade policy.

The Horizon Europe programme should do more to enhance collaboration between business, research, and education.

Address the skills shortage through strategic partnerships and policies that bolster vocational training, education, and lifelong learning.

Position Papers

Late Payments in Commercial Transactions

SME Relief Package