The DIY market will decline again in 2025 despite growth in some departments

The French DIY market recorded a further decline in 2025, marking a third consecutive year of decrease after the record levels reached during the health crisis. According to figures published by the French Federation of DIY Stores (FMB) and Inoha, sales in large DIY stores fell by 1,4% year-on-year.

A turnover of 21,8 billion euros in 2025

DIY retailers such as Leroy Merlin, Castorama, Mr Bricolage and Bricomarché generated a total turnover of 21,8 billion euros in 2025.

Despite this decline, the FMB and Inoha emphasize that the sector maintains a higher level of activity than that observed before the pandemic. "Despite three consecutive years of decline, the market remains above its pre-health crisis level," with a turnover of 20 billion euros in 2019, the two organizations point out, highlighting the "sustainable anchoring" of household spending related to housing.

After reaching a record of 23,4 billion euros in 2021 and then in 2022, driven by the enthusiasm of the French for the development of their homes and outdoor spaces during the Covid-19 period, the DIY market began its decline from 2023.

An economic context that weighs on household spending

For Paul Cassignol, president of the FMB, this trend is explained in particular by a "still complex economic environment", which leads consumers to make more "consumer trade-offs".

The official nevertheless emphasizes that "the French continue to view their homes as a safe haven", confirming the importance given to home improvement and renovation projects.

Heating and electricity are coming out on top.

In a market that is generally trending downwards, two product categories are showing growth in 2025.

The heating department grew by 3,3%, supported by strong demand for air conditioners and fans during the various heatwave episodes observed throughout the year.

The electrical department, meanwhile, recorded a 0,6% increase, driven by the "growing interest of individuals in electrical and renovation work".

Conversely, segments related to materials and interior design are declining. Sales in the wood and joinery department are down 2,4%, while those in the plumbing, bathroom and kitchen department are down 1,5% compared to 2024.

Real estate transactions support the market's potential

FMB and Inoha also highlight the recovery of the existing housing market, with a 14% increase in sales of existing homes in 2025.

In total, 951.000 transactions were recorded during the year. This dynamism represents a significant boost for the DIY sector, as these purchases are frequently accompanied by renovation, improvement, or compliance work.

Online sales continue to grow

Online commerce continues to gain ground in the DIY sector. In 2025, online sales, which now represent 6,2% of the total turnover of large DIY stores, increased by 7,7%.

At the same time, in-store sales declined by 1,9%, confirming the continued transformation of consumer purchasing habits.

Illustrative image of the article via Depositphotos.com.