CASE. Do-it-yourself gardening: the French are increasingly tempted to do their own work

Four out of ten French people say they are passionate about DIY. More than 25% are considered capable of independently performing secondary tasks, such as plastering or bricklaying, which are usually reserved for professionals. Driven by economic constraints, but also by the pride of succeeding on their own, more and more individuals become active in their project.

Get the job done alone… or accompanied

Faced with the aging of the housing stock and climate change, the renovation of housing becomes a major issue for improving comfort. However, finding a qualified and trusted handyman remains a challenge for most homeowners. Professionals are in high demand, and the waiting time sometimes reaches up to 6 months, depending on the specialty sought. Another reason to take the plunge.

However, only 4% of respondents ADEME (Ecological Transition Agency) believe that they are capable of embarking on large projects on their own. The new system, “MaPrimeRénov’Parcours escort” aims to allow individuals to take advantage of the advice of construction experts to carry out renovation works. An alternative with great potential, because the Agency estimates that around 667,000 projects could be realized with this measure.

Competitive market in the DIY sector

This craze for work and gardening, the big DIY stores (GSB), got it right. Many brands offer workshops dedicated to individuals who want to learn how to use a tool or maintain their exterior. A good way to build customer loyalty and promote machines, which DIYers can find on store shelves a few meters away.

However, giants in the sector such as Leroy Merlin or Castorama recorded a 5% drop in retail traffic in 2023. Further proof of the difficulties with DIY brands: the group Les Mousquetaires announced the cessation of activity next July, from its subsidiary Brico Privé.

The reason: relentless competition from Internet companies. Two brands are doing well in this game: the American giant Amazon and the French ManoMano, which have risen to the top 10 in DIY in the last ten years. However, sellers of another kind are gradually appearing: distributors of materials for resale and reuse. God’s gift for those who want to equip themselves at a lower price.

A passion that sustains

But once the decision is made, how can you execute your project and get the “right” advice? On the internet again. Many sites offer lots of tips that are more or less easy to apply. From unblocking a sink to insulating a room and creating a vegetable garden, all you have to do is follow the guides and numerous video instructions offered by those who love to work in… and in the garden.

Because gardening remains the number one passion of the French. Seven out of ten inhabitants have it. France has more than 13 million. Sowing, pruning, transplanting… Outdoor activities are relaxing and a good way to maintain physical activity. Several studies also highlight the benefits of gardening on morale. Those who do not have a garden also engage in this practice with the arrangement of shared gardens or, more restrictively, on their balcony.

Indoors and outdoors, there’s no doubt that the French love to wear gloves.