This article translates a market briefing about Italy’s DIY retail scene into a travel-focused guide. It weaves how shifting consumer habits reflect Italian lifestyle and regional vibes along the Italian Riviera.
It highlights how Q1 2026 figures from Bricoday and NielsenIQ reveal where households are investing—from appliances to gardening. The article offers a travel-friendly lens on shopping, design fairs, and regional flavors that frame a Riviera itinerary.
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now
Overview of the Italian DIY market in early 2026
The first quarter of 2026 saw DIY store turnover reach EUR 1.3847 billion, a 0.8% dip from the same period in 2025. These numbers come from the organizers of Bricoday and NielsenIQ surveys, painting a nuanced picture of consumer behavior across Italy’s home improvement sector.
Household appliances—both large and small—posted the strongest gains with double-digit growth, signaling continued enthusiasm for upgrading home comfort. The gardening sector expanded by 8%, while automotive and electrical categories also trended upward.
In contrast, traditional segments showed weakness, with timber posting an -8% decline and lighting -5%.
What these numbers tell us about shoppers and destinations
Hard DIY categories like building materials and sanitary ware remained market leaders but dipped by roughly 3%. For travelers, this hints at more design-forward stores and showroom experiences in cities along the Riviera.
Shopping for home accents often doubles as a leisure activity along the coast.
Trends by category and regional impact
Looking deeper, household appliances and gardening show enduring appeal. Timber and lighting face headwinds.
The report also notes a shift toward lifestyle and hobby-oriented categories, which aligns with a growing interest in outdoor living spaces, terrace gardens, and stylish décor found in many Riviera towns.
Industry movements—such as the Koelnmesse Italia collaboration with Collins and the upcoming Bricoday event (23–24 September 2026)—signal ongoing investment in trade fairs and innovation.
Retail transformations, exemplified by the Obi network’s evolution and the rise of OMS Retail digital in-store services, point to more integrated shopping experiences that visitors can explore while on a Riviera break.
Elegant resorts, charming apartments, and vacation rentals with immediate confirmation. From Portofino to Cinque Terre, discover the most beautiful coastal towns of Liguria!
See Available Properties
Events, retailers and digital boosts you’ll want to know
Beyond the quarterly figures, industry developments emphasize collaboration and innovation. The Koelnmesse Italia and Collins partnerships, along with Bricoday’s 2026 calendar, spotlight a dynamic scene where retailer transformations and digital in-store services are redefining how Italians shop for home, garden, and automotive needs.
Look for product innovations unveiled at industry fairs. Consider how these ideas inspire your own Riviera-inspired interiors or outdoor spaces when you return from your travels.
What this means for planning a Riviera trip with a design bent
When you combine market momentum with the Riviera’s timeless charm, you get a travel rhythm that blends light shopping with unforgettable experiences.
Consider planning visits to design-focused districts, garden centers, and showroom districts in Liguria’s coastal towns to spark ideas for homes or vacation villas along Italy’s celebrated coastline.
Plan your Riviera itinerary with design and shopping in mind
The Italian Riviera is a mosaic of towns where sea air meets stylish living.
Start in the north with Genova (Genoa) as a historical gateway.
Trace a scenic arc through Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino.
Continue to the Cinque Terre—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—for color, craft, and coastal charm.
Easy booking across stunning accommodations from historic hotels to modern retreats. Pastel-colored buildings and crystal waters create the perfect Mediterranean escape!
Secure Your Italian Getaway
En route, drop into Rapallo, Chiavari, and Lavagna for traditional markets and family-owned shops.
Further west, stroll Savona, Alassio, and Sanremo for a blend of glamour and artisanal finds.
End your trip in Imperia, Bordighera, Pietra Ligure, and Finale Ligure, where Adriatic breezes meet a heritage of Italian design.
- Genova
- Santa Margherita Ligure
- Portofino
- Monterosso al Mare
- Vernazza
- Corniglia
- Manarola
- Riomaggiore
- Rapallo
- Chiavari
- Lavagna
- Savona
- Sanremo
- Imperia
- Alassio
- Finale Ligure
As you trace these coastal towns, you’ll notice how Italy’s DIY mood threads through daily life.
It is a culture that values craftsmanship, fresh produce, and the pleasure of a well-appointed home.
Whether you’re browsing a chic showroom in Genova or wandering the colorful lanes of Cinque Terre villages, you’ll feel the same pulse.
This is a nation embracing innovation while cherishing timeless beauty along its legendary coast.
Here is the source article for this story: Italy’s DIY stores fall just short of last year’s figures
From seaside palazzos to hillside villas, find your perfect stay along this stunning stretch of Mediterranean coastline. Instant booking with best price guarantee!
Browse Accommodations Now
About the Italian Riviera
Cinque Terre Travel Guide
Cuisine of the Italian Riviera
Genoa Travel Guide
Italian Riviera Landmarks
Riviera di Levante Travel Guide
Riviera di Ponente Travel Guide
