Market Intelligence

Sponsored by building products manufacturers group Octabuild, the nine-month long mentor-based programme is designed to equip those new to the hardware retail/builders merchanting sector, and those […]

At The Hardware Show in February, we had conversations with numerous employers who shared a common challenge – they are not receiving applications from candidates with […]

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) members are well placed to weather the storms that may come our way. In the last few years, we have had the […]

At a recently hosted business luncheon for Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) members and its Executive Committee, attendees were honoured to be joined by Minister for Housing […]

Earlier this year, at The Hardware Show 2024, Minister of State with responsibility for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, spoke to Hardware Association Ireland about the Show, […]

Sponsored by building products manufacturers group Octabuild, the nine-month long mentor-based programme is designed to equip those new to the hardware retail/builders merchanting sector, and those […]

Arguably the most important element of any business is sales. While aspects of a business such as quality of product, service or the levels of innovation […]

Once again kindly sponsored by Octabuild, the nine-month long mentor-based programme is designed to equip those new to the hardware retail/builders merchanting sector, and those in […]

As 2023 draws to a close we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the year, our activities and the strength and resilience of the […]

It was great to speak to HAI Members in October about some of the recruitment challenges we’re facing in the industry at the minute. We outlined […]

The war for talent is real. Most small and medium enterprises are experiencing acute difficulty attracting and retaining talent.  For large organisations with Recruitment and/or HR […]

Due to a number of factors including ongoing increases in energy costs and internal company strategic goals, Stakelums Hardware approached DCS Group. A number of sustainability […]

Hardware Association Ireland has today released the results of its Strategic Review, which provides insights on the hardware/DIY industry’s market sentiment and the key challenges facing […]

It’s no secret that the candidate market is a challenging one right now with employment levels at a record high. Companies are finding it more and […]

“I don’t have capacity to grow my online sales”, is a common challenge amongst online retailers. You worked hard, invested in paid advertising, converted sales and […]

Once again kindly sponsored by Octabuild, the nine-month long mentor-based programme is designed to equip those new to the hardware retail/builders merchanting sector, and those in […]

This August The HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting returned for its third year, welcome a new tranche of students and mentors commencing their studies. […]

Hardware Association Ireland is pleased to this week officially launch its NEW elearning platform, with a wide range of elearning modules for members.  Powered by QedON educational […]

All businesses today are looking for innovative ways to stay ahead of the competition, and the Hardware industry is no different. One of the simplest and […]

Meeting the needs of regulators, consumers and trading partners for greener products and services requires companies to move towards circular and more sustainable value chains. Driving […]

After such a successful show in 2022, its no surprise that over 75% of stand space is already booked for next year’s show which is set […]

On Tuesday 1st August Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) launched their pre-budget submission which contains 24 recommendations to Government. The pre-budget submission aims to highlight the potential […]

Enrolment is now open for the 2023/2024 schedule of the HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail & Merchanting, after seeing its latest tranche of students complete their […]

After nine months, nine modules and nine Product Knowledge modules, the students of the second year of the HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting completed […]

We have asked Emma Neill, TSA Consultants, www.tsaconsultants.ie, to outline various HR amendments and new Acts of Law that have been and are being introduced over […]

Preparations are well underway for The Hardware Show 2024 set to take place at the RDS Simmonscourt next February on Sunday 18th and Monday 19th. The […]

As part of its Empty Homes Campaign Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) is please to provide below a helpful list of relevant resources and links that will […]

The Hardware Association Ireland Business Index is kindly sponsored by Wavin Ireland. 197 member branches are included in the HAI Business Index. The year-on-year increase for […]

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) is delighted to launch its Autumn 2023 training schedule, which features the return of our most popular workshops, and the return to […]

Ireland’s empty homes crisis was the main topic of discussion in Ballina today (Thursday 25th May) as the latest in the Hardware Association Ireland’s national series […]

Demand for home energy upgrades is extremely high, with homeowners looking to make their homes more energy efficient and benefit from reduced energy bills and increased […]

After nine months of online modules and onsite learning and reflection, students in the HAI Certificate have completed their final module and are preparing to wrap […]

Since 2022 HAI has been running a detailed campaign promoting the potential of Empty Homes in Ireland and unlocking their opportunity through rejuvenation and retrofitting options/incentives […]

Registration is now OPEN for The Hardware Conference 2023, which is taking place at the Lyrath Estate Hotel, Kilkenny on Thursday the 30th of March: You […]

A nationwide series of roadshows organised by Hardware Association Ireland aimed at tackling the issue of empty homes kicked off today (Thursday 16th February) at the […]

Hardware Association Ireland has welcomed Minister Darragh O’Brien’s launch of the Vacant Homes Action Plan aimed at bringing empty and derelict properties back into use. The […]

Thursday the 8th of December marked Michael O’Donohoe’s (Wavin Ireland) final Executive Committee meeting as President of Hardware Association Ireland.  After taking up the mantle in […]

Hardware Association Ireland has today (Wednesday 16th November) welcomed Minister Darragh O’Brien’s announcement yesterday (Tuesday 15th November) that the Department of Housing will be extending grants […]

In October Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) hosted two days of webinars presented by some of its Corporate Partners, who showcased their Business Support services to HAI […]

The Housing Unlocked exhibition by the Irish Architecture Foundation and The Housing Agency opens on 14th October at The Science Gallery, Naughton Institute, Trinity College Dublin  How […]

In recent months, Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) has launched a campaign comprising a number of activities dedicated to promoting career opportunities in the industry.  As part […]

With the Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting underway, we look at the latest in the students’ learning, and how sponsors Octabuild […]

Budget 2023 was announced by Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe and Minister for Public Expenditure Michael McGrath as a “Cost of Living Budget”, focused on helping […]

After its first very successful year, which saw nearly 20 employees in the hardware/DIY industry nationwide complete their studies, with some progressing further in the career, […]

Hardware Association Ireland and Octabuild were delighted to welcome all incoming students and mentors to the 2022/2023 year of the Hardware Association Ireland Certificate in Hardware […]

After receiving feedback from its member retailers/builders merchants, and suppliers/distributors, Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) recently published its Wage Rate Survey results for 2022. One of our […]

The introduction of statutory sick pay is an important step for employers and employees and is imminent, although no specific date has been provided as yet. […]

Technology is progressing at an unprecedented rate, changing our businesses in an insatiable search for progress in the global economy. However, although businesses are competing very […]

George Armstrong, CEO at Scanmatix, advises The Hardware Journal readers on what questions they should ask before choosing a stocktaker. If you’ve decided that you need […]

After a highly successful first run of the HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting, we are pleased to confirm that enrolment is now open for […]

HAI is pleased to launch its Autumn 2022 virtual classroom training schedule, with half-day workshops in topics including Credit Control, Selling Skills and Customer Service for […]

Paul Candon (United Hardware CEO) has been announced as Vice President of Hardware Association Ireland (HAI). Senan Foley (Glanbia) is the new Honorary Treasurer. At a […]

After nine months, nine modules and 4 Product Knowledge modules, the students of the inaugural HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting completed their learnings, and […]

With all nine modules completed our students have now completed their learning in the HAI Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting, with final assignments to be […]

In the second of three articles, George Armstrong, CEO at Scanmatix, advises The Hardware Journal readers on how to carry out an effective stocktake. In my […]

Ever told your broker your building isn’t worth that much with the intention of achieving a lower premium? If your answer is yes, you could be […]

In the first of a series of articles, George Armstrong, CEO at Scanmatix, advises The Hardware Journal readers on how to prepare for an effective stocktake. […]

From construction and heavy engineering to consumer goods and healthcare, there is an ever-growing demand for product data from businesses and end users. Like never before, […]

Trade associations like Hardware Association Ireland are well-known for the educational opportunities they provide their membership. A quick review of The Hardware Journal confirms that it […]

HAI and event partners Eventhaus have secured Sunday 24th and Monday 25th of April as new dates for The Hardware Show 2022 to take place. The decision […]

HAI has collaborated with Digital Marketing expert Greg Fry to introduce a series of mini Digital Marketing workshops, covering a series of topics including email marketing, […]

HAI is delighted to announce that visitor registration for The Hardware Show 2022, taking place on the 20-21st of February in Citywest Convention Centre, Dublin, is […]

HAI recently announced the launch of the Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting. Sponsored by Octabuild, the programme is now well underway […]

There are always challenges in business. How do you hire or keep the best talent? How can you invest in top-class training and then make sure […]

Buildings can use and waste a lot of energy. A nearly zero energy building (nZEB) is a high-performance building that needs only a small amount of […]

Restructuring…what is it, why should you know about it, and why may it be necessary? Restructuring is a HR term used to describe an internal change […]

Last Friday November 12th, the executive of the board of Hardware Association Ireland, (HAI) met with Minister for Housing Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD […]

HAI is pleased to announce Solus as the title sponsor of The Hardware Show 2022. Solus is an Irish owned company that has been established for over eighty […]

HAI is pleased to launch its Spring 2022 virtual classroom training schedule, with half-day workshops in topics including Credit Control, Selling Skills and Customer Service for […]

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) is pleased to launch its Pre-Budget Submission for 2022. In advance of Housing for All it was sent to Minister O’Brien and […]

Charles Darwin once said “It is not the strongest or the most intelligent who will survive, but those who can best manage change”. The pandemic has […]

Was I working on the family business or in the family business? I mulled over this question many times since I sold the business in 2019. […]

Ireland’s vaccine roll out has progressed well and at this stage the vast majority of adults who want to be fully vaccinated, are fully vaccinated. It […]

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) is pleased to officially launch registrations for its inaugural Certificate in Hardware Retail and Merchanting, a training and development programme for new […]

Following over a year of lockdowns, restrictions and ongoing uncertainty, HAI is pleased to launch its Autumn 2021 virtual classroom training schedule, with half-day workshops in […]

Painting and decorating is a project where most of your customers will give it a try. Sure what could go wrong? If it needs another coat, […]

Orla Cooney covered the fact that eCommerce will continue to gain momentum in 2021 and beyond in the May/June issue. Here, she gives a practical guide […]

Following ongoing discussions between Hardware Association Ireland (HAI), Eventhaus and Citywest Conference Centre, on ongoing restrictions and limitations to access to site, a decision has been […]

To keep our members up to date on the latest Covid-19 regulations, news and supports we have provided below an update on the latest developments, advice […]

For 2021 and beyond, it is a certainty that eCommerce will continue to gain momentum, even as customers make a welcome return to brick and mortar […]

Anyone who knows anything about scouting will be familiar with the scout’s motto; ‘be prepared’. Having heard that motto, someone asked Scouting founder Robert Baden-Powell the […]

On 6th May, Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) hosted virtually “Rebuilding our Future – HAI’s Retrofitting Conference”. The Conference concluded a series of webinars focused on products […]

HAI is pleased to launch its upcoming half-day online conference: Rebuilding Our Future – Retrofitting. Kindly sponsored by Dolmen Insurance Brokers, this half-day morning conference will […]

Over the next few weeks HAI will be hosting several webinars focusing on Ecological and Sustainable Products. A number of key players such as Ecological Building […]

HAI is pleased to welcome Michael O’Donohoe, Country Director at Wavin Ireland, as its new President for 2021-2022. Well-known and respected in the industry, Michael has […]

HAI has launched a number of webinars taking place in the coming weeks. Available free of charge to HAI members, these 30-minute morning webinars will offer […]

While most people are happy to see the back of 2020, this year 2021 will also contain many challenges. The rollout of vaccines is encouraging from […]

Ciaran Rowsome, CEO of FlexTime, an Irish Company that develops & supplies working time solutions for flexible, home, mobile & shift work arrangements. Their systems work […]

In normal circumstances, this week we would have been well underway preparing for The Hardware Show, originally due to take place at the end of next […]

HAI has launched a number of webinars taking place in the coming weeks. Available free of charge to HAI members, these 30-minute morning webinars will offer […]

Enterprise Ireland and your Local Enterprise Office will be delivering a week-long series of Brexit Customs Briefing webinars, that will offer guidance to any businesses involved in importing […]

Thank you to all who have attended our recent webinars. Due to demand we have collaborated with Business Support partners to introduce even more 30-minute webinars […]

The Genie is out of the bottle. Speaking to many hardware sector businesses it’s clear that Covid has pushed, shoved or dragged many into offering an […]

It has been a rollercoaster year for businesses in every sector and individual organisations have been impacted in a specific manner by the pandemic. As we […]

In previous articles we looked at the drivers for digitalisation of construction and the requirements that they place on stakeholders in the sector. In this article […]

HAI Member Offer: Show shoppers what’s in your hardware store with Pointy from Google To help during Covid-19, Pointy from Google are offering their service to […]

The Brink’s Company, a global leader and the world’s largest cash management company have agreed a preferential deal for HAI members. Brink’s are at the forefront […]

To further support its members, HAI have partnered with Peninsula HR and Legal Consultants to offer a selection of free webinars in the following topics, click the links […]

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) has welcomed some of the measures introduced in this year’s Budget, which Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe described as “unprecedented in both […]

On recent visits to HAI members’ premises around the country HAI CEO Martin Markey came across some examples of truly eye catching merchandising. One such recent […]

In the previous article we looked at how the construction sector has been undergoing a digitalisation process driven by such factors as Building Information Modelling (BIM), […]

Hardware Association Ireland has today launched its Pre Budget Submission for 2021, having forwarded it to Minister for Finance Paschal O’Donoghue for his consideration. The submission […]

UPDATE 01/10/2020: The Hardware Show has now been rescheduled to take place on Sunday the 14th and Monday the 15th of November 2021.  The main reason […]

Minister Harris highlights the diversity of learning opportunities available to school leavers Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar and the Minister for […]

In July, the Government approved the drafting of an amendment to the Agriculture Appeals Act, 2001 to align the forestry licencing and appeals processes with similar […]

192 member branches are included in the HAI Business Index. Q2 year on year comparisons illustrate the extraordinary volatility of the trading period. However, despite the […]

Recent issues in relation to timber licencing and the legislation around it is an area of major concern to HAI. Timber is a keystone product and […]

Further to the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union, the European Commission published a notice on 9th of July 2020 to help national authorities, […]

The Construction Products Regulations (CPR) are under review. There are a number of activities which the EU Commission wishes to engage with stakeholders including: The European Commission is reviewing Regulation […]

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) has welcomed the Government’s proposals on retrofitting and reskilling contained within the stimulus package announced by the Government this week. HAI presented […]

The construction sector has been undergoing a slow digital transformation for several years. This is now accelerating due toseveral factors. While stakeholders are compelled to embrace […]

An extensive plan of incentives for home renovation, retrofitting and first-time buyers has been launched today (Monday 6th July) by Hardware Association Ireland (HAI). The plan, […]

Note: These figures are a snapshot of the sector from January-March 2020, the next quarter’s figures will demonstrate the true impact of Covid-19 closures. 192 member […]

Hardware Association Ireland has today (Wednesday 17th June) welcomed the proposed home retrofitting scheme contained in the draft Programme for Government published on Monday. According to […]

At JPA Brenson Lawlor we are advising clients to plan for recovery now, not later. Below, we have set out our Top Ten Tips for HAI […]

Communications Consultant Paul Allen, Managing Director of Public Relations firm Paul Allen & Associates, gives advice on how communications can help in the COVID-19 Recovery. As […]

The COVID-19 pandemic: A role for the Irish Government in protecting the €15bn underwritten by the Commercial Credit Insurance Sector While the effects of the COVID-19 […]

Many businesses are asking their insurer if they are insured for loss of profit following closure due to the coronavirus outbreak. Like everything related to this […]

In the current COVID-19 environment the focus for businesses has been the health and safety of people. Companies are looking at ways to support workforces as […]

In our current situation February seems a lifetime away, but our plans are still underway for The Hardware Show 2021, which as of 30th April is […]

Under the shadow of Covid-19 the importance of e-commerce and Digital Marketing has become all apparent in our sector, with businesses being to forced to rapidly […]

These have been horrendous couple of months as Covid-19 caused heartbreak and tragedy across the world. The Pandemic has done its best to destroy businesses as […]

The following is an email sent to all HAI members on Monday the 20th of April regarding the latest clarification of guidelines for the hardware sector […]

UPDATED 28/04 – All outstanding technical issues have now been resolved regarding the Covid-19 Online Retail Scheme. Enterprise Ireland will launch the call for funding on April […]

On 4th April 2020 all HAI members were sent the the following correspondence from the HAI Board (Executive Committee), regarding the Covid-19 pandemic and the hardware […]

As the global Covid-19 crisis continues to impact the planet both commercially and socially, it is heartening to see businesses in the hardware and construction sectors […]

According to the history of HAI that I have read, back in 1939, when the organisation’s first AGM was held in Athy, much of the discussion […]

To accord with best practice Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) is cancelling all physical meetings and events for the next 6 weeks. The HAI office will remain […]

With the current political, economic and climatic changes affecting supply chains significantly; is it time to ask the above question? Traditionally, a chosen logistics provider assists […]

The first planned regional Hardware Conference of 2020 took place in Dublin on February 25th and saw 130+ delegates in Citywest Leisure Centre for a day […]

Members of Hardware Association Ireland, together with various industry representatives, and previous Hardware Show exhibitors turned out in great numbers at Citywest Hotel on Tuesday 12th […]

Retailing is moving faster than ever, with more stock items, more campaigns and shorter timeframes for execution. Centrally managed campaigns may be a fit for some […]

Brian Crooke is a wellness advocate, speaker and trainer specialising in the development and delivery of workplace wellness programmes for Irish companies through his Office Worker […]

The Banking Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI) has compiled the following Brexit finance checklist for SMEs outlining key advice on financial and banking preparedness ahead of the […]

The Hardware Conference, HAI’s networking event for the Irish hardware industry, is coming back this year to three locations across the country. Following the success of […]

This month the HAI team met with Minister of State John Paul Phelan and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation Heather Humphreys to discuss wealth-generating opportunities […]

CCPC has published information to help businesses understand how new legislation may impact on their gift vouchers policy. As of Monday 2nd December 2019 businesses across […]

HAI has launched its Spring 2020 classroom training schedule, with the return of some of their most popular one- and two-day courses for hardware retailers, merchants […]

192 member branches are included in the HAI Business Index. Member firms showed an average 4% increase year on year for Q3. The year on year […]

The Budget has been and gone and practically everyone is agreed, there wasn’t a lot in it. To be absolutely fair to Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe, […]

In the coming years, Ireland must use less energy, move to clean energy, and innovate to create new solutions to meet our energy needs. Saving energy […]

In the final of three articles, Susannah Hewson, owner of cxchange.ie, will share some tips on where you need to focus your efforts to improve your […]

HAI was pleased with the Minister’s decision to extend the Help to Buy Scheme to the end of 2021, and the additional funding and grants released […]

Heading into the Autumn months we are hoping they will offer at least some fine weather, however we have come to the new reality of living […]

In the second of three articles, Susannah Hewson, owner of cxchange.ie will introduce you to Customer Experience and share some tips on where you need to […]

Patrick is delighted to be providing his third and final article and you can view his earlier two articles here. Regarding “best in class” lets first […]

About HAI Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) is the national trade association representing hardware, building materials, DIY, homewares and garden at retail, wholesale and manufacturing level. Our […]

Member firms showed an average 6% increase year on year for Q2. A year on year rise for Q1 peaks among urban member groups, while member […]

Regina Doherty, Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection has this week invited employers to attend the Department’s National Employer Roadshows, taking place nationwide in August […]

Ian Lawlor from JPA Brenson Lawlor Chartered Accountants advises The Hardware Journal readers on how to get the maximum possible value from a buyer when selling […]

Patrick McDermott continues his series of articles on Stocktaking, with ways to create systems that last and how to communicate them to your team. In the […]

In the first of three articles, Susannah Hewson, owner of cxchange.ie, will introduce you to Customer Experience and share some tips on where you need to […]

Each year we will continue to ask members to complete a survey on current wage rates and future employment plans. A summary of the results from […]

Each year we will continue to ask members to complete a survey on current wage rates and future employment plans. A summary of the results from […]

HAI has launched its Autumn 2019 classroom training schedule, with new topics and workshops making it the biggest schedule to date! Thanks to continued feedback from […]

In the first of three articles, Patrick McDermott, Managing Director of www.stocktaking.ie, advises The Hardware Journal readers on better stock management practices. Sales equals money and […]

Ian Lawlor from JPA Brenson Lawlor Chartered Accountants advises The Hardware Journal readers on how best to use their profits. Much of what you need to […]

Earlier this month HAI hosted a breakfast briefing on the Nearly Zero Energy Building (nZEB) and related building regulations with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland […]

Member firms showed an average 13% increase year on year for Q1. A year on year rise for Q1 is apparent for all member groups, peaking […]

Worried about your past due accounts? Past due accounts are a persistent worry for all business owners and the hardware industry is no exception. Getting the balance right […]

Revenue has begun providing key Brexit advice for transport companies and their drivers who are transporting goods to, from or through the UK after Brexit. From […]

The Minister for Communications, Climate Change and the Environment, Richard Bruton, has announced that the current ban on bituminous coal will not be extended nationwide for […]

FCR Media’s Wes O’Neill discusses the benefits of an online presence. O’Malley Building Supplies was established on the Greenhills Road in Walkinstown in March 1956 by […]

HAI and Hardware Jobs exhibited at the inaugural Ireland Skills Live at the RDS Simmonscourt in Dublin in March, where they successfully promoted and offered advice […]

As part of its pursuit to support and promote careers in the hardware and building materials industry Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) and Hardware Jobs will be […]

Revenue is urging businesses who are importing or exporting goods into or out of the European Union to apply for their Economic Operators Registration and Identification […]

The Hardware Show 2019, sponsored by Intact Software, was a huge success according to the 2,000 visitors that came to the Show over the two days […]

Member firms showed an average 9% increase year-on-year for Q4 2018. A year-on-year rise for Q4 is apparent for all member groups, peaking in Munster. 69% […]

John Bourke of NTI/Thompson explains the importance of Liability Insurance Cover to THJ readers. Claim costs in Ireland are very high versus other jurisdictions in the […]

Chartered Accountant Elaine Kiernan analyses the operation of Entrepreneur Relief and the tax benefits of the relief when selling your business. With confidence being restored in […]

Aoife Walsh of TSA Consultants gives The Hardware Journal readers a briefing on the latest changes to the Employment Bill set to come into place in […]

Redmond O’Sullivan of ROS Retail Services explains how to prepare your store for a re-vamp , the “nuts and bolts” of how the process works from […]

The Hardware Show 2019 is now officially sold out. Hardware Association Ireland is delighted that for the third year running the Show has sold out of […]

On the 17th of December 2018 the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2018 came into effect after being signed by Minister of State for Housing, Planning and […]

HAI would like to remind its members that, in the event of a Hard Brexit, they should ensure that all their products are fully certified and […]

50% off SPOT & forward transactions Brexit is set to damage Ireland’s economy no matter what deal Theresa May agrees, according to analysis produced by the […]

After a highly successful Autumn, with more courses, topics and participants than ever before, HAI is pleased to launch its Spring 2019 training schedule with classroom-based courses […]

HAI Board member and owner of KCR Builders Providers in Kimmage, Dave Gavin shares his experience of the effects of staff misconduct and some preventative measures.  […]

Redmond O’Sullivan of ROS Retail Services shares his merchandising mastery with The Hardware Journal readers. ROS Retail Services was established by Redmond O’Sullivan in 2002 in […]

John Bourke of NTI/Thompson insurances passes on his insurance prowess to Hardware Journal readers. In all my years working in the Insurance business, I have never […]

There is nothing like a high profile company failure to propel the topic of credit management to the top of most people’s agenda. Credit Management can drift […]

The Hardware Show 2019 is now over 80% sold with the expectation that it will be sold out pre-Christmas. Registration for visitors to the Show is […]

In Quarter 3 2018, on average, member firms were up 9% year-on-year for the quarter. A year-on-year rise for Q3 is apparent for all member groups. […]

Revenue’s new PAYE real-time reporting regime goes live on 1 January 2019, and the deadline for employers to submit the necessary details to comply is fast […]

HAI is disappointed with this afternoon’s Budget 2019 announcements as no extension was granted to the Home Renovation Incentive scheme introduced five years ago meaning that […]

The Government has published a high-level draft proposal paper called a ‘Strawman’ designed to generate discussion in the design and development of an Automatic Enrolment (AE) […]

Two-thirds (67%) of Irish adults are planning on renovating or redecorating their homes within the next 12 months, according to a survey carried out on behalf […]

Peter Sullivan of Byrne Casey & Associates talks us through the intricacies of insolvency and how to make the most of a bad situation. While sometimes […]

Brian Healy – Managing Director at H+A Marketing+PR – explains how being brand aware helps attract the very best talent to your business. After a decade […]

InterTradeIreland is working with the Construction Industry Federation (Southern Region) to deliver a series of workshops on Tendering in the Public Sector Construction Market. These workshops […]

Hardware Association Ireland is pleased to welcome Laurence Cox as its new Membership Sales Manager. Laurence has over 25 years sales experience in the Irish builders […]

On average, member firms were up 10% year-on-year for Quarter 2 2018. A positive second quarter following a sluggish start to the year, no doubt impacted […]

Retail Ireland Skillnet are now enrolling new learners on their part-time degree in Retail Management Practice starting in September. The programme is ideal for anyone in […]

Seven months away from Show-open date of 17th February 2019 and The Hardware Show supported by Intact Software is already 64% exhibitor space sold. The largest trade […]

Hardware Association Ireland has partnered with the IE Domain Registry (IEDR) to offer its members an opportunity to develop and improve their online presence through the […]

HAI has this week launched its Autumn 2018 classroom training schedule with courses tailored specifically to the needs of hardware retailers, merchants, agri-businesses and suppliers. The […]

Taking Care of Business

This month Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) has launched a new hardware industry-specific job-board website to give hardware retailers, merchants and suppliers the platform they need to […]

HCT Learning, a Kilkenny based training provider approved by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine are running a Handling and Distribution of Pesticides QQI […]

With just one week until General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into force there is still time for businesses to prepare. The new legislation means significant legal […]

The Minister for Housing and Urban Development Mr. Damien English, T.D., has announced a public consultation on his intention to review the following parts of the […]

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI), in partnership with Repak, are seeking a group of member retailers/builders merchants to participate in a packaging waste audit in the aim […]

Hardware Association Ireland has partnered with the IE Domain Registry (IEDR) to offer its members an opportunity to develop and improve their online presence through the […]

Now that 2018 is firmly under way, the topic of credit risk is more pertinent than ever. For businesses of all sizes – and especially for […]

The Online Tool at SupportingSMEs.ie is a cross governmental initiative to help Irish small and medium businesses navigate the range of Government supports currently available. The […]

In the first of an engaging and pertinent series, John Bourke of Thompson Insurance writes about both the importance and obligation of insurance cover, as well […]

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has launched its SME Support Scheme for Lighting to help SMEs reduce their lighting energy use and costs, become […]

Members of Hardware Association Ireland, together with various industry representatives, turned out in great numbers at Citywest Hotel on Tuesday 20th February for the official launch […]

158 member branches are now included in the HAI Business Index, an increase of two members since the last report. In the end of year Business […]

Dr David McGilloway from the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine – Pesticides Control Division reiterates the implications for hardware retailers and builders merchants selling plant […]

Tom Smyth & Associates offer some practical advice on how to successfully recruit the best available talent. As a HR consultancy supporting over 500 locally owned […]

The Green Business programme has launched a free online tool to help small and micro companies manage their water, waste, and energy costs. The online tool […]

We couldn’t ignore the closing of one of our loyal members, Churchtown Stores in south county Dublin, at the end of this month. They have put […]

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) is delighted to announce the publication of the first Hardware Economic Impact Study (EIS). The study is based on 2015 figures but […]

InterTradeIreland Event – Practical Help to Navigate Brexit

In 2016, the DIY/home improvement world market turnover reached €567 billion, an increase of 3.8% compared to last year. North America and Europe combined to represent […]

DIY is no longer the overwhelmingly male preserve most people have assumed it to be. New research carried out by HAI reveals that almost as many […]

From 30th January to 2nd February 2018 inclusive, the Poznan International Fair will take place in Poznan, Poland. 800 exhibitors from 43 countries gather together under […]

Pointy is an Irish tech company that aims to make it easy for customers to find the products they’re looking for in local retailers – not as […]

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will apply from 25th May, 2018. If you haven’t already done so, it is essential to start preparing for the […]

Tommy Smyth explains why the value of good HR practices can be underestimated. Many business owners and senior managers think that HR is nothing more than […]

Roisin Lyons of Lyons Financial Services discusses how health insurance can play a role in helping you retain your best people. As the economy has picked […]

Total member revenue for Quarter 3 2017 is up an impressive 15% on the same period for 2016. The Q3 year-on-year rise is largely evenly distributed […]

Greg Fry, social media expert, has spoken with HAI recently to remind its members of the importance of Secure Sockets Layer certificates when it comes to […]

Minister for Finance & Public Expenditure, Pascal Donohoe announced his first Budget this afternoon. He noted that “Commencement notices for new housing are up 47%,” and commented […]

HAI member Topline, one of the leading Builders Merchant and DIY Buying Groups in our sector, has appeared in The CX Company’s Top 100 Customer Experience (CX) Champions list […]

Just because it is now easier for businesses to sell online, that doesn’t mean it is also easier to be successful at selling online. Mark McArdle, […]

The General Data Protection Regulation, also known as the GDPR, has been hitting the headlines recently due to significant fines and penalties that will be levied […]

Kevin O’Rourke, MIPA, Payroll Manager, Byrne Casey & Associates on big changes ahead for payroll departments. Truthfully, most business owners, managers or CEOs, view their payroll […]

Roisin Lyons of Lyons Financial Services outlines the reasons why builders merchants should encourage their younger employees to take out health insurance. Young people are the […]

Enterprise Ireland Technology Gateways invites you to the Innovation in Construction event on the 14th September in the Carlton Airport Hotel Dublin from 9.30am –1.30pm. The theme of this event is focused on innovation within the […]

Construction Safety Week will take place this year from the 23rd to the 27th October. HAI and the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) encourage all to get involved […]

Long-standing ally of Hardware Association Ireland, Guaranteed Irish, is marking September as Construction Month. Leading industry representatives will share their insights on how to develop Ireland’s construction sector in […]

Hardware Association Ireland recently requested an update on the shortage of PIR insulation from three leading providers in Ireland. Quinn Building Products responded to this request […]

Hardware Association Ireland is concerned with shortages in the supply of OSB and recently asked Medite Smartply to comment on this matter. This is their response: […]

Following a buoyant first quarter with growth of 10% on 2016, Q2 has stagnated with a particularly poor June in spite of bursts of good weather. […]

For the third year in succession the Government will increase the National Minimum Wage (NMW) – from 1st January 2018 by 30c to €9.55. The increase […]

Shane Hennelly, Joint Managing Director, Thompson Insurances on the threat of cyber attack and how you can manage cyber risk. The recent ‘WannaCry’ ransomware cyber attack […]

Ger Blake, Director, DSB, offers some insights on non-bank sources of finance that you might consider. Recent statistics from the Central Bank confirm that the pillar banks […]

Repak’s Prevent and Save programme is a free service offered to Repak members as a means to reduce the amount of packaging they place on the […]

Banking & Payments Federation Ireland is aware of a number of incidences in which hardware stores have been targeted by fraudsters who place big orders and […]

HAI has launched its Pre-Budget Submission today recommending a number of initiatives to Government and calling for them to crack down on one of a number […]

At the end of the 5th Global DIY Summit, held last week in Berlin, the delegates gave the event an overwhelming 81.4% ‘very good’ to ‘excellent’ […]

HAI’s AGM took place in Citywest on Thursday 25th May and was followed by a Brexit Seminar presented by Owen McFeely, Senior Manager in Consulting at […]

After a very successful Spring training season (you can catch up on the events on our Education page) we are pleased to launch our Classroom Training Schedule […]

The main aim of the B2B Sales Management – Advanced Selling Skills course is to equip national and territory sales managers with the required management skills […]

Each year we will continue to ask members to complete a survey on current wage rates and future employment plans. A summary of the results from […]

Each year we will continue to ask members to complete a survey on current wage rates and future employment plans. A summary of the results from […]

In this article, Jeff Harte and Prerna Gupta cover ‘I-want-to-go’ moments – those moments when people are looking for a local business or are considering buying […]

Caroline McGrath on Revenue audits and how best to deal with an audit. The Irish taxation system is based on a self-assessment system. It is the […]

Paddy Nolan, Managing Director, LCMS Ltd, explains why it can be useful to outsource elements of credit control. Profits are essential for a business to survive. […]

Ger Blake, Director, DSB explains why it’s important to communicate with your bank. Good times ahead Without doubt, the Irish economy has turned a corner and […]

Since 1st February, 2017, licensing has been extended to contractors operating in the locksmith sector, writes Paul Scallan, CEO, the Private Security Authority. The private security […]

Andrew Daly, compliance manager, EQA (Ireland) Ltd, outlines what’s involved in the audit for the PSA 55 Locksmith Standard. As a requirement of the new PSA […]

Mark McArdle, Group Sales Director, Intact Software, outlines the benefits that mobile working can bring to your business. When you consider that companies who facilitate mobile […]

The first quarter business index results show member revenue increased by 10% on the same period for 2016, with a surge in sales in March. The […]

One of the highlights of the Hardware Show 2017 was the Hardware Education Hub. Located in the centre of the show floor,  this was our own space […]

The President’s Ball, kindly sponsored by Ames True Temper, Dulux, Irish Cement, Gypoc/Isover and Xtratherm, kicked off the biennial Hardware Show in style on the evening […]

The Hardware Show 2017 broke all records with over 2,000 visitors in attendance at the RDS Simmonscourt last weekend. The biggest trade expo of its kind in Ireland, drawing just […]

A key and defining objective of The Hardware Show is to showcase new product innovation to retailers and merchants. On Saturday, 4th March the winners of […]

In 2016, €41 billion was spent on debit and credit cards issued in Ireland. A total of €13.2 billion or 32% of this was spent online. […]

Repak says it can help hardware retailers and builders merchants manage their package waste in compliance with EU legislation. Repak is a ‘for-purpose’ organisation set up […]

Music is a key, if underrated element in a store’s retail identity, writes Eoin Long, founder and managing director of LKM Music & Media Ltd. The […]

Here’s some of the feedback from some of our Classroom Training attendees, including hardware retailers, merchants and suppliers in management and trainee roles across a range […]

HAI was instrumental in campaigning for the introduction of the Home Renovation Incentive scheme and lobbying for its extension to 31st December 2018. From research we carried out, awareness […]

Thanks to HAI member, Niall Murray from Topline Tractamotors, for raising the matter of continuing illegal fuel imports from Northern Ireland with his local TD, who in […]

The 2016 Business Index results are out and the sector as a whole recorded a 10% increase year-on-year but it was not without its peaks and […]

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) is delighted to announce Kieran Burke, Group Procurement Director, Grafton Group plc as its new President for a two-year term. Formally invested at […]

A previous article (“Keep credit risk under control”, The Hardware Journal, September/October 2016) explored how credit insurance can protect you from losses arising from bad debts […]

Companies that enforce an ongoing policy of strict margin and cost controls yield multiple benefits well beyond that of immediate short-term financial gains. Mark McArdle, Group […]

Google regularly uses an approach called ‘See, think, do, care’ with its advertisers. Jeff Harte and Prerna Gupta explain how it works. This approach can be […]

In the third of a series of articles, Siobhan Kenny of Frank Murphy Solicitors looks at how a creditor can petition to Court to wind up […]

Paul Kelly looks at the impact of FRS 102 and Companies (Accounting) Bill 2016. Most SME businesses have now gone through the process of preparing their […]

Preventing crime in your store and your yard Anxiety about the incidence of crime is intensifying throughout rural Ireland, and builders merchants and hardware retailers are […]

Making it difficult for the customer or the professional shoplifter to take goods can greatly reduce this problem. An Garda Síochána has provided HAI members with […]

Business Watch, is a crime prevention programme designed by An Garda Síochána. It is founded on the same principles as Neighbourhood Watch. The only difference being […]

With the inevitable increase in construction projects in Ireland in future years, construction employers and employees should be aware of the potential to incur substantial losses […]

There are several must-have documents and records under employment law in Ireland.  The purpose of this article is to advise HAI members of these while also […]

From 26th  November 2015, a registered distributor/retailer must be available at all times at the point of sale to ensure that adequate information is provided to customers […]

Trader obligations under EUTR Organisations/individuals who are buyers or sellers of (either or both) international or EU/Irish timber or timber products subsequent to that timber’s or […]

The European Union Timber Regulation (EUTR) is one part of the EU’s FLEGT (Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade) Action Plan which is aimed at helping […]

The European Union Timber Regulation (EUTR) has provided HAI members with information regarding the implementation of the regulation and the resulting obligations on Operators and Traders. […]

Siobhan Kenny of Frank Murphy Solicitors provides regular legal updates on relevant issues such as: Companies Act 2014, Public Procurement and Construction Products Regulations. This section […]

Siobhan Kenny of Frank Murphy Solicitors provides regular legal updates on relevant issues such as: Companies Act 2014, Public Procurement and Construction Products Regulations. This section […]

Tom Smyth & Associates have provided a range of free employment and Human Resources templates to HAI members. These templates, along with the free Employee Handbook, […]

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) is delighted to announce, with three months to go, that The Hardware Show 2017 is now the biggest show in the Association’s history. With over […]

The Hardware Journal, the official magazine of Hardware Association Ireland, won Business to Business Magazine of the Year at the recent Irish Magazine Awards 2016. It was commended […]

HAI Business Index member revenue figures for Quarter 3 2016 show a 5% increase on the same period last year and the year-on-year rise is even across urban/rural […]

As Jeff Harte and Prerna Gupta of Google discussed in their previous article, the DIY & Home Improvement sector in Ireland is seeing a continuous growth […]

Following on Maria Hewson’s article in the September/October 2016 Edition, Elaine Kiernan looks at some of the tax aspects of Budget 2017. In a year that […]

Having reviewed, in the last edition, the various steps involved in debt collection through the courts, Siobhan Kenny of Frank Murphy Solicitors considers the recovery options available […]

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) welcomes the announcement in Budget 2017 of the extension of the Home Renovation Incentive (HRI) scheme by two years until 2018 as proposed in […]

New figures released today reveal that the Home Renovation Incentive Scheme (HRI) has exceeded an estimated €1 billion in works since it was introduced in 2013, […]

Eight in every 10 individuals in Ireland are now online, according to Google Trends. With that, it’s even more important today to ensure your business and […]

Siobhan Kenny of Frank Murphy Solicitors provides an overview of the court proceedings that may be taken to pursue debt recovery. Getting paid is an obvious […]

Credit insurance can protect your business against the risk of nonpayment for goods supplied on credit. With an increase in the demand for credit, now is […]

Following Michael Kinsella’s article in the July/August 2016 edition of The Hardware Journal, Maria Hewson looks at some potential tax considerations arising from the sale of […]

There is a common misconception that an employee who has less than 12 months’ service can be dismissed without any repercussions for the employer. This is completely […]

Hardware Association Ireland is delighted to partner with the Construction Safety Partnership to promote Construction Safety Week to our members. Commenting on the partnership, HAI CEO Annemarie Harte said […]

HAI moved into new premises within the site of Johnston Logistics on the city-bound side of the N7 (Naas Road) at the beginning of August following six […]

Latest HAI Business Index member revenue figures for Quarter 2 2016 shows a 13% increase on the same period last year and that the year on year rise is […]

Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) has launched its pre-Budget Submission 2017. As the national representative body for hardware/DIY retailers and builders merchants, as well as manufacturers/distributors to the […]

Are you aware Irish law obliges drivers to have motor insurance to cover accidents occurring in a public place? As a result of a recent ruling […]

The next step in your journey to getting your credit under control is to decide on how you are going to measure your performance, writes Declan […]

The Low Pay Commission Report published yesterday, 19th July, recommends an increase in the National Minimum Wage (NMW) of 10 cent from €9.15 to €9.25 from January […]

Yesterday’s launch of Rebuilding Ireland by Simon Coveney, Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government, is welcomed by Hardware Association Ireland (HAI). Ambitious and wide-ranging, […]

Whether selling an entire business as a going concern, disposing of a specific part or selling shares, it is vital the process runs as smoothly as […]

As soon as the UK stock market opened on Friday morning 24th June, home improvement company stocks took a beating as the implications of Brexit began to […]

It is critical that you have sufficient information to make important business decisions. Each year we will continue to ask members to complete a survey on current […]

It is critical that you have sufficient information to make important business decisions. Each year we will continue to ask members to complete a survey on current […]

Total member revenue for Q1 2016 shows a 13% increase on the same period last year. The sector Q1 year-on-year rise is largely consistent across all […]

HAI has won Bronze at the recent APMC (Association of Promotional Marketing Consultants) annual Promotional Marketing Awards for its successful social media campaign to extend the Home Renovation Incentive […]

The first ever Tools and Hardware Request for Tender has been issued by the Office of Government Procurement.Along with other relevant bodies, Hardware Association Ireland has been involved in assisting […]

  Thursday 2nd June, Cork City Clarion Hotel Tuesday 7th June, Green Isle Hotel Dublin Thursday 9th June, Sheraton Athlone Hotel Why Attend? Every year, people are killed and […]

While Irish consumers have wholeheartedly embraced online shopping, many Irish SMEs have not kept pace with this consumer revolution by moving to sell their goods and […]

Last year saw several changes and amendments to employment law and, in the wake of the election, kites are being flown for further changes in the […]

Declan Flood, aka The Credit Coach, looks at a vital ingredient in your credit management function that, in his experience, is either overlooked or done very badly […]

HAI believes that it is important that the regulations produced by Bodies such as the PSA have regard to the Government’s broader policies on Better Regulation […]

Dr Eric Clinton, Director of the DCU Centre for Family Business discusses the factors that affect the long-term sustainability of family businesses through the generations. In […]

Siobhan Kenny of Frank Murphy Solicitors provides an overview of the public procurement process. Public procurement is the process whereby government and state agencies acquire goods, services and […]

A total of 150 branches throughout the country take part in the monthly business index and since the third quarter of 2015 we have been collecting […]

Burke commented: “The 2017 Hardware Show will build on the success of the 2015 Show by enhancing both the visitor and exhibitor experience. “The Show will […]

Generously supported by ten leading industry suppliers,  Ames True Temper, Bostik, Dulux, Glennon Brothers, Gyproc, Irish Cement, Kingspan, Sanbra Fyffe, Tegral and Wavin, HAI is able to bring you the first dedicated conference targeted at hardware […]

Guidance with regard to compliance In the previous edition of The Hardware Journal, Siobhan Kenny of Frank Murphy Solicitors drew your attention to the Construction Products […]

Mark McArdle of Intact Software on the importance of thinking through your approach to setting up an online shop. While hardware retailers and builders merchants in […]

Declan Flood, aka The Credit Coach, continues his series on more effective credit management. In this article, he emphasises the importance of credit terms and their […]

New for 2016 is a proposed overnight option in July to Faithlegg Golf Club with accommodation at the Tower Hotel, Waterford. Please text interest to Willie […]

Minimum wage From 1 January 2016, the statutory minimum wage will increase to €9.15 from €8.65 per hour. Paternity leave Statutory paternity leave of 2 weeks […]

Our publication , The Hardware Journal, in both print and digital versions,  now includes a classifieds adverts section for suppliers and services towards the back of […]

The criminal gang are reported to be highly sophisticated; they cloned the registration plates from real cash-in-transit vans and used the same livery as the vans of […]

Under law, two distinct permissions are required by businesses in Ireland who play music – one which covers the public performance of the musical work on […]

As winter sets in, the Christmas decorations are on the shelves and we’re in the midst of another festive season. This time of year brings with […]

  Dates: Consultative Selling Skills Suppliers: 23rd Feb 2016 Retailers & Merchants: 25th Feb 2016 Memorable Customer Service Suppliers: 1st March 2016 Retailers & Merchants:  3rd March 2016 […]

The recovery in the construction sector is underway and managing risk is now a key consideration for all industry stakeholders. ConstructionWatch – Managing Risk 2015 provides […]

Sector revenue rose sharply in September 2015 (up 14% on August). The month on month rise in September was evident across all member groups, peaking among […]

METAC Training is the largest energy training and assessment centre in Ireland and the UK and trains approximately 2,700 people annually. Based in Mountrath, Co. Laois […]

Annemarie Harte, Chief Executive of Hardware Association Ireland commented on the extension of the scheme last month. “Another 12 months of the scheme will support both […]

HAI CEO, Annemarie Harte commented ‘Cross-referencing this sentiment with the half-yearly results from our business index shows that Dublin is powering ahead of the rest of […]

Sector revenue growth in July 2015 is down slightly month on month from 21% in June to 14% in July when compared to the same months […]

Annemarie Harte, CEO of Hardware Association Ireland comments, ‘Whilst we welcome the inevitable health benefits of this announcement and we don’t doubt the motivation, 2018 is […]

Member services are at the heart of HAI adding value to your business. HAI will negotiate special offers and discounts on standard business services so you […]

The latest Home Renovation Incentive scheme statistics show the scheme continues to boost trade for hardware retailers and merchants with figures since the scheme started topping over […]

Under the Construction Products Regulations (‘the Regulations’) direct legal obligations are imposed on Manufacturers, Importers and Distributors of relevant construction products. As a builders merchant, you […]